Why does LrC now automatically convert my RW2 files to DNG when I import?

[simoncwhat]

I have been using Lightroom Classic with my Panasonic Lumix GX-9 for a few years. I shoot JPEG+RAW. In the past, when I did an import, the imported files showed in my catalog as <filename>.RW2. 

I haven't used lightroom for a few months (maybe longer?) and now when I import files from my GX-9's SD card, LrC automatically converts them to DNG. As you can probably tell, I'm NOT a skilled  LrC user. I can use the basic adjustments well enough to suit me personally, but I don't have any presets or play with custom setting menus.

I have three questions:

1. Isn't it better to import files in their original raw state (RW2) instead of automatically converting them to DNG prior to post processing? LrC has supported the GX-9 for a number of years.

2. How do I get LrC to stop automatically converting my raws to DNG?

3. Did I (or Adobe) change some menu or default setting? If yes, what likely happened, so that I can avoid this problem in the future?

Thanks,

- Simon  

[GoldingD · Accepted solution]

Check your preference  for import in the import screen. Is it currently  set for copy as dng?

[simoncwhat]

Thanks you! I would never have been able to find the right menu/screen to fix this without help.

-  Simon

[Rob_Cullen · Accepted solution]

1. Not necessarily "better". Just a choice!  Digital Negative (DNG) 

2.

3. Yes.  See the answer to 2..

[TheDigitalDog]

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@simoncwhat wrote:

1. Isn't it better to import files in their original raw state (RW2) instead of automatically converting them to DNG prior to post processing? LrC has supported the GX-9 for a number of years.

Different and better for some, depending on your desires. See:

http://digitaldog.net/files/ThePowerofDNG.pdf

https://www.cnet.com/news/adobe-offering-new-reasons-to-get-dng-religion/