Unit Two : The Gear
Why choose JPEG?
As previously stated, there are a lot of instances in which JPEG is a great choice. Let’s look at some of the key benefits. While reading, think about how these benefits would present themselves in your personal shooting style and goals.
Smaller File Size: JPEG files are significantly smaller compared to Raw files. This is beneficial for saving storage space on memory cards and hard drives, and making it easier to manage and share a large number of images more quickly.
Ease of Sharing: JPEG is a universally supported format, making it easy to share images across different devices and online platforms without compatibility issues. It is widely accepted for web uploads and social media sharing. For photographers who are new to post-processing, JPEGs can be more approachable. The in-camera processing helps produce a polished image without the need for advanced editing skills or specialized software.
Simplified Editing and Faster Workflow: JPEG files require less post-processing compared to raw files. The in-camera processing applied to JPEGs, including color correction and compression, can save time in the editing process, especially for photographers who prefer a quick and efficient workflow.
In-Camera Adjustments: JPEG files allow photographers to apply various in-camera settings, such as white balance, sharpness, and color profiles. This can be advantageous for photographers who prefer to get the image “right” in-camera without extensive post-processing.
Continuous Shooting: The smaller file size of JPEGs allows for a greater number of continuous shots when using burst mode. This is particularly useful in fast-paced situations where capturing multiple frames per second is essential.
When is JPEG a hindrance?
We now have an understanding of why one would choose to use JPEG. Let’s take a look at where JPEGs fall short in terms of post processing. Watch the attached video to see an example.
Now that we can identify instances wherein JPEG would be advantageous (or not), let’s explore the benefits of using raw files.