How to Turn On RAW on iPhone

Many iPhone users want to capture higher-quality photos with more editing flexibility. However, the default camera app saves images in JPEG or HEIC formats, which compress data and limit post-processing options. If you are a developer or photography enthusiast, you might wonder how to enable RAW photo capture on your iPhone to get uncompressed image files.

Turning on RAW on iPhone allows you to save photos in the DNG (Digital Negative) format, preserving all the sensor data. This feature is especially useful for developers working with image processing or photographers who want maximum control over editing. This guide explains how to enable RAW capture, use it effectively, and troubleshoot common issues.

What is RAW photo capture on iPhone?

RAW photo capture saves images in an uncompressed format that retains all sensor data. Unlike JPEG or HEIC, RAW files do not apply automatic adjustments like sharpening or compression. This means you get more detail and dynamic range, allowing for better editing. On iPhones, RAW images are saved as DNG files, a widely supported open format. Developers and photographers use RAW to perform advanced color correction, noise reduction, and exposure adjustments that are impossible with compressed formats. However, RAW files are larger and require compatible apps to view and edit. Using RAW on iPhone requires compatible hardware (iPhone 12 Pro and later models support ProRAW) and software that can capture or process RAW images. RAW capture is ideal for scenarios where image quality and editing flexibility are critical, such as professional photography or app development involving image manipulation.

Which iPhone models support RAW photo capture?

RAW photo capture is supported on iPhones with advanced camera hardware and iOS versions that include ProRAW functionality. Specifically, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, and later Pro models support Apple ProRAW, Apple's proprietary RAW format. Standard iPhone models without the Pro designation do not support ProRAW but can still capture RAW images using third-party camera apps that save DNG files. These apps bypass the default camera limitations and allow RAW capture on many iPhone models, including older ones. To summarize:

iPhone Model	RAW Support	Notes
iPhone 12 Pro and later Pro models	Yes (Apple ProRAW)	Native support via Camera app
Other iPhone models	Partial	Third-party apps can capture RAW (DNG)

If you want to use RAW capture on a non-Pro iPhone, you must install a third-party camera app that supports RAW. Native ProRAW is only available on supported Pro models running iOS 14.3 or later.

How do you enable RAW photo capture on iPhone?

Enabling RAW photo capture on iPhone depends on whether you use the native Camera app with ProRAW support or a third-party app. For iPhone 12 Pro and later: 1. Open the Settings app. 2. Scroll down and tap Camera. 3. Tap Formats. 4. Toggle on Apple ProRAW. 5. Open the Camera app and tap the RAW button at the top to enable RAW capture. This enables ProRAW capture, saving photos in the DNG format with RAW data. For other iPhones, you need a third-party app like Halide or Adobe Lightroom: 1. Download and install a RAW-capable camera app. 2. Open the app and find the RAW capture setting. 3. Enable RAW capture before taking photos. Enabling RAW requires more storage and processing power, so be mindful of file sizes and battery usage.

What are the benefits of using RAW photos on iPhone?

RAW photos provide several advantages over standard JPEG or HEIC images:

Higher image quality: RAW files retain all sensor data without compression, preserving detail and dynamic range.
Greater editing flexibility: You can adjust exposure, white balance, and colors extensively without degrading image quality.
Better noise reduction: RAW images allow advanced noise reduction techniques during post-processing.
Professional workflows: RAW is the preferred format for photographers and developers working with image processing.
Future-proofing: RAW files contain more data that can be used for improved edits as software advances.

However, RAW files are larger and require compatible software to view and edit. They are not ideal for casual snapshots or quick sharing.

Step-by-step guide to turn on RAW on iPhone

Step 1: Check your iPhone model and iOS version

Ensure your iPhone supports ProRAW (iPhone 12 Pro or later) and is running iOS 14.3 or newer. This is necessary to enable native RAW capture.

Settings > General > About

This path shows your iOS version and model. Update iOS if needed via Settings > General > Software Update.

Step 2: Enable Apple ProRAW in Settings

Open the Settings app, scroll to Camera, then tap Formats. Toggle on Apple ProRAW to enable RAW capture.

Settings > Camera > Formats > Apple ProRAW (toggle on)

This setting activates the RAW capture option in the Camera app.

