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Photographers: is it rude to ask upfront for RAW files instead of edited photos?
Our take
When considering a photoshoot, the question of whether it's rude to request RAW files instead of edited images can be delicate. As a soon-to-be graduate seeking a photographer, it's essential to approach this request thoughtfully. Many photographers have valid reasons for preferring not to share RAW files, as they represent their unrefined work. However, addressing this topic upfront during initial discussions can foster transparency. This article explores the nuances of this request, offering insights on how to frame it respectfully while considering the photographer's perspective.
Is it rude to pre-negotiate receiving RAW images from a photoshoot instead of edited photos?
I shoot semi-regularly and have done portraits of friends and family, including editing in Lightroom. That said, I'm not a professional in the sense that I don't have a business, nor do I have any intention of starting one.
I'm graduating from grad school soon, and I looking for a photographer to take grad photos. Ideally, I'd like to find someone willing to do the shoot and provide the images unedited — essentially, I just want to pay for the RAW files.
I understand that most photographers prefer not to share RAW files for a variety of reasons: they're essentially the negatives, there are concerns about the images being poorly edited and still associated with the photographer's name, and so on. It also seems like a lot of the frustration comes from clients asking for RAWs after the fact.
With all of that in mind, my plan would be to bring this up during the initial outreach to the photographer, not after. Would you be upset or annoyed if a potential client proposed this arrangement upfront? And for those who would be open to it, how would skipping the editing phase affect your pricing? Any advice on how to frame the request respectfully?
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#health and wellness#editorial portraits#luxury photography#fashion photography#athlete portraits#wellness photography#RAW files#edited photos#photographers#photoshoot#negotiation#portraits#Lightroom#images#client#pricing#editing phase#gradation photos#photographer's name#business