JPEG vs Raw: Which Format Fits Your Workflow?

The debate about shooting in JPEG versus raw format is familiar territory for most who hold a camera. Understanding their differences isn't about deciding a winner, but rather about knowing which works better for your specific needs as you shoot and edit.

Coming to you from Jason Row Photography, this insightful video demonstrates how raw and JPEG images differ in flexibility, particularly in key editing areas like white balance, dynamic range, and shadow recovery. For instance, white balance adjustments show stark contrasts; a raw file allows precise temperature shifts without compromising the natural look, while JPEGs quickly exhibit color issues and unnatural tints when similarly adjusted. Row clearly explains how raw files maintain color integrity through broad adjustments, while JPEGs are considerably more limited in post-processing capabilities. Knowing these limits helps you anticipate the challenges you might face during editing, making informed choices about the format you shoot.

The video further explores dynamic range, emphasizing the substantial advantage raw files have in recovering blown highlights. Row uses a side-by-side comparison to reveal how raw preserves details in overexposed areas where JPEG fails, underscoring the potential for recovering valuable information after exposure errors. Additionally, shadow recovery comparisons show the noise differences in underexposed shots; although both formats display noise when shadows are brightened, raw files clearly hold an edge with smoother and cleaner results. Crucially, Row points out Lightroom’s AI noise reduction is only available with raw, further emphasizing raw's advantage if low-light shooting and shadow detail matter to you.

Row also discusses lesser-known points like color depth and how it matters when compressing images for web or social media use. Although initially subtle, he illustrates how heavy compression accentuates color banding issues significantly more in JPEGs than in processed raw files. When applying presets or profiles, raw again offers greater latitude and resilience against artifacts and noise, a consideration if your editing workflow frequently involves significant color adjustments or stylistic filters.

On the flip side, Row acknowledges the clear benefits JPEG offers in practical terms. JPEGs, being smaller files, are easier and faster to handle, especially on slower hardware or when dealing with limited storage. They import faster, edit more fluidly (when edits are minimal), and facilitate quicker turnarounds for immediate posting to social media or sending to clients without the need for extensive processing. This makes JPEG preferable for scenarios demanding speed or ease, like sports photography or event coverage where quick access to usable images is essential. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Row.