8.1 Image Formats
There are currently three main types of image files available for use in web design:
You will no doubt have already encountered image files like these, for example: graphic.gif, picture.jpg, image.png.
GIFs are the best choice for simple graphics and drawings because they consist of only 256 colours and are good at compressing simple images. JPEGs are usually better for photographs as they have millions of colours and so are optimized for more complex images, but then they don't compress so well. These two dominant image types have recently seen the PNG format become popular because it contains the best of both the JPEG and GIF format: millions of colours combined with effective compression. And the better the compression, the smaller the size of the image file and the faster a page with images will load.
Sourcing Images for web design
This can be a source (no pun intended) of frustration for those new to web design. However, there are three options available here:
Depending upon the website you intend to create, taking your own pictures is the best way to ensure you get the image you want without infringing upon any copyrights. However, for most people this would be too time-consuming and is an art in itself anyway. Images can also be created using software but these can often look pretty basic unless you're a skilled graphic designer. And downloading images straight from the internet is not a good idea as this will most likely infringe copyright rules somewhere along the line.
Many web designers, especially those creating web templates for others to download, will use copyright free images from sites such as www.pdphoto.org and www.wikimediacommons.co.uk, together with photo-editing software such as Paint Shop Pro, PhotoShop or Macromedia Fireworks.