A JPEG is a standard image file format that is a universal method of displaying images. However, a JPEG is already processed by the camera when you download it to a computer. JPEGs have a small file size and take up less storage. This is ideal for when you are taking a lot of pictures. JPEGs also need to be processed less. The camera sharpens, contrasts, and saturates the photos for you. Thus making your editing time significantly less. This however, limits the control and flexibility you have in post-processing.

A RAW file is a file format that is completely untouched. They are not processed and filtered by the camera; they are raw data. They can not be seen by the human eye and need to be converted into another file format. However, RAW images can be coverted into beautiful and detailed images. This file format allows for more control over the highlights and shadows in post-processing. With RAW, you have the upmost control and flexibility over every setting in post-processing. You are able to adjust every detail unlike when post-processing a JPEG.