Graphic File Compression – MS Windows XP

Most graphical images you save will be in JPEG format.  This refers to the file extension for the file, which is .jpg.  The advantage of this format is that when using most photo editing software it allows you to set the amount of compression that you use on the file.

The use of compression saves memory on your computer.  Of course too much compression will result in noticeable loss of quality.

Therefore it is a matter of balance between memory saved and the quality of your image.

JPEG’s save with a certain amount of compression already.  To see what I mean open a graphic file to work on.

• Open My Computer
• Navigate to a JPEG file of your choice
• Double click on the file to open the Windows Picture and Fax Viewer
• Click on the icon that opens Photo Editor
• In Photo Editor, click on File, Save As to open the Save As window, as Figure 1-1

Figure 1-1

At the bottom of the Save As window click on the More button, to view the ‘compression slider’

Figure 1-2

As you can see my image is set at about 90%.  As it says on the slider, the more you move the slider to the left the smaller the file and the lower the quality. 

• Try reducing the quality of the image to say about 50% and saving it by a different file name
• Reduce it again to say 25% and save it again as another file name

With a little experimenting you will soon see how much compression you are likely to get away with.

Exit Photo Editor when you have finished experimenting.  There is no need to save the file.