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Join us on Day 13 as we explore the differences between RAW and JPEG editing! Discover the power of RAW files for superior editing. Learn how to adjust white balance, exposure, and colors with greater flexibility. See the limitations of JPEG editing and why RAW captures more data, enabling richer post-processing. Download the sample files and compare!
Follow along with all 30 episodes as we explore the the magic of Lightroom together!
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- Oleevia Photography
JPEG image sourced from Unsplash.
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AFTER
BEFORE
RAW and JPEG Demystified
Understanding the difference between RAW and JPEG files is crucial for effective photo editing in Lightroom. RAW files offer unmatched editing flexibility, while JPEGs are more compressed.
Editing RAW Files
Open a RAW file in Lightroom’s Develop module. Notice the ability to adjust white balance with precision, as the actual Kelvin value is recorded. Utilize the full range of highlights, midtones, and shadows to enhance your image. Masking tools allow for detailed adjustments without losing image quality. The color mixer allows for very precise color changes. The RAW file contains much more data, allowing for much more in-depth editing.
Editing JPEG Files
Now let’s switch to a JPEG image. While basic adjustments like masking and color mixing are possible, the lack of white balance data limits color temperature changes. Exposure and shadow adjustments can quickly degrade the image quality. JPEG editing requires more subtle adjustments to avoid artifacts and loss of detail. The file size is much smaller, but so is the amount of information.
File Size Comparison
Compare the file sizes. RAW files, though larger, contain significantly more image data, offering greater editing latitude. JPEG files, being smaller, are more compressed and limit post-processing capabilities. The extra data in RAW files allows photographers to fix many mistakes in post production.
With a clear understanding of RAW and JPEG, we wrap up today’s session. Join us tomorrow as we move onto batch editing techniques!
