batch conversion of raw files...?

[golemus]

ok, so part2 of my problem. I have also large collection of raw images (.CR2 from Canon EOS 400D, .RW from Panasonic Lumix LX-7, and couple of random .DNG or .NEF files).

I would like to do any or all of the following processes:

1. Batch convert them to a format which consumes less space and keeps all info of raw images and is more compatible. What comes to my mind are DNG and JPEG XL. I don't see DNG conversion reducing space consumption, I am wondering that is it more compatible with viewers?

I don't know the bit depth of these camera RAW files, I've tried to find reliable info from many place without finding any. They are not expensive professional cameras so I would guess more likely is 10 or 12 bit than more. In such case AVIF could contain all color info, if it is more than 12-bit then I am not sure.

One large issue I am finding is noise reduction and adjusting levels. I don't want to lose the option to edit these pics later with exposure, level and noise readjustments.


In photo editors (at least Photoshop and Affinity) there seems to be 2 part: A. UI / tools for RAW image processing, B. UI / tools for normal image processing.

noise removal in B seems to be much worse than in A and I don't understand why. Same applies to levels and exposure readjustment.

Can somebody here explain this?


2. Batch convert them to "viewing format" like AVIF by first batch applying RAW noise reduction and levels/exposure adjustment. There are thousands of pics so I can't adjust them manually for everyone. Opinions?

[xnview]

XnView supports only 8bits per component, so 10-12 will be converted to 8

[golemus]

XnView supports only 8bits per component, so 10-12 will be converted to 8

OK I understand. Anyway even if does not support more than 8 when doing conversions it would be nice to know a bit more accurately how many bits is the bit depth of a RAW file. I find it very hard to get this info from anywhere.

Then if you know that there is more than 8 you can use a dedicated photo editor to adjust levels, etc.. before conversion.