Guides

Plain explanations of image formats, file sizes, color and data, written next to the tools that use them.

Sort

New guides

Conceptual illustration: the top pair keeps every color; the bottom pair simplifies the shades.
Conceptual illustration: the top pair keeps every color; the bottom pair simplifies the shades. Which PNG settings are worth changing? 7 min
A compression level changes packing effort, not picture quality.
Two suitcases contain the same four colored shirts, loosely spaced on the left and neatly packed on the right. What do Fast, Balanced and Maximum change in output size and action time for two exact inputs? 6 min
A generated DNG, before and after development
Sensor readings from a generated 64 by 48 pixel DNG beside its actual developed output, with the same region marked and enlarged on both sides. What does converting a camera RAW file in the browser give you? 5 min

Learn what changes when you resize, convert, or inspect an image.

26 guides

Compare image formats by their features, compatibility, and uses.

11 guides

Read about text encoding, data formats, and common file values.

21 guides

Understand browser-local file handling and security-related data.

3 guides