raw format

What is a .CR2 file?

CR2 is Canon’s older raw photo format, holding unprocessed sensor data from EOS cameras for maximum editing flexibility.

Full name
Canon Raw v2
Developed by
Canon
Released
2004
Extension
.cr2
MIME type
image/x-canon-cr2
Transparency
No

How to open a CR2 file

CR2 opens in Canon DPP, Lightroom, Photoshop and most raw editors.

What CR2 files are used for

Professional photography

Maximum dynamic range and editing latitude.

Color grading

Recover highlights and shadows non-destructively.

Archival masters

Keep the untouched original alongside exports.

Strengths & limitations

✔ Strengths✖ Limitations
Maximum editing latitudeNo transparency support
Needs raw-capable software

Need more than a conversion?

Remove the background from CR2 images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

CR2 is Canon’s older raw photo format, holding unprocessed sensor data from EOS cameras for maximum editing flexibility.

CR2 opens in Canon DPP, Lightroom, Photoshop and most raw editors.

CR2 is an unprocessed raw container, so no detail is discarded.

Use SharkFoto's free tools — upload your CR2 file and convert it to a more convenient format in seconds. It's free, processed securely and never stored.

No — CR2 doesn't store transparency; convert to PNG or WEBP if you need it.