The TIFF format, which stands for "Tagged Image File Format", is a file type for storing image data. Unlike the more common JPEG format, which irreversibly deletes data to reduce file size, TIFF most often uses so-called lossless compression. This means that even if the file is reduced in size, when the file is opened, the image is restored to its original, full quality without any loss of information. There is also the option to store images in TIFF format completely without compression. The format also supports higher colour depths, such as 16 bits per channel, allowing many more shades and tones to be captured. This provides greater flexibility in adjusting exposure, colour and shadows without compromising quality or creating unwanted image defects.