Files & editing / Learn by doing
TIFF explained simply
What is “TIFF”?
A flexible image format often used for high-quality editing or print delivery, with support for options such as lossless compression and higher bit depth.
- 01Master image
- 02Export options
- 03Recipient workflow
How do you use TIFF practically?
A small exercise
Export a TIFF master using the client’s requested colour profile and bit depth. Compare its file size with a JPEG delivery copy.
- Make a starting version and keep it so you can compare fairly.
- Try the change in the exercise. Keep unrelated choices steady where the exercise allows.
- Compare the result at the size your viewer will actually see. Write down what changed and whether it helped.
How does TIFF solve a problem?
It can preserve a high-quality working or delivery file when the recipient’s workflow requires it.
What can go wrong?
TIFF files can be large. Not every TIFF contains layers or uncompressed data, so confirm the settings.
How do you turn the idea into a useful solution?
Start with the specific problem in your image or brief, try the exercise, and keep the version that meets that need. If the result is worse, return to the starting version and change one choice at a time.
Quick check: can you explain the three ideas in the diagram?
Master image → Export options → Recipient workflow. Explain how each relates to the exercise. Then compare the starting version with your result and choose the one that meets your brief.
Related video lesson
File formats — Canon
This related lesson gives wider context for the topic. Camera menus and software versions may differ from yours.
Loading the player connects to YouTube. You can also watch the lesson on YouTube.Keep exploring
Try the idea in a studio shoot
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