I am confused about how image file compression affects print quality. I am considering buying a new sony fd-95 and have learned that it compresses the 2.1megapixel jpg files to about 375K. They are releasing a new camera in August which wil use a writable cd for storage and it will allow larger file size of about 800k per image. Everything else is equal. If the print is blown up to a max clear image it seems to me that the 800k file should be clearer when printed. If you know how they might compare, please let me know so I can decide on the fd95 now or the cd1000 which comes out in August. Thanks for your effort. Jim Mikulin

-- Jim Mikulin (got_mik@hotmail.com), June 14, 2000

Answers

First, all the Sony Mavica series has awful image quality, if you don't belive me, just look at reviews or at the sample images shown here.

And about your question, the file compression is very important, the more the image is compressed, the worst quality you'll get, and the print quality is mainly told by the printer, that is, if you have a poor printer, you don't have to worry about the image compression, but if you own a Epson Stylus Photo 875 or 1270, or a Fuji Pictography (for professional use), compression is a very important factor.

There are many compression ratios, 1:11 is the average standar quality, 1:8 is the average high quality, and 1:4 to 1:2 is the highest compressed quality, no compression is the best quality, but the output file size is not reasonable. overall, 1:4 compression ratio es good enough for any consumer level printer.

I hope you find this information useful! good luck!

-- Alfredo Salinas (vatoloco@gob.com.mx), June 15, 2000.