What Is an NEF File?
An NEF file is a Nikon raw image file.
It is an abbreviation for Nikon Electronic Format, and is used solely on Nikon cameras.
The NEF file format is based onTIFF.
This file format is sometimes referred to as Nikon ElectronicFile.
The same acronym is used by other technology terms, too, likenetwork efficiency factor.
If your rig’s default photo viewer doesn’t bring up the file, give Nikon’sNX Studiosoftware a try.
To open an NEF file online so you don’t have to download any of those programs, tryPics.io.
Adobe’s DNG Converteris a free RAW converter for Windows and macOS that supports conversions like NEF to DNG.
Still Can’t Open Your File?
It’s a similar case with NET, NES, NEU, and NEXE files.
Nikon has some more specifics about this file format on theirNikon Electronic Format (NEF)page.
FAQ
In Photoshop, go toFile>Openand opt for NEF file on your rig.
If you have trouble opening or editing the file, go toHelp>Updatesto update theCamera Rawplug-in.
