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What is RAW re: images vs hamburgers

December 23, 2020

RAW hamburgers = bad, RAW digital file-format = good.

I think that sums this up pretty well. Remember how I mentioned that resolution increased the number of pixels (and file size) which also increased flexibility and options in working with a digital image? {LINK} A RAW file has less stuff baked-in re settings and because of that, there’s less image degradation when you start editing with a RAW file vs a jpeg for example.

Add all of the ingredients to the mix before the final step of cooking.

With a RAW file you can add “develop settings,” but it rides along as a side-car and doesn’t affect the actual file. Whereas with a jpg those settings are baked-in and there’s no going back once there added. Again, not trying to freak you out, as it’s all quite subtle but good to be aware of. The more you know, you know?

Final sear before plating that 5-star dish.

At the end of the image-editing journey or the ingredients and prep in this analogy, it’s best to export to the specific resolution you’re going to. Ie for print vs web vs social media etc. Prep the images ie edit them and then sear them off, right before they hit the plate.