Top 6 RAW Processing Tools

When a digital camera captures an image, image sensors in the camera record the light from millions of sensing area. The camera's digital circuitry converts the generated analog voltage signal into a digital representation. Many cameras allow these images to be stored in a raw image file. They are similar to digital negatives, as they have the same role as negatives in film photography.

RAW files are not directly usable, but have all the necessary information to create an image. RAW files usually offer higher color depth, higher dynamic range, and preserve most of the information of the image compared with the final image format. The downside of RAW files is that they take up far more storage space. Dynamic range in photography describes the ratio between the maximum and minimum measurable light intensities (white and black, respectively).

As implied by the name, RAW files have not been processed. By taking pictures in raw format the photographer is not commiting to the conversion software that is built into the firmware of the camera. Instead, the individual can store the raw files, and make use of computer software to generate better JPEG files, and also benefit from future improvements in image software.

There is a good range of open source Linux software that processes RAW files.

To provide an insight into the quality of software that is available, we have compiled a list of 6 high quality RAW processing tools. Hopefully, there will be something of interest here for anyone who has a passion for digital photography.

Now, let's explore the 6 RAW processing tools at hand. For each title we have compiled its own portal page, a full description with an in-depth analysis of its features, a screenshot of the software in action, together with links to relevant resources and reviews.

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Last Updated Tuesday, November 06 2012 @ 04:27 PM EST