What is PEF?

PEF (Pentax Electronic Format) files contain unprocessed sensor data from Pentax K-series DSLRs (K-3 III, K-1, KP) and Pentax 645Z medium format cameras. They preserve 14-bit color information with lossless compression, along with Pentax's in-body image stabilization (Shake Reduction) metadata and custom image profiles. PEF files are based on TIFF format with Pentax-specific extensions for their unique features.

PEF is used by photographers shooting Pentax cameras for landscape photography, astrophotography (Pentax Astrotracer GPS feature), outdoor photography, and medium format work. Pentax cameras are known for weather-sealing and durability, making PEF common among outdoor enthusiasts. Files are typically 20-35 MB for APS-C/full-frame, and 60-80 MB for 645Z medium format. Popular with photographers who value build quality and value.

Did you know? PEF files store Pentax Astrotracer data for tracking star movement!

History

Pentax introduced PEF format for their digital SLR cameras, continuing the format under Ricoh ownership with enhanced features and medium format support.

Key Milestones

  • 2003: PEF format introduced
  • 2006: Shake Reduction in-body
  • 2011: Ricoh acquires Pentax
  • 2014: 645Z medium format launch
  • 2016: K-1 full-frame camera
  • Present: Continued under Ricoh Pentax

Key Features

Core Capabilities

  • 14-Bit Color: 16,384 levels per channel
  • Shake Reduction: IBIS metadata
  • Astrotracer: GPS star tracking data
  • Pixel Shift: Resolution enhancement
  • Lossless Compression: Efficient storage
  • Weather Sealing: Durable shoots

Common Use Cases

Landscape

Outdoor nature photography

Astrophotography

Astrotracer tracking

Adventure

Weather-sealed shooting

Medium Format

645Z professional work

Advantages

  • Excellent image quality
  • 14-bit color depth
  • Astrotracer data for astrophoto
  • Pixel Shift resolution mode
  • In-body stabilization metadata
  • Medium format options (645Z)
  • Good software support

Disadvantages

  • Smaller user base than Canon/Nikon
  • Proprietary Pentax format
  • Requires RAW processing
  • Limited third-party support
  • Slower software updates
  • Needs specialized software

Technical Information

Format Specifications

Specification Details
File Extension .pef
MIME Type image/x-pentax-pef
Color Depth 14-bit (16,384 levels per channel)
Base Format TIFF-based
Compression Lossless compressed
Typical Size 20-35 MB (DSLR), 60-80 MB (645Z)

Common Tools

  • Adobe: Lightroom, Photoshop Camera Raw
  • Pentax: Digital Camera Utility, SILKYPIX
  • Third-Party: Capture One, DxO PhotoLab
  • Converters: Adobe DNG Converter, RawTherapee