In the digital photography world, RAW images are very important. These native files capture all the data from the camera's sensor, giving you incredible detail and flexibility for editing. But what if you have images in other formats like JPG, PNG or PDF? Image to RAW converters help here! However, it is important to note that it is impossible to completely convert from compressed formats like JPG, PNG, WEBP or non-image formats like PDF to RAW.

Understanding RAW vs. Compressed Formats

RAW files contain all the data from your camera's sensor, as if they were digital negatives! This allows you to tweak things like white balance, exposure and noise reduction, and still get a great quality image! On the other hand, compressed formats like JPG and WEBP lose some data, leaving you with fewer options for editing. So, if you want full control over your photos, choose to shoot in RAW!

Can You Convert JPG/PNG/WEBP to RAW?

Technically, it is impossible to completely convert RAW to PSD. Because some information is lost while converting to compressed format. However, some converters offer features such as:

• Upscaling: These tools try to increase the resolution of the image, but this can make the image blurry or distorted.
• Applying the RAW "look": Converters can emulate the color profile and detail characteristics of a RAW image, but cannot recover lost data.

Therefore, to retain the best quality of RAW images, it is best to edit and store them in RAW format.

Alternatives for Different File Types

• PNG to RAW: No conversion, limited editing possible. (PNG is already flawless.)
• PDF to RAW: Conversion is impossible. (PDF does not contain the data required for RAW.)
• WEBP to RAW: No conversion, limited editing possible. (WEBP is a compressed format.)
• HEIC to RAW: No conversion, limited editing possible in some RAW editors.
• ICO to RAW: Conversion is impossible. (ICO does not contain data required for RAW.)
• JPG to RAW: No conversion, limited editing possible using a RAW editor. 

When is a RAW Converter Useful? 

DNG Files: DNG (Digital Negative) is a universal RAW format supported by most software. If you have camera-specific RAW formats (NEF, CR2, etc.), a converter can help convert them to DNG for wider compatibility.

Lossless compressed formats (like TIFF): While not a true RAW conversion, you can import these formats into a RAW editor compared to JPG or PNG, giving you more control over adjustments.