Even though I almost always shoot in RAW files, especially in client photo shoots, there are times when it’s better to record using the JPEG format. (Read RAW vs JPEG). The advantage of the JPEG format, besides its smaller file size,, are also that they are quite suitable for those new to photography. Why?
Because getting optimal results from the JPEG need extra efforts and preciseness while shooting. Mistakes in RAW files are easy to repair in post-processing. Such mistakes as wrong exposures and wrong white balance can be easily mended without losing photo quality. This convenience may pamper the photographer too much, making them strive less during the actual photo shoot.
But JPEG files are more difficult and less dynamic to repair in post-processing without sacrificing photo quality. Mistakes made in the photo shoot are more visible in a JPEG file. Therefore, if you want to learn from your mistakes and want to be a photographer with high precision (photographing with the right settings in any condition), then practicing using the JPEG files for recording is advisable.
Things that need to be carefully noted when shooting photographs in the JPEG format:
– The correct exposures.
– Correct white balance.
– Correct picture style/ controls (saturation, sharpness, etc.)
– Dynamic range optimizer such as D-lighting and others.
So it is that the JPEG format is best for learners. But if you feel you’ve gotten the hang of the basics and is ready to commercialize your photographs (cross over from hobbyist to a commercial photographer), then RAW is definitely the way to go. Why so? The most compelling reasons I wrote in THIS previous article.
