Frames

     

Frames

Whereas layers organize objects in space, frames organize objects in time. Why does an image editing program need to worry about time? Because Fireworks is predominantly used to create Web graphics, time comes into play with animated GIFs, Flash animations, and rollovers.

To handle how graphics change over time, Fireworks uses the concept of frames. Fireworks frames work along the same lines as frames in a movie reel, where each frame is the same size and is in the same position, but the contents may change to create the illusion of motion.

Frames Panel Basics

The Frames panel works much like the Layers panel, except it is divided into three main columns (Figure 26.5):

  • Onion Skinning ” Onion Skinning is an animation technique that enables you to view multiple frames at the same time.

  • Frame Name and Number ” The main column displays the frame name, which is set to default to Frame X, where X represents the frame number.

  • Frame Delay ” This column contains the value for the frame delay, which is represented in 100ths of second. The frame is displayed for that duration of time before the animation advances to the next frame. This column also contains the Object in Frame marker, which functions the same as the Object in Layer marker.

Figure 26.5. The Frames panel for a simple animation.
graphics/26fig05.jpg

To move frames, drag them up or down in the stack.

To duplicate a frame ”an excellent way to distribute positioned content across multiple frames ”drag the frame to the New/Duplicate Frame button. When the button appears depressed, release the mouse. The frame and all its layers and sublayers are then copied .

To rename a frame, double-click the frame and the name can be edited. Type the new name and press Return/Enter to save the name.



Using Macromedia Studio MX 2004
Special Edition Using Macromedia Studio MX 2004
ISBN: 0789730421
EAN: 2147483647
Year: N/A
Pages: 339

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