How to Convert JPG to TGA Using Python

Converting image formats is a common task in digital workflows, especially in game development, graphic design, or animation. If you need to transform a .jpg file into a .tga (Targa) file using Python, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

Why Convert JPG to TGA?

TGA (Truevision Targa) files support lossless compression and alpha channels, making them ideal for high-quality textures and transparency. JPGs, while smaller in size, are lossy and lack transparency support. Converting to TGA ensures better quality for specialised applications.

Prerequisites

Before starting, ensure you have:

Python 3.6 or later installed.
The Pillow library (a fork of PIL). Install it via pip:


pip install Pillow

Step-by-Step Conversion Process

1. Import the Required Module

Use the Image module from Pillow to handle image operations:


from PIL import Image

2. Load the JPG File

Open the source JPG file using Image.open():


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

3. Save as TGA

Pillow supports TGA format natively. Use image.save() with the .tga extension:


image.save("output.tga", format="TGA")

Complete Code Example

Here’s the full script:


from PIL import Image

def convert_jpg_to_tga(input_path, output_path):
    try:
        image = Image.open(input_path)
        image.save(output_path, format="TGA")
        print(f"Successfully converted {input_path} to {output_path}")
    except Exception as e:
        print(f"Error: {e}")

# Usage
convert_jpg_to_tga("input.jpg", "output.tga")

Handling Edge Cases

Alpha Channels: If your JPG lacks transparency, the TGA will have no alpha. For transparency, use PNG as an intermediate.
Batch Conversion: To convert multiple files, loop through a directory:


import os

for file in os.listdir("jpg_folder/"):
    if file.endswith(".jpg"):
        convert_jpg_to_tga(f"jpg_folder/{file}", f"tga_folder/{file.replace('.jpg', '.tga')}")

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