Special Edition Using Macromedia Fireworks MX

Special Edition Using Macromedia Fireworks MX

Released October 2002
Publisher(s): Que
ISBN: 9780789738875

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Book description

Special Edition Using Macromedia Fireworks MX is the only book you'll need on Fireworks MX. This hands-on complete reference is packed with tutorials; you can go through the book from front to back or go straight to the information you need to complete a particular task. Jeffrey Bardzell, the co-founder of www.phireworx.com, demystifies the process of working in Fireworks MX. The user-friendly design and organization includes compelling art and shows you how to really take advantage of the many special effects and filters. Bardzell also packs the book with coverage of Dreamweaver, Flash, and Director integration. He covers usability and interface design in an extended section on building and exporting interactive page designs. He illustrates how to use Fireworks as part of an efficient collaborative workflow, with several chapters loaded with tips, strategies, and ideas on working efficiently with small and large teams.

Table of contents

  1. Special Edition Using Macromedia® Fireworks® MX
    1. About the Author
    2. Acknowledgments
    3. We Want to Hear from You!
    4. Foreword
    5. Introduction: Introducing Special Edition Using Macromedia Fireworks MX
        1. A Well-Rounded Reference
        2. Who Should Buy this Book
        3. How to Use this Book
        4. How This Book Is Organized
        5. Conventions Used in this Book
          1. This Book Is Cross-Platform
    6. I. Fireworks Foundations
      1. 1. Getting to Know Fireworks
          1. An Overview of Fireworks
          2. Fireworks: A Dual Program for a Dual Purpose
            1. Understanding Bitmap Graphics
            2. Understanding Vector Graphics
            3. The Best of Both Worlds
            4. Vector Versus Bitmap: What’s the Big Deal?
            5. Outline of the Overall Fireworks Workflow
              1. Using Fireworks to Create and Modify Graphics
              2. Using Fireworks to Export Web Graphics and Interactivity
            6. Fireworks or Photoshop?
          3. An Overview of Common Fireworks Tasks
            1. Designing Individual Graphic Elements
            2. Creating Animations
            3. Creating Interactivity
            4. Designing Interfaces and Whole Pages
            5. Processing Existing Bitmaps
            6. Collaborating with Others
            7. Integrating with Dreamweaver
            8. Integrating with HTML, DHTML, and XHTML
          4. Building Integrated Solutions
      2. 2. The Fireworks Interface
          1. Getting Familiar with the Fireworks Environment
            1. Surveying the Fireworks Environment
            2. Understanding Major Interface Elements
          2. Working in the Document Window
          3. Using Tools
            1. Understanding Tool Groups
            2. Select Tools
            3. Bitmap Tools
            4. Vector Tools
            5. Web Tools
            6. Color Tools
            7. View Tools
          4. Introducing the Property Inspector
            1. Benefits of the Property Inspector
            2. Using the Property Inspector
          5. Getting to Know the Main Menu
            1. The File Menu
            2. The Edit Menu
            3. The View Menu
            4. The Select Menu
            5. The Modify Menu
            6. The Text Menu
            7. The Commands Menu
            8. The Filters Menu
            9. The Window Menu
            10. The Help Menu
          6. Using Panels
          7. Customizing the Workspace with Preferences
            1. The General Tab
            2. Editing
            3. Launch and Edit
            4. Folders
            5. Import
          8. Customizing Keyboard Shortcuts
          9. Fireworks At Work: Creating and Exporting a Simple Document
            1. Creating a New File
            2. Drawing and Modifying Graphics on Canvas
            3. Adding Text
            4. Optimizing the Graphic
            5. Exporting the Graphic
      3. 3. Setting Up, Modifying, and Navigating Fireworks Documents
          1. Getting Off to a Good Start
          2. Creating New Documents
            1. Understanding Resolution
          3. Opening Existing Documents
            1. Saving Opened Files
            2. Opening Vector File Types
            3. Closing and Reverting to Saved Files
          4. Inserting Graphic Assets into a Fireworks Document
            1. Importing a Graphic into Fireworks
            2. Inserting Graphics Using Drag and Drop
            3. Inserting Graphics with Copy and Paste
          5. Modifying Documents
            1. Changing Image Size
            2. Changing Canvas Size
            3. Using Trim and Fit Canvas
            4. Changing Canvas Color
            5. Rotating the Canvas
          6. Navigating Within Documents
            1. Using Zoom to Change View Settings
            2. Navigating with the Hand Tool
            3. Using Common Display Options
          7. Organizing Documents
            1. Working with Rulers
            2. Working with Guides
            3. Working with the Grid
    7. II. Creating Simple Graphics
      1. 4. Understanding Vector Objects, Layers, and Frames
          1. Introducing Graphics as Objects
          2. Exploring Vector Objects: Paths, Strokes, Fills, and Effects
