Here's a categorized list of common image formats:
1. Raster Image Formats (Pixel-Based)
These store images as grids of pixels and are resolution-dependent.
| Format | File Extension | Use Case/Features |
| JPEG | .jpg, .jpeg | Photos, web; lossy compression; small file size |
| PNG | .png | Web graphics; lossless; supports transparency |
| GIF | .gif | Simple animations; 256 colors; supports transparency |
| BMP | .bmp | Raw bitmap; large file size; rarely used today |
| TIFF | .tif, .tiff | High-quality images; printing, scanning; supports layers |
| WEBP | .webp | Modern web use; smaller files; supports transparency & animation |
| HEIF/HEIC | .heif, .heic | Used by Apple; high efficiency; high-quality images in small files |
2. Vector Image Formats (Path-Based)
These store images as mathematical paths and are resolution-independent.
| Format | File Extension | Use Case / Features |
| SVG | .svg | Web graphics, icons; scalable; editable with text editors |
| Documents, vector + text + images; good for printing | ||
| EPS | .eps | Print design; older vector format; editable in Illustrator |
| AI | .ai | Adobe Illustrator files; vector graphics creation |
3. Raw Image Formats (From Cameras)
Used by digital cameras for unprocessed image data.
| Format | File Extension | Use Case / Features |
| RAW | varies (.cr2, .nef, .arw, etc.) | High-end photography; retains all sensor data |
| DNG | .dng | Adobe’s universal raw format |
4. Specialized / Other Formats
| Format | File Extension | Use Case / Features |
| PSD | .psd | Adobe Photoshop; supports layers, effects |
| ICO | .ico | Icons in Windows |
| EXR | .exr | High dynamic range imaging (HDR); used in VFX, 3D rendering |