The CR3 file format is a proprietary raw image format developed by Canon. It's the successor to the CR2 format and is used by newer Canon digital cameras to store unprocessed image data captured by the camera's sensor. This format contains all the information captured during the exposure, including color data, metadata, and camera settings. Unlike JPEG files, CR3 files are not compressed using lossy compression, meaning no image data is discarded. This allows for greater flexibility in post-processing, enabling photographers to adjust exposure, white balance, and other parameters without significantly degrading image quality. CR3 files often incorporate Canon's Dual Pixel RAW technology, which provides additional information for fine-tuning sharpness and bokeh after the image has been captured. The CR3 format also supports smaller file sizes compared to CR2, achieved through the use of a more efficient compression algorithm, while maintaining high image quality. CR3 files are typically larger than JPEGs but smaller than TIFFs, offering a balance between file size and image quality. They are primarily intended for professional photographers and enthusiasts who require the highest possible image quality and maximum control over post-processing.