            1. Exercise: Identifying the Parts of a Vector Rectangle
            2. Glimpsing the Formula
            3. Modifying Paths Versus Strokes
          3. Selecting Graphics
            1. Selecting Whole Paths
            2. Selecting Points
            3. Selecting Curve Handles
            4. Selecting Paths Behind Others
          4. Using Layers to Structure Elements in Space
            1. Familiarizing Yourself with the Layers Panel
            2. Introducing the Layers Options Menu
            3. Moving Layers
            4. Renaming Layers
            5. Organizing Graphics with Grouping
          5. Frames: Structuring Elements in Time
            1. Familiarizing Yourself with the Frames Panel
            2. Using the Frames Panel Options Menu
              1. Renaming Frames
              2. Moving and Duplicating Frames
              3. Moving Objects Between Frames
            3. Understanding the Relationship Between Layers and Frames
              1. Distinguishing Between Shared and Unshared Layers
              2. Introducing the Web Layer
          6. Fireworks At Work: Setting Up a Complex Document
      2. 5. Drawing Simple Vector Shapes
          1. Introducing Drawing with Vectors
            1. Vector Mode Versus Bitmap Mode
            2. Creating Art: To Draw or to Modify?
          2. Drawing Lines and Open Shapes
            1. Drawing Straight Lines with the Line Tool
              1. Introducing Shift-Constrain
            2. Drawing Freehand with the Vector Path Tool
          3. Drawing Closed Shapes
            1. Using the Rectangle Tool
            2. Creating Rounded Rectangles
            3. Using the Ellipse Tool
            4. Using the Polygon Tool
              1. Drawing Triangles
              2. Drawing Stars
              3. Drawing Four-Sided Polygons Versus Rectangles
          4. Modifying Objects with the Property Inspector
            1. Understanding the Type of Object Area
            2. Using Fill Settings
            3. Using Stroke Settings
            4. Modifying Edge Settings
              1. Modifying Fill Edges
              2. Modifying Stroke Edges
            5. Using Opacity and Layer Blending Settings
            6. Applying Effects
            7. Working with Info Settings
              1. Sample Use of the Info Options
            8. Adding Textures
          5. Transitioning from Paths to Art
      3. 6. Working with Text
          1. Text: The Link Between Communication and Artistry
          2. Adding Text to Your Document
            1. Entering Text with the Text Tool
            2. Using the Text Editor
            3. Pasting and Importing Text from Other Documents
            4. Finding and Replacing Text
            5. Using the Spell Checker
          3. Modifying Text Attributes
            1. Text Style
            2. Setting Text Orientation
            3. Setting Text Alignment
            4. Working with Text Blocks
              1. Repositioning Text Blocks
              2. Resizing Text Blocks
              3. Combining Text Blocks
              4. Splitting Text Blocks
            5. Manipulating Character Attributes
              1. Adjusting Kerning
              2. Adjusting Leading
              3. Using Baseline Shift
              4. Adjusting Horizontal Scale
            6. Modifying Paragraph Attributes
              1. Inserting Space Between Paragraphs
              2. Indenting Paragraph First Lines
            7. Adding Strokes
            8. Anti-Aliasing Text Edges
          4. Creating Simple Text Effects
            1. Applying Effects to Text
            2. Transforming Text
            3. Masking Text
            4. Converting Text to Paths
          5. Attaching Text to Paths
            1. Attaching Text to a Path
            2. Detaching Text from a Path
            3. Changing the Shape of the Path
            4. Editing Text Attached to a Path
              1. Applying Common Text Attributes to Attached Text
              2. Using Text Offset
              3. Reversing Direction
              4. Adjusting Orientation Relative to Path
      4. 7. Working with Bitmaps
          1. The Benefits of Working with Bitmaps
          2. Working in Bitmap Mode
            1. Entering and Exiting Bitmap Mode
            2. Determining Whether You Are in Bitmap Mode
          3. Selecting Pixels
            1. Using the Fireworks Bitmap Selection Tools
              1. Selecting with the Pointer Tool
              2. Selecting with the Marquee Tool
              3. Selecting with the Lasso Tool
              4. Selecting with the Magic Wand Tool
            2. Manipulating Selections
            3. Creating and Removing Selections Globally
            4. Modifying Selection Properties
          4. Painting and Modifying Pixels with Bitmap Tools
            1. Creating an Empty Bitmap Layer
            2. Painting Regions with the Paint Bucket Tool
            3. Freehand Painting with the Pencil Tool
            4. Freehand Painting with the Brush Tool
            5. Replicating Pixel Regions with the Rubber Stamp Tool
            6. Using the Eraser Tool
            7. Creating Bitmap Drawings with Vector Tools
            8. Touching Up with the Blur and Sharpen Tools
            9. Modifying Tone with Dodge and Burn
          5. Modifying Pixels with Filters
            1. Importing Third-Party Photoshop Plug-Ins
            2. Using Filters in Fireworks: Live Effects Versus Traditional Filters
