General Usage Guidelines

• If the images are for the Web or other online use, use JPG, PNG, or GIF. JPG is the best choice for photo images and GIF is most common for graphic images.
• If the images are for print, TIF is recommended for highest quality output.

File Format Descriptions

JPG—Best for photos when you don't mind giving up some quality for a significant reduction in file size. JPG is often not suitable for images with text, large blocks of color, or simple shapes because crisp lines will blur and colors can shift.

TIF—For print-quality files. Large file size allows preservation of layers, alpha transparency, and other special features when saved in Photoshop (consult the documentation for your version of Photoshop).

GIF—For fast-loading Web graphics with 256 or fewer colors such as Web buttons, charts or diagrams, cartoon-like drawing, banners, and text headings—rarely for photos. GIF is also used for small Web animations. GIF format supports transparency, meaning colors or patterns behind the GIF will show through the transparent parts.

PNG—A GIF replacement that offers better compression, more transparency options, more colors, and smoother edges. Unlike JPG, quality does not degrade each time you save the file. May be better for photos with sharp transitions like text or line art, though file size will be larger.

EPS—For use by graphic designers creating large-format materials. EPS is compatible only with design programs such as InDesign and Illustrator.