About the RAW file format
RAW is a camera RAW format used to retain image data for photographic development and conversion.
The guide and converter lists are generated from the live HEIC.now catalog, so every conversion shown here is an available workflow.
Why RAW files are used
RAW Camera Image files belong to the camera raw family and use the .raw extension.
The most practical format depends on the software, quality, compatibility and file-size requirements of the destination workflow.
What to know about RAW
File structure
RAW has format-specific rules for storing image, document or media data.
Quality
Conversion can change compression, colour, metadata, resolution or editability.
Compatibility
Support for RAW varies between browsers, operating systems and editing applications.
Original files
Keep the original RAW when future editing or maximum retained information matters.
How RAW conversion works
Converting RAW decodes or renders the source and then encodes the result in the selected destination format.
Review the converted file before replacing the source because format-specific features may not transfer.
heic.now accepts RAW as an input and converts it to supported outputs.
RAW compatibility and software support
Check that the receiving browser, app or service supports RAW before choosing it for delivery.
A JPG or PNG copy is often useful when broad image compatibility is the priority.
RAW and related formats
When should you use RAW?
- Sharing: Create a file the recipient can open without specialist software.
- Publishing: Prepare content for a website, app or content-management system.
- Editing: Move content into a format supported by the next editing application.
- Archiving: Keep the original and create practical access copies for everyday use.
Convert from RAW
Use RAW as the source.
RAW file format FAQ
What is a RAW file?
RAW is a camera RAW format used to retain image data for photographic development and conversion.
Can HEIC.now convert RAW files?
heic.now accepts RAW as an input and converts it to supported outputs.
What changes when RAW is converted?
Converting RAW decodes or renders the source and then encodes the result in the selected destination format.
Should I keep the original RAW file?
Review the converted file before replacing the source because format-specific features may not transfer.