How to Export RAW Files from Photos on macOS 13

Exporting full-resolution RAW files from the Apple Photos app on macOS 13 (Ventura) requires using a specific export command rather than dragging and dropping or using the standard export shortcut, both of which convert your files to compressed formats like JPEG. This guide explains the exact steps to extract your original, unmodified RAW files—including any associated metadata or sidecar files—directly to a destination folder on your Mac without sacrificing image quality.

Steps to Export Original RAW Images

Open Apple Photos: Launch the Photos app on your Mac running macOS 13.
Locate your RAW images: In the sidebar under Media Types, click on RAW to display only your RAW photos, or simply browse your library to find the specific images you need.
Select the images: Click on the photo you wish to export. To select multiple files, hold down the Command key while clicking individual photos, or press Command + A to select all photos in a view.
Access the Export Menu: In the top menu bar, click on File, hover over Export, and select Export Unmodified Original For [Number] Photos… (Do not click Export [Number] Photos, as that will export a processed JPEG or TIFF).
Adjust Export Settings: A dialog box will appear with the following options:
- File Naming: Choose whether to keep the original camera file name or apply a title/sequential name.
- Subfolder Format: Choose whether to place images into subfolders organized by Moment Name or None.
- Export IPTC as XMP: Check this box if you want your metadata, tags, and ratings exported alongside the RAW file in an industry-standard .xmp sidecar file.
Export the Files: Click the blue Export button in the lower-right corner.
Choose a Destination: Select the folder or external drive where you want the RAW files saved, then click Export Originals.

Your original, uncompressed RAW files are now saved to your chosen directory, ready for editing in software like Adobe Lightroom, Capture One, or Photoshop.