Fireworks 3 for Windows and Macintosh (Visual QuickStart Guides) [Paperback]

After a thorough introduction to the user interface, the book goes on to cover, in detail, how each tool and technique works. Much of this may already be familiar to readers with any amount of experience in paint or drawing programs since the tools and actions are similar. For example, the book shows how to draw vector curves using a pen tool, a skill also needed for Illustrator and Freehand. In other instances, although the actions maybe similar to those in other applications, the methods may differ, like using masks or applying effects. In Fireworks, most of the features are executed from individual panels (floating palettes). The step-by-step style of instruction here, which discusses individual tasks in small portions, is ideal for learning your way around these panels and all their options.

The Visual QuickStart Series is also known for the way each page is divided into a column of text and a column of illustrations. This edition includes an abundance of pictures and illustrations, so many in fact, it seems as though no instruction goes without a visual.

A beginner may have difficulty in the chapter on making GIF animations. Without a specific sample project at hand, the text may move a little too fast when explaining frames and tweening. On the other hand, intermediate users who have created animations using shareware apps or Photoshop will have no problems and may find this helpful in adding Fireworks to their arsenal of tools.

The book also covers slicing GIFs, creating rollovers and navigational bars and even swap image behaviour. There's an excellent series of tables showing all the preset patterns, gradients, brushes, effects and library images that come with Fireworks 3, as well as an extensive list of keyboard shortcuts. --Angelynn Grant, amazon.com

Topics covered: Creating artwork for the web using Fireworks3, including using paint, vector and text tools and effects, working with colour palettes, optimizing images for export, creating GIF animations, rollovers and navigational bars.

Just as Macromedia's Fireworks has evolved, so has Peachpit's Visual QuickStart Guide. The third edition of this bestselling guide has been updated and revised to cover Fireworks 3, including its increased interactivity with other programs and more powerful automation features.

With Fireworks 3: Visual QuickStart Guide, you'll learn how to design, create, optimize, and output Web graphics from Fireworks in no time, thanks to the patented Visual QuickStart approach: clear, step-by-step instructions with plenty of helpful screenshots. The book thoroughly explores Fireworks' omnibus graphic tool set, which combines vector drawing, natural media bitmap tools, text editing, special effects, color management, animation, and HTML linking in one interface.