When it comes to capturing high-quality images and videos, photographers and videographers often rely on RAW files to get the best possible results. RAW files contain all the data captured by the camera’s sensor, giving users more flexibility when editing and enhancing their photos and videos. But does GoPro, one of the most popular action camera brands, capture RAW? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of GoPro and explore its RAW capabilities.
What is RAW and Why is it Important?
Before we dive into GoPro’s RAW capabilities, let’s first understand what RAW is and why it’s essential for photographers and videographers. RAW files are uncompressed and unprocessed data files captured by a camera’s sensor. They contain all the information captured by the sensor, including the image data, metadata, and other relevant information.
RAW files are important for several reasons:
- Greater flexibility: RAW files give users more flexibility when editing and enhancing their photos and videos. Since RAW files contain all the data captured by the sensor, users can adjust exposure, contrast, and color balance without degrading the image quality.
- Better image quality: RAW files can produce better image quality compared to JPEG files, which are compressed and processed in-camera. RAW files can capture a wider dynamic range, resulting in more detailed shadows and highlights.
- Non-destructive editing: RAW files allow for non-destructive editing, meaning that users can make changes to the image without altering the original data.
GoPro’s RAW Capabilities
Now that we’ve covered the basics of RAW files, let’s explore GoPro’s RAW capabilities. GoPro cameras have evolved significantly over the years, and their RAW capabilities have improved with each new model.
GoPro HERO7 and Earlier Models
The GoPro HERO7 and earlier models do not capture RAW images. Instead, they capture JPEG files, which are compressed and processed in-camera. While JPEG files are convenient and easy to share, they lack the flexibility and image quality of RAW files.
GoPro HERO8 and Later Models
The GoPro HERO8 and later models, including the HERO9 and HERO10, capture RAW images in the form of DNG files. DNG (Digital Negative) is a RAW file format developed by Adobe, which contains all the data captured by the camera’s sensor.
To capture RAW images on a GoPro HERO8 or later model, follow these steps:
- Go to the camera settings and select “RAW” as the file format.
- Make sure that the camera is set to capture images in RAW + JPEG mode. This will allow you to capture both RAW and JPEG files simultaneously.
- Use the GoPro app or a computer to transfer the RAW files to your device.
GoPro’s RAW Video Capabilities
In addition to capturing RAW images, GoPro cameras also capture RAW video. The GoPro HERO8 and later models can capture RAW video in the form of ProTune files. ProTune is a feature that allows users to capture video with more manual controls, including exposure compensation, ISO, and color balance.
To capture RAW video on a GoPro HERO8 or later model, follow these steps:
- Go to the camera settings and select “ProTune” as the video mode.
- Make sure that the camera is set to capture video in RAW mode. This will allow you to capture video with more manual controls.
- Use the GoPro app or a computer to transfer the RAW video files to your device.
Editing GoPro RAW Files
Once you’ve captured RAW files on your GoPro, you’ll need to edit them using specialized software. Here are some popular options for editing GoPro RAW files:
- Adobe Lightroom: Adobe Lightroom is a popular photo editing software that supports GoPro RAW files. It offers a range of tools and features for editing and enhancing your photos.
- Adobe Photoshop: Adobe Photoshop is a powerful photo editing software that supports GoPro RAW files. It offers advanced tools and features for editing and enhancing your photos.
- GoPro Studio: GoPro Studio is a free video editing software that supports GoPro RAW files. It offers a range of tools and features for editing and enhancing your videos.
Benefits of Editing GoPro RAW Files
Editing GoPro RAW files offers several benefits, including:
- Improved image quality: Editing RAW files can result in improved image quality, with better contrast, color balance, and exposure.
- Greater flexibility: Editing RAW files gives users more flexibility when editing and enhancing their photos and videos.
- Non-destructive editing: Editing RAW files allows for non-destructive editing, meaning that users can make changes to the image without altering the original data.
Conclusion
In conclusion, GoPro cameras do capture RAW files, but only on certain models. The GoPro HERO8 and later models capture RAW images in the form of DNG files, while the GoPro HERO7 and earlier models do not capture RAW images. Additionally, GoPro cameras capture RAW video in the form of ProTune files.
