What specific file formats are optimal for archival of AI-generated images for long-term preservation?

For long-term preservation of AI-generated images, it is optimal to use lossless, uncompressed, or minimally compressed file formats that ensure image quality is maintained over time. TIFF (Tagged Image File Format) is a widely supported and versatile format that allows for lossless compression and can store metadata, making it suitable for archival purposes. TIFF supports various color spaces and bit depths. PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is another lossless format that is well-suited for images with sharp lines and text, as well as images with transparency. While PNG uses compression, it is lossless, meaning no image data is lost during compression. JPEG 2000 is an advanced image compression standard that offers both lossless and lossy compression options. For archival purposes, the lossless option should be used. JPEG 2000 offers superior compression performance compared to the original JPEG format while maintaining image quality. Avoid using lossy formats like JPEG for long-term archival, as they introduce compression artifacts that degrade image quality over time with repeated saving and editing. Also, consider storing any associated metadata, such as the prompt used to generate the image, the model parameters, and the creation date, in a separate file or embedded within the image file using metadata standards like EXIF or XMP. This ensures that important information about the image is preserved alongside the image data. Regularly check and migrate your image files to newer formats as technology evolves to ensure continued compatibility and accessibility.