How to Save Images as AVIF Files in Photoshop

AVIF, or AV1 Image File Format, is an open-source image format that uses the AV1 video codec to compress images while maintaining quality

Saving Images as AVIF Files in Photoshop

Saving AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) files in Photoshop requires additional steps, as native support for AVIF is not yet fully integrated into Photoshop. Here’s how to save AVIF files in Photoshop:

1. Download an AVIF Plugin

• Plugins like AVIF for Photoshop enable Photoshop to save AVIF files.
• Visit the plugin’s official page and download the plugin compatible with your Photoshop version.

2. Install the Plugin

Copy the downloaded plugin file into Photoshop’s plugin folder.
Example paths:

• • • Windows: C:\Program Files\Adobe\Adobe Photoshop\Plug-ins
    • macOS: /Applications/Adobe Photoshop/Plug-ins

3. Restart Photoshop

After installing the plugin, restart Photoshop for the changes to take effect.

4. Save as AVIF

• Open your project in Photoshop.
• Go to File > Export > Save As and select AVIF from the format dropdown (if supported by the plugin).
• Adjust AVIF-specific settings (compression, color profile, etc.) as needed.

Now that you know how to open and save AVIF files in Photoshop, let’s now get to know the AVIF file formats in details and why you may want to save your files in this format.

What is AVIF?

AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) is a modern, open-source image file format designed for efficient compression, high quality, and flexibility. It uses the AV1 video codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia) to encode still images and image sequences. The format is gaining popularity as a superior alternative to traditional formats like JPEG, PNG, and even newer ones like WebP, due to its remarkable efficiency and quality.

Key Features of AVIF

1. High Compression Efficiency

• AVIF offers significantly smaller file sizes compared to JPEG and PNG while maintaining similar or better image quality.
• This makes it ideal for web usage, reducing page load times and bandwidth consumption.

2. Support for Advanced Features

• HDR (High Dynamic Range) and Wide Color Gamut (WCG) support for vibrant and realistic colors.
• Alpha channel (transparency) support, making it a versatile format for graphic design.
• Animation support, enabling sequences of images within a single AVIF file (similar to GIFs or animated WebP).

3. Open Source

• AVIF is royalty-free and open, which encourages widespread adoption across industries.

4. Enhanced Visual Quality

• It minimizes artifacts and noise, especially at lower bitrates, resulting in crisp and clean images.

Advantages of AVIF

• Smaller File Size: Compresses more efficiently than JPEG, PNG, and WebP.
• Better Image Quality: Superior image quality at equivalent or lower file sizes.
• Wide Color and HDR Support: Ideal for professional-grade images and videos.
• Transparency and Animation: Supports advanced visual effects.
• Future-Ready: Designed for modern web standards and performance needs.
• Operating systems: AVIF is supported on Windows, Android, Linux, and Apple platforms
• Compatibility: AVIF is supported by all major web browsers, including Google Chrome and Firefox. It’s also supported by many services and platforms, including WordPress, Joomla, and CloudFlare.

Drawbacks of AVIF

• Limited Software Support: Not all applications and devices natively support AVIF yet (though adoption is growing).
• Slower Encoding: Encoding AVIF files can take more time compared to JPEG and PNG due to its complexity.
• Hardware Decoding Requirements: Some devices may require specific hardware or software updates to display AVIF efficiently.

Where is AVIF Used?

• Web: AVIF is becoming a popular choice for websites due to its small file sizes and quick loading times.
• Photography: For high-quality images with minimal storage requirements.
• Mobile Apps: To reduce app size and optimize image-heavy applications.
• Streaming and E-Commerce: Perfect for HDR product images and thumbnails.

How to Open AVIF Files?

• Web Browsers: Modern browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Edge natively support AVIF.
• Image Editors: Some tools like GIMP (with plugins) and specialized AVIF viewers.
• Converters: Online platforms and software like Squoosh or FFmpeg can convert AVIF to other format

As AVIF continues to gain support and recognition, it is positioned to become a mainstream image format for both casual users and professionals.