Core_Computer Studies GIF
GIF which stands for Graphical Interchange Format is a graphic file format that CompuServe developed in 1987. Because GIFs files are small and are cross platform the use of GIFs has become very popular on the Web. GIF, is a lossless method of compression. The files are recognizable by their file extension, which is .gif or .GIF. Not only are the files small but both web browsers such as Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer can display images in GIF format. (The other format web browsers display is JPEG)
GIFs can display between two and 256 index colors. The wonderful thing about the GIF format is that you can rework a GIF's color palette to use as few colours as possible. When you do this you reduce the image's file size. GIFs work best for images that have relatively few gradations of color. Images that are line art, cartoons, and text. You can also create background transparencies using Photoshop's GIF89a export option and animations using GIF images.
The down side of GIFs, is that they are of little use in the hard copy world of professional printing. For home use or as a note in your visual journals a GIF can be downloaded from a web page and can be printed on a laser or inkjet printer. The image will however be dithered and blurry and considerably worse in a professionally printed document. GIFs are saved at screen resolution, 72ppi which is fine for on-screen viewing but not for printing.
One of the other reasons that GIF files are unsuitable for printing is that GIFs, are in index color mode.
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These notes are written for students who undertake the Core Computer course at School of Art, Australian National University. Students of the course should feel free to contact any member of staff with comments questions and general suggestions..
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