# How to Share RAW Photos Without Losing Any Data

RAW files are large and most apps convert or shrink them. Here is how to send CR3, NEF, ARW, RAF and DNG files untouched, plus how big they usually are.

_Source: https://sharelargefilesfree.com/share-raw-photos · Updated 2026-09-29_

**Quick answer:** Send RAW photos (CR3, NEF, ARW, RAF, DNG) untouched by uploading them here, up to 1000 files and 20 GB per transfer, and sharing the download link. Nothing is converted or compressed, so the recipient gets the original data.

## Why RAW photos are hard to share

A RAW file holds the unprocessed data from the camera sensor, which is why photographers, retouchers and editors want it. It is also why it is big: often 25 to over 100 MB per frame. A single RAW can exceed the roughly 25 MB Gmail attachment limit, and a shoot of a few hundred frames runs to many gigabytes.

Messaging apps and social platforms usually convert photos to compressed JPEG or HEIC, or refuse file types they do not recognise. Either way, the RAW data your recipient needs is lost. Sending a download link to the original files avoids that.

## How big are RAW files?

Size depends on the sensor resolution, the compression setting and how much detail is in the scene. As a rough guide:

| Sensor | Format | Per photo |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 24 MP | ARW, NEF, CR3, RAF | 25 to 50 MB |
| 33 MP (Sony a7 IV) | ARW | 35 to 70 MB |
| 45 MP (Canon R5, Nikon Z8) | CR3, NEF | 25 to 90 MB |
| 61 MP (Sony a7R V) | ARW | 60 to 125 MB |
| iPhone 48 MP ProRAW | DNG | about 75 MB |

The low end of each range is for compact or lossy RAW modes, such as Canon C-RAW or Nikon High Efficiency; the high end is for lossless or uncompressed RAW. A handy rule: at around 50 MB per frame, every gigabyte holds roughly 20 RAW files. With up to 20 GB per transfer you can work out in advance how many transfers a shoot will need.

## How to send a folder of RAW files

1. **Put the selects in one folder.** If you edited in Lightroom or Capture One and want the recipient to see your adjustments, include the `.xmp` sidecar files next to the RAWs, or export DNGs with the edits embedded.
2. **Open the [homepage](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/)** and drag in the folder. The folder structure is kept, and you can add up to 1000 files per transfer.
3. **Choose Link or Email.** For email, you verify your own address once with a 6-digit code.
4. **Add a password** for private shoots, and share it separately.
5. **Keep the tab open** until the upload completes.

Zipping a folder is optional. RAW files are already compressed or dense, so a ZIP rarely makes them much smaller, but it can bundle a large set into a single download and gets around the 1000-file limit.

## Common ways photographers use it

- **Sending selects to a retoucher** who needs the full RAW data for skin, colour and exposure work.
- **Handing over a full shoot** to a client or agency whose contract includes the RAW files.
- **Second shooters** passing their cards to the lead photographer after a wedding or event.
- **Backing up a card** to a colleague while travelling, as a short-term copy until you are home.

Transfers are for sending, not archiving: links expire after 1 day and the files are then deleted from our servers, so keep your own backups. Shooting video too? See [how to send 4K video](https://sharelargefilesfree.com/send-4k-video).

## Frequently asked questions

### Can I send CR3, NEF, ARW and other RAW formats?

Yes. Any file type is accepted, including CR3, CR2, NEF, ARW, RAF, ORF, RW2 and DNG.

### Will my RAW files be converted to JPEG?

No. Files are delivered exactly as uploaded, byte for byte, with no conversion or compression.

### How many RAW photos can I send at once?

Up to 1000 files per transfer, as long as the total stays within 20 GB. To send more, zip the folder first so it counts as one file.

### How can I send my Lightroom edits with the RAW files?

Include the XMP sidecar files in the same folder, or export DNG files with the adjustments embedded.

### Does the recipient need an account?

No. They open the link in a browser and download the files.