AdvancED Flash Interface Design

By Michael Kemper, Brian Monnone, Guido Rosso

As a competent Flash designer, you’re probably comfortable with all of the basics that Flash has to offer. However, you’ve probably looked at some of the amazing Flash sites on the web and thought, "How'd they do that?" Well, you’ll find out in this book.

Flash allows users to create some amazing interactive interfaces to interact with Rich Internet Applications, eLearning systems, and simple web sites. In this book, two of the most talented Flash designers in the world will show you how to use them effectively to create breathtaking visuals for your Flash web sites. You'll also learn how to take advantage of Flash's powerful built-in vector-based drawing tools.

The authors discuss general background theory, such as site planning, color theory, and Information architecture. They reveal techniques using gradents, layers, lighting and shadowing, 3D objects, animation, and photo editing. Techniques are illustrated and the book concludes with a discussion of usability and final tweaks. There is also a tutorial on testing your work, and exporting and finally publishing it.

Summary of contents:

• Chapter 1 Flash Overview
• Chapter 2 Creating Usable and Innovative Experiences
• Chapter 3 Interface Designers’ Guide to Color
• Chapter 4 Planning Your Interface Design
• Chapter 5 Vector Drawing and Effects in Flash and Illustrator
• Chapter 6 Understanding the Timeline and Layers
• Chapter 7 Working with 3D Vectors
• Chapter 8 Using Video in Flash
• Chapter 9 Photoshop Techniques
• Chapter 10 Moving from Photoshop to Flash and Effective PNGs
• Chapter 11 Creating Animated Effects
• Chapter 12 Flash Textures
• Chapter 13 Photo Editing in Photoshop and Flash
• Chapter 14 Finishing Off Your Site

This book is part of friends of ED's 'AdvancED' series

The AdvancED series picks up where the Foundation series leaves off. You are expected to have a good understanding of your chosen technology before you start, and your aim is to continue your journey to become a better user of that technology. The series continues the step-by-step approach, taking you through all of the more advanced aspects of the technology, with detailed coverage to make sure that you understand each topic completely before moving on. Throughout the book, you will be creating complete applications along with compiling case study applications that run across multiple chapters and topics. By the end of the book, you will be an expert on your chosen topic.