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RAW Converter Software Comparisons
There is an abundance of RAW converter software applications available. Some are free while others offer more options and creative plug-ins for digital imaging. Here is a look at the various RAW converter software, comparing the similarities and differences.
RAW Conversion Software
Shooting in Camera RAW is the best format for capturing all the image detail. RAW images include all image data that the camera sensor records without automatic editing. Most professional photographers shoot only in Camera RAW to retain the maximum image information and manually edit the images using RAW converter software.
Many different applications can convert RAW images from camera specific applications like Nikon’s Capture software that only converts the image to Adobe Photoshop that converts and has advanced editing options. Depending on the need, skill level, and budget there is a RAW converter application to suit everyone’s need.
Rating System Explained
The RAW converter software are rated in this comparison according to how many editing options they offer. A 3 star and 5 star product may be equal in quality, but not in advanced editing options. All the RAW conversion software applications tested were quality applications that will convert RAW images and are produced by companies with a history of serving the photographic community.
The rating system is used to help the reader find the application with the most and least options at a glance.
Adobe DNG (Digital Negative) Converter
- Cost - Free
- Imaging Capability - None
- Reliability - Adobe is one of the leaders in photographic imaging and has produced a reliable quality product since digital cameras came on the market.
- Supported Format - Yes
- Ease of Use - Adobe DNG is extremely easy to use. There are few features to confuse the user; all the options are on one window.
Adobe Photoshop CS3 & CS4
Photoshop CS3 & CS4 were the first versions to support the RAW format.
There are many RAW converter applications available on the market. They all convert RAW files, but the imaging and editing capabilities are vastly different. Here is a simple comparison between various different RAW converter applications that range in price and features.
Bibble 5 Pro
Bibble Labs started in 2000 to develop software to convert RAW from the Nikon D1 series of cameras. Bibble also licenses RAW Image Processing integrated into other products such as Extensis, JASC/Corel and Kodak. They cater to the professional photographer and have consistently upgraded and created new applications tailored to the professional user.
Nikon Capture NX
Nikon's Capture software was originally designed to convert the RAW files from the Nikon DSLR camera line into JPEGs and TIFFs. Nikon has since added editing features to their conversion software.
- Cost - $120
- Imaging Capability - Nikon has added some imaging tools and adjustment panels. Capture NX2 can only work with one image at a time. There the basic color correction and exposure controls as well as a few added tools like spot removal, but overall the editing is basic.
- Reliability - Overall the product seems to deliver accurate color. Nikon supports and stands behind their products.
- Ease of Use - There is a small learning curve learning where everything is, but overall it is easy to use.
Capture One
Capture One was one of the original RAW converters that put a lot of design and function into workflow and image processing on top of converting RAW images into other file formats.