TERM
DEFINITION
JPEG
Reduces file size by simplifying image data, which may lower quality slightly; commonly used for photos where space efficiency is important
HEIF
Uses advanced compression to store high-quality images in smaller file sizes; supports transparency and HDR but isn’t universally supported
TIFF
Preserves all image details and allows multiple layers, making it ideal for professional printing and archiving but resulting in larger files
RAW
Captures unprocessed sensor data, providing full control over editing but requiring special software to view and process
PNG
Maintains all image details while supporting transparency, making it great for web graphics, though file sizes are larger than JPEG
GIF
Limited to 256 colors but supports simple animations and transparency, often used for short looping graphics
PSD
Stores images with multiple layers, masks, and effects, making it perfect for detailed editing but mainly compatible with Adobe Photoshop