Raw Questions

[mdm]

I just took my first raw shots a few minutes ago. I put them on the computer. I was not sure which program was used to convert them. I used the canon software. When I make changes to the photo and I save a jpeg it doesn't change the raw file does it? Since it was a night shot and low light I could see a quick and pretty good change for the better on these shots. Is raw just for low light fixs? I am new to the raw part of this so I would appreciate any help or suggestions?

[deedas]

I'm new, so I'm not really the best source of info, but what I know of RAW is that its not a processed picture. All it is the original info taken by the sensor. Its then compressed using a proprietary non-lossy format. All processing done to those files will be using your computer. This gives you a greater range of options for your pictures since the camera doesn't decide anything for you

So RAW is not really just for low light fixes. Too me, its a great safety net for n00bs like me. I'm really just learning about exposure, ISO, etc. so more often than not, my pictures get over exposed and what not. :o

[tim]

Nope, you can't alter the RAW file. RAW is useful for a number of reasons - if you want to understand RAW I highly recommend this book (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/032127878X/qid=1113466778/sr=8-1/ref=sr_8_xs_ap_i1_xgl14/002-3047575-5896047?v=glance&s=books&n=507846). You'll get enough tips to learn how to use it from this forum, but I find understanding it very helpful.

[CyberDyneSystems]

The changes you make in the conversion are only applied to the out put file,. jpeg or tiff.. the RAW remains unchanged,. or "RAW".

RAW has many many advantages over shooting in jpeg.. low light/underexposure "fixes" is just one of them.

Just browse the post processing forum (your thread has been moved here) and read anything you can on RAW.. there is a lot to learn,. take it slow.

Here's some additional info...
http://www.cps.canon-europe.com/articles/article.jsp?article.articleId=1240
http://www.rogercavanagh.com/helpinfo/35_rawor.htm

[mdm]

You've got that right! coming from a point and shoot to dslr there is a lot to take in. It sure is exciting to learn about it. Would the lens "nifty fifty" cut down on alot of indoor low light problems?

[CyberDyneSystems]

YES! In a HUGE way.
Aperture is king where indoor low light shooting is concerned,. you can bump ISO etc.. but nothing will help more than a big fat low number aperture!

[PhotosGuy]

Get this free program. You're going to love it!
http://www.outbackphoto.com/artofraw/raw_18/essay.html

[mdm]

Thanks for everyones help. The RawShooter essentials program looks very powerful. I'll have to go over the directions. Thanks