File compression

Many media files — like images, audio, and video — can be very large. To make them easier to store, upload or share, we use file compression. This reduces the file size, and there are two main types: lossy and lossless.

What is lossy compression?

Lossy compression works by permanently removing parts of the file data that are less important or less noticeable. This can reduce file size a lot, but some quality is lost.

Lossy compression is common in media where perfect quality isn’t always needed, such as online streaming or web images.

• Examples: .jpg (images), .mp3 (audio), .mp4 (video)
• Advantages: Small file size, faster to download or stream
• Disadvantages: Some detail or quality is permanently lost

What is lossless compression?

Lossless compression reduces the file size without losing any data. The original file can be fully restored, making it ideal when high quality is important.

• Examples: .png (images), .flac (audio), .zip (compressed folders)
• Advantages: No loss in quality or detail
• Disadvantages: Larger file size compared to lossy formats

Why use compression?

Compression is used to:

• Save storage space on devices or servers
• Speed up file transfer, uploads or downloads
• Make media easier to stream or access online

Media producers choose between lossy and lossless depending on the needs of the project. For example, a high-quality print image may need a lossless format like PNG, while a fast-loading website image can use lossy JPEG.