Which file format is the most common for graphics and photographs?

The JPEG file format is the most common choice for graphics and photographs primarily due to its efficient compression capabilities. JPEG uses lossy compression, which significantly reduces file size while maintaining an acceptable level of image quality, making it ideal for web use and digital photography where storage space and loading times are critical factors.

JPEG is particularly suited for images with smooth color transitions, such as photographs, where slight loss of detail is often not noticeable to the average viewer. This format supports 24-bit color, allowing for a broad range of colors, which enhances the richness of photographic images.

In contrast, formats like GIF and PNG each have unique strengths but are less common for general photography. GIF is limited to 256 colors, making it better suited for simpler graphics and animations rather than detailed photographs. PNG, while lossless and capable of handling transparency, tends to result in larger file sizes compared to JPEG, which can be a drawback for web usage.

TIF (or TIFF) is often used in professional settings for high-quality image storage and editing, but it produces significantly larger files, which are less practical for everyday use by the average consumer. Thus, for graphics and photographs where a balance of quality and file size is important, JPEG stands out as the most prevalent format