pixel depth

[Dona]

Why can't I save a digitally scanned color negarive, and save in JPEG format? The scanner is Nikon and has 8 and 14 bits per pixel. I can save in TIFF, but even in Photoshop I can't save in JPEG.

[Michael Fanelli]

Why can't I save a digitally scanned color negarive, and save in JPEG format? The scanner is Nikon and has 8 and 14 bits per pixel. I can save in TIFF, but even in Photoshop I can't save in JPEG.

I am pretty sure that jpeg is 8-bit only.

[another view]

Yes, jpeg is 8-bit only. You can start seeing a little posterization (distinct differences between colors) if the tones are very close with an 8-bit file. For an example, an open clear blue sky will be a little darker towards the top of the frame than at the horizon.

Film is continuous tone (completely smooth, infinite colors). Digital files have a finite number of colors. Since 14-bit files have more colors possible than 8-bit files, you'll be less likely to have problems in cases like I mentioned. In most "normal" cases, 8-bit will be fine and you'll have a hard time seeing a difference.