How to Convert a GIF File to a JPG

GIF, or Graphic Interchange Format, is a bitmap image format file compressed using a restricted color palette. The GIF format is useful for images for the Internet because it speeds up web page load times. However, GIF files are difficult to work with in programs such as Microsoft Word or Publisher. In these programs, JPG (or JPEG) files display and print better. Fortunately, both the Windows and Macintosh OS include programs to convert GIF files to JPG format.

Things You'll Need

• Windows XP or Macintosh OSX

Instructions

Macintosh Insructions

1. Hold down the "Control" key on your keyboard and click on the file. Select "Open With..." from the pop-up menu.

2. Scroll through list of applications and select "Preview" to use Apple's default graphics-viewing program.

3. Go to the "File" menu and select "Save As...".

4. Change the "Format:" drop-down menu to JPEG (which is the same as JPG). Adjust the "Quality:" slider bar to "Best."

5. Choose the location where you want to save the file. Click "Save" to convert and save the image.

Windows Instructions

1. Right-click on the GIF file.

2. Select "Preview" to open the file in Windows Picture and Fax Viewer.

3. Click the floppy disk icon at the bottom of the window that reads "Copy To" when you mouse over it.

4. Change the "Save as Type" field to JPEG. Choose the location where you want to save the file.

5. Click "Save" to translate and save the file.

Tips & Warnings

• To convert animated GIF files you need specialized imaging software like Adobe ImageReady, QuickTime Pro or a graphics shareware program.

• Because JPG format offers an unrestricted color palette, your image may appear slightly different after you convert it.