Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.CR2
File Type
Canon Raw Image File
Category
Image
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .cr2 file format
CR2 files are raw image files created by Canon digital cameras. They contain minimally processed data directly from the camera's sensor, preserving a high level of detail and dynamic range. This means CR2 files retain more information than standard JPEG images, allowing for greater flexibility in p…
File extension
.CR2
File type
Canon Raw Image File
Category
Image
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .cr2 file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .cr2.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .cr2 file?
File extension details and usage information
CR2 files are raw image files created by Canon digital cameras. They contain minimally processed data directly from the camera's sensor, preserving a high level of detail and dynamic range. This means CR2 files retain more information than standard JPEG images, allowing for greater flexibility in post-processing. Photographers often use CR2 files to adjust white balance, exposure, contrast, and other settings without significantly degrading the image quality. Because they are raw files, CR2 files are not directly viewable by most image viewers and require specialized software for processing and conversion. The format stores metadata about the image, including camera settings, date, and time. CR2 files are based on the TIFF file format and are typically larger in size than JPEG files due to the uncompressed or losslessly compressed nature of the data. They are essential for professional photographers who require maximum control over their images during editing.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .cr2 files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .cr2 files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .cr2 file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .cr2 file.
Why can't I open a .cr2 file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .cr2 format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .cr2 files
To open a .cr2 file, use software that supports this file format.
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Lightroom
- Canon Digital Photo Professional
- IrfanView
- FastStone Image Viewer
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .cr2 file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.