Capture RAW images on your iPhone with Apple ProRAW technology

iPhone Pro users have the ability to shoot RAW images using a feature called Apple ProRAW. This file format allows for better image edits internally using the iPhone’s camera. It was first introduced with the iPhone 12 Pro and is now available on all Pro models launched since then, with iOS 14.3 or later.

Compared to JPEG, RAW images capture more data that can be adjusted later, such as color balance. JPEG files lack this extra data and may result in image adjustments that are not quite right. RAW files produce better results, especially when it comes to color manipulation. They also have a wider dynamic range, retaining more detail in the darkest and lightest areas of the image.

While professional photographers typically prefer shooting in RAW, the iPhone Pro models were among the first smartphones to introduce this feature. RAW images are not automatically edited by the camera, providing photographers with more control over the editing process. Even without any edits, RAW images still look better than normal JPEG files. Apple ProRAW also includes the Smart HDR, Deep Fusion, and Night mode effects.

Various popular editing apps, such as Lightroom, VSCO, Afterlight, and Darkroom, support RAW files with the .dng extension. When editing on a computer, RAW images are compatible with Adobe Camera RAW, Lightroom, and Capture One.

To start capturing images in RAW on iPhone Pro models, users can enable Apple ProRAW in the iOS settings under Camera and then Formats. Once enabled, the RAW icon will be visible in the Camera app. Disabling it with a tap will switch back to shooting in JPEG.