The PNG image format was introduced some time ago; it was brought out for consumers in the mid 90’s to make up for the shortcomings of the traditional GIF file type. However, it failed to create ripples because the then browsers could not offer support to the state of the art attributes of PNG so website designers and developers were compelled to include it in their designs stingily. One of the primary hindrances standing in the way was Microsoft Internet Explorer which was the most well known and widely used browsers of that period; IE had very little provision for PNG support consequently the format could only be made use of in the most restricted way. However, the scene metamorphosed after the availability of IE7; this latest offering from Microsoft has aided in increasing the utility of PNGs. So lets take a look at three reasons why PNG is by far the most useful image formats around today:
It is possible to create transparent images or alpha transparency: When you analyze the features of GIF and PNG, will notice that a very distinct advantage with PNG is that you can only save a specific color as transparent in GIF this simply means that you can get the color whether opaque or transparent with nothing in betweenbut when you use PNG, you get a serious benefit; because the format is capable of producing semi transparent pixels. This simply means that you can save a PNG picture with a soft drop shadow and then use it against a background of your choice. You can also use the image as a background with gradient or a water mark. The image file type allows for the gradual fading of hues from completely opaque to absolutely transparent, so that you can see the webpage underneath
They look fantastic: Apart from the fact, that you get amazing flexibility wit PNG images; there are a myriad of other advantages to including this format. For example, if you make use of the JPG Format, you lose a part of the data from the initial image each time the file is saved, so eventually, you will notice a distinct deterioration in the appearance of the images. Even though, this concern has now been sorted in GIF and you can save the pictures without compromising any information, GIF only allows for a limited 256 color palette, which renders it quite useless if you want to store a picture. However, with PNG, you could get the most desired attributes of both these formats; you will be provided a full color display like the one used in JPEG format and it also supports managed color palette like GIF files. Also the storage of the picture is lossless so the image stays as it is regardless of how many time you save it.
Self Optimization is possible in PNG: A major concern that web programmers have to tackle very often is the fact that the contrast and brightness of the commuter screen has to be adjusted to see the images appropriately; the issue comes into the picture due to the Gamma settings of different monitors. Gamma is a technique that helps to distribute the brightness across the screen. However, various operating systems use a variety of Gamma settings. Therefore, multimedia that is color corrected specifically for Windows may appear abnormal in Mac. Again, in this scenario the innovative PNG image type can help you out, in PNG, you can store the pictures with an inherent Gamma correction feature so whatever operating system you are working on; the Gamma settings will be automatically adjusted to display a picture with the amazing ratios of contrast as well as brightness.