Step 3: Open the Camera app and activate RAW

Launch the Camera app. At the top of the screen, tap the RAW button to enable RAW capture for your photos.

Camera app > Tap RAW button (top right)

When enabled, photos you take will be saved as DNG files with RAW data.

Step 4: Take photos using RAW mode

Use the Camera app as usual. RAW photos will be saved alongside standard JPEG/HEIC versions if you choose.

Tap shutter button to capture RAW photo

RAW photos provide more editing options later but take more storage space.

Step 5: Use third-party apps if needed

If your iPhone does not support ProRAW, install apps like Halide or Lightroom to capture RAW photos in DNG format.

Download Halide or Lightroom from App Store

Open the app, enable RAW capture in settings, and take photos with RAW data saved.

Step 6: Edit RAW photos with compatible software

Use apps like Adobe Lightroom, Affinity Photo, or Apple Photos to edit RAW images and take advantage of the extra data.

Open RAW photo in editing app for adjustments

RAW editing allows fine control over exposure, color, and detail.

What are common RAW photo capture errors on iPhone and how do you fix them?

RAW option missing in Camera settings: This usually means your iPhone model or iOS version does not support ProRAW. Update iOS or use a third-party app for RAW capture.
RAW button not appearing in Camera app: Ensure Apple ProRAW is enabled in Settings > Camera > Formats. Restart the Camera app or device if needed.
Photos not saving as RAW: Confirm RAW mode is active before taking photos. Check storage space as large RAW files need sufficient free space.
Third-party app crashes or fails to save RAW: Update the app to the latest version. Reinstall if problems persist. Check app permissions for camera and storage access.
RAW photos not opening in editing apps: Use apps that support DNG format. Some older or basic editors cannot open RAW files.

What are best practices when using RAW on iPhone?

Manage storage carefully: RAW files are large; ensure ample free space to avoid capture failures or slowdowns.
Use compatible editing software: Choose apps that fully support RAW/DNG to leverage the format's benefits.
Enable RAW only when needed: For casual photos, use standard formats to save space and battery life.
Keep iOS and apps updated: Updates improve RAW support, fix bugs, and add features.
Backup RAW photos: RAW files are valuable; back them up to iCloud or external storage regularly.

What apps can capture and edit RAW photos on iPhone?

Several third-party apps enable RAW capture and editing beyond the native Camera app:

App	RAW Capture	Editing Features	Notes
Halide	Yes (DNG)	Advanced manual controls, RAW editing	Popular among photographers
Adobe Lightroom	Yes (DNG)	Professional RAW editing and cataloging	Requires Adobe account
ProCamera	Yes (DNG)	Manual controls, RAW editing	Paid app with rich features
Apple Photos	No capture, but edits ProRAW	Basic RAW editing tools	Built-in app for editing

Choose apps based on your workflow and editing needs.

Conclusion

RAW photo capture on iPhone unlocks powerful image quality and editing flexibility by saving uncompressed sensor data in DNG format. Developers and photographers benefit from the enhanced control over exposure, color, and detail that RAW files provide. Enabling RAW requires compatible iPhone models, iOS versions, and sometimes third-party apps. Use RAW capture selectively to balance storage and performance. Follow best practices for storage management and editing software to maximize the advantages of RAW photos. Whether for professional photography or app development, turning on RAW on iPhone is a valuable skill to improve your images and workflows.

FAQs

Can I enable RAW photo capture on any iPhone model?

Native Apple ProRAW capture is limited to iPhone 12 Pro and later models. Other iPhones can capture RAW using third-party apps that save DNG files.

Does enabling RAW affect my iPhone's storage?

Yes, RAW photos are much larger than JPEG or HEIC files, so enabling RAW will consume more storage space quickly.

Do I need special software to edit RAW photos from iPhone?

Yes, you need apps that support RAW/DNG formats like Adobe Lightroom, Halide, or Apple Photos for effective editing.

Is Apple ProRAW different from standard RAW?

Apple ProRAW combines RAW sensor data with some computational photography enhancements, offering a balance of flexibility and image quality.

Will enabling RAW slow down my iPhone camera?

RAW capture may slightly slow down photo processing and increase battery usage due to larger file sizes and more data handling.