
If you intend to use your photos for other purposes, like a web gallery, or to create a canvas, you must convert them to a print-ready file format.

RAW files are not suitable for web graphics or print media. Converting the files ensures they can still view them using basic apps like the Windows Photo Viewer.

Unless the person you are sharing the RAW files with has post-processing software, they will not be able to view them. If you want other people to view your photos, a RAW converter is essential. To remedy this, the best RAW converter programs can be used to convert RAW files to compressed image formats which are a fraction of the file size. Trying to share these large file formats can be difficult. As a result, it is not uncommon for RAW files to be 25MB+ in size. Consider this – a RAW file like a CR3 file contains all the original image data and camera information. As a result, if you want to use these photos in other programs, you must convert them into a generic file format like a JPEG. Most programs outside of dedicated post-processing software cannot preview, let alone view RAW files.

But why do you need a RAW converter? Why can’t you just use RAW files as they are? The following are the main benefits of using a RAW converter: As you can see there is an excellent range of both free and paid solutions. You should now have a clear idea of the best RAW converter program available. Only available for Mac OS What are the benefits of using a RAW converter?
