RAW preserves minimally processed sensor data, but several camera settings still matter because they affect exposure, capture, or how the RAW is created.

Settings that can affect the RAW image itself or its recorded exposure include:

• shutter speed
• aperture
• ISO
• exposure compensation
• flash output and flash exposure compensation
• exposure bracketing
• metering mode and exposure lock
• safety shift
• Nikon Active D-Lighting (by biasing exposure to protect highlights)
• RAW size options such as medium/small RAW
• crop mode on cameras that offer it
• long-exposure noise reduction

Settings that affect whether the image is sharp or captured as intended, even if they don’t “process” the RAW, include:

• autofocus-related settings
• image stabilization
• mirror lock-up
• focus microadjustment
• sensor cleaning
• focus screen setting if it changes metering behavior

By contrast, settings like white balance and picture style usually do not alter the underlying RAW data, though they may affect the embedded preview and how the file first appears in software.