Is there a difference in quality when saving in JPEG versus Photoshop or PNG formats?

If I'm saving a photo after editing it in Photoshop, will there be a difference in the quality and resolution of the print if I save it as a JPEG opposed to photoshop or png formats?Is there a difference in quality when saving in JPEG versus Photoshop or PNG formats?
Yes. jpg's or jpegs are a ';lossy';, that is information is thrown away in order to make the file size smaller. Each time you re-save an image (after editing it) as a jpg, more information is lost.





';Saving an image to JPEG format, always introduces some loss in quality, though the loss at a quality setting of 100 is barely detectable by the average naked eye. In addition, using a quality setting of 100 compared to a quality setting of 90-95 or so will result in a considerably higher file size relative to the degree of image loss. If your software doesn't provide a JPEG preview, try saving several copies of an image at 90, 95, and 100 quality and compare file size with image quality. Chances are, there will be no distinguishable difference between the 90 and 100 image, but the difference in size could be significant. Keep in mind, though, that subtle color shifting is one effect of JPEG compression--even at high quality settings--so JPEG should be avoided in situations where precise color matching is important.';





However, a 10% compression can cut the file size in half, and the change in image quality may not be perceptible in your print. So it comes down to a trade off between image quality and file storage space.











';JPEG is best suited for large photographic images where file size is the most important consideration, such as images that will be posted on the Web or transmitted via email and FTP. JPEG is not suitable for most small images under a few hundred pixels in dimension, and it is not suitable for screen shots, images with text, images with sharp lines and large blocks of color, and images that will be edited repeatedly.';





In the case of digital photos, I often have three versions. The original image from the camera (either jpg or RAW), a ';working copy'; usually saved as a photoshop psd or png, and the final print ready jpg. I save my originals and working copies in case I ever change my mind and want to undo any changes I may have made to the image.





The links below will lead you to more info about jpg's and other image formats.Is there a difference in quality when saving in JPEG versus Photoshop or PNG formats?
The advantages of saving an image as a psd would be that you can keep all the information from the image. It also saves any seperate layers and adjustments you made. The quality of a psd is higher then a jpeg. Jpegs are mostly used for internet use because they become more compact and get rid of seemingly unnecessary visual information. When you create a jpeg, your image is flattened at it will be impossible to go back and tweak the adjustments you previously made. Each time you save an image thats a jpeg you lose more and more information. If you are printing an image, you should probably print it as a cmyk tif. Tifs store a lot of information and they are very reliable files. I don't know about pngs. I never have a reason to save as png. Hope this helps.