Converting an image to GIF format is a question that seems to come up quite often. It only takes a few steps to convert most images to GIF format using the free image viewer IrfanView.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes
Here's How:
- If you don't already have it, download the freeware IrfanView program.
- Open IrfanView
- Open the image you wish to convert to GIF.
- Choose File > Save as or just hit the S key.
- Choose a location for the file, type the file name, and Choose GIF for the file type.
- If you want the image to gradually come into focus as it is downloading, click Options and choose Interlaced from the GIF section.
- Click Save.
Tips:
- IrfanView does not offer many options for optimizing GIF images. If you need more control, use a full-fledged image eidtor like Paint Shop Pro or Photoshop.
- Use the Batch Convert command if you need to convert several images to a different format. It's found under the File menu.

