How to view RAW images on Windows 10

The latest version of Windows 10 (v1903) has now got an extension that will allow your normal Windows image viewers to show RAW images from virtually all current cameras. The extension enables the file manager and programs like “Photos” to display the content of RAW images directly without having to use either special programs or Photoshop/Lightroom to see them.

The RAW Image Extension is legitimate Microsoft software and is available free of charge from the Windows Store or direct from here:

It is also possible to get it direct from the Windows Store, click on the Windows button at the bottom left corner of the desktop screen and find the Windows Store window panel. Search the store for “RAW Image Extension” and then click on the “Get” button and follow the instructions to download and install the code. When you have finished, all of your image programs will have the native ability to view a your RAW images in just the same way that such as jpeg etc have always worked. If you have any problems, just talk to one of our technical members at one of our meetings.

NOTE: The extension will only work if you have upgraded your Windows 10 to the latest version known as: v1903. To check that your computer is upgraded to v1903, right click on the Windows button and select “Run” then enter “winver” into the box and Return to display your current windows 10 version. If you are on an earlier version and want to update you should do that via Windows Upgrade from Settings – and be prepared for a long update cycle of several hours.