image file formats

To some a computer image is just a bunch of pixels, but in reality there are different kinds of image formats.  Each was created for a specific use and has advantages and disadvantages.

When saving memories in Family Search you can use TIF, JPG, PNG, and BMP.   So what's the difference?

TIF is a great choice for archiving images when all detail must be preserved AND FILE SIZE IS NOT A CONSIDERATION.  TIF format means that no image data is lost after scanning. TIF files are very large in size compared to JPGs because no  compression is used.

JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is the default image format used for photographs and is the most popular one on the web. It supports 16.7 million colors.  It may not be evident to the human eye, but JPG images sacrifice some image information to keep file sizes small. Each time you save a file, some data is lost. This loss of image data is not recoverable. JPG is great for color photographs but NOT for line drawings.

PNG (Portable Network Graphic) is a better choice for storing line drawings, text, and iconic graphics at a smaller file size because it is lossless.  It is patent free (unlike the proprietary GIF format.)  If an image has large areas with flat or single tones colors - such as logos, icons, banners, and cartoons - then PNG is the format of choice. 

BMP (Bitmap) The native file format of the Windows platform is like the parent format to the above three. BMP formats commonly do not allow for image compression.  BMP images are crisp and precise, but being pixel dependent they don’t scale well. Detail comes at the cost of file size and that’s why you won’t see BMP images used on the web.

To summarize:

• JPG is the most common format that’s in use. But you should be careful as image quality degrades with every save.

• PNG is great for clipart and drawings where limited colors are in use.

Whichever format you choose, your memory cannot exceed 15 MB file size.