Just got my 40D

[PhotoDim]

I just got my 40D and took a couple of photos. I must say, this thing is a beast. When I pick it up in my hands, I can't control my excitement. It's my first dSLR and I am determined to learn as much as I can about digital photography.

The only downside with this camera is that it is bulky and quite heavy. But that is very small compared to all of its positive aspects.

Question: Do I really need to set my image quality to RAW + Fine, or should I just leave it in the highest JPEG setting? I want the best photos possible, but don't know if RAW is worth the additional 10mb per photo. Also, the manual says that RAW needs additional reworking with Canon's included software. Is it best to just use ordinary JPEG format?

[kevgermany]

Leave it in jpeg for now, concentrate on getting to know the camera and lens - and how exposure works. When/if you get frustrated with jpegs, then start learning about RAW.

[anindya]

First of all, Congrats for your 40D, thats a camera with huge potentials.
Capturing picture in RAW mode is kind of activity for prof. photographers I believe, also it needs a bit of post processing. JPEG's are fine at this point with highest quality possible.
Thanks ~

[captlen]

You are going to love the camera. Shoot Shoot Shoot. Then post some of your pictures on the camel and you will get lots of tips and advice.

[Numpty]

For what it's worth I often shoot RAW+ L jpg, if circumstances permit, with card space being so cheap. My reason?......I sometimes screw up on exposure or White Balance and RAW will allow more latitude to fix the exposure and set the correct WB.
Happy Snappin'
Numpty

[Digital Hands]

Sure, you can practice shooting with Jpeg for now. You will see the colour difference when you are shooting indoors with lights and outdoor with natural lights.
Then practice with RAW (AWB) and you will play with the white balance in one of these RAW programs.
Denny

[brian.austin]

I shoot RAW exclusively but I've got my workflow down pat for it. Lightroom helps a lot in that regard. There are other RAW viewers/editors that will do the same.

I don't see the point in RAW+JPG shooting with newer RAW editing applications that are out there. Once upon a time, RAW processing was quite a chore. No longer. The advantages of JPG are disappearing with the correct workflow.

Enjoy the 40D. I've had mine since it was released and available (one of the first few in Phoenix, I later found out) after using a 20D for 3 years. Outstanding upgrade.

[UnivModels]

JPeg and/or Raw?

Question is really end use. If your shooting for personal use, the web etc., JPEG is great.

Want to publish some materials then you'll want the "truth" of RAW to be able to supply your images in a format such as TIFF.