Image Format Comparison

TIFF vs RAW: Professional Image Formats Compared

RAW is the unprocessed sensor data captured directly by a camera — the digital negative. TIFF is a processed, lossless raster format used in print workflows and professional editing. RAW requires processing software to view; TIFF is universally openable. Professional photography workflows use RAW for capture and editing, then export to TIFF for print delivery.

TIFFvsRAW

Quick Verdict

Use TIFF when…

Use TIFF for final delivery to print shops, publishers, or clients who need a processed, high-quality image file. TIFF is universally supported by print workflows and preserves full edit results.

Use RAW when…

Use RAW for capture and non-destructive editing. Keep your RAW files as the master archive — every edit is undoable, and RAW files can be re-processed as software improves.

TIFF vs RAW: Feature Comparison

Feature	TIFF	RAW
Capture source	Camera output or scan result	Camera sensor data (unprocessed)
Processing required	Ready to view in any app	Requires RAW processor (Lightroom, Darktable)
File size	Large (20–100 MB)	Very large (20–50 MB, uncompressed sensor data)
Bit depth	8-bit or 16-bit	12-bit or 14-bit (sensor data)
Non-destructive editing	No (edits change the file)	Yes (edits stored in sidecar or database)
Print shop compatibility	Universal	Requires conversion first
Browser support	No	No
Software compatibility	Universal	Manufacturer-specific; DNG for open format

When TIFF wins

✓Capture source: Camera output or scan result
✓Processing required: Ready to view in any app
✓File size: Large (20–100 MB)

When RAW wins

✓Capture source: Camera sensor data (unprocessed)
✓Processing required: Requires RAW processor (Lightroom, Darktable)
✓File size: Very large (20–50 MB, uncompressed sensor data)

Frequently asked questions

Should I save as TIFF or keep RAW after editing?

Keep both when possible. Keep the RAW as your master — it's the original data with maximum latitude for future re-processing. Export TIFF for delivery, printing, or when sharing with clients who need a processed file.

Is TIFF better than RAW for long-term archiving?

RAW is better for archiving because it contains the full sensor data — you can re-process it with future, better software. TIFF is a processed interpretation of the RAW data. The ideal archive: RAW plus a TIFF sidecar of your processed result. DNG is an open RAW format good for long-term archiving.

What is the best format to send to a print shop?

TIFF is the standard delivery format for professional print. Use 16-bit TIFF with AdobeRGB or sRGB colour space and LZW compression. Check with the print shop — some accept JPG at high quality, which reduces file transfer size significantly.