Editing GoPro RAW files offers several benefits, including improved image quality, greater flexibility, and non-destructive editing. By capturing and editing RAW files, users can unleash the full potential of their GoPro cameras and produce high-quality images and videos.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or videographer or just a hobbyist, capturing and editing RAW files can take your GoPro footage to the next level. So, if you’re looking to get the most out of your GoPro camera, consider capturing and editing RAW files.
What is RAW image capture and how does it benefit photographers?
RAW image capture is a file format that captures all the data from a camera’s sensor, giving photographers more flexibility when editing their photos. Unlike JPEG files, which are processed in-camera, RAW files contain all the data captured by the sensor, allowing for greater control over exposure, contrast, and color.
This increased flexibility is especially useful for photographers who want to achieve a specific look or mood in their photos. By capturing in RAW, they can make non-destructive edits to the file, without affecting the original data. This means they can try out different editing techniques and styles, without worrying about degrading the image quality.
Does GoPro capture RAW images?
Yes, GoPro cameras do capture RAW images, but only in certain modes and with specific models. The Hero5 Black, Hero6 Black, Hero7 Black, Hero8 Black, and Hero9 Black all support RAW image capture, but only when shooting in ProTune mode. This mode gives users more control over camera settings, including the ability to capture RAW files.
When shooting in RAW, GoPro cameras capture 12-bit DNG files, which contain all the data from the sensor. These files can be edited using GoPro’s Quik software, or other third-party editing apps that support DNG files. However, it’s worth noting that not all GoPro models support RAW capture, so it’s essential to check your camera’s specifications before attempting to shoot in RAW.
What are the benefits of shooting in RAW with a GoPro?
Shooting in RAW with a GoPro gives photographers more flexibility when editing their photos. Because RAW files contain all the data from the sensor, they can make non-destructive edits to the file, without affecting the original data. This means they can try out different editing techniques and styles, without worrying about degrading the image quality.
Additionally, shooting in RAW allows photographers to capture a wider dynamic range, which can be especially useful when shooting in high-contrast environments. By capturing more data, they can recover details in both the shadows and highlights, resulting in a more balanced and natural-looking image.
How do I enable RAW image capture on my GoPro?
To enable RAW image capture on your GoPro, you’ll need to put the camera in ProTune mode. This mode gives you more control over camera settings, including the ability to capture RAW files. To access ProTune mode, go to the camera settings, then select “ProTune” and toggle it on.
Once you’re in ProTune mode, you’ll need to select the RAW file format. This option is usually found in the “Format” or “File Type” menu. Make sure to select the DNG file format, which is the RAW file format used by GoPro cameras. Once you’ve enabled RAW capture, you can start shooting and capturing RAW files.
Can I shoot in RAW and JPEG simultaneously with my GoPro?
Yes, GoPro cameras do allow you to shoot in RAW and JPEG simultaneously. This is useful for photographers who want to capture both a processed JPEG file and a RAW file, giving them the flexibility to edit the RAW file later.
To enable simultaneous RAW and JPEG capture, go to the camera settings, then select “ProTune” and toggle it on. Then, select the “RAW + JPEG” option in the “Format” or “File Type” menu. This will capture both a RAW file and a JPEG file for each photo you take.
How do I edit RAW files from my GoPro?
RAW files from your GoPro can be edited using GoPro’s Quik software, or other third-party editing apps that support DNG files. Quik is a free software that allows you to import, edit, and export your RAW files. It offers a range of editing tools, including exposure adjustments, color grading, and noise reduction.
Alternatively, you can use other editing apps like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, which also support DNG files. These apps offer more advanced editing tools and features, giving you greater control over your RAW files. Regardless of which app you choose, make sure it supports DNG files and is compatible with your GoPro camera.
Are there any limitations to shooting in RAW with a GoPro?
Yes, there are some limitations to shooting in RAW with a GoPro. One of the main limitations is that RAW files are much larger than JPEG files, which can fill up your memory card quickly. Additionally, RAW files can take longer to process and edit, especially if you’re working with large files.
Another limitation is that not all GoPro models support RAW capture, so it’s essential to check your camera’s specifications before attempting to shoot in RAW. Additionally, some features like burst mode and time-lapse may not be available when shooting in RAW.