Shooting RAW and Pro mode on your phone
RAW files and manual controls give phone photographers more editing freedom. Learn when to use ProRAW, Expert RAW and Pro modes.
Photo by Samuel Angor on Unsplash
Phones process JPEG and HEIC photos heavily. RAW formats keep more data, giving you control over exposure, color and noise in editing.
RAW formats
- Apple ProRAW on iPhones combines computational photography with RAW flexibility.
- Samsung Expert RAW and Google Pixel RAW offer similar options.
- Third-party apps like Halide or Lightroom Mobile capture DNG files.
When to use RAW
High-contrast scenes, sunsets, interiors and photos you plan to edit carefully. For quick snapshots, standard formats are fine.
Pro mode controls
- ISO: keep it low in good light
- Shutter speed: faster for action, slower on a tripod
- White balance: lock it for consistent color
- Manual focus with focus peaking
- Exposure compensation
File sizes
RAW files are large, often 25 to 75 MB. Manage storage and cloud backups.
Editing
Open RAW files in Lightroom Mobile and edit as you would camera RAW files: exposure, highlights, shadows, white balance and masks.
Want to put this tip into practice with pro gear? Rent cameras and lenses in Mérida, or hire us for the shoot. WhatsApp →
