Using the correct image formats

I came across a very well written article which tells us in layman terms which image format is best suited for a particular situation. It isn’t always wise to choose gif all the time or jpeg all the time as each format has its pros and cons. The following summary should quickly help you decide what format to use -

• JPEG:
  • Good:
    • Photographs
    • Game screenshots
    • Movie stills
    • Desktop backgrounds
  • Bad:
    • Windows application screenshots
    • Line art and text
    • Anywhere where fine lines or sharp color contrast is needed
• PNG:
  • Good:
    • Text, line art, comic-style drawings, general web graphics
    • Windows application screenshots
    • When absolutely 100% quality is required (24 bit)
    • When alpha channel support is required
    • As a general replacement for anything that is a non-animated GIF
  • Bad:
    • Photos, in-game screenshots (only when quality is not important and you’re looking for small files)
    • Disappointing browser support from Microsoft and others
• GIF:
  • Good:
    • Where animations are absolutely required
    • Widespread browser support
  • Bad:
    • Patented, legal techicalities
    • Large file sizes compared to PNG for the same quality
    • Obsolete

To read the entire article that I came across in detail click here