How can I view Nikon RAW files as I transfer them to my Windows computer?

Question

When I download my raw (Nikon NEF) files from my camera I just connect a USB cord that came with my camera and download the files off of the card. My question is, is it possible to view the files I am downloading. Currently my screen looks like this:

While I do not mind no thumbnail view it would be nice to at least see the file numbers. JPEGs show the thumbnail but no file name. Is it possible to get both?

Few Notes: I am using the FastPictureViewer Codec Pack 3.2, so I can view RAW files in Windows. These files also do not display in Adobe Bridge. I am on Windows XP and using a Nikon D5100. Once I transfer files from camera to local hard drive the raw files view without issue.

Asked by Lynda

Answer

I have no idea why you aren't seeing the file names—I use the "classic" views (rather than the task-based native XP version), and I can see the file names regardless of the view mode (tiles, thumbnails, list, details, etc.).

You will need to download and install the Nikon NEF codec to get thumbnails outside of your photo management/editing software. Note that I see thumbnails in Thumbnails view only; I get an Adobe application icon in Tiles view. Also, the thumbnails are never rotated, at least on my system, so shots taken in portrait orientation will be laid over on their sides in Explorer.

Answered by Stan Rogers

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