RAW files?

Can someone explain to me what this is and whats the advantage of shooting in RAW?

 

I just went over this last night in class. I hope this helps

http://www.jmg-galleries.com/articles/raw_vs_jpeg_is_shooting_raw_right_for_me.html

 

That does make it understandable. Great link and thanks. Ill have to check with the program i do have on my comp and see what options i would have at this moment if i start to shoot some raw pics to practice with. Any particular programs that are decently priced that do a good edit job?

 

Canon Photo Raw comes with all Canon digital cameras that shoot in RAW...
Lightroom is my favourite program though. works seemlessly with RAW.

 

There's a plug-in available for Photoshop that allows you to work with RAW files, incase you already own PS.

Pete