    8. III. Building Professional Graphics
      1. 8. Working with Color
          1. Introducing Basic Color Theory and Color Terminology
            1. Additive Versus Subtractive Color
            2. Understanding Digital Color and Color Depths
            3. Understanding Color Models
            4. Understanding Color Depth
            5. Introducing Hexadecimal Color
            6. Introducing the Web Safe Palette
            7. Introducing Indexed Color
            8. Distinguishing Alpha and Indexed Transparency
          2. Creating Colors with the Mixer
            1. Creating Colors with the Color Bar
            2. Creating Colors with the Color Components
            3. Changing the Color Model
              1. RGB
              2. Hexadecimal
              3. CMY
              4. HSB
              5. Grayscale
          3. Creating and Managing Color Palettes with the Swatch Panel
            1. Applying Colors from the Swatch Panel
            2. Selecting Built-In Color Palettes
              1. Sorting Colors
            3. Creating Custom Color Palettes
              1. Clearing Existing Color Palettes
              2. Adding Colors to a Palette
              3. Removing Individual Colors from a Palette
            4. Reusing Color Palettes
              1. Saving Color Palettes
              2. Loading Color Palettes
          4. Fireworks At Work: Developing Web Site Color Schemes and Palettes in Coordination
      2. 9. Scanners, Digital Cameras, and Color Correction
          1. Avoiding the Pitfalls of Digital Photography
          2. Understanding the Scanning Process
            1. Introducing TWAIN
            2. Overview of the Components Involved in Acquiring Scanned Images in Fireworks
            3. Understanding How the Scanner Works
          3. Using TWAIN Select
          4. Scanning Images
            1. Initiating the Scan
            2. Using the Scanner Interface
          5. Adjusting Colors to Bring Out Image Detail
            1. Invert
            2. Brightness/Contrast
            3. Hue/Saturation
            4. Introducing Histograms
            5. Using Levels to Correct Images
            6. Using Curves to Correct Images
          6. Troubleshooting
            1. Selecting Your Scanner
            2. Scanned Image Fills Screen (and More)
            3. Filter, Adjust Color Menu Grayed Out
            4. Apply Filters to Vector Graphics
      3. 10. Working with Photoshop 7
          1. Transitioning from Photoshop to Fireworks
            1. Changing Your Work Habits
              1. Fireworks and Photoshop: Getting the Best of Both Worlds
              2. Contrasting Common Photoshop and Fireworks Tasks
              3. Trading in the Lasso for the Pointer
          2. Importing and Exporting Between the Two Programs
            1. Importing Photoshop PSDs into Fireworks
            2. Exporting Fireworks Files As PSDs
              1. Settings
              2. Objects
              3. Effects
              4. Text
          3. Integrating Photoshop and Fireworks
            1. Using Photoshop Keyboard Shortcuts
            2. Comparing Advanced Graphic Tools and Techniques
              1. Gradients
              2. Masks
              3. Layer Effects
              4. Alpha Channels
              5. Blend Modes
              6. Unsupported Features
          4. Using Photoshop Filters
            1. Photoshop Versus Photoshop-Compatible Filters
            2. Installing Filters
            3. Using Third-Party Filters
              1. Applying Filters to Pixels
              2. Applying Filters to Objects
      4. 11. Applying Strokes
          1. Understanding the Artistic Possibilities with Fireworks Strokes
          2. Understanding Stroke Basics
            1. Applying Strokes to Paths
            2. Removing Strokes from Paths
            3. Using Stroke Settings with the Bitmap Brush Tool
          3. Mastering Stroke Attributes
            1. Choosing Strokes
            2. Introducing the Stroke Categories
              1. Pencil
              2. Basic
              3. Air Brush
              4. Calligraphy
              5. Charcoal
              6. Crayon
              7. Felt Tip
              8. Oil
              9. Watercolor
              10. Random
              11. Unnatural
            3. Modifying Basic Stroke Attributes
              1. Choosing a Stroke Color
              2. Changing the Tip Size
              3. Softening Strokes with Tip Edge Softness
              4. Applying Textures to Strokes
              5. Positioning Stroke Relative to Path
              6. Changing Stacking Order of Strokes and Fills
              7. Saving and Deleting Custom Strokes
          4. Controlling Stroke Pressure
            1. Adjusting Stroke Pressure with the Path Scrubber Tool
          5. Creating Custom Strokes
            1. The Edit Stroke Dialog Box
              1. The Options Tab
              2. The Shape Tab
              3. The Sensitivity Tab
          6. Fireworks At Work: Applying Strokes to Text
      5. 12. Applying Fills and Gradients
          1. Using Fills
          2. Mastering Fill Attributes
            1. Introducing Fill Presets
              1. Working with Solid Fills
              2. Working with Web Dither Fills
            2. Modifying Basic Fill Attributes
              1. Color
              2. Edge
              3. Textures
