File Format
When scanning images, the intended use of
the image is important. Are you planning on printing it, sending it as an
email or using it on the web? Knowing what you want to do with the scanned
image will help you choose the right format for your image. The most common
file formats for images are tif, gif, jpg, bmp and psd (Photoshop).
Scanning for Print
If you are going to print out your scanned image, save it as a tif or bmp.
The quality of gifs and jpgs in printed documents is inferior to tifs and
bmps.
Scanning for Web
If you are going to use your scanned image on the web, save it as a gif or
jpg file.
If it is a simple graphic image, save it as a gif file. If you will be
scanning photos, save them as jpg files.
Multi-Purpose Scanning
If you are going to both print your scanned image and use it on the web,
then save it in a high quality format (psd, tif, or bmp). If needed, you can
always open this file later and save it as a web image.
File Format Chart
| File Type |
Extension |
Use |
| TIFF |
tif |
High-resolution image to be printed |
| GIF |
gif |
Low-resolution web image, line art, or solid color |
| JPEG |
jpg |
Low-resolution web image or photograph |
| Photoshop |
psd |
High-resolution image to be edited in Photoshop |
| Bitmap |
bmp |
High-resolution image to be printed |
Printer Buying
Guide
- Read our Printer Buying Guide before choosing a printer.
Digital Photography
Guide -
Read our Digital Photography Guide for useful digital photo printing tips
and tecniques.
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