You can edit a Nikon RAW (NEF) image directly in-camera or using editing software on a computer or mobile device. Here's a breakdown of the methods:
Editing In-Camera (Example using specific Nikon models, adjustments may vary):
This method allows for basic adjustments directly after taking the photo.
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Display the Image: Show the NEF (RAW) picture on your camera's LCD screen. Note: If the picture was shot with [HLG] selected for tone mode, special considerations may apply as detailed in your camera's user manual.
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Access the Retouch Menu: Press the i button to access the i menu.
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Select RAW Processing: In the i menu, select [Retouch], then highlight [RAW processing (current picture)] and press the right multi selector button (2).
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Choose a Destination: This step allows you to determine where the processed file will be saved (usually a new HEIF or JPEG file).
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Adjust Settings: The [RAW processing (HEIF)] or similar display will appear, allowing you to adjust settings such as:
- White Balance: Adjust the color temperature.
- Exposure Compensation: Brighten or darken the image.
- Picture Control: Apply a preset style (e.g., Vivid, Neutral, Portrait).
- High ISO NR: Reduce noise in high ISO images.
- Vignette Control: Correct lens vignetting.
- D-Lighting: Optimize dynamic range.
- Color Space: Choose between sRGB and Adobe RGB.
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Execute: Once you've made your desired adjustments, select "Execute" or a similar option to create the processed HEIF or JPEG copy. This leaves the original RAW file untouched.
Editing with Software (Computer/Mobile):
This offers a much wider range of editing capabilities.
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Choose Your Software: Select photo editing software that supports Nikon RAW (.NEF) files. Popular options include:
- Adobe Lightroom: Industry-standard, powerful, subscription-based.
- Adobe Photoshop: Feature-rich, subscription-based, steeper learning curve. Requires Camera Raw plugin.
- Capture One: Another professional option known for color handling, often used by portrait and fashion photographers, subscription or perpetual license available.
- Nikon Capture NX-D (Legacy): Nikon's own software (some users still prefer).
- Affinity Photo: Powerful, one-time purchase, viable alternative to Adobe.
- RawTherapee: Free and open-source.
- Darktable: Another free and open-source option, similar to Lightroom.
- Mobile Apps: Lightroom Mobile, Snapseed (free), VSCO, etc.
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Import Your RAW File: Open your chosen software and import the .NEF file from your camera's memory card or computer.
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Make Adjustments: Use the software's tools to adjust various parameters:
- Exposure: Adjust brightness.
- Contrast: Modify the difference between light and dark areas.
- Highlights/Shadows: Recover detail in bright or dark areas.
- White Balance: Correct color casts.
- Color Grading: Adjust individual colors or color ranges.
- Sharpening: Enhance detail.
- Noise Reduction: Reduce graininess.
- Lens Corrections: Fix distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting.
- Cropping: Change the image's composition.
- Local Adjustments: Make targeted changes to specific areas of the image.
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Non-Destructive Editing: Most RAW editing software uses non-destructive editing. This means your original RAW file is never altered. The software stores the editing steps and applies them each time you view or export the image.
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Export Your Edited Image: Once you're satisfied with your edits, export the image in a suitable format, such as JPEG, TIFF, or PNG. JPEG is ideal for sharing online due to its smaller file size, while TIFF is better for archiving and printing, as it retains more detail. PNG is useful when transparency is needed.
Key Considerations for RAW Editing:
- RAW files contain more data than JPEGs, allowing for more flexibility in editing.
- Always preserve your original RAW files.
- Experiment with different settings to find what works best for your images.
- Learn the basics of color theory to enhance your editing skills.
- Use a calibrated monitor for accurate color representation.
- Practice regularly to improve your proficiency.
