Convert RAW to FFF

Understanding RAW and FFF file formats

RAW files are unprocessed image files captured directly from a camera's sensor. They contain minimally processed data, offering maximum flexibility for post-processing. RAW is a generic term, and each camera manufacturer may have its own RAW format (such as .CR2 for Canon, .NEF for Nikon, etc.).

FFF files are Hasselblad's proprietary RAW image format. FFF stands for 'Flexible File Format' and is used by Hasselblad digital cameras. FFF files retain all the image data captured by the camera sensor, allowing for extensive editing and high-quality output.

How to convert RAW to FFF

Converting a generic RAW file to the Hasselblad FFF format is not a common workflow, as FFF is specifically designed for Hasselblad cameras. However, if you need to convert a RAW file (from another camera) to FFF for compatibility with Hasselblad's software, you will need specialized tools.

The best approach is to use Hasselblad Phocus, the official software for handling FFF files. However, Phocus is primarily designed to process and export FFF files from Hasselblad cameras, not to convert other RAW formats into FFF. There is currently no direct, widely-supported software that converts generic RAW files to FFF, as the FFF format is tightly integrated with Hasselblad's hardware and workflow.

Recommended workflow

• If you have a Hasselblad camera, import your images directly into Phocus to work with FFF files.
• If you need to process RAW files from other cameras, use software like Adobe Lightroom or Capture One for editing and export to TIFF or JPEG, which can then be imported into Phocus for further processing, but not as true FFF files.

Alternative solutions

If your goal is to achieve compatibility with Hasselblad's editing tools, consider exporting your RAW files to a high-quality format like TIFF and then importing them into Phocus. This maintains much of the image quality, though you will not have the full flexibility of a native FFF file.

Summary of best software

• Hasselblad Phocus – Best for working with FFF files from Hasselblad cameras.
• Adobe Lightroom – Excellent for processing and converting RAW files from most camera brands.
• Capture One – Another top choice for RAW editing and conversion.

To convert RAW to FFF, use File → Import in Phocus for Hasselblad RAW files. For other RAW formats, convert to TIFF or JPEG first, then import.