          3. Working with Gradients
            1. Understanding Gradient Basics
              1. Introducing the Color Ramp
              2. Introducing the Gradient Categories
              3. Introducing the Gradient Fill Handles
            2. Working with the Color Ramp
            3. Setting Gradient Transparency
          4. Working with Pattern Fills
            1. Using Ready-Made Patterns
            2. Creating Custom Patterns
              1. Importing Bitmaps for Use as Patterns
              2. Adding a Bitmap to the Pattern Library
          5. Working with Textures
            1. Using Ready-Made Textures
              1. Using Texture Transparency
            2. Creating Custom Textures
            3. Using Custom Textures
              1. Using a Local File as a Texture
              2. Loading Textures from the Configuration/Textures Folder
              3. Designate a Custom Textures Folder
          6. Fireworks At Work: Creating Seamless Tiles
      6. 13. Applying Live Effects
          1. Introducing Live Effects
            1. Applying Live Effects to Objects
          2. Introducing Live Effect Categories
            1. Using Adjust Color Effects
            2. Using Bevel and Emboss Effects
              1. Using Inner and Outer Bevel
              2. Inset and Raised Emboss
            3. Using Blur Effects
              1. Using Blur and Blur More
              2. Using Gaussian Blurs
            4. Using Effects from the Other Category
              1. Convert to Alpha
              2. Find Edges
            5. Using Shadow and Glow Effects
              1. Drop Shadow and Inner Shadow
              2. Glow and Inner Glow
            6. Using Sharpen Effects
              1. Sharpen and Sharpen More
              2. Unsharp Mask
            7. Using Plug-Ins as Live Effects
          3. Managing Live Effects
            1. Working with Multiple Effects
            2. Saving Effects as Styles and Commands
          4. Fireworks At Work: Creating and Saving a Custom Button Effect
            1. Creating the Custom Effects
            2. Saving the Custom Effects
            3. Applying the Saved Custom Effects to New Objects
            4. Optional: Removing the Saved Effects
    9. IV. Fireworks Artistry and Special Effects
      1. 14. Building Complex Paths and Transforming Objects
          1. Thinking Like a Vector
          2. Drawing Vector Paths with the Pen Tool
            1. Drawing Straight Lines
            2. Drawing Curved Paths
          3. Modifying Vector Paths
            1. Using the Subselection Tool
            2. Modifying Paths with the Pen Tool
            3. Modifying Paths with the Redraw Path Tool
            4. Reshaping with the Freeform and Reshape Area Tools
          4. Applying Global Path Alterations
            1. Using Simplify to Remove Extra Points
            2. Expand Stroke and Inset Path
          5. Combining and Splitting Paths
            1. Joining Paths and Closing Shapes
            2. Splitting Paths
              1. Using Modify, Combine Paths, Split
              2. Using the Knife Tool
            3. Combining Shapes
          6. Applying Object Transformations
            1. Scaling Paths
            2. Rotating and Flipping Paths
            3. Distorting
            4. Skewing
            5. Using Numeric Transform for Precise Resizing and Rotation
          7. Conclusions and an Apology of Sorts
          8. Fireworks At Work: Building Complex Paths
            1. Tracing with the Pen Tool
            2. Adding a Perspective Shadow
      2. 15. Using Masks and Blending Layers
          1. Creating Object and Pixel Interaction Between Objects
          2. Working with Opacity
          3. Working with Masks
            1. Adding and Removing Masks: An Overview
              1. Adding Masks
              2. Removing Masks
            2. Creating Masks: Three Approaches
              1. Using Group As Mask
              2. Using Paste As Mask
              3. Using Paste Inside
            3. Masking with Vector Graphics
              1. Applying Vector Mask Settings
              2. Creating Edge Effects
              3. Masking with Text
            4. Using Bitmap Masks
              1. Masking with Alpha Channels
              2. Masking Pixel Selections with Reveal/Hide Selection
            5. Modifying Masks
              1. Repositioning Mask Elements
              2. Modifying the Objects Themselves
              3. Disabling Masks
              4. Deleting Masks
            6. Achieving Special Effects with Masks
          4. Using Blend Modes
          5. Fireworks At Work: Create a Composition Using Masks and Blend Modes
            1. Setting Up the File
            2. Creating the Background
            3. Creating the Mask
            4. Adding the Final Touches
    10. V. Streamlining Your Collaborative Workflow
      1. 16. Using Styles
          1. Automating Production
            1. Separating Content from Form
          2. Introducing Styles
            1. Graphic Styles Versus Text Styles
            2. Fireworks Styles Compared to Word Processor and CSS Styles: The Missing Linkage
          3. Using Fireworks’ Predefined Styles
            1. Applying Styles
          4. Creating New Styles
          5. Modifying Styles
            1. Editing Styles
            2. Creating a New Style Based on an Existing Style
          6. Saving, Importing, and Using Custom Style Libraries
