Understanding GeoTIFF

What is GeoTIFF?

GeoTIFF is the standard raster format for georeferenced imagery, elevation models (DEMs), and satellite data. It extends the TIFF image format with embedded geospatial metadata — coordinate system, projection, and spatial extent.

Key Features

• Embedded CRS: The coordinate reference system is stored directly in the file's GeoKeys — no sidecar .prj file needed.
• Multi-band: Supports single-band (elevation, temperature) and multi-band (RGB, multispectral) data.
• Compression: Supports LZW, DEFLATE, JPEG, and other compression methods to reduce file size.
• Tiling: Large GeoTIFFs can use internal tiling for efficient random access.
• Cloud Optimized (COG): Cloud Optimized GeoTIFFs allow partial reads over HTTP for cloud-native workflows.

Common Uses

• Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and terrain data
• Satellite and aerial imagery
• Land cover and land use classification maps
• Climate and weather data grids

Converting GeoTIFF

ConvertGeoData reads all GeoTIFF variants and can convert to PNG, JPEG, or ASCII Grid formats. CRS reprojection is supported for raster data.

Popular conversions: GeoTIFF to PNG, GeoTIFF to JPEG.