Save images in TIFF format

Last updated on Oct 4, 2026

Learn how to use File > Save As to export images with compression, bit depth, and layer options in Adobe Photoshop on desktop.

TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) provides a flexible raster format supported by virtually all paint, image-editing, and page-layout applications, making it ideal for cross-application workflows and archival storage.

Use the TIFF format when you need a widely compatible file that preserves image quality while offering compression options. TIFF files can preserve layers, transparency, and high bit depth, or be flattened for maximum compatibility. This format supports files up to 4GB in size. For larger documents, use Large Document Format (PSB) instead.

TIFF format balances quality preservation with file size management through various compression methods. The format's flexibility lets you choose between maintaining editing capabilities via layers or creating flattened files for universal compatibility.

Configure and save as TIFF

Select File > Save As and choose TIFF from the Format menu.

Enter a filename and select the save location.

Select Save to open the TIFF Options dialog box.

In the Image Compression section, choose a compression method:

None: for uncompressed files
LZW: for lossless compression
ZIP: for flat-color images
JPEG: for smaller files with some quality loss

For 32-bit images, select Predictor compression if available to improve compression efficiency with LZW or ZIP methods.

Select a Pixel Order option: Interleaved for standard compatibility or Per Channel for potentially faster read/write performance.

Choose the Byte Order that matches your target platform: IBM PC for Windows systems or Macintosh for macOS.

Select Save Image Pyramid if you need multiresolution support for applications like Adobe InDesign.

Select Save Transparency to preserve transparency as an alpha channel for other applications.

Choose a Layer Compression method: RLE for fast compression, ZIP for better compression, or Discard Layers and Save a Copy to flatten the image.

Select OK to save your TIFF file with the configured settings.

Tip

Enable Ask Before Saving Layered TIFF Files in Edit > Preferences > File Handling (Windows) or Photoshop > Preferences > File Handling (macOS) to receive prompts when saving TIFF files with multiple layers.

Compression method guidelines

Different compression methods serve different purposes and have specific requirements:

JPEG compression is available only for opaque RGB and grayscale images that are 8-bit-per-channel and no more than 30,000 pixels in width or height. This method reduces file size by selectively discarding image data.

LZW and ZIP compression provide lossless compression, preserving all image data. ZIP generally works better for images with large areas of solid color, while LZW offers broader application compatibility.

Predictor compression enhances LZW and ZIP compression for 32-bit images by rearranging floating-point values, resulting in smaller file sizes without loss of quality. This option is not available for 32-bit TIFF files with JPEG compression.

The Planar pixel order option may provide slightly faster performance and better compression than the standard Interleaved order. Both options maintain backward compatibility with earlier Photoshop versions.

When you choose to discard layers, Photoshop creates a flattened copy while keeping your original layered document open. This approach lets you maintain an editable version while creating a compatible file for other applications.

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