How To Send RAW Files to Clients Without Confusing the Delivery

When this workflow is the right fit

• Send RAW files only when the contract, client workflow, or retouching handoff requires them.
• Send edited finals when the client mainly needs finished images for web, print, or social use.
• Avoid mixing RAW files and final exports in one unlabeled folder.
• Use expiration and password settings for private commercial or paid work.

Comparison

Separate RAW files, edited finals, and client notes before sending one controlled download link.

Recommended workflow

1. Create one parent folder with the client name, shoot date, and project name.
2. Separate RAW, edited finals, video, and documents into clearly named subfolders.
3. Compress only when a single archive will make downloading easier.
4. Upload the folder or archive to Gampi Simple Transfer.
5. Add a client message that explains what is included and how long the link remains available.

Example folder structure

• ClientName-2026-06-17-Commercial-Shoot/
• 01-Edited-Finals/
• 02-RAW-Files/
• 03-Video-Clips/
• 04-License-and-Usage-Notes/

Client message template

Hi, your files are ready. This link includes the final edited images plus the requested RAW folder. Please download the package before the expiration date and keep the password separate from the public link.

ZIP archives vs folders

• Use a ZIP when the client wants one complete package.
• Use folders when the client needs to understand categories before downloading.
• Avoid multiple unlabeled ZIP files because they make support questions more likely.

Preview files vs original files

Optimized previews are for browsing quickly in the browser. Original downloads are the final deliverable and should remain clearly separated from lightweight previews.

A clean delivery page gives clients previews and a clear path to the original files.

Access, passwords, and expiration

When sending RAW files, video files, or full archives, use a password, an expiration window, and a message that explains file size, why originals are included, and what the client should download first.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Sending RAW files without explaining why they are not finished images.
• Renaming files in a way that breaks the editor or retoucher workflow.
• Promising metadata behavior that has not been tested for the actual file type.
• Leaving an old private delivery link open longer than needed.

For related workflows, read simple transfer for photographers, client file delivery for photographers, pricing before choosing the final delivery setup.