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Digital process - EdexcelChoosing the right format

Digital photography uses many different forms of technology, such as SLR, DSLR and bridge cameras. Learn how to use these and the software, to make the most of your digital camera.

Part of Art and DesignPhotography

Choosing the right format

RAW versus JPEG

JPEG files are smaller than RAW files because a RAW file contains information so the memory card fills up quickly. Multiple cards or a card with a very large memory are needed. More can be done .

Hands in a bowl of salad. The left half of the image looks dull and says "raw". Half looks vibrant and says "edited"
Image caption,
This example demonstrates how the RAW file is less saturated, whereas the opposite side which has been edited is more likely to look like a JPEG image straight off the camera.

With JPEG files the camera has already the information. This means that the image looks more finished, so there's less that needs doing in post-processing. But there is also less freedom with what can be done.

High dynamic range (HDR) photography

High dynamic range photography uses advanced techniques and software. HDR is a style that can鈥檛 be achieved in a single photo, but only works by combining several into one.

Three copies of the same photograph of a hill and rushing water, each with different lighting

When photographing a highly contrasting scene, highlights may become washed out or the dark tones may look like black blobs. When this happens, the subject or scene has exceeded the dynamic range which your camera can capture.

Click through the slideshow to see examples of HDR photography.

Image gallerySkip image gallerySlide 1 of 4, Coastal scene. Rocky cliffs and sun shining over an island,

Mobile phone cameras have impressive HDR functions built into them so you can take your own HDR photographs. The mobile phone camera can take a series of photos captured at slightly different exposures to achieve the highest dynamic range and then merge them together instantly to create the HDR photo effect.