The PNG file is a very powerful and flexible file format. Though there can be some confusion and wariness about using this format. Thus, the reason why most people just stick to JPGs. In this article, we will explore and harness the power of the PNG format. In addition, I will also break down the pros and cons of this file type.
The PNG
The birth of PNG happened around 1995. This newer file format would make a huge difference in the internet based world. It’s flexibility would open up more creative solutions for both graphic and web designers.
Pros
The two biggest reasons that PNG files are so flexible are transparency and editability. Therefore, the subject of the image can be cut ou,t and there is no white space in the background. Also, if you require a slightly faded image for an overlay for a bottom or design, this format is your number one choice! In fact, this file format supports 256 levels of transparency! Secondly, you can edit and save the file as much as you want. File data loss and artifacts don’t occur due to it being a lossles compression format. Additionally, PNG offers support for large amounts of colors. The PNG-8 256 colors and the PNG-24 supports over 16 million colors. Finally, if you needed to attach meta-data, the ability is there.
Best Usage
The PNG format is a web designers best friend. It’s the only format that supports transparent backgrounds for images. This exclusive ability is best utilized for elements such as logos, navigation elements, lithographs, text, and images with clear boundaries and sharp details.
Cons
You may be wondering, is there anything the PNG can do wrong? Well, there are a few drawbacks depending on how they are used. Even though PNGs are great for the design aspects of a website, they come with a price. For one thing, the file size of the PNG is much larger than a JPG. For example, the JPG file would be around 35 kB and the same size PNG would be up to 400 kB. That’s a huge difference! Because of this, it’s best to utilize PNGs for design related elements only. If you have a lot of them on your website, it can really slow it down. This is why it would be best to avoid full color images like landscapes and staff pictures. Moreover, they also don’t support animation.
Sum It Up
With great power comes great responsibility… for your file usage! The PNG can do extraordinary things for design elements on websites. Therefore, logos and transparency designs with clear boundaries are the most effective utilization for this file format. However, avoid using them for full color landscapes and staffing images. Use them as design specific files, versus a go to for everything, due to their large file size. I hope this article helps clear any confusion about PNG files. Now that your thinking about the proper usage of file formats, feel free to check out the suggestions on JPG files here! Also, keep checking back for more helpful articles! If you have any additional questions or suggestions for future blog posts, leave a comment below!
