Sony digital cameras use a RAW image file format called ARW (Sony Alpha Raw). ARW files are based on the TIFF specification to store uncompressed image data captured by the camera sensor. As uncompressed raw files, ARW images contain more data than JPEGs for higher image quality and flexible editing.
To shoot ARW files, enable RAW mode in your Sony camera’s Image Quality menu. ARW and other raw formats allow adjusting images without changing the original file. Raw images require post-processing software for full editing capabilities. Adobe Photoshop edits ARW files. Microsoft’s Raw Image Extension or ARW Viewer also open ARW files.
Lost ARW files may be recoverable depending on how they were deleted. Sony DSLRs, mirrorless, and compact camera sensors produce images in the ARW format edited before export to finished file types. The proprietary Sony Alpha Raw format differs among Sony models but stores raw data with adjustable parameters for photographers’ control over images.
ARW files provide millions more RGB colors without compression or processing from the camera. The flexible format contrasts typical camera JPEG output after internal adjustments. The file size varies based on camera settings but holds maximum quality for corrections to white balance, exposure, and more.
Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop support ARW files. Other programs that open ARW files include PhaseOne’s Capture One, Windows Photo Viewer, Windows Live Photo Gallery, Mac Preview, ARW Viewer, Adobe Bridge, and online converter raw.pics.io. ArtStudio also uses the ARW extension but for a different file type.
Adobe Photoshop
Sony Imaging Edge
Capture One