RAW photography is a popular option among professional photographers as it provides unmatched flexibility and editing potential. By capturing photos in RAW format, you preserve all the data that the camera sensor captures, allowing you to make precise adjustments during post-processing.
If you own an iPhone and want to take full advantage of the powerful camera capabilities it offers, setting it to capture RAW photos is a great way to enhance your photography skills. In this article, we will guide you through the process of setting your iPhone camera to RAW so you can unlock a world of photographic possibilities.
Before we begin, please note that not all iPhone models support RAW photography. Only iPhones with iOS 10 and later have this feature. Additionally, the ability to shoot in RAW is limited to the rear camera on most iPhone models. Now, let’s dive into the steps to set your iPhone camera to capture RAW photos.
Why shoot in raw
Shooting in raw format with your iPhone camera offers significant advantages over capturing images in JPEG. Here are a few reasons why you should consider shooting in raw:
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Better Image Quality
Raw files contain all the data captured by the camera’s sensor, providing a higher level of image quality compared to compressed JPEG files. This means you have more flexibility in post-processing to tweak the exposure, white balance, and other settings without sacrificing image details.
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Greater Dynamic Range
Raw files have a wider dynamic range, allowing you to capture more details in both the highlights and shadows of your images. This can be especially helpful in high-contrast scenes where the JPEG format may struggle to accurately capture the full range of tones.
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Non-destructive Editing
When you shoot in raw, all the adjustments you make to your image in post-processing are applied non-destructively. This means the original raw file remains untouched, and you can revert back to the original settings at any time. In contrast, JPEG files have limited editing capabilities and can suffer from quality loss with each adjustment.
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Artistic Control
Raw files give you more creative control over your images. With the ability to adjust parameters like contrast, saturation, and sharpness during post-processing, you can fine-tune your photos to achieve the desired look or replicate your unique shooting style.
Although raw files may take up more storage space and require additional time for post-processing, the advantages they offer make them a worthwhile choice for serious photographers looking to capture the best possible images with their iPhone camera.
Benefits of shooting in raw format
When it comes to capturing images, the raw format offers unparalleled flexibility and quality. While JPEG images are convenient and accessible, shooting in raw format provides several key advantages for photographers looking to take their photography to the next level.
1. Increased control over image processing
Shooting in raw format allows photographers to have complete control over the post-processing of their images. Unlike JPEG, which applies in-camera processing and compression, raw files capture all the available data from the camera sensor without any loss of quality. This enables photographers to make precise adjustments to exposure, white balance, contrast, and other settings during the editing process.
2. Retain maximum image quality
By shooting in raw format, photographers can preserve the maximum amount of image data captured by the camera sensor. This means that details in highlights and shadows can be recovered with minimal loss of quality, resulting in more detailed and vibrant images. The raw format also avoids the risk of losing image quality due to compression artifacts commonly associated with JPEG files.
| Comparison | Raw Format | JPEG Format |
| Image Quality | Maximum quality, no compression | Compressed, loss of quality |
| Adjustments | Full control over post-processing | Limited ability to adjust settings |
| Dynamic Range | Preserves highlights and shadows | Limited dynamic range |
When shooting in raw format, photographers have the flexibility to fine-tune their images according to their artistic vision and specific requirements. This is particularly beneficial for professional photographers who need high-quality, unprocessed files for commercial or print purposes.
In conclusion, shooting in raw format provides photographers with greater control, improved image quality, and the ability to achieve their desired results during the post-processing stage. While shooting in JPEG may be more convenient for everyday use, the raw format is a powerful tool for those looking to elevate their photography skills and produce stunning, professional-grade images.
How to enable raw format on iPhone camera
Raw format allows you to capture and retain the maximum amount of detail and information in your photos, giving you more flexibility during the editing process. While iPhones typically capture photos in JPEG format for easy sharing and viewing, you can enable the raw format option to get higher-quality images.
Step 1: Update your device
Ensure that your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version. Raw format is available on devices running iOS 10 or later. To check for updates, go to Settings > General > Software Update.
