How to Convert JPG to GIF Using Python

Converting a JPG image to a GIF format is a common task in image processing. Python, with its powerful libraries, makes this conversion simple and efficient. In this guide, we'll use the Pillow library, one of the most popular Python modules for image manipulation, to achieve this.

Why Convert JPG to GIF?

GIFs support animations and transparency, making them ideal for simple graphics, logos, or short animations. While JPG is great for photographs due to its compression, GIFs are better suited for images with fewer colours or where transparency is needed.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure you have the following:

Python installed on your system (version 3.6 or higher recommended).
The Pillow library installed. If not, install it using:

pip install Pillow

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

Step 1: Import the Required Module

First, import the required module:

from PIL import Image

Step 2: Load the JPG Image

Use the method below to load your JPG file:

image = Image.open("input.jpg")

Step 3: Convert and Save as GIF

Convert and save the image in GIF format:

image.save("output.gif", "GIF")

That's it! Your JPG image is now converted to a GIF.

Complete Code Example

Here’s the full code for converting a JPG to GIF:

from PIL import Image

# Load the JPG image
image = Image.open("input.jpg")

# Save as GIF
image.save("output.gif", "GIF")

print("Conversion successful!")

Handling Multiple Images (Creating an Animated GIF)

If you want to combine multiple JPGs into an animated GIF, you can use the following approach:

from PIL import Image

# List of JPG files (replace with your filenames)
image_files = ["image1.jpg", "image2.jpg", "image3.jpg"]

# Open all images and store in a list
images = [Image.open(img) for img in image_files]

# Save as an animated GIF (duration is in milliseconds)
images[0].save(
    "animated.gif",
    save_all=True,
    append_images=images[1:],
    duration=500,
    loop=0
)

print("Animated GIF created successfully!")

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

1. File Not Found Error

Ensure the input JPG file exists in the same directory as your script or provide the full path.

2. Transparency Issues

If your JPG has a background, it won’t automatically become transparent in the GIF. You may need to edit the image manually for transparency.

3. Large File Size

GIFs can become large if the image has many colours. Consider reducing the colour palette:

image = image.convert("P", palette=Image.ADAPTIVE, colors=256)

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