Understanding File Formats

Working in any Adobe or graphics program, it is crucial that you understand file formats. This is helpful in any of your computer endeavors.

A file format is the way information is encoded for storage in a computer. Different formats work with different programs, or applications. In our case, a Photoshop file contains information that allows the program to access that bit of information.

Some files can be opened in various programs, and/or used on the web. A JPEG file will open on nearly every computer. It may be inserted into any Adobe program, Microsoft Word, etc. It travels across the platforms of Windows and Mac seamlessly. It also works on the web.

If you understand the standard formats, you will be able to save or export the correct files for use on the web, printing, or sharing. It’s just handy!

Photoshop Class:

As you fool with Photoshop, you will be asked to save things three ways unless otherwise specified:

• PSD (Photoshop Document file) - This should be your master file. It should contain all your layers and alterations should you want to go back and work on it. It is lossless, meaning it holds it's integrity as you save it (unless you reduce it, then enlarge it again. Reducing size loses data).
• PNG (Portable Network Graphics file) - This should be the files you post on your website (JPEG can also be used). It is lossless, keeping the integrity of the image. It also supports transparency.
• TIFF (Tagged Image Format file) is used in the print industry... i.e. newspapers, magazines, posters, brochures, etc. It supports most Photoshop functions, as well as transparency. This one is also lossless.

There are many other formats you can use. We are concentrating on these, as they are applicable for working with web and print without losing quality, i.e. they are lossless as opposed to lossy.

Once you review this material, Take the quiz. It will jog your memory, and hopefully cement some of it.

The PDF is downloadable as it is something you will want to keep for reference.