Free web page graphic and photoshop tutorials.

by Kelly Richardson
Animation School Review Columnist

GIF, or graphics interchange format, offers a palette of up to 256 distinct colors from the 24-bit RGB color space. Its convenient portability and support capabilities make it the ‘go-to’ animation process for World Wide Web builders.

Created by CompuServe in 1987, GIF animation has become an industry standard for those animators looking to produce sharp-edged line art. This animation process supports a ‘frames’ approach to design, making it ideal for sequences light on image detail.

GIFAnimation Usage

While it has its limitations, GIF animation is still one of the preferred formats for web pages and streaming media.

• Best Applications. GIF animation is perfect for small animations, low resolution clips, and limited color designs such as business logos.
• Downloading. Because the compressed GIF file requires a lengthier download time, uncompressed bitmap images are frequently used instead.
• Digital Photos. JPEG images are used over GIF files for digital photography, due to the limitations of color distinction with GIF animation.

Benefits of GIF

There are two major reasons why GIF animations are still a favorite of web design professionals for certain projects.

• Repeating. GIFs are repeatable and reusable. They download only once and can be placed in multiple locations on your page.
• Available. Anyone can create GIF files and put them on a web page, as all Windows operating systems support this function.

Try your hand at GIF animation today. You’ll be surprised at how fast you can pick it up, as well as the functionality of this web design standard.

About the Author

Kelly Richardson covers the local education and technology scenes in major cities across the country. His articles appear in educational journals, periodicals, and e-zines.