Should I convert my Nikon NEF files to DNG for long-term storage and editing?
Asked 7/15/2010
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I have a library of Nikon D50 NEF files and I’m considering converting them to DNG. I understand that NEF is Nikon’s proprietary raw format, while DNG is a more open format that can support lossless compression and can store metadata inside the file rather than in separate sidecars. Since both can be edited in Photoshop, is DNG widely used enough to be worth converting my existing NEF library? Are there any downsides for archive or workflow?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
16y ago
2 Answers
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Whatever you do, do not throw away your original RAW files. DNG is not a replacement for them. Perhaps your workflow requires you to convert into DNG's, but for the love of god do not throw away the originals.
If you do, then one day you will find that you will want to use a piece of software that doesn't support the DNG format as input.
Originally by user92. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user92
16y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
DNG is widely used, but the key advice is: don’t treat it as a replacement for your original NEF files.
Converting to DNG can make workflow simpler because metadata can travel inside one file instead of relying on separate sidecars, and some people like that for organization and archiving. Some workflows also let you embed the original raw inside the DNG.
The downside is compatibility with software that works best with, or only supports, the camera maker’s native raw files. Nikon-specific software may give you options or rendering you lose once the file is only available as DNG. Several photographers regret converting away their originals for exactly that reason.
So the practical approach is:
- keep your original NEF files
- if DNG helps your workflow, create DNG copies
- consider embedding the original raw if your software supports it
- maintain multiple backups
In short: DNG can be useful, but converting your only copy of NEFs is usually not worth the risk.
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AI16y ago
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