General Description:

• Full name: “Tag Image File Format”

• Pronounced: “TIFF”, like the beginning of “Tiffany”.

• For What: Used for raster (pixel) images that will be printed.

• Where to Use: Any physical item (that’s not living. 😜).

• Noteworthy:

  • While a TIF can be used for almost any kind of image (RGB, CMYK, or pixel-based), I prefer to only use TIF for images that are pixel-based and CMYK. That way, when I see one in my files, I know, at a glance, I can use that image for printing and for a maximum size so the quality of the image doesn’t degrade if enlarged.

  • The file size for a raster, pixel-based image is generally larger than a vector image, depending on the size of the image, which means:

    • It can take more space on a hard drive.

    • It can take more time and resources to open and edit in a program that supports it (Adobe Illustrator or Affinity Designer, for example).

    • It doesn’t require as much time and resources to upload for you and download for the printer.

  • Vector images can handle many colours, such as visual texture or detailed patterns. Having said that, the more detail, the bigger the file.

• Colour Profile: Use CMYK.

• Transparency: is possible.