Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Canon RAW Images to JPEG
Converting Canon RAW images to JPEG is a straightforward process and can be accomplished using either free software or an online web service. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through two methods: using GIMP and RawTherapee, or using the online service Zamzar.
Method 1: Using GIMP and RawTherapee
1. Download and install GIMP and RawTherapee on your computer. Both are free for Mac and Windows.
2. For RawTherapee, head to the official download page and click on the appropriate platform. Double-click the downloaded file to start the installer wizard. On a Mac, drag the icon to your Applications folder.
3. After installation, open RawTherapee.
4. Click the Preferences icon (it looks like a vertical switchboard) located in the bottom-left corner of the application window.
5. Under External editors, select the folder where GIMP is installed. The path might look like this: /Applications/GIMP/
6. Navigate to your GIMP directory and select it to open it up in the preference window.
7. Click Open and then Ok to close the pop-up windows.
8. Close RawTherapee and then open GIMP.
9. Drag and drop your RAW file into GIMP. You should see a greeting pop-up dialog window. Click to proceed with using the RAW file in the RawTherapee plugin for GIMP.
10. Once the RAW photo opens in GIMP, click and give it a name and save location. Important: Ensure the RAW photo is used in the RawTherapee plugin, not GIMP's own RAW handling.
11. Click to see a list of all the file formats you can use. Select JPEG and click OK.
12. Lastly, click to confirm the save location. This completes the process using GIMP and RawTherapee.
Method 2: Using a Web Browser
With this method, you can convert RAW files to JPG using the online service Zamzar.
1. Go to the Zamzar website and click or tap the Add Files button.
2. Your file manager will open; select your RAW file from the directory. You can select multiple files, but you are limited to 50MB per session.
3. Once you’ve selected the file, the name of your file will replace Select a File.
4. If the JPEG option is already selected, move on to the next step. Otherwise, click on JPEG.
5. Click or tap Convert Now.
6. Once the conversion is complete, click Download. The button is dark blue and to the right of your converted files name.
7. Name your file and click Save. This will save the file to your computer or cloud storage.
Conclusion
Both GIMP and RawTherapee and Zamzar are reliable options for converting Canon RAW images to JPEGs. GIMP and RawTherapee offer a blend of professional tools and flexibility, while Zamzar offers a straightforward online solution. Choose the method that best fits your workflow and needs.