Why I Never Hand Over RAW Files (and What You Get Instead)

30 Sept

Let’s talk about something that comes up every now and then:
"Can I have the RAW files from my shoot?"

I totally get the curiosity — especially in a world where we’re used to getting all the files, all the time. But when it comes to photography, especially the kind of natural, warm, and storytelling imagery I create, handing over RAW files just isn’t part of the process.

Here’s why — and what you’ll get instead (hint: it’s the good stuff).

What Are RAW Files, Anyway?

RAW files are the unprocessed, straight-out-of-camera versions of your photos. Think of them as digital negatives — full of potential, but not yet shaped into the final image. They’re duller, flatter, and much larger than the final edited images you receive.

They also require specialised software to open and aren’t ideal for printing, sharing, or viewing on most devices.

RAW Files Are Only Half the Story

When I take your photo, that’s just the beginning. The real magic happens in the edit — when I bring out the natural tones, correct the lighting, fine-tune the colours, and make sure everything reflects the warmth and personality of my style.

This is where I make creative choices based on years of experience and a very intentional editing process. Delivering RAW files would be like handing over a half-painted canvas and calling it finished — and that’s just not how I work.

You’re Hiring Me for the Final Vision – Not Just the Click of the Shutter

When you book me, you're not just hiring someone with a camera. You're choosing my eye for storytelling, my editing style, and the way I turn fleeting moments into timeless images.

Giving out RAW files would be like a writer giving you their scribbled first draft instead of the final, proofed book. I want you to have the best version of your story — one that’s polished, consistent, and beautifully complete.

So, What Do You Get Instead?

Beautifully edited, high-resolution JPEGs
Perfect for printing, sharing, and keeping forever. These are thoughtfully curated, colour-graded, and delivered in a way that reflects your day and my signature style.
A private online gallery
You’ll be able to view, download, and share your photos all in one place — easy and stress-free.
Consistent, cohesive images
So your whole gallery flows together, whether it’s a personal shoot or a set of brand images. It’s designed to feel like you, just with a little magic dust added.

It’s About Quality, Not Quantity

I know the idea of getting every single image might sound appealing, but trust me, part of my job is selecting the very best moments for you. I remove test shots, duplicates, misfires, and in-between blinks so you don’t have to scroll through hundreds of throwaways.

You get the gold — nothing less.

Trust the Process (It’s Built for You)

I care deeply about the work I deliver and the experience you have. My editing and curation process is designed to give you a gallery you’re proud to frame, share, and revisit over and over again.

So while you won’t get RAW files, you will get something better: images that are finished, considered, and fully you.