Choose the right image format
PNG uses lossless compression and is a strong choice for screenshots, diagrams, text, and sharp edges. JPG is usually better for photographs because it can produce smaller files, although repeated lossy compression can create artifacts. TIFF is common in scanning and production systems, while BMP mainly serves legacy or specialized bitmap workflows.
When a destination does not require one exact format, decide whether file size, sharpness, editing compatibility, or archival practice matters most. Keep the original source files even after conversion because a derivative cannot restore information that was removed earlier.
- Use PNG for crisp text, interface captures, and flat graphics.
- Use JPG for photographs and compact visual sharing.
- Use TIFF when a scanning, archive, or publishing system requests it.
- Use BMP only when a legacy application or technical workflow requires it.
What happens during image conversion?
Image-to-PDF conversion places raster images onto defined pages. It does not turn photographed words into editable text. PDF-to-image conversion does the reverse: it renders each complete page into pixels, flattening live text, vectors, links, forms, annotations, and layers into a visual capture.
That tradeoff is useful when visual compatibility matters, but the source PDF should remain available for search, accessibility, forms, and high-quality printing. Review image dimensions and page order before distribution, particularly when a document contains signatures or small type.