How to Open Image Files

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Image files are files containing information that creates a visual image. These can end in .jpeg, .jpg, .tiff, .gif, .bmp, and .png. PNG, JPG, and GIFs are typically the most common image file formats found on the web and on your computer. If you use a photo editor to edit images, they may be saved as proprietary files (like .PSD) unless you specify otherwise. This wikiHow will show you how you can open image files on your computer as well as a mobile device using default programs. If your default program will not open an image file, you may need to download the required software. For example, a .PSD file requires Adobe Photoshop to open. Your default programs should open many of the common file formats like PNG, JPG, and GIF.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Using a Computer

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  1. Step 1 Navigate to and right-click your file.
    A menu will drop-down from your cursor.
    • This method works for both Windows and Mac computers, although the program titles may differ.
  2. Step 2 Click Open With.
    Another menu will appear that lists all compatible programs, including Paint and Preview.
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  3. Step 3 Click Paint or Preview.
    Your image file will open in either of these programs. You can also choose to search the store for more compatible apps, which is usually the last item on the list.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Using a Mobile Device

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  1. Step 1 Open My Files (Android) or Files (iOS).
    The wording of the app’s name may vary depending on the software version you are using.
  2. Step 2 Navigate to and tap on your file.
    You are first directed to the top of the tree, or the main folder of your local storage. When you tap on a folder name, you are directed into that folder.
  3. Step 3 Your image file will open in the default image app.
    For example, your image file can open in Photos, the default image app for iOS.
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About This Article

Darlene Antonelli, MA
Written by:
Darlene Antonelli, MA
wikiHow Technology Writer
This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Darlene Antonelli, MA. Darlene has been writing and editing tech content at wikiHow since 2019. She previously worked for AppleCare, served as a writing tutor, volunteered in IT at an animal rescue, and taught as an adjunct professor for EN101 and EN102. Darlene has completed Coursera courses on technology, writing, and language. She holds both a BA (2011) and an MA (2012) from Rowan University in Writing, with a focus on workplace communication. With her extensive experience, academic background, and ongoing learning, Darlene has become the go-to grammar expert for her friends and family, as well as a skilled wordsmith for anyone in need. This article has been viewed 25,833 times.
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Co-authors: 3
Updated: March 10, 2025
Views: 25,833
Categories: File Manipulation
Article SummaryX

1. Navigate to and right-click your image file.
2. Click Open With.
3. Click Paint or Preview.

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Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 25,833 times.

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