What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a header-redirect versus readfile in PHP to output images after a database query?

When outputting images after a database query in PHP, using a header-redirect can be advantageous as it allows for better control over caching and browser compatibility. However, using readfile can be simpler and more straightforward for directly outputting the image file content. It is important to consider the specific requirements of the project when choosing between these two methods.

// Using header-redirect to output image after a database query
$imagePath = 'path/to/image.jpg';
header('Content-Type: image/jpeg');
header('Content-Length: ' . filesize($imagePath));
readfile($imagePath);
exit;