            1. Creating a Style Library
            2. Removing Styles from the Styles Panel
            3. Importing a Style Library
          7. Creating a Reusable Text Style: Aquatext
      2. 17. Working with the Library
          1. Introducing the Library, Symbols, and Instances
          2. Fitting the Library into the Project Workflow
            1. Animation and Interactive Abilities
            2. Improved Productivity
            3. Project Consistency
          3. Working with Symbols
            1. Introducing the Three Symbol Types
            2. Creating Symbols
              1. Conversion 1: Converting Existing Graphics to Symbols
              2. Conversion 2: Duplicating Existing Symbols
              3. Creating Symbols from Scratch
            3. Placing Symbol Instances
            4. Editing Symbols
              1. Editing Symbol Properties
              2. Modifying Symbol Graphics
              3. Deleting Symbols
            5. Editing Symbol Instances
              1. Modifying Instance Properties
              2. Detaching Instances from Symbols
              3. Deleting Instances
            6. Working with Button Symbols
              1. Understanding the Features of Button Symbols
              2. Using the Button Symbol Editor
              3. Adding Text Labels to Button Symbols and Instances
              4. Importing Fireworks Sample Buttons
            7. Working with Animation Symbols
          4. Working with Symbol Libraries
            1. Transferring Symbols Between Open Files
            2. Exporting Symbol Libraries
            3. Importing Symbol Libraries
              1. Importing Other PNG Files as Symbols
            4. Updating Symbol Instances in Other Files
              1. Breaking Links Between Imported Symbols and Their Sources
          5. Nesting Buttons: Creating an Animated Over State
      3. 18. Working with URLs
          1. Managing URLs as Assets
          2. Managing URLs in Fireworks
          3. Understanding URLs in Fireworks
          4. Introducing the URL Panel
            1. Limitations of the URL Panel: No target Attribute
          5. Working with the Active URL Library
            1. Adding a URL to the Active URL Library
            2. Building a URL Library from the Canvas and Memory
            3. Building a URL Library from an External Document
            4. Modifying URLs
            5. Removing URLs from a Library
          6. Managing URL Libraries by Project
            1. Distinguishing Between the Active URL Library, the Official URL Library, and Import/Export URL Collections
            2. Building Project URL Libraries 1: Creating Official URL Libraries
              1. Adding URLs to Official URL Libraries
              2. Directly Modifying URLs.htm and Other Official Library Files
              3. Creating New Official URL Libraries
              4. Removing Official URL Libraries
              5. Final Analysis: Pros and Cons of Official URL Libraries
            3. Building Project URL Libraries 2: Using Import/Export URL Collections
              1. Adding URLs to Import/Export URL Collections
              2. Loading and Sharing Import/Export URL Collections
              3. Removing Import/Export URL Collections
              4. Final Analysis: Pros and Cons of Import/Export URL Collections
          7. Troubleshooting
    11. VI. Creating Animation and Interactivity
      1. 19. Building Animations
          1. Animating in Fireworks
          2. Planning an Animation
            1. Choosing the Targeted Export Format
            2. Choosing Your Method
              1. Understanding Frame-by-Frame Animation
              2. Understanding Tweened Animation
              3. Understanding Animation Symbols
          3. Building Frame-By-Frame Animations
            1. Creating and Positioning Animated Objects
              1. Using Onion Skinning to Position Objects on Different Frames
              2. Using Distribute to Frames
            2. Playing Animations
              1. Setting Frame Delay
              2. Looping Animations
              3. Excluding Frames from Export
          4. Building Tweened Animations
          5. Building Animations with Animation Symbols
            1. Creating Animation Symbols
            2. Modifying Animation Symbols
              1. Modifying the Motion Path
              2. Editing the Animate Dialog Box Settings
              3. Modifying the Animated Object
          6. Optimizing Animations for Export
            1. Sending Animations to Flash
      2. 20. Understanding Hotspots and Slices
          1. From Static Graphics to Interactive Web Graphics
          2. Introducing Hotspots and Slices
            1. The Hotspot-Image Map Connection
            2. The Slice-Table Connection
          3. Working with Hotspots
            1. Creating Hotspots
              1. Creating Circular and Elliptical Hotspots
              2. Creating Polygon Hotspots
            2. Creating Image Maps with Hotspots
            3. Attaching Behaviors to Hotspots
          4. Working with Slices
            1. Comparing Fireworks Slices to Their HTML Output
            2. Understanding How Table Cells and Fireworks Slices Limit Each Other
            3. Tips for Using Slices
            4. Creating Slices
              1. Defining Slice Objects
              2. Attaching Web Interactivity to Slices
              3. Choosing Graphic Versus HTML Slice Types
