A compression rate is selected for a data file representing an image wherein an image source and an image characterization is identified. Selection of a compression rate can be based upon the image source and the image characterization. The image source can be medical imaging device such as x-ray, CT scan, MRI, mammogram, sonogram, or other types of images. The image characterization can be an anatomical content of the image, a purpose of study of the image, or a diagnostic value of the source of the image.