Compressed image files are partially preprocessed to expedite color correction
and delivery of color corrected images. Color correction may be accomplished by
processing only the luminance channel, only the color channels, or a combination
of the luminance and color channels. A method for adjusting characteristics of
a compressed image file including compressed characteristics elements and compressed
image elements, includes: in the compressed image file, separating the compressed
characteristics elements and the compressed image elements; decompressing one or
more of the compressed characteristics elements; and adjusting the decompressed
characteristics elements.