How to Convert JPG to HEIF Using Python

HEIF (High Efficiency Image Format) is a modern image format that offers better compression and quality compared to traditional formats like JPG. If you're looking to convert JPG images to HEIF using Python, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Why Convert JPG to HEIF?

HEIF provides several advantages over JPG:

• Better compression (smaller file size with similar or better quality).
• Support for transparency, animations, and multiple images in a single file.
• Wider colour gamut and higher dynamic range.

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Prerequisites

Before we begin, ensure you have the following installed:

• Python 3.6 or later.
• The pillow-heif library, which is a popular Python module for HEIF conversion.

Install the required library using pip:

pip install pillow pillow-heif

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Step-by-Step Conversion Process

Step 1: Import Required Libraries

First, import the necessary modules in your Python script:

from PIL import Image
import pillow_heif

Step 2: Load the JPG Image

Use the Image.open() method to load your JPG file:

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

Step 3: Convert and Save as HEIF

Use the pillow_heif library to save the image in HEIF format:

heif_image = pillow_heif.from_pillow(jpg_image)
heif_image.save("output.heif", quality=90)  # Adjust quality as needed (1-100)

Note: The quality parameter controls the compression level (higher values mean better quality but larger file size).

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Complete Python Script

Here’s the full script for converting JPG to HEIF:

from PIL import Image
import pillow_heif

def convert_jpg_to_heif(input_path, output_path, quality=90):
    # Open the JPG image
    jpg_image = Image.open(input_path)
    
    # Convert to HEIF
    heif_image = pillow_heif.from_pillow(jpg_image)
    
    # Save the HEIF file
    heif_image.save(output_path, quality=quality)
    print(f"Successfully converted {input_path} to {output_path}")

# Example usage
convert_jpg_to_heif("input.jpg", "output.heif")

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Troubleshooting Tips

• If you encounter errors, ensure pillow-heif is properly installed.
• Some older devices may not support HEIF. Check compatibility before widespread use.
• For batch conversion, loop through multiple files using os.listdir().

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Summary: This guide explains how to convert JPG to HEIF in Python using the pillow-heif library. HEIF offers superior compression and quality, making it ideal for modern applications.

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