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DNG Digital Negative Format Gains ISO Standard Recognition After Two Decades

digital · 2026-03-27

The DNG (Digital Negative) format, initially proposed by Adobe in 2004 following a photographer's inquiry, has been designated as an official standard by the International Organization for Standardization. This development concludes over twenty years of efforts to establish a universal raw image format. The format's origins trace back to discussions on photography forums where the need for a standardized raw format was raised.

Key facts

  • DNG format was announced by Adobe in 2004
  • The format originated from photographer Robert Edwards' question on photography forums
  • DNG has now received ISO standard recognition
  • This recognition comes after more than twenty years of development
  • The format was created to provide a standardized raw image solution

Entities

Artists

  • Robert Edwards

Institutions

  • Adobe
  • International Organization for Standardization

Sources