Windows only: Photo geeks out there know how valuable raw image formats can be, but the Windows Imaging Component doesn’t have native support. The free FastPictureViewer WIC codec pack adds RAW support to XP, Vista and 7. More »
Windows/Mac only: Instant JPEG from RAW allows you to browse RAW photo files from a number of high-end digital cameras directly in Windows File Explorer and Mac OS X Finder. The software extracts the JPEG thumbnail usually embedded in a RAW file and makes it the file’s system icon—which makes editing large batches of pictures much quicker and easier. Instant JPEG from RAW is a free download for Mac or Windows after registration (licence key arrives via email). Instant JPEG From RAW – Version 1.1 [RawWorkflow via News.com]
Whether you’re a weekend photographer or seasoned professional, Wired’s Charlie Sorrel says you should always use your digital camera’s RAW setting—no excuses. Sorrel cites increased dynamic range, no in-camera processing of the image, and full reign to adjust the results using all of the pre-compressed, raw data available in the image (hence RAW). The downsides to RAW, on the other hand, include slower capture times, larger files, and lack of support on lower-end consumer cameras. (Then again, if you’ve got a Canon point-and-shoot, there’s a good chance you can add RAW support and other high-end features by installing the easy-to-use Canon Hackers Development Kit.) Wired’s recommendation is one thing, but we’re curious what mode you regularly shoot in. So we want to know:
