How to Prepare a RAW Camera Capture for Digital Restoration
By ImgHeal · Updated
Develop a copy with retained detail before using a standard image uploader.
Keep the RAW capture
Save the camera's RAW file and any development settings in your archive. A restoration site's uploader may require a rendered image rather than a camera RAW format. Check its requirements instead of assuming an extension change will make the file readable.
Develop conservatively
Use a compatible photo editor to set orientation, exposure, and color balance. Protect visible highlight and shadow detail and avoid strong sharpening before export. Keep the complete print edges in the source capture even if your delivery copy uses a tighter crop.
Review the rendered file
Export a supported format and compare it with the developed preview. Check fine detail and tonal transitions before uploading. Preserve the RAW file so another interpretation can be developed later without starting from the restored or compressed derivative.
Check before you finish
- Keep RAW files and development notes.
- Avoid clipping tones before export.
Continue with a related guide
Try a restoration on a copy of your photo
Keep the original scan. Upload a separate digital copy, review ImgHeal’s generated result, and decide whether it suits your needs.
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