64 Shooting - Selecting Particular Effects
Changing the File Format
The recording file format can be switched to the RAW format. With the standard JPEG
file format, the camera processes images after capturing them to produce optimal results.
The JPEG format compresses images so that more can be stored on a single CF card.
However, the compression is irreversible, meaning that the original image data cannot be
recovered after processing. In contrast, the RAW format records the image data as
captured by the camera’s CCD without further processing. RAW images are compressed,
but the compression is reversible* so that a high-quality image can be obtained from the
decompressed file without any loss of image quality. In addition, although a RAW file is
larger than an equivalent JPEG file, it is still only approximately one-quarter the size** of
an uncompressed RGB TIFF format file, making it relatively compact.
With standard uncompressed file formats, such as RGB TIFF, images are processed in the
camera and require further processing by retouching software to adjust the image
parameters, which reduces image quality. With the RAW format, however, the original
data can be used in special software* to adjust the image parameters (white balance,
contrast, sharpness and saturation) making it possible to maintain the image quality while
making changes. The resolution (PowerShot S30: 2048 x 1536, PowerShot S40: 2272 x
1704) and compression settings cannot be adjusted for these images.
* The bundled software can be used to open or adjust the parameters of images recorded in the RAW
file format. Please consult the Software Starter Guide for details.
** As measured by standard Canon test conditions.
1

Turn the shooting mode dial to , , or .

2

In the [ (Rec.)] menu, select [File Format].

•See Selecting Menus and Settings (p. 38).
3

Select [RAW] and press the

button.
•The icon appears while the LCD monitor is
on.
4
Shoot the image.
•The RAW file format can only be selected in the , , and modes.
The number of recordable
images (only displayed when
the resolution, compression
or file format is changed)