Image Editing Export and File Formats 2

Question 1

What is a 'RAW' image file and why do photographers prefer it?

Accepted Answer

An unprocessed image file containing all sensor data, giving maximum editing flexibility

Answer

RAW files contain unprocessed sensor data with full dynamic range and white balance flexibility, unlike JPEG which bakes in processing at capture.

Question 2

Which format should you use to preserve Photoshop layers, masks, and adjustment layers when saving a working file?

Accepted Answer

PSD or PSB

Answer

PSD (Photoshop Document) or PSB (large document format) preserves all layers, masks, channels, and adjustments in their editable state.

Question 3

What is the maximum color bit depth typically offered by TIFF files?

Accepted Answer

32-bit

Answer

TIFF files can store up to 32-bit per channel HDR data, making them suitable for high-dynamic-range and professional archiving workflows.

Question 4

What does 'lossy compression' mean in the context of image formats?

Accepted Answer

Some image data is permanently discarded to reduce file size, reducing quality slightly

Answer

Lossy compression removes non-critical pixel data to create smaller files, but repeated saves degrade image quality over time.

Question 5

Why is the SVG format preferred for web logos and icons over raster formats like PNG?

Accepted Answer

SVG is vector-based and scales to any size without pixelation

Answer

SVG stores paths as mathematical descriptions, allowing infinite scaling without quality loss — unlike raster images that pixelate when enlarged.

Image Editing Practice Test