What is MIME type "image/x-raw-sony"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

image/x-raw-sony is a MIME type for raw image files from Sony cameras. These files hold unprocessed sensor data that give photographers more control during editing.
They keep all the original details and color information. This uncompressed data allows for extensive adjustments in post-processing.

High editability: The format preserves image details, enabling fine adjustments on exposure, color, and contrast.
Accurate reproduction: It maintains a wide dynamic range and accurate color fidelity.
Photography workflows: Professionals and enthusiasts use these files in digital editing software to achieve the best image quality.

Sony uses this MIME type with several file formats. For instance, raw files may come as a ARW file, or they might appear as a SRF or a SR2 file.
For more info on raw image formats, check out the detailed description here.

Associated file extensions

.arw, .srf, .sr2

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: image/x-raw-sony

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="image/x-raw-sony">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'image/x-raw-sony');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.arw, .srf, .sr2

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.