Lossy vs. Lossless

Three advantages of a RAW file:

• has at least 8-bits per color
• the complete data from the camera's sensor
• higher in dynamic range (ability to display highlights and shadows)

One disadvantage of a RAW file:

• images are not as sharp and has lower contrast

Three advantages of a JPEG file:

• standard format and readable by any image program
• lower in dynamic range
• smaller file size

One advantage to a JPEG file:

• higher in contrast and sharper images

1. After the image is captured by the camera, a RAW file retains all of the data from the camera's sensor.

2. A RAW file enables a photographer to edit white balance, contrast, highlights, shadows, colors, and saturation after the image is taken.

3. Some factors a photographer must consider when shooting in RAW is that RAW files are significantly larger than JPEG files, so your memory card won't hold as many shots.

4. An aspiring professional photographer would need to know how to work with RAW files because JPEG files have limited editing options and if you are looking for more flexibility and processing options with your images then you should be shooting in RAW, especially if you want to compete with the best photographers as it is not uncommon to spend more time editing than actually shooting.