RAW or JPEG?

[LoveT]

I know I'm probably going to regret asking this, but does anybody else out there (probably with a DSLR) shoot in RAW format? And if so, how do you get on with it compared to shooting JPEG format?

I can't make my mind up between the two formats - I like RAW data because I've then got an image I can store and process in any way I need to (and then save as JPEG etc), but RAW file size is also a lot bigger, which means that when I save files I have to compress them like crazy to get the right size for WAB website etc. I also like JPEGs though because I have a ready processed image, but with a lot smaller file size even on a high quality image setting.

I've read books and magazine articles on the subject 'til I was bored rigid, but they weren't very helpful (sort of 'decide for yourself' advice - thanks!), so I thought I'd find out what other peoples' views are on this.

I used to be undecided, but now I'm not so sure.......!

[Fourwings]

Oh boy, here we go again!!

Thats one question that usually sparks a massive debate here on WAB,
the definative answer is that you shoot in which format suits you, there are purists who will argue tooth and nail for each of the formats but at the end of the day the only thing that matters is that you have an image that you are happy with.

Just for the record I shoot Jpegs, I've tried RAW on several occasions and to be honest its a right pain in the posterior and for very little advantage - but thats only my opinion and not that of WAB.

Hope that helps

[Ollie]

I'm probably not going to be much help here but I only shoot jpeg. I have shot raw more to try it than anything else but the file sizes put me off.

It's supposed to be easier to rescue a badly exposed image using raw rather than jpeg, but my opinion and my opinion only might I add is that it's always best to try and get it right in camera rather than having to adjust exposure after the shot with software.

Don't get me wrong I do make adjustments to my photos in software but always try to get it as near right in camera as possible. This works for me and suits my style of shooting, but raw may be a viable or preferred option for others.
Roger

[mh68]

I`ve shot both, and currently prefer shooting jpegs as I can get images how I want them straight out of the camera (in most cases anyway). Raw files do seem to capture slightly more detail though, and seem to be able to take more sharpening before the image degrades, but I`m happy with fine quality jpegs for the moment.

Mark H

[Maccattack]

As above , depends on what you're shooting and why.I shoot both with a 6mp slr so the file sizes arent as big as newer cameras , landscapes and difficult light might be raw so I can alter the white balance but multiple shots that are more likely to be used for web use would be jpeg especially if I'm out all day (dont carry portable drives and have only got 2gb of memory card)
Just go out and take lots of pictures and see what suits you.

Malcolm Mac

[galanthus]

Me too on the jpeg front. I laboured through so many articles coming down on one side or the other, then a really good photographer said RAW is a good way to shoot but there wasn't that much in it if you just want damn good photos and not giant commercial billboard posters. I may try raw at some point but for now sticking with jpeg and cs2 then again .... hee heee !

[wildlifesnapper]

Hi

I shoot RAW because I need 50mb TIFF files. My wife shoots jpeg for family and general shots which she then has printed on 6x4's and there alright.
So it's what you want to use them for and how much time you want to spend on the computer, but at the end of the day whichever you use , if you're happy with your results then stick with it.

neil

[LoveT]

Thanks for all your replies - much appreciated.

Sorry Fourwings, I didn't know this thread had previously been the subject of so much debate! It certainly wasn't my intention of provoking 'discussion' between the two camps.

I get the impression that most people prefer to use JPEG - which makes a lot of sense in many ways, but equally I get the idea that I should decide for myself.

Time to get off the fence, then!

Thanks again.

[glsammy]

Just to add my little bit, I change from one to the other depending which way the winds blowing!
I've recently learnt a lot more about RAW conversion, but at the end of the day I can't tell which was shot with which method.
If your a pro and want to submit your shots to various bodies for publication or to sell, your probably going to shoot RAW, but as for Mr and Mrs average, I think JPEG is just fine.

[delros1]

I have all ways looked at it this way,when i was taking 35mm slide,i would go the lowest Asa possible,just in case,there was one photo that i wanted to take a large print from(20"x16").now that i have gone digital,i take it in raw,because you never know,when you are going to get,that one photo in a million,and the more info saved.the better the photo.