raw format

What is a .MEF file?

MEF is Mamiya's raw format from its medium-format digital backs and cameras, storing high-resolution sensor data.

Full name
Mamiya Raw
Developed by
Mamiya
Released
2004
Extension
.mef
MIME type
image/mef
Transparency
No

How to open a MEF file

MEF opens in Capture One, Lightroom and Mamiya software; convert to DNG/TIFF for wider compatibility.

What MEF files are used for

Professional photography

Maximum dynamic range and editing latitude.

Color grading

Recover highlights and shadows non-destructively.

Archival masters

Keep the untouched original alongside exports.

Strengths & limitations

✔ Strengths✖ Limitations
Maximum editing latitudeNo transparency support
Limited support — may need converting
Needs raw-capable software

Need more than a conversion?

Remove the background from MEF images, upscale to 4K, or generate new visuals with SharkFoto AI.

Frequently asked questions

MEF is Mamiya's raw format from its medium-format digital backs and cameras, storing high-resolution sensor data.

MEF opens in Capture One, Lightroom and Mamiya software; convert to DNG/TIFF for wider compatibility.

MEF is an unprocessed raw container, so no detail is discarded.

Use SharkFoto's free tools — upload your MEF file and convert it to a more convenient format in seconds. It's free, processed securely and never stored.

No — MEF doesn't store transparency; convert to PNG or WEBP if you need it.