RAW vs JPEG: Using Real-World Examples to Illustrate the Difference

It’s not news that RAW files have a far greater latitude than the same JPEG photographs. However, many beginners only understand this difference on a theoretical level.

In the video above, photography educator Tony Northrup goes beyond theory, detailing the differences and actually showing us how much more leniency RAW files allow for in post-production.

Northrup introduces the video by briefly detailing the difference between the two formats. From there, he dives straight into Lightroom to take a look at a number of different photographs and lighting scenarios and illustrate the weaknesses of JPEG when compared to RAW.

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By playing with the exposure, highlights, shadows, white balance and more, the various examples provide a great variation in comparisons, something that’s often left out.

It’s not going to give pros any new information or show you something you don’t already intuitively understand. But there’s a big gap between understanding that there is a difference, and seeing it with your own eyes. A gap this video does a fantastic job of closing.

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