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The most effective ways to convert the NEF to EPS

by Casey Schmidt  |  April 24, 2020

3 min. read
A hand-drawn retro camera portrait.

The NEF provides a way for physical photographs to download onto a computer without sacrificing the original resolution. It’s a great starting point for digital photos, but it’s generally not used past the initial computer transfer. If you need a strong alternative, the EPS offers a lot of benefits. This article explains how to convert the NEF to EPS. First, let’s review the NEF and EPS file types.

What is the NEF image file?

The NEF image file is a raw digital photo from Nikon. Anytime a picture is taken on a Nikon camera and uploaded to a computer, it’s in the NEF format. The NEF (Nikon Electronic Format) is an exact replication of the original photograph, completely unchanged in quality. It’s a very common image extension for professional photographers. Most users typically convert to a different image file type when they want to edit the NEF. However, the Nikon program Capture NX-D has some basic editing tools.

What is the EPS image file?

The EPS image file is a professional digital picture format, common among companies who need to manage numerous branding images, such as logos. It’s a popularly purchased file type because of how customizable and resizable it is after the purchase. The EPS (Encapsulated PostScript) is a highly accessible tool, easy to open for both Windows and Mac users.

A digital camera.
The EPS is a versatile file type.

What are the best ways to convert the NEF to EPS?

Converting from the NEF to EPS isn’t possible using the Nikon Capture NX-D software. However, there are alternatives, starting with an automated converter. A browser-based converter, for example, lets users upload their NEF files then download them in EPS format. This method is ideal for anyone with high-speed internet access or limited hard drive space. I highly recommend using Convertio as your go-to browser-based conversion tool. It’s a fast system with an efficient layout.

The other conversion method is a system-based tool, which is more helpful to anyone with limited internet speeds or access. It’s also a good choice for users with a lot of hard drive space. If you’re looking to convert a large number of NEF files to EPS all at once, a batch system is the right option. I’ve particularly enjoyed the effectiveness of reaConverter whenever I need bulk file changes. All it requires is internet access for the initial download. After that, you’ll simply need enough space to install it and store the converted files.

A camera next to a laptop.
Converting requires alternative tools.

Why is this conversion important?

As you know, the NEF exists in the raw file format, free of any quality downgrades. It also has limited capabilities, especially concerning accessibility, editing functionality and sharing. Not many programs are capable of opening an NEF. Unless you use the Capture NX-D, it’s going to take some digging to find one to open the NEF. Though Capture NX-D gives some editing tools, it’s not all that comprehensive. The NEF is also tough to share because of how large it is.

So, why would it be beneficial to switch over to the EPS file type? The most important reasons lie in the fact that the EPS acts in an opposite manner of the NEF. For starters, the EPS is extremely resizable and easy to edit. Also, it’s a lot more accessible, giving users a way to instantly and easily open their stored image files. Finally, it’s a lot easier to share, both in file size and convenience.

No matter how much you prefer the NEF file over other images, be prepared for the inevitability that you’ll need to convert it at some point. The reality is it lacks crucial benefits that prevent it from being used by many different users.