Clients ask for RAW files more often than you might expect. Usually it's one of two things: they saw the phrase "RAW file" somewhere and think it means "higher quality than what you sent," or they genuinely need the original capture data for retouching or licensing purposes.
How you handle the request depends on why they're asking.
Do Clients Actually Need RAW Files?
Most don't. When a client says they want RAW files, they usually mean they want high-resolution images — and they may not realize that your edited JPEGs at full resolution are larger and higher quality for printing than the unprocessed RAW would appear on their screen.
It's worth having a quick conversation before going through the logistics of sharing 30 GB of RAW files:
- Are they planning to print large? Full-resolution JPEGs at 300 DPI handle prints up to 20x30 inches with no issue.
- Do they want to retouch the images themselves? If so, delivering the RAW is legitimate.
- Is this for a commercial project with licensing requirements? Some contracts specify RAW delivery.
If it turns out they just want the largest possible files for printing, your delivered JPEGs are almost certainly sufficient.
When RAW Delivery Makes Sense
There are cases where delivering RAW files is the right call:
- Commercial photography — commercial clients often have in-house retouchers who need the original capture data
- Brand photography — clients who plan to extend a shoot or maintain consistency across future edits
- High-end portraiture — some clients request RAWs as part of high-value packages
- Contract requirements — some licensing agreements specify format
In these cases, you'll want to think about the format, the size, and where you're sending them.
File Size Reality Check
RAW files are large. A 45MP sensor produces about 50 to 80 MB per RAW file. A 200-image shoot at those specs is 10 to 16 GB. Multiply that by multiple cameras or longer shoots and you're dealing with logistics, not just a quick link.
Before sending anything, compress your RAW files into an archive (or use a tool that does this automatically) and calculate the total size. Then choose your delivery method based on that number.
Methods for Sharing RAW Files
External Hard Drive
For very large deliveries (50+ GB), a physical drive is often the most practical option. Ship it, get it back, or use a drop-off. It's not elegant, but it works reliably.
Cloud Storage (Google Drive, Dropbox)
For most RAW deliveries in the 5 to 30 GB range, cloud storage is the default. Upload the folder, share the link. The main issues:
- Clients need to log in on some platforms
- Upload speeds depend entirely on your internet connection
- There's no built-in access control or expiration
Google Drive gives 15 GB free. Dropbox starts at 2 GB, so you'll likely need a paid plan for meaningful RAW delivery.
Dedicated Photo Delivery Platforms
Platforms like PikSend handle original-quality file delivery, though they're primarily designed for client-facing JPEG delivery rather than RAW workflow. If you're delivering edited files to clients alongside RAW files for retouching, a platform with both original-quality preview and secure download controls makes the handoff cleaner.
For edited file delivery after your retouching is complete, see how to send photos to clients professionally.
Protecting Your RAW Files
If you're delivering RAW files to a commercial client, consider the legal side:
- Make sure your contract specifies how the client can use the RAW files
- Licensing for RAW files is typically broader than for finished deliveries — a client with your RAW files can retouch, crop, and reuse them in ways that finished JPEGs wouldn't allow
- Retain a copy of all delivered files
This isn't about being difficult — it's about making sure everyone is clear on what's being handed over.
The Practical Workflow
- Confirm the client actually needs RAW files (not just high-res)
- Archive the files (ZIP, or tool-specific format)
- Choose your delivery method based on total size
- For anything client-facing, use a platform with download tracking so you know when they've accessed the files
- Keep a backup before delivery
Most photographers delivering wedding photos or portrait sessions find that full-resolution JPEG delivery covers 95% of client requests. RAW delivery is the exception, not the default.
For compression concerns — like why some platforms shrink your previews even when delivering full-res files — this article explains why.
Related: The best photo delivery software for photographers | How to send large photo files to clients
