Scanned images are generally saved as graphics files, and several graphic file formats are available for use. To get the best scans, be familiar with the pros and cons of each file format and how they are compatible with your image-editing software and print method. Scanned images vary in file size depending on several factors, including image type and resolution. As a rule, colour images take up a bigger file size than grayscale or black-and-white images. And the higher the resolution in which the image is scanned, the bigger the resulting file size.
TIFF
Short for Tagged Image File Format. TIFF is probably the most popular file format. It's good for storing bitmaps in many different resolutions, colour models and compression types, and is supported by many commercial applications. Use the TIFF format whenever possible, since this is the most widely used.
EPS
Short for Encapsulated PostScript. EPS is good for storing vector drawings but not for line art. EPS is ideal for print applications because it offers more control when printing to a PostScript printer.
PICT, PICT2
PICT is generally used for line art with limited colour (usually 256 colours). PICT2 is for 8-bit grayscale or 24-bit colour images.
PSD
Adobe Photoshop's internal image format.
GIF
A format used to store images with 256 colours or 256 shades of grey. Mostly used by BBS services and some low-end graphic applications.
JPEG
A compression algorithm used to store large colour or grayscale files. Some versions of this compression format may result in minor degradation of image quality.
PCX
Developed by Z-soft for use in various paint programs. Also suitable for scanned images and is widely supported for PC use.
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