What is a TIFF file?

TIFF is a container for raster images. It supports different encodings and compression methods. A .tif or .tiff extension does not by itself mean uncompressed, lossless or ready for print.

Ask for the actual requirements

Ask which pixel dimensions, color space, compression and pages are required.

Keep a viewing copy

Many browsers do not display TIFF files directly. If needed, send a JPEG or PNG preview along with the TIFF.

Check every page

Some TIFF files contain more than one image. Make sure a conversion keeps the intended pages rather than only the first one.

Related guides

• Which image format should you send for printing?
• Why will an image not open?
• File size and image dimensions

Sources

• Library of Congress: TIFF revision 6.0