RAW looks like JPG

[davidw99]

Hello,

New to the forum. I did a search but didn't find an answer to my question.

When I import pictures that I have taken and saved in both jpg and raw (Fujifilm: raf) the jpg and raw versions pictures look exactly the same in ASP2. I would expect to see differences because of the two formats. Various web sites indicate that some raw conversion software converts the raw image to jpg even before you do any editing to it. In other words, you are editing a jpg and not a raw file. If ASP2 does this (and that is my question, does ASP2 do this) it seems little better than just saving in jpg and forgetting the raw format. I could not find any discussion of this or any information on the Corel web site. Can anyone provide an answer?

Thanks.

[Dutchmm]

The same effect appears with the RAW+JPEG from my Sony A55.
But it is not the case that ASP has already converted the RAW. In fact, it never modifies the RAW. It just applies the changes you make (which it keeps in a "sidecar file") during the export.
So your fears are groundless
HTH

[davidw99]

I know the original file is untouched but does the program make changes to a second raw file (the file being edited) or to a jpg? In other words, is the file that is being edited a raw or jpg?

[afx]

AS never uses the embedded JPG apart from the initial thumbnail preview before it has rendered its own.

cheers
afx

[Dutchmm]

In other words, is the file that is being edited a raw or jpg?

If you open a directory that contains both RAW and JPG versions of a shot, ASP will show you both. AFX has given us the technical explanation of why the two images initially look the same. You can edit either version. It will write a sidecar file for the version you edit, so even if you edit the JPG version, your edits will be non-destructive.

Now you want to know which is which? On my computer, the .ARW is shown before the .JPG. I don't know whether this is an accident of my directory display order preferences or systematic; but when you mouse over each thumbnail ASP shows the file name.

HTH

[davidw99]

Not to beat a dead horse - so if I open both the raw (RAF) and jpg (not talking about thumbnails) I should see differences between the two files since raw is not camera processed and jpg is camera processed, correct?

[afx]

Yes, there should be differences.
Especially when looking at fine details in 100%.

cheers
afx

[davidw99]

Thank you all. I'm new to raw and appreciate the experience shared.

[Dutchmm]

David
I would recommend AFX's book on ASP if you decide to persevere with RAW.

[davidw99]

Dutchman,

Thank you for the suggestion. I just downloaded the book.

David