              4. Using Slices with Panels
            5. Modifying Slices
          5. Fireworks At Work: Solving Problems with Slicing
            1. Slicing for Optimization
            2. Slicing for Interactivity
            3. Slicing for Exportability
      3. 21. Using Fireworks Behaviors
          1. Introducing Behaviors
            1. Types of Fireworks Interactivity
            2. Understanding Behaviors
              1. Behaviors, HTML, and Javascript
              2. Add Behaviors to Slices or Hotspots Only
            3. Understanding and Choosing Event Handlers
            4. Objects, Events, and Actions: How to Read a Behavior
            5. Adding Interactivity in Fireworks Versus Dreamweaver
          2. Building Interactivity with the Behaviors Panel
            1. Using the Behaviors Panel
              1. Adding Behaviors
              2. Removing Behaviors
              3. Modifying Behaviors
          3. Adding Simple Rollovers
          4. Using the Swap Image Behavior
            1. Building Disjoint Rollovers
            2. Building Disjoint Rollovers Using Drag and Drop
          5. Creating Multi-Page Navigation Bars with Four-State Buttons
          6. Adding Pop-Up Menus
            1. Preparing to Add a Pop-Up Menu
            2. Adding Content to the Pop-Up Menu
            3. Defining the Menu’s Appearance
            4. Further Customization of the Pop-Up Menu
            5. Setting the Menu’s Position
          7. Setting the Text of the Browser’s Status Bar
    12. VII. Optimizing and Exporting Graphics
      1. 22. Optimizing Simple Graphics
          1. Creating Graphics for 14-Inch Monitors and the World Wide Wait
          2. Understanding Optimization
            1. Distinguishing Optimization from Export Considerations
            2. Understanding Compression
              1. Lossless Compression
              2. Lossy Compression
            3. Understanding Color Palettes
              1. Indexed Color
              2. Color Depth
              3. Dithering
            4. Using the Web Safe Palette
          3. Choosing the Best File Type
            1. Choosing GIF
            2. Choosing JPEG
            3. Choosing PNG
            4. Choosing TIFF
            5. Choosing BMP
          4. Learning to Export with the Export Wizard
          5. Using the Optimize Panel to Optimize Images
            1. Introducing the Preview/Optimize Panel Environment
            2. Introducing the Optimization Workflow
            3. Working with the Optimize Panel
              1. Using the Optimize to Size Command
            4. Using Saved Settings
              1. Using Saved Settings As a First Step
              2. Saving and Removing Settings
          6. Working with Manual Settings
            1. Optimizing JPEGs
              1. Quality
              2. Selective Quality
              3. Smoothing
              4. Sharpen Edges
              5. Progressive
            2. Introduction to Optimizing GIFs
              1. Choosing a Palette
              2. Choosing the Number of Colors
              3. Applying Lossy Compression to GIFs
              4. Using Dithering
              5. Choosing Interlacing
            3. Optimizing Other File Types
          7. Mastering Graphic Optimization
      2. 23. Advanced Optimization Issues
          1. Introducing Advanced Optimization Tasks
          2. Using Selective JPEG Compression
          3. Working with Color Palettes
            1. Working with Indexed Transparency
              1. Distinguishing Between Indexed, Alpha, and Fireworks Alpha Transparency
              2. Applying Indexed Transparency
              3. Removing Unwanted Halos
            2. Customizing Color Tables
              1. Changing Colors
              2. Snapping Colors to Web Safe
              3. Locking Colors
              4. Restoring Colors
              5. Adding and Deleting Colors
            3. Saving and Importing Color Palettes
          4. Working with Multiple Slices
            1. Optimizing Slices in the Main Environment
          5. Optimizing for Print
            1. Exporting Bitmaps for Print
              1. Resolution
              2. Color Models
            2. Exporting Vector Graphics for Print
      3. 24. Integrating Fireworks Graphics with Flash and Director
          1. Designing Assets for Use in Multimedia Software
            1. Choosing an Appropriate File Format
              1. Using Static Fireworks Graphics Only
              2. General Recommendations for Flash
              3. General Recommendations for Director
            2. Exporting Graphics with Alpha Transparency
          2. Designing for Export to Flash
            1. Using Static Fireworks Graphics in Flash
              1. Importing Fireworks Source PNG Files
              2. Importing Fireworks-Optimized GIFs, JPEGs, and PNGs
              3. Importing Fireworks-Exported SWFs
            2. Copying and Pasting
            3. Exporting to Flash with Quick Export
            4. Exporting Fireworks Animations for Use in Flash
              1. Exporting SWF Animations
              2. Exporting Animated GIFs
          3. Using Launch and Edit to Update Fireworks Graphics
          4. Working with Flash Graphics in Fireworks
            1. Using Flash Drawings in Fireworks
              1. Copying and Pasting Flash Graphics as Bitmaps
              2. Transferring Flash Vector Graphics to Fireworks
