By Leonard Goh
07/07/2009
URL: http://asia.cnet.com/digitalliving/tips/0,3800004921,62055803,00.htm

Digital cameras which can capture RAW format pictures usually get extra points from us. However, such a function is typically reserved only for higher-end point-and-shoots and dSLRs. So what exactly is RAW and how can you make use of it if your camera has this feature?

Simply put, RAW is an unprocessed file format churned out by digital cameras. Unlike JPEG, a RAW picture doesn't have additional sharpening or color toning applied on the picture. This makes it highly flexible for complex post-processing operations on the computer, such as precise adjustment to colors and exposure. Also, RAW files retain more details in highlight and shadow areas which can be easily retrieved.

However, the downside to taking pictures in RAW is that most cameras, even dSLRs, are not able to perform high-speed burst shooting for extended periods. This is because the shooters' internal buffers have limited capacity and fill up faster than, say, shooting in JPEG.

All this may sound a little daunting, but our guide will help you understand RAW better and perhaps get you started on using it in your next shoot.

1) Activating RAW image capture on your camera
In your snapper's menu should be an option which lets you change from JPEG to RAW capture. Some shooters also allow you to record RAW+JPEG. This is useful for photojournalists when they need to transmit pictures over the Web quickly. The flipside is that you'll use up more space, so utilize a high-capacity memory media when you want to take both RAW and JPEG.

Some cameras have the ability to record sRAW which is smaller in file size than the standard RAW format. This is useful if you have a small-capacity memory card. But take note that the resolution is lower, so you cannot output larger-sized prints.

2) Different RAW file formats
Not all RAW pictures have the same file extension. Canon cameras produce .CRW or .CR2 files, while Nikon shooters deliver .NEF files. You will need different programs to open such images, but these are usually provided with your camera in a CD.

Recently, the imaging industry has been pushing for camera manufacturers to standardize their RAW file format. Adobe's .DNG format is at the top of the list, but most imaging brands have yet to adopt it.

3) RAW processing software
When you buy a digicam these days, manufacturers usually include a disc which contains software for browsing and editing images. If your camera is RAW-enabled, the bundled application should be able to let you view, edit and process RAW pictures. But because of different file formats, the program may not be able to read other camera's RAW files.

However, there are third-party software such as Adobe Lightroom which can process different RAW formats, though these have to be purchased separately and can be costly.

4) Tweaking RAW pictures
In most RAW processing software, there are tons of things you can do to manipulate your pictures. On the right side of the program are panels which let you perform basic image editing such as exposure compensation and color toning. Play around with the different controls and see what kind of effects they have on your picture.

When you're done, process the pictures to JPEGs if you are uploading them to image-sharing sites such as Flickr. Remember not to save any settings over your RAW files as that may cause irreversible results. You'll want to keep the original files as they are.

5) Archive your RAW snaps
Remember to back up your RAW files in an external harddisk or DVD. It never hurts to archive since you never know when you may need them in the future. Think of RAW files as 35mm negatives of the past: You can use them over and over again as long as they are stored and used properly.