lookup> .vtf

.VTF·File Extension

VTF ImageA .vtf file is a VTF Image. It is a raster or vector image format used for photos, web assets and design work.

Extension.vtf
File typeVTF Image
CategoryImage
Charset
Compressible

What is a .vtf file?

A .vtf file is a VTF Image. It is a raster or vector image format used for photos, web assets and design work.

In the mime-db registry it maps to image/vnd.valve.source.texture. When serving .vtf over HTTP, set the Content-Type header as shown in Developer info below.

Related entities: it maps to image/vnd.valve.source.texture — and is delivered over HTTP via the Content-Type header.

  • Use Photoshop or GIMP to open and edit .vtf files.
  • Any text editor (Notepad, VS Code) can inspect the raw content as text.

When served over HTTP, responses should set the following header:

Content-Type: image/vnd.valve.source.texture

Common software that reads/writes .vtf:

PhotoshopGIMPPaintPreview
.vtfextension of
format
VTF Imageserved as
mime type
image/vnd.valve.source.texturesent via header
http header
  • Web graphics and photos
  • Design assets and icons
  • Print and photography
  • Open the file with Photoshop, make your changes and save.
  • Most editors preserve the original formatting and encoding — avoid changing the charset.
  • Create a new file and save it with the .vtf extension, or export this format from Photoshop.

What programs can open .vtf files?

Common options include Photoshop, GIMP, Paint. You can also open many of these files with built-in viewers or a browser.

How do I create a .vtf file?

Create a new file in any text editor or the app that owns the format and save it with the .vtf extension.

What is the relationship between .vtf and the image/vnd.valve.source.texture MIME type?

image/vnd.valve.source.texture is the media type identifier used for .vtf files during network transfer (for example in the HTTP Content-Type header).

Updated 2026-08-18

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