How to compress a large JPEG pic without losing the quality of the pic.
Most image editors have a means to reduce the file size either through compression or resolution. The loss of quality is unavoidable but also unnoticeable if not taken to extremes. The degree is usually dependent on what you intend to use the image for... For example a large print needs more resolution than a smaller print would. If it is going to be posted for the internet then the size might be greatly reduced and still be of good quality on the monitor.
Tell us what editor you are currently using and someone can direct you on what steps to take. There are also some free applications available.
“Amateurs worry about equipment, professionals worry about money, masters worry about light, I just make pictures… ” ~ Vernon Trent
To make sure you don't overwrite an original image after editing make sure you start by using a copy of the image until you get the hang of changing the edited files name. Enjoy.
Another option for a free editor is Picasa or Gimp
secure.uberdownloads.org/jump/free-gimp-download/?pk=4856
picasa.google.com/
Whoo Hoo - are you gonna love this adventure.
“Amateurs worry about equipment, professionals worry about money, masters worry about light, I just make pictures… ” ~ Vernon Trent
When you upload a pic to Facebook, it is downsized to fit FB, if you download it back to your pc it will be a small file, not sure why you would want to do this...
You will not be judged as a photographer by the pictures you take, but by the pictures you show.
Darrell wrote:
When you upload a pic to Facebook, it is downsized to fit FB, if you download it back to your pc it will be a small file, not sure why you would want to do this...
I agree. I would also like to add that when I transfer my photos from camera or memory card to my computer, I always make two copies of each photo (in separate folders). That way I keep the original file (which I sometimes change from jpeg to tiff format) and the ones I worked upon side by side. I use Photoscape and Gimp.
former senior writer cum features editor for Diamond World - a trading magazine for the gem and jewellery industry
Baydream wrote: In Picasa, editing is non-destructive until you "save" the image. Even then, Picasa keeps a version around for some time.
Even the photos on the PT home page are compressed (some are as small as 8kb). Online sites usually compress photos to conserve bandwidth and file space. Once you upload to FB, the file is compressed. When you "download" from FB, then edit and save as jpeg, the file is again compressed.
FB is NOT a photo storage site. Free services like Picasa Web Albums or basic Flickr allow you to upload at full resolution.
The answer is that you CAN NOT compress a JPEG and not lose some quality. Different software will use different formulas but a smaller file will yield lower quality.
All images that are uploaded to the web must be compress to save space on that site's server/harddrive. Can you image if we all were able to upload full res non compress images how much space that would take up. Just think about how many images are uploaded on facebook alone. Millions. It sucks that some sites must compress and bring out poor quality with images, but compressing an image must be done. Some sites do a really good job at compressing the images, and keep really good image quality such as Google+. 
There's also a link to the above software in our Free Software Links thread. You might find other suggestions there, too.
Of course reducing the file size will result in some loss of quality, but with the FastStone software above it's hard to see the loss even when zooming in to 100%.
Just downloaded the software and compressed a 6.17 MB file to 2.03 MB and then further reduced it to 577 KB it just did wonders, the 2.03 MB file did not have any noticeable flaws in the quality however the 577 KB file had some pixels downgraded but it was noticeable only when the pic. was zoomed in other than that it was almost like a 2.03 MB file.
This is just great!!!
Thank you all for your inputs and suggestions seem like there is much more that i can learn from this forum.
Latest Reviews
The Olympus Pen E-P7 is an affordable micro four thirds mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities, a 20.3MP sensor, and 121 focus points, making it a solid entry-level camera for beginners.
The Panasonic G9 II is a 25.2-megapixel micro four thirds camera with numerous features that make it punch out of its weight class, like 779 AF points, 5.8K video, and weather sealing.
The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.
The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!
Forum Top Posters
-
1
Storz 1 post -
2
robertdan 1 post -
3
Amy Porter 1 post
 |  |
 |  |
Latest Articles
Upgrade your kit in 2024 with the best intermediate camera on the market! The question is, what camera fits the bill? We’ve got three top options for you to choose from in this buyer’s guide.
The best photography jobs right now are a mix of tried-and-true gigs like wedding photography and new jobs highlighting AI’s capabilities, travel, and videography.
The Olympus Pen E-P7 is an affordable micro four thirds mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities, a 20.3MP sensor, and 121 focus points, making it a solid entry-level camera for beginners.
Starting a photography business is one thing; sustaining your business over a long period of time is another. Use the tips in this professional photography guide to build something with longevity!
The Panasonic G9 II is a 25.2-megapixel micro four thirds camera with numerous features that make it punch out of its weight class, like 779 AF points, 5.8K video, and weather sealing.
Cinematic photography is an interesting genre that combines photographic and videographic skills along with effective storytelling techniques. The result? Highly impactful images!
Newborn photography requires skill, the right gear, and a lot of patience. This beginner’s guide discusses critical topics that will help you be more prepared for before, during, and after the shoot.
To fill the frame means to expand the footprint of the subject in your shot. Get in close, zoom in, crop the image, or use other techniques to bring the subject to the forefront.