raw format

What is a .XMP file?

XMP is a sidecar file storing edits, ratings and metadata for a photo without changing the original raw file.

Full name
Extensible Metadata Platform
Developed by
Adobe
Released
2001
Extension
.xmp
MIME type
application/rdf+xml
Transparency
No

How to open a XMP file

XMP files are read by Lightroom, Bridge and Camera Raw alongside the photo.

What XMP 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

Tools for this format

Convert, compress and edit — free, in your browser.

Need more than a conversion?

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

Frequently asked questions

XMP is a sidecar file storing edits, ratings and metadata for a photo without changing the original raw file.

XMP files are read by Lightroom, Bridge and Camera Raw alongside the photo.

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

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

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