If your RAW photos look blurry or pixelated in Narrative, it's usually because the preview inside the RAW file is small. It doesn't mean your photo is out of focus. Narrative can create a sharper preview for you.
How do I get sharper previews?
To get sharper previews, turn on high-res previews in Preferences.
Open Preferences.
Go to Import.
Under Files with small embedded previews, turn on Generate high-res previews for RAW files with small embedded previews on import.
Narrative creates sharper previews for RAW files that need them, and swaps them in on their own. You don't need to import your photos again, and there's no button to regenerate them.
Why do my Sony photos say "Generating high-resolution preview"?
Sony RAW files often have small previews. When you zoom in on a Sony photo with a preview smaller than about 1130 × 1700 pixels, you'll see Generating high-resolution preview while Narrative creates a sharper one. Wait for it to finish before you judge the detail.
Another option with a Sony camera is to shoot RAW+JPEG, with the JPEG set to Large/Fine. Narrative shows you the sharp JPEG, and your ratings still go to the RAW file when you ship.
Does a blurry preview mean the focus score is wrong?
A blurry preview doesn't mean the focus score is wrong. Narrative assesses focus separately from the preview you see, so a soft preview can still have an accurate focus score. A high score also isn't a replacement for checking the detail yourself. Learn why an out-of-focus photo can have a high focus score.
What about DNG files?
If your DNG files look blurry, try one of these:
If your camera lets you choose the preview size, set it to Full Size or High Quality.
If you export DNGs from Lightroom, set the JPEG preview to Full Size in the export settings.
Converting your files with Adobe DNG Converter is mainly for cameras Narrative doesn't support yet, not for every blurry preview. Check Which cameras and file types does Narrative support? first, and always keep your original RAW files.
What if my photos still look blurry?
If your photos still look blurry, check Narrative has finished creating previews and that your original files are connected. For other causes, see My Images Are Blurry. If that doesn't help, contact us through the chat bubble or at [email protected] with your camera, file type, Narrative version and an example photo.