Foundation Fireworks CS4- P6: The chapters in this book are divided into three parts: “Part 1: Learning Fireworks,” “Part 2: Using Fireworks,” and “Part 3: Fireworks in Action.” In this first part, we start by introducing you to the Fireworks application where it lives within the Creative Suite, what makes it unique, and why you would use it. You’ll be introduced to the bitmap and vector tools and learn how to export your artwork to the Web. | Chapter 7 THE INS AND OUTS OF ANIMATION In this chapter you will learn the ins and outs of animation states formerly called frames in Fireworks CS4. Then you will see how to create two unique animations using different techniques by following step-by-step instructions. Finally you will learn about exporting your animations in both GIF and SWF Adobe Flash formats. An animation is a series of different static states of a graphical set. Running the states simulates the effect of the graphical set performing some action. Each of the static states of an animation can be created and edited in the Fireworks PNG document before exporting it as an animated GIF. By allowing the states to be independently accessed and edited Fireworks provides you with higher fidelity while working on the designs. The States panel The States panel shown in Figure 7-1 is the control center for all things related to animation in Fireworks. Formerly called the Frames panel Adobe decided to rename the panel for the CS4 release since Fireworks is now geared more toward rapid prototyping. You can use states on practically anything but they are most commonly applied to animation frames user interface view states and multipage web site mockups. The CS4 release added the provision of right-clicking inside the panel making panel menu accessibility and discoverability better for new users. The right-click menu options are the same as those shown in Figure 7-1 except for the Help option. 129 CHAPTER 7 Figure 7-1. The States panel with its options menu open Next we ll dissect the States panel so you can familiarize yourself with all of the icons buttons and menu options. Quick onion skinning o Near the top left of the States panel you ll notice a small triangular icon. This slider is used to quickly adjust how many states you would like to overlay on your current state. Onion skinning allows you to view semitransparent versions of surrounding states in your animation. By default multistate editing is .
