As a wedding photographer, you’ve probably encountered that classic question from clients: “Can we get the RAW photos, too?” You’re not alone! Many wedding photographers (us included) are asked about selling RAW photos. Deciding whether or not to say “yes” can be a tricky choice. 

So, let’s dig into why clients ask for RAW files. Is it really the best solution? Find out why offering additional edited photos could be the best alternative for you and your clients.

Why Do Wedding Clients Ask for RAW Photos?

Clients usually ask for RAW photos because they want every single captured moment. Think of it as their way of saying, “Please don’t leave out anything that could be precious to us!” Here are the top reasons why clients want RAW files:

• They want an archive of the day: They’re hoping to have access to everything, including the shots that didn’t make the cut.
  
  
• They crave more memories: Clients sometimes feel that what they got doesn’t cover every moment, so having more photos to choose from sounds appealing.
  
  
• They want full control over editing: They may have specific editing styles in mind or might want to hire someone else to retouch the photos to match a certain look.

But let’s be real—most wedding clients don’t actually need RAW photos. High-quality JPEGs usually offer all they need for prints, albums, and digital sharing. 

If they’re looking for extra photos, consider satisfying their needs with an upsell of additional edited photos. That way, you don’t need to give away your RAW files, which, let’s face it, are essentially your draft versions.

So, Should You Sell RAW Wedding Photos?

Here’s our hot take: selling RAW files often isn’t the best choice, and in most cases, it’s unnecessary. 

The better option? Offer more edited photos as an add-on! It meets your clients’ desire for more images without having to hand over your drafts, which can complicate things. 

Personally, I’ve only sold RAW files once, and most of my clients were happier when I just offered extra photos. 

Here’s why selling RAWs can be a bit messy

1. Loss of Control: RAW files give clients the freedom to edit photos as they wish, potentially changing your artistic intent and resulting in a loss of control over how you wanted the final images to look.
   
   
2. Risk of Misuse: Poor editing on RAW files could hurt your reputation if they’re shared in a way that doesn’t reflect your brand.
   
   
3. Pricing Confusion: Explaining why RAWs cost more can be complicated, leading to tricky conversations and a rift in your client relationships.
   
   
4. Licensing Headaches: Selling RAWs often involves licensing terms to prevent clients from re-using or misrepresenting your work. Licensing can be a tiresome process, so best to avoid it altogether. 

By offering additional edited photos instead of selling your RAW images, you maintain full creative control. Plus, your clients get the peace of mind they’re looking for—all without the potential downsides of selling RAW files.

The Alternative Solution: Upselling Additional Edited Photos

Instead of selling RAWs, why not meet your clients’ needs with a simple upsell? Offering more edited photos allows them to see more of the day while letting you maintain your artistic vision. 

This approach is a win-win. Clients feel like they’re getting more, and you get to keep the quality of your work intact. Here are some of the perks of this option:

• Control Over the Final Look: You still have the final say on how each image is presented.
  
  
• Easier Licensing: Edited JPEGs or TIFFs come with fewer complications in terms of usage rights.
  
  
• Client Satisfaction: They get more memories, and you avoid the messiness of handing over RAW files.

Consider setting up packages that include additional photos as part of a premium offer or something clients can purchase post-event. This way, you satisfy their FOMO on moments while keeping the photos aligned with your creative style.

How to Price Additional Edited Photos

When determining your pricing strategy for additional edited wedding photos, it’s important to consider your time and the value you provide. 

Here are a few strategies to help you set your rates:

Cost-Based Pricing

Start by calculating your base cost of culling, editing, and uploading each photo (e.g. $0.50). Multiply that by 2.5 to 10 times to determine your final price. This could lead to a range of about $1.25 to $10 for additional edits, depending on your calculations.

Value-Based Pricing 

Think about the perceived value of the additional images. Clients may be willing to pay a higher price if your edits significantly enhance the quality and appeal of the photos.

Package Options

Create tiers for additional photo packages. For example, clients might receive a discount for purchasing a bundle of five or ten additional edits rather than paying a per-photo price.

RAW Photo Pricing Strategies and Best Practices

If you do decide to sell RAW files, pricing can be a sticking point. Here are some tips on how to approach RAW pricing, with options that ensure fair compensation without confusing your clients:

1. Consider the Client’s Budget: RAW photos can be an upsell or premium package item.
   
   
2. Bundle Up: Think about offering RAW files as part of a larger package, such as with final edits, prints, or an album.
   
   
3. Clear Communication: Be upfront about RAW pricing early on to avoid any misunderstandings.

How Much to Charge for RAW Photos

Setting a price for RAW files depends on a few things. Think of the project’s scope, licensing terms, your skill level, and the time they’re saving on post-production. 

A common strategy is to price RAWs at 20-50% of what you’d charge for a fully edited image. Here’s our tiered structure for RAW and edited packages to make things even easier:

Tier 1: Up to 100 RAW files – 10% of the total package price.

Tier 2: Full delivered gallery – 20% of the total package price.

Tier 3: Extended gallery with extra photos not delivered – 25% of the total package price.

Tier 4: All RAW files (unedited, full gallery) – 30% of the total package price.

💡 Pro Tip: Offer a 30-day limited-time discount on RAW file purchases to encourage quick decisions.

Why Licensing Your RAW Photos Matters

When selling RAWs, having a clear licensing agreement is crucial. Licensing helps protect your intellectual property and ensures clients know how they can (and can’t) use your work. 

There are two common types of licensing options:

• Non-exclusive License: You retain ownership and can sell the images to others.
  
• Exclusive License: The client gets sole rights to the images for an extra cost.

To prevent clients from reselling or misrepresenting your work, use a contract that outlines these terms, especially for RAW files.

Protecting Your Work When Selling RAW Photos

Finally, don’t forget to protect your work if you’re selling RAWs. Here’s how to make sure your images stay safe:

Watermark and File Protections: Use watermarks or lower the resolution until payment is complete.

Copyright Retention: You should always retain the copyright unless you specifically agree to transfer it.

Editing Restrictions: Include guidelines on how much editing is allowed or whether you need credit on final works.

Answering Your FAQs About Selling RAW Wedding Photos

Here are some of the top questions wedding photographers ask about selling RAW photos:

Should I sell my RAW photos if the client requests them? Only if it aligns with your brand and you’re comfortable with potential edits by the client.

How much should I charge for RAW photos? Typically, 20-50% of your rate for edited images is fair.

Will selling RAW photos or extra edits devalue my work? Not if you price them properly and explain their value to clients.

What happens if the client wants to make their own edits? Be clear about editing rights in your contract.

How can I best satisfy clients without selling RAW photos? Offer additional edited images as a premium add-on.

What happens if the client misuses my RAW images? Set up licensing agreements that specify usage limitations and potential penalties for misuse.

Let’s Recap

Instead of selling your RAW photos, the best solution is simply to offer your wedding clients extra edited photos. It helps you keep your creative vision intact, and also gives clients the option to relive more special moments without the hassle of RAW file licensing and risk of misuse. 

Remember to clearly communicate your pricing, licensing, and options early on to avoid any confusion. 

If you want to dive deeper into pricing strategies for wedding photographers, check out our detailed Pricing Guide for more insights.