How to Batch Separate RAW and JPEG Files

RAW+JPEG simultaneous recording on digital cameras is convenient, but after shooting, RAW and JPEG files mixed together make organization difficult.

This article explains methods to batch classify RAW and JPEG files. For overall post-shoot workflow, see Efficient Digital Camera File Organization.

RAW+JPEG Simultaneous Recording Issues

Why Separate Them?

1. Different Purposes

   • RAW: For processing, high-quality storage
   • JPEG: For preview, SNS posting, client review

2. Storage Capacity Issues

   • RAW file: 30-60MB each
   • JPEG file: 5-15MB each
   • 1,000 photos → Over 45GB total

3. Reduced Work Efficiency

   • Processing software scans all JPEGs too
   • Increased loading time
   • Bloated library

Common Mixed Patterns

After shooting folder:
├── IMG_0001.CR3 (RAW - 45MB)
├── IMG_0001.JPG (JPEG - 8MB)
├── IMG_0002.CR3 (RAW - 48MB)
├── IMG_0002.JPG (JPEG - 9MB)
... (1,000+ files mixed)

Manual separation? → Takes about 1 hour for 1,000 photos.

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RAW Formats by Camera Manufacturer

Canon

RAW Formats:

• CR2 (older models)
• CR3 (EOS R/RP onwards)

Models: EOS R5, R6, R7, R8, 5D Mark IV, 90D, M50

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Nikon

RAW Format:

• NEF (all models)

Models: Z9, Z8, Z7 II, Z6 III, D850, D780, D500

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Sony

RAW Format:

• ARW (all models)

Models: α7 IV, α7R V, α7S III, α6600, α9 III

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Methods to Separate RAW and JPEG

Method 1: Finder Extension (Manual)

Steps:

1. Open shooting folder in Finder
2. Search "CR3"
3. Only RAW files displayed
4. Create "RAW" folder and move
5. Similarly search and move JPEG

Rating: △ OK for small amounts, unsuitable for large quantities

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Method 2: Terminal Command (Intermediate)

# Move RAW files
find . -iname "*.CR3" -exec mv {} ./RAW/ \;
find . -iname "*.NEF" -exec mv {} ./RAW/ \;
find . -iname "*.ARW" -exec mv {} ./RAW/ \;

# Move JPEG files
find . -iname "*.JPG" -exec mv {} ./JPEG/ \;

Rating: △ For tech users, risky for beginners

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Method 3: DockBuddy Organizer (Most Recommended)

Step 1: Rule Settings

DockBuddy Settings:

Sorting Rule 1: File Extension → RAW Format
  └ Targets: CR3, CR2, NEF, ARW, RAF, ORF, RW2, DNG
  └ Destination: /RAW/

Sorting Rule 2: File Extension → JPEG Format
  └ Targets: JPG, JPEG, JPE
  └ Destination: /JPEG/

Step 2: Execute

1. Select shooting folder files
2. Drag to DockBuddy icon
3. Auto-classification complete!

Processing time: Significantly faster than manual work ⚡️

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Advanced Folder Structure Patterns

Pattern 1: Date + RAW/JPEG Separation

2025_01_20_Shooting/
├── RAW/
│   ├── IMG_0001.CR3
│   └── IMG_0002.CR3
└── JPEG/
    ├── IMG_0001.JPG
    └── IMG_0002.JPG

Use: Daily shooting, hobby

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Pattern 2: Camera Model + RAW/JPEG

2025_01_20_Wedding/
├── Canon_EOS_R5/
│   ├── RAW/
│   └── JPEG/
└── Sony_α7IV/
    ├── RAW/
    └── JPEG/

Use: Multiple camera use, professional shooting

Learn more: Multi-Camera File Organization

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Processing Speed Comparison

Related article: File Organization Software Comparison

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Summary: RAW/JPEG Separation = Automation

RAW and JPEG classification is essential post-shoot work. Manual work is a waste of time.

Why DockBuddy is Recommended

• ⚡️ Fast processing - Significantly faster than manual work
• 🛡 Safe - Protects original files, recoverable
• 🎯 Accurate - Supports all RAW formats
• 💰 One-time purchase - No monthly fees

Focus on shooting, leave organization to DockBuddy.

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Related Articles

• How to Efficiently Organize Digital Camera Files
• How to Automatically Organize Photos by Date
• File Organization Using EXIF Information

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Get Started Now

DockBuddy Organizer is available on Mac App Store.

Try the free trial and experience RAW/JPEG separation speed.