Data file that saves parameters used for making fractal graphics and animations called "flames;" can include one or more fractal patterns, each of which can be customized by adjusting variables and gradients used by the fractal; saved in an XML format and must be rendered by a software program to output a corresponding image or animation.

Fractal flames are used by Electric Sheep, a distributed computing application that renders fractal flames on user's computers and then outputs resulting videos as desktop screen savers.