Step 2: Open the camera settings
Open the Camera app on your iPhone and tap the icon in the top-right corner to access the camera settings.
Step 3: Enable raw capture
Scroll down to find the “Formats” section. Tap on “Formats” and select “ProRAW” from the available options. Enabling ProRAW will allow your iPhone to capture photos in raw format.
Keep in mind that ProRAW is only available on certain iPhone models, such as iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
Step 4: Take photos in raw format
Once you have enabled raw capture, you can start taking photos in raw format. Open the Camera app, frame your shot, and capture the photo as you normally would. Your iPhone will save both the raw file and a JPEG version of the image.
Remember that raw photos take up more storage space than JPEGs, so make sure you have enough available storage on your device or consider using external storage options.
By enabling raw format on your iPhone camera, you can unleash the full potential of your device’s camera and have greater control over your photography.
Step-by-step guide to set iPhone camera to raw
If you want to take your iPhone photography to the next level, shooting in raw can be a great option. Raw files preserve more image data and give you more control over editing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to set your iPhone camera to raw:
Step 1: Update your iPhone to the latest iOS version
Before you can shoot in raw, make sure your iPhone is running on the latest iOS version. Go to “Settings” > “General” > “Software Update” and check for any available updates. If there are updates available, download and install them.
Step 2: Download a third-party camera app that supports raw
By default, the iPhone camera app doesn’t have a built-in option for shooting in raw. To shoot in raw, you’ll need to download a third-party camera app that supports raw capture. Some popular options include Adobe Lightroom, ProCamera, and Halide. Go to the App Store, search for the app of your choice, and download it.
Step 3: Open the camera app
Once you’ve downloaded a third-party camera app, open the app on your iPhone. Allow the app to access your camera and microphone when prompted.
Step 4: Enable raw capture in the camera settings
Each camera app may have a different user interface, but generally, the option to enable raw capture can be found in the settings menu of the app. Look for the settings icon or gear icon within the app and tap on it. Then, navigate to the “Image Quality” or “File Type” section and choose the raw format (usually RAW or DNG) as the file type for capturing photos.
Step 5: Adjust any additional settings
Depending on the camera app you’re using, there may be additional settings you can adjust to enhance your raw photography experience. These settings could include things like white balance, ISO, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. Take some time to explore the app and adjust these settings according to your preferences.
Step 6: Start shooting in raw
Once you’ve configured the camera settings to enable raw capture and adjusted any additional settings, you’re ready to start shooting in raw. Simply aim your iPhone camera at your desired subject, compose your shot, and press the shutter button to capture the photo in raw format.
Remember that raw files are larger in size compared to JPEG files, so you may need to manage your iPhone’s storage accordingly. Additionally, raw files require editing software to fully utilize their benefits, so make sure you have a photo editing app that supports raw.
| Pros of shooting in raw: | Cons of shooting in raw: |
|---|---|
| – More control over editing | – Larger file size |
| – Preserves more image data | – Requires editing software |
| – Better image quality | – Increased storage usage |
Recommended settings for shooting in raw
When shooting in raw format on your iPhone, it is important to use the correct settings to get the best results. Here are some recommended settings to consider:
1. Enable raw capture:
To set your iPhone camera to capture raw photos, go to the settings menu of your camera app. Look for the option to enable raw capture, which is usually listed as “RAW” or “Pro” mode. Enable this feature to start shooting in raw format.
2. Adjust exposure and white balance:
Before taking a raw photo, it is important to adjust the exposure and white balance settings to ensure accurate results. Use the camera app’s manual controls to make these adjustments. Pay attention to the histogram to avoid overexposed or underexposed shots.
3. Use the grid and level features:
To ensure a straight and well-composed shot, enable the grid and level features in your camera app. These features can help you align your composition and keep your horizons level.
4. Consider using manual focus:
Auto focus can sometimes struggle when shooting in raw format, so it is worth considering manual focus. Use the tap-to-focus feature on your camera app to manually set the focus point and ensure sharpness in your photos.
