PEF File Documentation

Overview

Feature Value
File Format PEF (Pentax Electronic File)
Type Raw Image Format
Creator Pentax
MIME Type image/x-pentax-pef
Extension .pef
Color Depth 12, 14 bit (depending on the camera model)
Compression Lossless
Metadata Support EXIF, IPTC
Supported by Various photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom
Advantages High image quality, flexibility in post-processing
Disadvantages Larger file size than JPEG, proprietary format
Image Encryption Supported by some Pentax camera models
Storage Aspect Ratio Depends on the camera model
DRM Support No
Usage Professional photography, archival
Compatibility Specific to Pentax digital cameras
File Header Signature Specific byte pattern identifying PEF format
Native Software Pentax Digital Camera Utility
RAW Conversion Requires specialized software
Version Varies with Pentax camera model and firmware