RAW File Documentation


Overview

Feature Value
Format Type Uncompressed Image Data
MIME Type image/x-raw
File Extension Examples .CR2, .NEF, .ARW, .DNG
Developers Various (Canon, Nikon, Sony, Adobe)
Color Depth 12-bit, 14-bit, 16-bit per channel
Color Spaces sRGB, Adobe RGB, ProPhoto RGB
Lossless Compression Yes (Depends on Camera Manufacturer)
Image Metadata Exif, XMP, IPTC
Supports Layers No
Supports Transparency No
Dynamic Range Higher than JPEG
Editability High (Non-destructive editing is possible)
Compatibility Specialized photo editing software required (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, Capture One)
Typical Usage Professional Photography, Image Editing
File Size Larger than JPEG (2-6 times larger)
Advantages High-quality image data, extensive post-processing flexibility
Disadvantages Large file size, requires conversion for widespread use
Camera Support Most professional and prosumer digital cameras
Storage Options Local storage, external drives, cloud services (high storage capacity recommended)
Associated Software Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, DxO PhotoLab