JPEG images are one of the most common image formats used in web publishing. Files with JPG or JPEG extensions can be compressed to 10:1 ratio, without affecting image quality. There are several image compressor techniques that can be used to reduce the image size and make it suitable for web publishing. For instance, in a WordPress Blog, you can upload JPEG or JPG files and the program asks you whether the picture will be published in “full size,” “small size,” or as a “thumbnail.” The WordPress program has its own application to compress the images instantly and automatically, depending on the user choice.
JPEG/JPG Compression Options
1. Compression/Quality Image: The compression image and quality image sounds the same but they refer to different attributes. For instance, in a percentage based scale, if the quality percentage if 60%, then the compression percentage on the same scale will be 40%. Whatever program you are using, if you compress an image more, it affects the quality of the image. In order to get image quality between 50% and 85%, you need compression between 50% and 15%.
2. Standard/Progressive/Optimized Format: In the standard optimized baseline format, you can receive the same image quality as above, but there is a reduction of image size between 2% and 8%. If you are not using the progressive format, there is no need to use the standard baseline format. In the progressive format, the image quality is the same and if the images are downloaded, there is a slight increase in the image file size.
Both these options are available with most of “Save JPEG” dialog boxes.
Adobe Photoshop, Corel PhotoPaint, IrfanView and Paint Shop Pro are some advanced technology programs that are used for image file compression. Some of these applications are available for free while others need to be purchased with a license.