I tried a RAW shot with my 30D, for the first time, yesterday, on a black capped chickadee. I have Elements 3.0 and downloaded the plugin. I won't be much help. However, I do have to day, I wasn't all that impressed. When comparing the jpg and RAW side by side, the RAW image looked much better. Although, after enough manipulation, I was able to make the jpg look exactly like the RAW image. I do have an idea that if I shoot something in direct sunlight, it will be a different story. With overcast skies, I don't think a person needs the extra couple stops of exposure latitude. I do realize that RAW is used for more than just that. I understand that you can change the WB after the photo is taken, but I still think a person could play with the color filters and obtain similar results. Once again, I'm new at this, so I'll be doing more playing around.