UNIT 4 > MODULE 3

Lesson 4: Optimizing GIF Images

Overview

In this lesson, you will optimize the button you have created for exporting as a gif image. You will experiment with different export settings and then make comparisons regarding file size and image quality. Using the hide layer feature, you will adjust which button text is visible and export five different buttons.

Learner Outcomes

At the completion of this exercise, you will be able to:

1. optimize and export gif images
2. use layer visibility to streamline graphic projects

Activities

1. Read the sections on GIFs in the Webmonkey article Optimizing Your Images. Then, the instructor will demonstrate how to use the optimization feature in the graphics software being used. Export one of your buttons multiple times, using different settings each time. Next,compare the file size and image quality of the different exported files to determine the best settings to use.
2. Toggle the hide layer feature to change which button text is visible. Then, you will export four different buttons "Home," "Page 1," "Page 2," and "Page 3" using the settings you determined from the previous activity.
3. Once you have exported your buttons, you add them to the unit4lesson.html page, under the heading "Sample Buttons." You do not need to link these buttons to any pages, just simply display them on the page so that your instructor may evaluate your work. Remember to place an anchor beside the buttons and include the anchor name in the link onthe portfolio.

Here is the simple version of the sample buttons for this lesson:

 

Here is the sample buttons with more complex use of layers and graphics:

 

 

Resources/Online Documents

• Webmonkey: Optimizing Your Images

All done?

Make sure to add the buttons you created to the page for graphics projects in your portfolio web site so your instructor can evaluate your work.

Copyright © 2006 by University of Washington. Permission is granted to copy these materials for educational, noncommercial purposes provided the source is acknowledged. This product was funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research of the U.S. Department of Education (grant #H133D010306). However, the contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume their endorsement.