ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Image file formats

An image is a picture or a drawing that can be saved on a computer. When we save an image on a computer, it is saved in a particular file format.

There are different types of image file formats, and they have different ways of saving images. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. JPEG: this is a type of file format that is used for photographs. It can save images with a lot of colors and details, and the file size can be small. When you take a picture with your phone or camera, it is usually saved as a JPEG.

2. PNG: this is another type of file format that is used for images. It is good for images that have transparent areas or for logos with text because it can save those areas without a background color.

3. GIF: this is a type of file format that is used for short animations or small images, like emojis. It has limited colors and details, but it can have transparent areas, just like PNG.

4. TIFF: this is a type of file format that is used for high-quality images. It can save images with a lot of details and colors, but the file size can be very large.

5. BMP: this is a type of file format that is used on Microsoft Windows. It can save images with a lot of colors and details, but the file size can be very large.

Different file formats have different advantages and disadvantages depending on the purpose of the image. So, it is essential to choose the right file format based on what the image is for.
Related topics others have asked about: