# How to send RAF files

RAF (Fujifilm RAW) files are often too big for email and chat apps. Here is how big they get and how to send them exactly as they are.

_Source: https://sharelargefilesfree.com/send-raf-files · Updated 2026-10-13_

**Quick answer:** To send a large RAF file, upload it to Share Large Video Files (up to 20 GB, no account) and share the download link: the file arrives unchanged. One 40 MP RAF photo, lossless compressed is about 50 MB, more than most email providers accept.

## What is a RAF file?

RAF is Fujifilm's raw format, used by X-series cameras such as the X-T5 and X100VI and by the medium-format GFX range. Most X-series bodies use Fujifilm's **X-Trans** sensor, which some raw editors handle differently from standard sensors.

Fujifilm offers uncompressed, lossless compressed and (on newer models) compressed RAW. GFX medium-format files are especially big because the sensors go up to 100 MP.

Extensions: .raf.

## How big are RAF files?

| File | Typical size |
| --- | --- |
| One 26 MP photo (X-T4, lossless compressed) | about 25 to 35 MB |
| One 40 MP photo (X-T5, uncompressed) | about 80 MB |
| One 40 MP photo (lossless compressed) | about 40 to 55 MB |
| One 100 MP GFX photo (uncompressed) | about 200 MB |

## Which apps can send one?

Can you send one 40 MP RAF photo, lossless compressed (about 50 MB) as an attachment?

| App | Limit | Fits? |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Gmail | 25 MB per email | No, send a link |
| Outlook.com | 20 to 25 MB per email | No, send a link |
| WhatsApp (document) | 2 GB per file | Yes |
| Telegram | 2 GB per file | Yes |
| Facebook Messenger | 100 MB per file | Yes |
| Discord (free) | 20 MB per file | No, send a link |
| Slack | 1 GB per file | Yes |
| WeTransfer (free) | 3 GB per transfer | Yes |
| **Share Large Video Files** | 20 GB per transfer | Send the link anywhere |

Limits from our [file size limits by app](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/file-size-limits-by-app) table, checked against each service's help pages.

## How to send RAF files without changing them

1. Open [Share Large Video Files](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/) in any browser and choose **Get a link** (or **Send by email**).
2. Drop RAF files on the upload box, or pick a whole folder. Up to 20 GB and 1000 files per transfer.
3. Optional: add a password, a download limit or an expiry under More options.
4. Copy the link (or show the QR code) and send it by chat or email. The recipient downloads the original file, byte for byte.

## Tips for sending RAF files

- If you used film simulations, send JPEGs too; raw editors do not always reproduce the in-camera look.
- Keep .XMP sidecars with the RAF files if you have edited them in Lightroom.
- For GFX shoots, split the delivery into several transfers so each stays under 20 GB.
- Keep the original file names so the recipient can match raws to JPEGs.

## How to open a RAF file

Lightroom, Photoshop, Capture One and Fujifilm's free **X RAW Studio** open RAF on **Windows and Mac**. macOS Photos and Preview open RAF from supported cameras. Lightroom Mobile opens RAF on **iPhone and Android**.

## Frequently asked questions

### Why does my RAF file look different from the camera JPEG?

The JPEG includes your film simulation and in-camera processing. Raw editors start from neutral sensor data, so apply a matching profile or send the JPEG as well.

### How big is a Fujifilm GFX RAF file?

On a 100 MP GFX, about 200 MB uncompressed and roughly half that with lossless compression.

### Can I open RAF on Windows without paid software?

Yes. Fujifilm X RAW Studio is free, although it needs the camera connected; darktable and RawTherapee are free alternatives.