Operation Manual
Working with Graphics and Animation 43
Note that the time it takes a visitor to load one of your Web pages is
directly related to the size of the page’s HTML file plus any
accompanying graphic files. Graphics require larger file sizes, and
hence slow down loading time. And even in compressed form, bitmap
files like the photo we’ve just imported tend to be much larger than
simple line or shape graphics (see below)—so use them sparingly!
Keep picture dimensions to the minimum needed to convey your point.
It’s always wise to plan your layouts so as to avoid large graphic areas.
Drawing basic lines and shapes
WebPlus provides three easy-to-use drawing tools. You’ll find them on
the left toolbar:
Line Box Shape (flyout)
With them, you can add both functional and decorative layout
elements—for example, clickable buttons or page dividers.
Y Click the %R[button, then click and drag out a small box on the
screen.
Initially, the box will be simply an empty rectangle with a black line
border and a clear fill. The tool has reverted to the Pointer, and you can
use it to move or resize the box. The easiest way to change the object’s
line and fill properties is to use the Studio.
Y Display the Studio’s /LQHV panel. Try clicking samples in the
Weights group or the Types group to change the thickness or line
type of the box border. (You can drag and drop from a sample onto
any shape.)
Y Now display the Studio’s &RORUV panel. You can easily change the
box's line or fill color and/or shade by first right-clicking a color
sample, then choosing either $SSO\WR/LQH or $SSO\WR)LOO. (Left-
clicking a sample applies the color or shade to the selected object's
fill.). For each base color you select, you can pick from 10 shades
of that color displayed in the Shades group.
Y In passing, right-click on the box itself and note that you have
/LQH and )LOO options that let you adjust all Line or Fill
properties, including color. You’ll see a dialog with an array of
choices for setting the properties of the object’s line border.