Viewing Images in Windows
Windows provides several methods for viewing images. By default, most image file types can be viewed in the Photos app, Microsoft’s dedicated image viewing application. Alternatively, a variety of other applications can be used to view images including Windows Photo Viewer, Windows Explorer and third-party applications like Adobe Photoshop, XnView and IrfanView. Depending on the file type and associated software, images can also be viewed in web browsers and text editors.
Using Windows Photos
Windows Photos is an app designed to quickly view and manage photo collections on the Windows operating system. It supports many different image file types including .jpg, .gif, .png, .bmp and .heic. To open an image in the Photos app, simply open the app, then select the image file from your computer. You can also right-click on any supported file type and choose “Open with” then select “Photos” to launch the app.
Using Windows Photo Viewer
Windows Photo Viewer is a basic application included with Windows that provides simple viewing and editing capabilities for images. It supports various file types including .jpg, .gif and .png. To launch Windows Photo Viewer, simply double-click on any supported image file from your desktop or from within Windows Explorer.
Using Windows Explorer
Windows Explorer, sometimes referred to as File Explorer, allows you to browse through the files and folders stored on your computer. By default, nearly all file types are able to be previewed in the Explorer window. To view an image using this method, simply locate the desired file in Windows Explorer and either single-click or double-click to view the image.
Using Web Browsers
Most web browsers support the viewing of certain image file types, including .jpg and .gif. To view an image in a web browser, simply open the browser, then either drag the desired file onto the browser window or right-click the file and choose “Open With” then select the desired browser.
Using Third-Party Applications
In addition to the applications included with Windows, there are a wide variety of third-party applications available to view and edit images. Popular options include Adobe Photoshop CC, XnView, and IrfanView. Each application has its own advantages and drawbacks so it is best to research each application prior to committing to any one program.
Converting Images in Windows
Windows also provides several methods for converting images to different file types. This can be useful for reducing file size, adjusting image quality, or converting images to a more widely compatible format. Windows Photos is the simplest way to convert images, although various third-party applications can also be used.
Using Windows Photos
The Photos app allows users to quickly convert images from one file type to another without losing image quality. To start, open the image in the Photos app, then select the “Save as” option from the menu bar. You can then choose the desired file type, adjust the quality and resolution settings, and save the file.
Using Third-Party Applications
Third-party applications provide more precise control over image conversion than Windows Photos. Popular applications include Adobe Photoshop CC, GIMP, and Paint.Net. Once the desired program is installed, simply open the image you wish to convert, select the file type you would like to convert it to, adjust the quality and resolution settings, and save the file.