Updated 19 October 2026.
GIMP can work with an image developed from a camera RAW file, but it uses a RAW-processing application to interpret the camera data. Install a supported processor such as darktable or RawTherapee, or export a suitable TIFF from that processor and open it in GIMP.
Why a RAW file needs a processing step
A RAW file holds camera data that needs interpretation before normal pixel editing. That processing includes choices such as exposure and white balance. GIMP’s official FAQ describes its plug-ins for darktable and RawTherapee and the preference for a default RAW-processing plug-in.
Support depends on the camera format, the processor’s version and how the applications were installed. A newer camera can need a processor update even if the filename extension looks familiar.
Option 1: Open through a supported RAW plug-in
- Install GIMP from its official download page.
- Install a current compatible version of darktable or RawTherapee for your system.
- Restart GIMP so it can detect available processors.
- Use File > Open and select a RAW file.
- If a RAW processor opens, make the initial adjustments and follow its return or export workflow to bring the developed image into GIMP.
The exact handoff varies by processor, operating system and package. Do not paste an old tutorial’s GIMP 2 installation path into a current setup. If automatic detection fails, use the export method below instead of installing an unknown plug-in.
Option 2: Export a TIFF, then open it
This is a straightforward fallback because each application handles a separate step.
- Open the original RAW file directly in your chosen RAW processor.
- Adjust exposure, white balance and other basic development settings.
- Export a new 16-bit TIFF with an embedded color profile, where those options are available.
- Open that TIFF in GIMP.
- Save your layered GIMP work as an XCF project, and export a separate final image when needed.
| File | Its role |
|---|---|
| Original RAW | Keep it so you can develop the photograph again. |
| TIFF | A high-quality developed image for the handoff. |
| XCF | Your editable GIMP project, including layers. |
| JPEG, PNG or another delivery format | A separate finished export for the intended use. |
A TIFF is already a developed image; it does not retain every RAW-development choice as adjustable camera data. Keep the RAW file and any processor sidecar or project information separately.
Keep the files for each stage
Give the developed TIFF and GIMP project clear names so you can match them to the original photograph. If you make another RAW development later, save it as a new version instead of overwriting the only intermediate image.
The older illustration below shows a GIMP color-profile prompt. Its appearance can differ from current releases.
Color and troubleshooting
When GIMP asks about a color profile, read the prompt and preserve a consistent color-managed workflow. Do not discard profiles or choose an arbitrary conversion simply because a screenshot did. GIMP’s saving and exporting guide explains the distinction between an editable project and an exported image.
If the RAW file will not open, test it in the processor directly. If it opens there but not through GIMP, the handoff is the likely place to investigate. If it fails in both, check camera support and whether the file is complete. Once it is in GIMP, you can continue with tasks such as removing or replacing the background.
FAQs
Can I convert RAW to JPEG by renaming it?
No. A different extension does not develop or convert the file.
Must I install both darktable and RawTherapee?
No. Start with one compatible RAW processor.
Should I use JPEG for the intermediate file?
A 16-bit TIFF is preferable when preserving editing flexibility matters. JPEG is a lossy, lower-bit-depth delivery option.
Does saving an XCF replace the original RAW?
No. Keep both: they serve different stages of the workflow.