What file format retains all image information without loss?

The correct answer is the Raw file format, which is specifically designed to retain all image data captured by a camera's sensor without any compression or loss. This format allows photographers and graphic designers to maintain the full quality of an image, providing the greatest flexibility for editing. Since Raw files store unprocessed data, they contain a complete representation of the scene as it was captured, preserving details in highlights and shadows that might be lost in formats that apply compression.

In contrast, other formats like JPEG and PNG involve varying degrees of compression, which can result in loss of some image information. JPEG uses lossy compression that reduces file size by discarding some data, which can negatively impact image quality, especially after multiple edits and saves. PNG, while a lossless format, is typically used for web graphics and does not carry the extensive image data that a Raw file would, making it less suitable for high-quality editing. TIFF is a better alternative for maintaining image quality as it supports lossless compression; however, it still does not offer the same level of control and detail retention that Raw files provide for professional-level work.