A DNG file can also save the original RAW file within itself. This leads to fewer files for storage, but also strips out information that you can’t recover later.ĭNG files are generally 15-20% smaller than RAW files, but the difference in quality is minimal. With DNGs, edits and changes are written directly into the file. Sidecars are small, but they also mean that every RAW file is effectively stored as two files. Essentially, this creates a separate file so the original RAW file remains completely untouched and unchanged. A sidecar is a separate XMP file that contains all edits, changes, and settings. You’ll need to use a sidecar or convert them to other formats first.
#Adobe .dng converter program how to
There are several important differences between the two file types, especially in how to edit and store them.Įditing a RAW file can be a challenge. What is the difference between DNG and RAW files? Digital cameras, image scanners, and film scanners all produce RAW files. This leads to high-quality images that you can edit with minimal quality loss. All available image data is there with no information cut or compressed. RAW files are just that - raw, untouched, and unprocessed images recorded directly from a camera’s sensor. DNG is an open-source, royalty-free, highly compatible, and continuously improving raw image format that was built for editing photos - especially with Adobe software. RAW files: frequently asked questionsĭNG stands for Digital Negative Image. What is the difference between DNG and RAW files?.