.raw File — Raw Image Data

RAW files contain minimally processed image data captured directly from a digital camera's image sensor. Unlike JPEG which applies in-camera processing including white balance, sharpening, noise reduction, and compression, RAW files preserve the full dynamic range and color information captured by the sensor, giving photographers maximum flexibility during post-processing. RAW is not a single format but a category — each camera manufacturer uses proprietary RAW formats (CR2/CR3 for Canon, NEF for Nikon, ARW for Sony, ORF for Olympus, RAF for Fuji). Common characteristics include 12-14 bit color depth (vs JPEG's 8 bit), no lossy compression, Bayer pattern color filter data requiring demosaicing, and embedded JPEG previews and metadata. RAW files are significantly larger than JPEG equivalents, typically 20-40 MB per image. The Adobe DNG format was created as an open archival RAW standard. RAW development software applies adjustments non-destructively, storing edits as metadata rather than modifying pixel data, enabling unlimited creative experimentation.