Opening DNG files

Did your computer fail to open a DNG file? We explain what DNG files are and recommend software that we know can open or convert your DNG files.

What is a DNG file?

The .dng file extension is used for a bitmap image file format that was developed by Adobe Systems, Inc. These DNG files are also known as Adobe Digital Negative files, which are raw images that have been captured with a digital camera or a DSLR (digital single lens reflex) camera. The format of these .dng files are based on the Universal Digital Negative Raw file format, which was also created by Adobe Systems, Inc.Digital camera manufacturers and image manipulation software developers can use the DNG file format for their products. This format can allow their products to be capable of more flexible archiving and raw image processing functions. Metadata details and digital camera profiles that are stored in these .dng files are shared and publicly documented.The Adobe Photoshop Lightroom software can be used to open and view the bitmap images that are stored in these .dng files. There are other image manipulation programs and graphics authoring applications that can be used to open and edit these DNG files.