What is Generation Loss? (Why Memes Look Moldy)
DefinitionThe loss of quality that happens every time you copy or save a file.
1The Simple Explanation
Think of it like making a photocopy of a photocopy. Each time you do it, the image gets a little worse. Saving a JPG over and over again introduces more and more error.
2Technical Deep Dive
Each save operation in a lossy format (JPG) involves re-quantization. Errors accumulate. The DCT blocks become more visible, and color drifting occurs. Always edit in a lossless format like PNG or TIFF.
Common Misconceptions
Myth: Saving firmly at 100% quality prevents this. Fact: Even 100% JPG has floating point rounding errors. Pass-through edits are the only safe way.