Nikon and Adobe on RAW

Nikon and Adobe on RAW

So, Nikon's RAW format is called NEF. Unfortunately, they've made the annoying decision to encrypt the white balance data – which then limits what software you can use on your photos (if you care about the white balance – which trust me – you do).

Apparently, they've provided Adobe with an SDK (Software Development Kit) that allows Adobe to decrypt the 'as-shot' white balance into – which is better than nothing, but still – not really that great.

Adobe, on the other hand, have DNG – Digital NeGative – which is an open, documented and unencrypted standard, which the encourage camera makers to use. Some, like Hassleblad, are doing so (Yay Hassleblad!).

As I've said before, I have a Nikon right now, which I'm very happy with. But, if Nikon carry on with this sort of 'screw the consumer, we must have control!' attitude, my next camera will quite possibly be from a different vendor – preferably one that supports open standards, like DNG.

Nikon – you listening?

• How much kit is too much?
• Nikon updates D2x firmware, recalls some EN-EL3 batteries
• Time’s best photos of 2005
• Talk about new Nikon digcams
• Nikon and Adobe on RAW - The Digital Photography Weblog
• Nikon D3000 Digital Camera Review
• Nikon Issues Service Advisory for SLR Technical Problems
• All New Nikon USA Website Launched
• The Digital Journalist
• Weekly Internet Show About Nikon DSLRs Launches
• The Digital Photography Weblog