NEF to JPG

NEF "Nikon Electronic Format" is a file format of Nikon digital cameras. It is a RAW file format, ie it contains the "raw" recorded image files, quasi comparable to a negative during film development. In addition, the metadata recorded by the camera (such as camera model, lens setting or time of recording and / or GPS data) are included. NEF files offer extensive and professional editing options that would not be available with other formats. The format can only be opened by special software (such as ViewNX 2 or Capture NX2) and is therefore not suitable for everyday viewing of images. NEF data – like RAW data – is usually memory-intensive. JPG – also known as JPEG ("Joint Photographic Expert Group") – is the most widely used standard graphic format. It was primarily developed with a view to far-reaching portability for digital graphics files. In addition, JPG files use a special compression algorithm, which makes JPG files relatively "light" in relation – without sacrificing graphics quality. Usually web presentations of graphics in JPG format can be found. The conversion reason for a NEF file can vary. The fact that specially coordinated software is required to edit or view Nikon's own NEF format means that these are hardly suitable for web delivery or publication on websites, for example. So that the recipients can also view the graphic, a file format must first be available, which every user can open on any platform if possible – which would be the case with the JPG file format. Another reason for conversion can be the lack of storage space, since JPG files use significantly less storage space than the raw image files in NEF format. The conversion can also be useful if professional image editing is not desired. Of course, the transformation also lends itself if images are to be viewed on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. Special Nikon software (such as View NX 2, Capture NX-D, Capture NX 2) that can read the format is usually required to perform this conversion. If this is not available, the user encounters an almost insurmountable barrier where he cannot view his own photos. Nikon software can sometimes be chargeable and requires installation on an appropriate device.