What does JPEG stand for in the context of digital photography?

JPEG stands for Joint Photographic Experts Group, which is the name of the committee that created the standard for compressing photographic images. This format is widely used in digital photography because it allows for high-quality images with a significantly reduced file size through lossy compression. This is particularly beneficial for storing and sharing photos, as it enables quicker uploads and less storage utilization without a noticeable loss of image quality in most cases.

The format supports a variety of color depths and is compatible with most digital devices, making it a preferred choice among photographers and the general public alike. Understanding the meaning behind JPEG helps appreciate its impact on digital imaging and the way it revolutionized the field of photography by facilitating easier sharing and storage of images.