5. Keep the ISO low:
When shooting in raw, it is best to keep the ISO as low as possible to avoid noise in your photos. Set the ISO to the lowest value possible, usually ISO 100 or 200, and adjust other settings accordingly to maintain the desired exposure.
6. Shoot in the highest resolution:
For the best quality raw photos, set your iPhone camera to shoot in the highest resolution available. This will ensure you capture the maximum amount of detail and flexibility in post-processing.
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| File format | RAW |
| Exposure | Adjust manually |
| White balance | Adjust manually |
| Focusing | Consider using manual focus |
| ISO | Keep low, e.g. ISO 100 or 200 |
| Resolution | Highest available |
By following these recommended settings, you can make the most out of shooting in raw format on your iPhone and achieve stunning results with greater control in post-processing.
How to edit raw photos on iPhone
Editing raw photos on your iPhone allows you to unleash the full potential of your camera and capture professional-quality images. With raw files, you can have more control over your photo editing process, adjusting exposure, white balance, contrast, and other parameters without losing image quality. Follow these steps to edit raw photos on your iPhone:
1. Enable raw capture in the Camera app
Before you can edit raw photos, you need to enable raw capture in the Camera app on your iPhone. To do this, open the Settings app, scroll down, and tap on “Camera”. Then, toggle on the “ProRAW” option under the “Formats” section. This will allow your iPhone to capture both raw and JPEG images when shooting.
2. Shoot in raw
Once you have enabled raw capture, open the Camera app and start shooting. Keep in mind that raw files take up more storage space than JPEG files, so make sure you have enough storage available on your iPhone. Consider shooting raw for scenes that require extensive editing or where you want to retain maximum image quality.
3. Transfer raw photos to your iPhone
After capturing raw photos, you’ll need to transfer them to your iPhone for editing. Connect your iPhone to your computer using a USB cable and open the Photos app on your computer. Select the raw photos you want to edit, and then click the “Import” button to transfer them to your iPhone’s Photos app.
4. Use a raw photo editing app
To edit raw photos on your iPhone, you’ll need to use a third-party app that supports raw file editing. There are several apps available on the App Store, such as Adobe Lightroom, Snapseed, or Darkroom. Install your preferred app and open it. Then, import the raw photo you want to edit from your iPhone’s Photos app into the editing app.
5. Edit your raw photo
Once you have imported the raw photo into the editing app, you can start making adjustments. Raw files contain more data than JPEG files, allowing you to fine-tune various aspects of the photo. Experiment with adjusting exposure, white balance, contrast, highlights, shadows, and other parameters to achieve the desired look. Take advantage of the app’s editing tools and presets to enhance your raw photo.
After you have finished editing, you can save the edited raw file or export it as a JPEG or another file format of your choice. Remember to save a copy of the original raw file in case you want to revisit the editing process later.
By following these steps, you can take full advantage of the raw capabilities of your iPhone’s camera and unleash your creativity to create stunning photos.
FAQ
What does it mean to set the iPhone camera to raw?
When you set the iPhone camera to raw, it allows you to capture photos in a format that retains all the image data without any compression or processing. This gives you more flexibility and control when editing your photos.
How can I set my iPhone camera to capture raw photos?
To set your iPhone camera to capture raw photos, you need to go to the Settings app, then scroll down and select “Camera”. From there, you can enable the “Format” option and choose “RAW”.
Why would I want to shoot in raw on my iPhone?
Shooting in raw on your iPhone allows you to have more control over the editing process. Since raw files retain all the image data, you can adjust things like exposure, white balance, and colors more effectively without sacrificing image quality.
Are there any downsides to shooting in raw on an iPhone?
While shooting in raw on an iPhone has its benefits, there are a few downsides to consider. Raw files take up more storage space than compressed JPEG files, and they require more processing power to edit. Additionally, not all third-party apps support raw files, so you may need to use specific editing software.
Can I shoot in raw on older iPhone models?
Shooting in raw is only available on iPhone models that support the feature. As of now, raw capture is available on iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max, as well as on other newer models like iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max.
