Chapter 36: Working with Raster Graphics

Overview

In This Chapter

Preparing raster images for use in Flash projects

Using Fireworks to streamline workflow

Importing bitmap sequences to the Flash Timeline

Using layered bitmaps with alpha channels to create multiplane animation

Exporting raster images from Flash

Bringing raster animation from other programs into Flash

Although Flash can generally hold its own for vector art creation, you need another application to acquire, finesse, and export bitmap images for use in your Flash projects. Flash 8 is an amazingly versatile application that can import and export just about any raster (aka bitmap) image format. Bitmap smoothing in Flash 8 is much more effective than it has been in previous versions of Flash — making it easier to achieve clean results with rotated or scaled bitmap images.

New Feature 

The addition of Filters and blend modes in Flash 8 opens up some new creative possibilities and reduces the amount of preproduction required to integrate raster artwork with Flash graphics. Finally having a decent built-in Blur filter is a boon for animators and artists who rely on blur to simulate motion or depth of field with layered bitmap images.

Cross-Reference 

For coverage of Flash 8 Filters and blend modes and how to use them, refer to Chapter 12, "Applying Filters and Effects."

This chapter shows you how to create bitmaps for Flash in image editing applications such as Macromedia Fireworks and Adobe Photoshop.