Canon Pro1 PowerShot Pro1 Camera User Guide - Page 64

Changing the File Format Mode Dial The recording file format can be switched to the RAW format before shooting the image. With the standard JPEG file format, the camera processes images after capturing them to produce optimal results. The JPEG format compresses images so that more can be stored on a single CF card. However, the compression is irreversible, meaning that the original image data cannot be recovered after processing. In contrast, the RAW format records the image data as captured by the camera's CCD without further processing. RAW images are compressed, but the compression is reversible* so that a highquality image can be obtained from the decompressed file without any loss of image quality. In addition, although a RAW file is larger than an equivalent JPEG file, it is still only approximately onequarter the size* of an uncompressed RGB TIFF format file, making it relatively compact. With standard uncompressed file formats, such as RGB TIFF, images are processed in the camera and require further processing by retouching software to adjust the image parameters, which reduces image quality. With the RAW format, however, the original data can be used in special software** to adjust the image parameters (white balance, contrast, sharpness and saturation) making it possible to maintain the image quality while making changes. The resolution (3264 x 2448) and compression settings cannot be adjusted for these images. * As measured by Canon's testing standard. ** The bundled software can be used to open or adjust the parameters of images recorded in the RAW file format. Please consult the Software Starter Guide for details. 60