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RAW file format
A RAW image file is often referred to as a true digital negative. The option to shoot RAW is available on many advanced and professional digital cameras. Images in this format have a .raw extension, eg: filename.raw.
There is much more latitude controlling exposure than with JPEG files. When shooting RAW, no processing is done in the camera to the file. As a result, the photographer has total control adjusting elements, such as sharpening or white balance, when editing a RAW file.
When processing a RAW image, no changes are made to the actual file. A separate file is created and all adjustments are kept in the associated file.
The RAW format, considered essential by professional and serious photographers, is still not widely used by others. At this time, RAW files can not be opened with every image editor and can take longer to process when editing.
A RAW image has a smaller file size than a TIFF but is considerably larger than a JPEG.
But my digital camera doesn't shoot RAW!?!
If you're concerned because your camera doesn't shoot RAW, don't worry. Many digital camera users find JPEGs, when shot at the highest resolution and lowest compression settings, meet their expectations for image quality. Many also find JPEGs easier to edit than RAW images.
Some digital cameras have an option to take both RAW and JPEG images at the same time (JPEG + RAW setting).
Related reading: No longer a skeptic about RAW Files
