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The Basics
Projects are developed in the Flash software and can be saved or exported for different purposes. Source versions are the original Flash files. They contain the *.fla file extension and can only be viewed and modified by someone using Flash development software. These files contain the basic media, Timeline, and script information. Compressed versions called Flash movies are viewed with FlashPlayer that can be downloaded for free. These files are compiled and compressed so they take up less storage space and download quickly. These are the types most often embedded on web pages and viewed with a web browser. The end user goes to a web page with the *.html file extension. The published version of the Flash movie (*.swf) is embedded in the code of this page. Executable versions of the files can also be developed that embed the FlashPlayer in the program, so no special software is needed. Since these files require more space, executables are most often found when the projects are shared on CD. There are other file types associated with Flash projects including AS (ActionScript files), SWC files (reusable components), JSFL (JavaScript files), and FLP (Flash Professional 9 project files). The following links take you to the resources on this page. |
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Working with Flash
Stage. Your main work area is called the Stage. This is the area where you will be working with the visual aspects of your project. Timeline. Like an electronic spreadsheet, the Timeline is set up in rows representing layers and columns representing time by individual frames. Media Objects. Generally media objects resources such as graphics, audio, and sound are imported into the Flash Library. Instances of these objects are then dragged onto the Stage as they are needed on particular keyframes. Media objects may also be accessed through ActionScripts. ActionScript code. An object-oriented scripting language is used to add interactions and controls to your project.
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Working with GraphicsOnce you've installed the software, begin by creating some media objects using the drawing tools. There are two kinds of graphics used in Flash projects: bitmaps and vector. Bitmaps are made of many dots that form a picture. Photos and many of the clipart files you see are bitmap. They take up lots of space and don’t enlarge very well. However it’s okay to import these if they’re important to your project. Vector graphics are made of individual lines, shapes, and locations. They are infinitely scalable and look good reduced or enlarged. They also don’t take up much space. Flash created vector-based graphics.
Building Graphic Elements for a Flash ProjectAs you create your first projects, keep it simple. You might start with projects that involve stick figures, suns, trees, and houses. These things are all easy to create using the basic draw tools. Spend some time experimenting with lines, shapes, and colors.
Learn MoreIf you'd like to learn more about creating basic Flash graphics, explore some of the following off-site, online resources:
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| All Rights Reserved. Created 10/05. Updated 5/06. Feedback |
Although Flash is often associated with animation, it can be used to create a wide range of rich content containing text, graphics, audio, video, animation that can run from a web browser, CD, or on the desktop of computers and hand-held devices. 
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