Why is editing RAW photos a waste of time and memory for most people?

Everyone says you need to shoot in RAW for the best quality – but do you really think so? For most people, RAW is just a space-hogging nuisance that adds effort without much benefit.

5. JPEG files are less susceptible to over-editing

The fact that RAW files give you more editing options is both good and bad. If you're not careful, it's also easy to over-edit—especially if you're a beginner. For example, when you look back at photos you edited as a beginner, you'll often find that they look more like drawings than photos.

 

You can over-edit JPEGs , but it's more difficult than RAW. If you're new to editing, you may sometimes feel like you need to use every editing slider; at least you don't have as much flexibility with JPEGs.

 

You can always switch to RAW files later if you want to get more serious about your photography. But first, take the time to learn the basics of editing. You'll find plenty of photo editing tutorials on YouTube to help you get started.

4. You can make most of the edits you want without the RAW file

When you open your editing software, you'll find that there are a number of editing features available even if you have a JPEG file. For example, you can still color grade and change exposure in Lightroom . Plus, you have access to the Tone Curve tool and the option to edit the saturation/hue/brightness of each image.

If you're doing professional work, you'll probably need to edit in RAW, but amateur photographers can do most of their editing in JPEG. Many people will shoot for over two years before they feel the need to edit RAW files. If you still need some breathing room, you can always change your settings to shoot in RAW later.

3. Many JPEGs look good without the camera

Many modern cameras, whether they're smartphones or DSLRs , are incredibly advanced . As a result, images often look great without much (if any) editing. Brands like Nikon and Fujifilm are particularly good at JPEGs.

 

The iPhone also has great image quality; the improvement in quality when upgrading from the 8 Plus to the 13 is incredible. Even better, you can take great low-light photos on a smartphone.

 

You can also often customize the look of your JPEGs in-camera. Many DSLRs have camera profiles, as well as options to adjust exposure and saturation. On smartphones, you can add filters.

2. Preset settings and configurations are usually good enough

If you're a professional photographer who shoots for clients, you'll want to get more involved in the editing process. However, if you're just taking regular photos, this isn't necessary. Presets will do most of the editing you'll need; Lightroom and  VSCO are great apps. You'll also find plenty of other apps for Instagram-style filters. Instagram's in-app filters are also great for many photographers.

People might think that you can't get camera profiles in editing apps with JPEGs, but that's true with Lightroom. However, you can add these presets to your camera and download the photos to your smartphone later. Some manufacturers, like Fujifilm, even let you create your own.

1. Most people won't notice a difference

Editing RAW files instead of JPEGs can easily give people a sense of professionalism or prestige. But honestly, most people won't notice the difference.

When someone is moved by a photo, they don't care about the technical details. It's because the image speaks to them. Even with a lot of editing experience, you still won't notice when someone edits with JPEG unless they explicitly say so.