RAW

Term from Photography industry explained for recruiters

RAW is a special type of photo file format that professional photographers use. Think of it as the digital equivalent of a photo negative from traditional film cameras. Unlike regular photo files (like JPEGs), RAW files contain all the original information captured by the camera, giving photographers more control when editing their photos later. It's similar to having all the ingredients for a meal rather than a pre-cooked dish - you have more options to adjust the final result. When photographers mention RAW in their resume, it shows they understand professional-grade photography and editing techniques.

Examples in Resumes

Processed over 1,000 RAW images weekly for commercial clients

Developed efficient workflow for handling RAW photo editing in wedding photography

Trained junior photographers in RAW image processing and color correction

Typical job title: "Professional Photographers"

Also try searching for:

Commercial Photographer Wedding Photographer Portrait Photographer Photo Editor Digital Image Specialist Photography Post-Production Specialist Studio Photographer

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage large volumes of RAW files in a commercial photography workflow?

Expected Answer: A senior photographer should discuss file organization systems, backup strategies, efficient editing workflows, and tools used for managing large quantities of RAW files while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.

Q: What's your approach to training others in RAW processing?

Expected Answer: Should explain their teaching methods for helping others understand RAW processing, including color correction, exposure adjustment, and maintaining consistent quality across multiple images.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's your typical RAW processing workflow?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain their step-by-step process for handling RAW files, from import to final export, including organization, editing, and backup procedures.

Q: How do you handle difficult lighting situations using RAW?

Expected Answer: Should discuss how they use RAW files' flexibility to rescue challenging shots, adjust exposure, and balance colors in post-processing.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between RAW and JPEG?

Expected Answer: Should explain that RAW contains more image data and allows for more editing flexibility, while JPEG is a compressed format with less editing capability.

Q: What basic adjustments do you typically make to RAW files?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic exposure adjustments, white balance corrections, and simple color adjustments that are commonly made to RAW photos.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic RAW processing
  • Simple exposure and color corrections
  • File organization and backup
  • Basic editing software knowledge

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced color correction
  • Efficient editing workflows
  • Batch processing techniques
  • Multiple software proficiency

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex editing techniques
  • Training and workflow development
  • High-volume processing management
  • Advanced color management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No understanding of file management systems
  • Unfamiliarity with professional editing software
  • Poor knowledge of color correction
  • No backup strategies for client files