What is MIME type "image/vnd.ms-photo"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

image/vnd.ms-photo is a MIME type for advanced image files developed by Microsoft. It is used to store high-quality photos with improved compression and color handling.

This format supports what is known as HD Photo or JPEG XR. It is optimized for efficient storage and fast rendering of detailed images.

Files using this MIME type include those with extensions such as WDP, JXR, WMP, and HDP. They are seen in situations where maintaining image detail is essential.

High image quality: Retains vivid colors and fine details.
Efficient compression: Reduces file size without major quality loss.
Advanced metadata: Supports extra information like color profiles.
Versatile usage: Fits digital photography, web image display, and photo editing workflows.

Learn more about the JPEG XR standard on Wikipedia.

Associated file extensions

.wdp, .jxr, .wmp, .hdp

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: image/vnd.ms-photo

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="image/vnd.ms-photo">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'image/vnd.ms-photo');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.wdp, .jxr, .wmp, .hdp

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.