Don’t ask for the RAWs: What Photography Clients Should Know

If you asked your local photographer friend ‘what is the hardest thing about photography jobs?’, I bet they’d make a list similar to mine. Myself, my photographer friends, and photographers I follow on the internet seem to encounter the same 5 or 6 misconceptions about the industry, over and over. In this post, I’ll go over some of the obvious challenges between photographers and clients. Photographers can feel validated, and clients can better understand what to expect when working with a professional photographer.

Most photographers are not willing to give you the RAWs

This is probably one of the most common issues any photographer runs into. It is frustrating for several reasons, but mostly because it devalues your work. I wouldn’t ask a random photographer to shoot something for me and then ask them for the RAWS. If I were to book a photographer for myself, I’d do it because I like their style and respect their time, energy and know-how. I would not insult them by asking them for RAW images. It would be similar to constructing a brand new, flawless house and then demanding broken panels and scratched tiles that have already been discarded or repurposed.

I have only received three requests for RAW files, thankfully. Two of those times involved other photographers, and those were not at all a problem for me. If the case is that you want photos of yourself, you know exactly how the process works because you are also working as a photographer, and you simply want to edit them in your own style… no problem! Have them! One of the big differences between those positive experiences and the negative ones is communication. Expectations between two photographers are laid out ahead of time. So, if you’re a client who wants unedited photographs, you should mention that to your photographer ahead of time, not after a shoot. However, there are several reasons professional photographers rarely provide these:

1. RAW files are unfinished products. Photographers usually need to process RAW files carefully to create the final image, which is the reason you pay them – similar to how a gourmet meal requires careful processing of its ingredients. If you need someone to press a button, simply put your wallet away, pull your phone out, and do it yourself.
2. RAW files require special software to view and edit, which most clients don’t have access to. Many people don’t seem to understand what a RAW file actually is. If you’re asking for RAW files because you don’t want to wait for the photos to be processed and edited, you won’t save time by getting the RAWS. You’ll add stress and work for yourself and your photographer.
3. Providing RAW files could potentially undermine a photographer’s brand and unique style. Why did you hire someone if you don’t like their style? Unedited images don’t accurately represent a photographer’s skills.
4. It is the photographer’s intellectual property. You don’t go out and buy all the individual parts for a car to build it yourself. Generally, you pay for a fully formed car.

It takes time – Trust the process

It’s common for clients to expect a quick turnaround for their photos. However, the post-production process takes time. Depending on the type of shoot, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to deliver the final product. This time is necessary to ensure each image meets professional standards. I am honest about my timing capabilities as early as I can in the conversation. When we are booking the shoot, I’ll often immediately ask about any prospective deadlines. My website says that clients can expect a 2 week delivery time MAX. It is often sooner than 2 weeks, but to be honest, it takes time. It takes time to get through the photos, and it takes time to be a person. I don’t know anyone my age who makes a living on photography alone, and I am no exception. I have other responsibilities, and 2 weeks is a realistic timeline for any shoot without a tight deadline. If you are a client, please let your photographer know if you have a deadline that is sooner than their estimate. If not, please trust they are doing their best to get through your photos as quickly as possible without sacrificing quality.

P.S: As a client, please proceed with caution when asking your photographer for extra favours, post shoot and payment. If you suddenly decide you want something different. I’ll try to work with you, so will most photographers, especially if you were pleasant to work with. But remember, people have lives. Photographers have got other clients and a life too. Major changes might cost extra or might not be possible if I’m swamped. Just keep that in mind.

The Value of Professional Photography

“Why is professional photography so expensive?” This is a question I hear often, and it’s a valid one if you’re not familiar with the industry. But when you hire a professional photographer, you’re investing in:

Photography is more than just a hobby – in fact, it’s hard to make a living on it, because it’s thought of as a hobby. It’s a profession that requires significant investment in equipment, education, and time. The price reflects not just the final product, but the entire process and expertise behind it. For clients, this means being up front and honest about any budgets you might have. Most photographers are keenly aware that their prices might feel too high and too low, depending on the job, and able to adjust to what you need.

Let’s Work Together (But Trust Me, Okay?)

I’m all for collaboration. Tell me what you want, show me examples, let’s brainstorm. But once we’ve got a plan, trust me to do my thing. I promise I’m not just randomly pressing buttons on my camera. There’s method to the madness, even if you can’t see it yet.

Contracts Aren’t Just Boring Paperwork

Some clients may wonder why a contract is necessary. Contracts protect both the photographer and the client by clearly outlining expectations, deliverables, and terms of service. I know, contracts are about as exciting as watching paint dry. But they’re there to protect both of us. It’s like a roadmap for our project – it keeps us both on track and prevents any “but I thought you said…” moments later on.

Conclusion

Look, I love what I do. I want you to love your photos. By understanding a bit more about how this all works, we can avoid the awkward conversations and focus on creating some beautiful images together. Got questions? Confused about something? Just ask. I’d rather explain things upfront than deal with misunderstandings later. Understanding these aspects of professional photography can help create a smoother, more enjoyable experience for both clients and photographers. Trust the process, communicate clearly, and enjoy the results!