Tipful Thursday | Why most photographers don’t give RAW images

When I first started my business, I used to get asked a lot if I would be willing to give my RAW files to a client. This actually happened to one of my photographer friends the other day and I couldn’t believe that this is still something that is asked for. I never liked the idea of handing out unedited photos for a few reasons and I felt like I should explain why.

RAW

Edited

1. It's not a finished product.

Let me put something into perspective. Would you ask a professional baker for the ingredients to bake a cake thinking you will get a discount since they are not actually making the cake? Or would you hire a handyman to give you the tools you need to fix something in your house, because it must be cheaper than having him do the actual work, right?

The RAW photos that I take during a photoshoot is only half of the product. Every photographer has a unique way of editing. For me personally, it has taken me many years to develop the specific style that I have, so if I only gave a client the RAW images, they would not be the type of photos that you see on my instagram or website. And you would not be able to recreate my style if you tried to edit them yourself. That is the absolute beauty of photography! Everyone views the world differently and there is not one photo that looks the same. You can put two photographers together photographing the same clients , same location, and every photo would come out completely different in a beautiful way. It’s one of my favorite things about photography or any type of Art.

2. I want to be proud of the product I deliver

As stated before, RAW files are not a finished product and if someone were to post a RAW photo of mine and then tag my business, they are giving off the wrong impression for what kind of quality work I do. There is a lot of time and dedication that goes into every single photo that photographers deliver to you. And when I am finished, sending that full gallery of beautiful images is something that makes me so proud and it’s always an honor to not just document these moments for my clients but to brighten them in a way that helps your memories shine brighter than ever.

3. It is disrespectful to even ask

I know that sounds a little sharp but I mean say with with kindness. As my business progresses I actually got asked for RAW files less and less. I think this is because I became more confident in myself, my style, and the value of the product I was giving. Which is very important. It is often found to be disrespectful when people asked photographers for RAW images. I think once a photographer has the courage to tell people "No" and start respecting themselves and the work that they are putting into the world, people will respect them more and not ask those questions. Just a little advice for my Photographer friends.

I understand that my style may not be for everyone and that is okay. When choosing a photographer make sure you pick one that has a style you actually relate to and like for what it is. Do not just go with the cheapest photographer and assume they can edit how you like, or not edit at all to give you a discount. Remember: you are hiring a professional for a reason, trust that they know what they are doing! I love you all <3