The Difference Between JPEG and RAW (And When to Use Each)

At some point early in your photography journey, you’ll face this question:

Should I shoot in JPEG or RAW?

Each format has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding when and why to use each will help you take better photos, save time, and control your results — whether you shoot with a camera or smartphone.

Let’s break it down in a simple way.

What Is a JPEG?

JPEG (or JPG) is a compressed image file format. It’s what most cameras and smartphones use by default.

Characteristics:

• Small file size

• Ready to share right after shooting

• Basic processing already applied (sharpening, color, contrast)

• Less editing flexibility

Pros:

✅ Takes up less storage
✅ Loads faster on devices
✅ Easy to email or upload
✅ Great for casual or social media use

Cons:

❌ Some image data is discarded (compressed)
❌ Limited ability to recover highlights/shadows
❌ Editing can degrade quality further

What Is a RAW File?

RAW is a digital negative — a file that contains all the unprocessed data captured by your camera sensor.

It’s not ready to use straight out of the camera. You need to process (edit) it in software like Lightroom, Darktable, or Snapseed (mobile).

Characteristics:

• Larger file size

• Requires editing

• Maximum image quality and detail

• Retains full dynamic range and color data

Pros:

✅ Full control over exposure, white balance, colors
✅ Better for professional editing
✅ Great for printing or portfolio work
✅ No quality loss from compression

Cons:

❌ Needs more time and software to process
❌ Can’t be opened directly in all apps or devices
❌ Takes up more storage space

JPEG vs RAW: Side-by-Side Comparison

When to Use JPEG

JPEG is a great choice when:

• You need to shoot and share quickly

• You’re taking a lot of photos and want to save space

• You’re a beginner who doesn’t want to edit every image

• You’re shooting events, sports, or street photography and need speed

Pro Tip: Set your camera to “JPEG Fine” or “Large” for best quality.

When to Use RAW

RAW is best when:

• You want maximum editing control

• You’re shooting in difficult lighting (sunsets, indoors, mixed light)

• You’re working on a portfolio or professional project

• You might want to print your photos at high quality

• You plan to re-edit your photos in the future

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure, most cameras offer a RAW+JPEG mode — giving you both files.

What About Smartphones?

Many newer smartphones allow RAW capture in Pro or Manual mode, especially on iPhones and high-end Androids.

Apps like Halide (iOS) or ProShot (Android) also let you shoot in RAW.

Great for:

• Editing in Lightroom Mobile or Snapseed

• Recovering highlights and shadows

• Serious mobile photographers

Editing JPEG vs RAW

• Editing a JPEG is like reheating fast food — quick but limited

• Editing a RAW file is like cooking with fresh ingredients — takes time but gives better results

If you’re planning to crop heavily, fix exposure, or apply a custom style, RAW gives you the flexibility to do it without losing quality.

Final Thoughts: Choose What Fits Your Needs

There’s no “best” format — just the best for your purpose.

• Want speed, simplicity, and small file sizes? Go with JPEG

• Want quality, flexibility, and room to grow as a photographer? Learn to shoot and edit in RAW

And if you’re still unsure — start with JPEG, then explore RAW when you’re ready to level up.

The most important thing? Keep shooting. The format is only part of the story — the eye behind the lens is what really makes the difference.