            2. Building Animated GIFs in Flash for Optimization in Fireworks
          5. Designing for Export to Director
            1. Copying and Pasting Assets Between Fireworks and Director
              1. Pasting Fireworks Graphics into Director
              2. Pasting Fireworks Text into Director
              3. Pasting Director Bitmap Graphics in Fireworks
              4. Pasting Director Text in Fireworks
            2. Importing Fireworks Documents into Director
              1. Importing Simple Graphics
              2. Importing Graphics As SWFs for Use in Director
              3. Importing Documents with Multiple Layers
              4. Importing Sliced Graphics with Behaviors
          6. Working with Fireworks Graphics in Director
            1. Optimizing Bitmap Cast Members
            2. Using Launch and Edit
          7. Fireworks At Work: Building Functioning Flash Buttons with Fireworks Graphics
            1. Building the Button in Fireworks
            2. Importing the Graphic Assets into a Flash Button
            3. Programming the Button
    13. VIII. Exporting Functioning Web Pages
      1. 25. Exporting Fireworks HTML
          1. Introducing Fireworks HTML
            1. HTML for Designers Who Use Visual (GUI) Software
            2. Fireworks As an HTML Editor?
              1. Use Fireworks to Build Graphics and Design Documents; Use HTML to Build Documents
            3. Mapping Fireworks Elements to HTML Elements
              1. Fireworks Slices Become HTML Table Cells
              2. Fireworks Behaviors Become JavaScript Scripts
          2. Exporting Fireworks Documents
            1. Save As Type Drop-Down Menu
            2. The HTML Drop-Down Menu and Options Button
            3. Setting Slice Options
            4. Put Images in Subfolder
          3. Exploring Fireworks HTML Code
            1. Deconstructing a Simple Fireworks HTML Document
          4. Setting HTML Export Options
            1. Using the General Tab
              1. Choosing an HTML Style
              2. Using the Remaining Settings in the General Tab
            2. Specifying Table Settings
            3. Specifying Asset Naming Conventions
          5. Using Advanced HTML Commands
            1. Using Copy HTML Code
            2. Using Update HTML
            3. Using Reconstitute Table to Open HTML Pages in Fireworks
          6. From Fireworks to the Web: Two Workflows
            1. Creating Informal Templates from Fireworks HTML
            2. Importing Fireworks HTML into Existing Pages
              1. Exporting a Simple Document
              2. Exporting a Document with Slices
              3. Exporting a Document with Behaviors
              4. Principles of Copying and Pasting Fireworks HTML into Target HTML Documents
      2. 26. Fireworks–Dreamweaver Integration
          1. Integrating Fireworks with Dreamweaver
            1. Enabling Fireworks–Dreamweaver Integration
              1. Designating Fireworks as the Primary Image Editor
              2. Enabling Design Notes
          2. Importing Fireworks HTML and Graphics into Dreamweaver
          3. Modifying Fireworks Graphics in Dreamweaver
            1. Optimizing Graphics without Leaving Dreamweaver
            2. Using Launch and Edit to Modify Graphics
              1. Choosing Whether to Edit the Bitmap or Source PNG
              2. Editing Bitmaps Using Launch and Edit
              3. Using Launch and Edit to Edit Source PNGs
          4. Updating HTML Tables and Slicing Schemes via Launch and Edit
            1. Making Minor Changes to the Table Structure
            2. Making Significant Structural Changes to Tables
              1. The Nested Table Solution
            3. Using Update HTML
          5. Integrating Automation Techniques
            1. Exporting Dreamweaver Library Files
            2. Creating Web Photo Albums
      3. 27. Designing Usable Interfaces: Strategies for Whole Page Design
          1. Designing Interfaces
            1. The Elusiveness of Web Content
            2. On the Bad Habits of Web Users
          2. Fireworks As a Page Composition Tool
            1. Planning Pages by Building Wireframes
            2. Blocking Out Content
          3. Structuring Site Content
            1. Defining Site Logic
            2. Reflecting the Site Logic in the Design
              1. Automation Tools and Usability
          4. Building Navigation Systems
            1. Manually Create Navigation Bars with Down States
            2. Making Interactive Elements Look Interactive
            3. Labeling Buttons Descriptively
          5. Designing for Accessibility
            1. Providing Text Alternatives for Graphic Content
            2. Simplifying Page Layouts
          6. Evaluating Site Designs with No Money Down
            1. Using Fireworks as a Storyboarding Tool
            2. Traditional Usability Testing
              1. Variation 1: The “Trunk Test”
              2. Variation 2: The Screen Real Estate Test
            3. Quantitative Measurements
          7. Fireworks At Work: Creating a Site Storyboard in Fireworks
      4. 28. Exporting Fireworks PNGs: Beyond the Basics
          1. Integrating Whole Page Designs with HTML
            1. Page Layout in Fireworks Versus HTML
              1. Extreme 1: Faithful Design Reproduction
              2. Extreme 2: Solid, Clean Code
            2. Tips for Exporting Optimal HTML
              1. Name All Fireworks Slices
