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.dng

Digital Negative

Commonly known as DNG

Open RAW photography format that preserves sensor data for non-destructive editing. developed by Adobe and released in 2004, it has become a standard for Photography archives, Lightroom workflows, Long-term storage.

Key Features

  • Lossless archiving
  • Rich metadata
  • Broad camera compatibility

Limitations

  • Large files
  • Requires post-processing
  • Previewing can be slow

When to use DNG?

The DNG format is ideal for Photography archives, Lightroom workflows, Long-term storage. Its MIME type is image/x-adobe-dng.

How to open .dng files

  1. macOS: Use native Preview/Quick Look or import into professional apps that support DNG.
  2. Windows: Open via Photos, Media Player, or dedicated editors by enabling the relevant codec pack.
  3. Browser: Drag the file into FileConvert to transform it into a universally supported alternative before sharing.

Popular Conversions

FAQs about DNG

How do I open a .dng file?

You can open DNG files with native tools on Mac, Windows, and Linux or convert them for free using FileConvert.

Is DNG still relevant in 2025?

DNG remains essential for Photography archives thanks to its lossless archiving benefit.

How do I convert DNG into other formats?

Visit our DNG conversion directory to switch between Digital Negative and 200+ alternatives without uploading files.