DNG conversion, original file embedded vs non-embedded?

[molested_cow2]

Hi guys, I tried using adobe DNG converter to convert A7cr RAW files into DNG and have some questions, hoping some of you can help me clarify.

Between full res RAW and DNG conversion, the file size went from:
Original full res RAW: 120MB
DNG with original file embedded: 100MB
DNG without original file embedded: 16.6MB

There's a huge difference in file size between original file embedded and without, but while editing, I can't really tell any difference. Can someone explain what's the difference between embedded and not?

The reason why I want to convert to DNG is I am still using PS6 with ACR V9. I've tried many paid and free RAW editing software but simply can't get used to the workflow. I just realized that I can convert A7cr RAW files to compatible DNG with my ACR and it has worked quite well so far, which solves all of my "new camera"problem.

I notice that after conversion, in the folder under file properties, it will show a much lower resolution. But when saved as Jpeg, the resolution is intact, so no worries.

 

[Overread10]

So the file size difference interested me cause modern cameras are scary with how big the RAW files end up being and digital storage keeps clambering up and up in price at an insane rate (even for HDD ).

From my bit of googling around just now what I've found is;
a) DNG uses lossless compression which can be better than what native cameras achieve. That said I just tried converting some of my Canon RAWS and the file sizes were basically the same and this was without saving the original file within the DNG. So the variation might vary a lot between different camera brands/cameras. My limited google does seem to suggest that Sony are one of the worst for not compressing RAW files with lossless compression so the file size savings with DNG are potentially very significant for you.

b) The resolution you are seeing is almost certainly the embedded jpeg within the DNG rather than the DNG itself. Since DNG, like all RAW formats, is just raw camera data and not an actual image. So they all have a JPEG embedded into them which is what you see in your desktop and so forth.

c) DNG seems to lose some proprietary properties within RAW files. From what I can gather this is things like which AF point was used in a shot and often is information that software like lightroom can't read anyway and is often only read with the manufacturers own RAW conversion software.

d) Some photo competitions might not accept DNG - eg Rules | Wildlife Photographer of the Year | Natural History Museum - this might be something that becomes more widely used in competitions, even smaller ones; due to the rise in AI.

 

[molested_cow2]

Thank you for your reply. I am just a bit suspicious because it's more than 100mb size difference between the original RAW VS unembedded DNG.

I have another question. Gemini says to extract the embedded RAW from DNG, I have to use Adobe DNG converter app. However I can't find that option in the app and I can't find any tutorial or demo on youtube as well. All of the result are related to converting RAW to DNG. Any idea?