              2. Export Only Single (Non-Nested) Tables from Fireworks
              3. Ensure All HTML Tables Are Numerically Perfect
              4. Avoid Empty <td> Cells
              5. Set Key Table Attributes to 0
              6. Preventing Text from Colliding with Graphics
          2. Exporting Whole Page Designs
            1. Using Fireworks for Graphics Only
              1. Fireworks for Graphics Only: The Procedure
              2. Fireworks for Graphics Only: Pros and Cons
            2. Exporting Fireworks Interface Elements One By One
              1. Exporting Fireworks Interface Elements: The Procedure
              2. Exporting Fireworks Interface Elements: Pros and Cons
            3. Exporting Fireworks HTML Using the Supertables Method
              1. Using the Supertables Method: The Procedure
              2. Using the Supertables Method: Pros and Cons
          3. Exporting for DHTML Interactions
            1. Introducing DHTML
              1. Dynamic Layers: The Dreamweaver—Fireworks Connection
              2. Understanding the Limitations of DHTML
              3. DHTML Compatibility Issues
            2. Exporting Fireworks Objects As CSS Layers
          4. Fireworks At Work: Creating a DHTML Interaction with Fireworks and Dreamweaver
    14. IX. Automating and Extending Fireworks
      1. 29. Boosting Productivity with Fireworks Automation Tools
          1. Eliminating Tedious, Error-Prone Tasks with Automation
          2. Batch Processing
            1. Using the Batch Processing Wizard
              1. Adding Files to the Batch
              2. Building the Task List
              3. Specifying Output
            2. Using Batch Processing Scriptlets
              1. Creating Scriptlets
              2. Using Scriptlets
          3. Finding and Replacing
            1. Avoiding Find and Replace Disasters
              1. Specifying How Find and Replace Handles Multiple Files
            2. Using the Find and Replace Panel
              1. Selecting What to Search
              2. Finding and Replacing Text
              3. Finding and Replacing Fonts
              4. Finding and Replacing Color
              5. Finding and Replacing URLs
              6. Finding and Replacing Non-Web 216
          4. Using the Project Log
            1. Adding Files to the Project Log
            2. Removing Files from the Project Log
            3. Exporting Files from the Project Log
      2. 30. Creating Commands with the History Panel
          1. Introducing Extensibility and Commands
            1. How Do Commands Work? Introducing the API and the DOM
              1. Introducing the API
              2. Introducing the DOM
            2. When Should You Use Commands?
              1. Using Commands to Automate Repetitive Tasks
              2. Using Commands to Enhance Your Art
            3. Commands and Extensions
              1. Introducing the Extension Manager
            4. Finding More Commands and Extensions
          2. Creating Commands Visually with the History Panel
            1. Using the History Panel
            2. Using the Undo Marker
            3. Recording Steps and Playing Them Back
              1. Building and Selecting the Steps
              2. Playing Steps Back
            4. Saving and Removing Commands
              1. Saving Steps as Commands
              2. Removing Commands
          3. Fireworks At Work: Creating a Simple Command
      3. 31. Writing Commands from Scratch
          1. Unlocking the Power of Commands
          2. Learning Commands
            1. Obtaining Extensibility Documentation
            2. Introducing Fireworks JavaScript
            3. Viewing History Panel Command Scripts
            4. Interpreting Fireworks JavaScript
              1. Interpreting a Simple Script
              2. Understanding the Dots and Semicolons
              3. Interpreting a Longer Script
          3. The Elements of Fireworks Commands
            1. Objects
            2. Properties
            3. Built-In Methods
              1. Global Methods
            4. Data Types
          4. Building Command Interfaces
            1. Traditional JavaScript Interfaces
            2. Macromedia Flash SWF Interfaces
              1. Understanding How Flash SWF Interfaces Are Created
              2. Writing the Custom ActionScript to Send JavaScript Commands to Fireworks
              3. Installing the Flash SWF Command Panel
          5. Packaging Extensions
          6. Writing a Custom Command: Twist and Fade Helix
    15. X. Appendixes
      1. A. What’s New in Fireworks MX?
          1. Upgrading to Fireworks MX
          2. New and Improved Features
            1. New Interface
            2. Onscreen Text Editing
            3. Improved Bitmap Handling
            4. Improved Pop-Up Menus
            5. Improved Button Symbols
            6. XHTML Support
            7. Improved Extensibility Features
          3. Fireworks MX: A New User Experience
      2. B. Online Resources
          1. Fireworks Tutorial and Resource Sites
            1. Beginner or Comprehensive Sites
            2. Artistic and Special Effect Sites
            3. Advanced, Code, and Extensibility Sites
          2. Fireworks Community
      3. Glossary
    16. Color Inserts

Product information

  • Title: Special Edition Using Macromedia Fireworks MX
  • Author(s):
  • Release date: October 2002
  • Publisher(s): Que
  • ISBN: 9780789738875