How to recover NEF files or corrupted NEF files

Here you will find out:

what are NEF files

how to recover NEF files

how DiskInternals can help you

Are you ready? Let's read!

NEF files: what are they?

Files with this extension represent the RAW data format from a line of Nikon cameras; in other words, an unprocessed graphic fragment.

This is the standard camera data storage format in Nikon cameras. The size of the NEF file can be 12 or 14 bits. Compression can be lossy or lossless. NEF files can be found on mobile and desktop platforms and can be opened on Windows, Mac OS, or iOS. However, this format is little known. If someone finds such a file and it is corrupted, then they come to a standstill.

Here, you can find the necessary information to repair corrupted NEF files and learn a little more about this format.

How to open corrupted NEF files

Since these are RAW images, they cannot be viewed and printed using ordinary user programs. However, to work with such files, there are many special programs that make it possible not only to view and edit images but also convert them.

If you use Windows, then the following utilities are suitable:

Nikon ViewNX;

XnView;

ACDSee Photo Manager 14;

Adobe Photoshop CS5;

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom 4; and

PhotoStage.

If you are using Linux:

Google Picasa.

If you are using Mac OS:

Nikon ViewNX;

Snap Converter; and

Apple Aperture.

Method 1. Use another viewer

Do not focus on one viewer, since NEF files can be opened on other programs.

You can use any of the above programs, and if none of them work, you can recover NEF files using other methods.

Method 2. Convert NEF files

The easiest option to recover NEF files is to copy the damaged NEF files and convert them. You can choose any free converter convenient for you from the Internet and use it with confidence.

If this method is also ineffective, the next method will not make you disappointed.

How to recover NEF files

DiskInternals Uneraser is a salvation for everyone who is in this situation. For everyone who needs file recovery.

You will have a 99% chance of recovering NEF files. You will not find a simpler and more effective application on the market. The recovery wizard will immediately take care of everything and without interruption will bring the matter to completion. You can start with the trial version first — it is free, but you can see the whole process in action. And then, if you need a licensed version to export recovered files, you do not have to start all over again; just enter the license key (it will be issued to you) and continue the process.

Short guide: