Overlooking filming in raw format on your smartphone could mean missing out on an engaging photography experience

In the world of smartphone photography, Android devices are stepping up their game with the ability to capture and edit raw images. This feature, often found on high-end models like the Xiaomi 14, offers a more considered approach to photography, providing greater control and flexibility over your images.

One of the key benefits of shooting raw is the ability to edit images to your own tastes. Unlike compressed JPEGs, raw files are larger but offer a wealth of detail. This means you can recover shadow or highlight detail as needed, giving you greater creative freedom in post-processing.

Focusing manually can be a challenge, especially when trying macro photography. But fear not, as focus peaking is available on Android phones, helping you to focus more accurately. Additionally, a live histogram reading is useful for adjusting exposure settings, ensuring your shots are well-exposed before you even take the picture.

Optical distortions are often corrected automatically in raw files from Android phones, saving you the hassle of correcting them manually. And if you're looking for a more natural and neutral look, raw images may just be the answer. They often appear more natural compared to heavily processed JPEGs, particularly when it comes to skin tones.

The Xiaomi 14 makes shooting raw particularly easy, with the 'Pro' option being the first option visible on the camera app interface. Other Android phones, such as the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, Google Pixel 10 Pro, and Xiaomi 15 Ultra, also boast advanced camera systems, although the specific mention of RAW video capture is prominently noted for the iPhone 17 Pro models, which are manufactured by Apple and support ProRes RAW video recording.

For those seeking to add a touch of class to their images, apps like VSCO are particularly good for adding film simulations and infrared effects. However, it's not free, so keep that in mind. On the other hand, apps like Snapseed, Lightroom, and Photoshop offer free raw processing, making them accessible to all.

UltraRaw is another option available on Android phones, supporting the 14-bit raw format. This means even more detail can be captured, leading to even greater creative freedom.

So, whether you're a seasoned photographer or a casual snapper, shooting raw on Android phones can open up a world of creative possibilities. And with the ability to easily process raw files in popular photo editing software like Photoshop and Lightroom, there's never been a better time to give it a go.

And when you've taken your best shots, why not share them? You can email them to [email protected] for a chance to be featured. Happy shooting!

Overlooking filming in raw format on your smartphone could mean missing out on an engaging photography experience