Convert RAW to JPG: Photography File Conversion Guide

RAW files contain unprocessed image data directly from your camera's sensor. Converting RAW to JPG is essential for sharing, printing, or using photos in applications that don't support RAW formats.

Understanding RAW vs JPG

RAW Files

• Unprocessed sensor data
• Maximum editing flexibility
• Large file sizes (20-60 MB per image)
• Camera-specific formats (.CR2, .NEF, .ARW, etc.)
• Not directly viewable in most applications

JPG Files

• Processed, compressed images
• Universal compatibility
• Smaller files (2-10 MB typically)
• Standard format for sharing
• Some quality/editing flexibility lost

When to Convert RAW to JPG

• After editing - Export final version for sharing
• Social media - Platforms require JPG/PNG
• Web galleries - Faster loading times
• Printing - Many print services accept JPG
• Sharing with non-photographers - Everyone can view JPG

RAW Conversion Methods

Method 1: Adobe Lightroom

1. Import RAW files into Lightroom
2. Edit as desired (exposure, color, etc.)
3. File → Export
4. Choose JPEG, set quality (85-100% recommended)
5. Export

Method 2: Adobe Camera Raw / Photoshop

1. Open RAW file (Camera Raw launches automatically)
2. Adjust settings
3. Open in Photoshop or Save Image
4. Save As JPEG

Method 3: Free Software (RawTherapee, Darktable)

1. Import RAW file
2. Apply edits and adjustments
3. Export as JPEG

Method 4: Online Converters

1. Upload RAW file
2. Select output format and quality
3. Download converted JPG

Note: Online converters may apply default processing without custom editing.

Conversion Settings

Quality/Compression

• 100% - Maximum quality, largest file
• 90-95% - Excellent quality, slightly smaller (recommended for archival)
• 80-85% - Good quality, reasonable size (recommended for web)
• Below 80% - Noticeable artifacts, smaller files

Color Space

• sRGB - Best for web and general use
• Adobe RGB - Wider gamut for printing

Resolution

• Keep full resolution for printing
• Resize for web (2000-4000px long edge typical)

Best Practices

• Always keep RAW files - They're your digital negatives
• Edit before converting - RAW allows more editing flexibility
• Use appropriate settings - Match quality to intended use
• Batch convert - Process multiple files efficiently