Loading...loading....loading...
Flash content can be eye-catching and dynamic.. but what if it just won't load fast enough! Will a viewer stay on your page if the content doesn't immediately load? Sometimes yes, sometimes no. I will share a few tips to make your Flash content load faster..
The first two options relate to Flash content that contains rasterized images like .jpg's. I've borrowed these from a site called http://www.sitepoint.com/article/steps-faster-flash.
Change the JPG setting of your images:
Open up your library by hitting CTRL + L, and locate your imported .jpg. Right-click on it and go to properties. Uncheck 'use imported JPEG data' and you'll find that you can adjust the image quality. You will have to play with the quality setting until you find a happy medium of appearance vs. file size. I always adjust this setting -- it alone can make a huge difference to your file size.
Load Images Dynamically
A great new feature of MX is that it gives you the ability to load .jpg graphics dynamically. This is achieved in the same way you would load an external .swf -- using the loadMovie() action. Add a MovieClip to the stage and give it and instance name of "imageholder". Then add the following actionscript to a keyframe:
loadMovie("name_of_jpg.jpg","imageholder");
Warning! Progressive JPEG images do not appear when loaded dynamically using the loadMovie action.
Re-use Symbols and Instances in Flash
You have the option to create symbols, movie clips, and graphics that can be added to your library and re-used throughout your project. If you are using multiple instances of the same object, then the browser only has to load that symbol once, regardless of how many times it has been placed in your movie. If you need to alter a symbol, use the Break Apart command, and then you will be able to make adjustments to it.
Smoothing
If you are having a problem with pixelated images, you can try using the smooth option under the settings for your raster graphic. In the Library, right click on your image and choose properties. When the window pops open, there will be a check box for "smooth". If you click on this option, Flash will smooth out any issues with pixels that your movie has had.
**Note that this is not a good option to use if you are trying to show a high resolution image as it will soften the appearance.**
Adjust Export Settings
When exporting your .swf file from Flash, go into the settings and make sure that the quality is set properly. Most times, you don't need to have web content set to 100%. This will somewhat reduce your file size. Also remember to check on audio and playback settings.
Google Search
There are constantly new changes being made to internet technology. On occasion I would recommend a thorough google search for any new tips that might be circulating out there!
The first two options relate to Flash content that contains rasterized images like .jpg's. I've borrowed these from a site called http://www.sitepoint.com/article/steps-faster-flash.
Change the JPG setting of your images:
Open up your library by hitting CTRL + L, and locate your imported .jpg. Right-click on it and go to properties. Uncheck 'use imported JPEG data' and you'll find that you can adjust the image quality. You will have to play with the quality setting until you find a happy medium of appearance vs. file size. I always adjust this setting -- it alone can make a huge difference to your file size.
Load Images Dynamically
A great new feature of MX is that it gives you the ability to load .jpg graphics dynamically. This is achieved in the same way you would load an external .swf -- using the loadMovie() action. Add a MovieClip to the stage and give it and instance name of "imageholder". Then add the following actionscript to a keyframe:
loadMovie("name_of_jpg.jpg","imageholder");
Warning! Progressive JPEG images do not appear when loaded dynamically using the loadMovie action.
Re-use Symbols and Instances in Flash
You have the option to create symbols, movie clips, and graphics that can be added to your library and re-used throughout your project. If you are using multiple instances of the same object, then the browser only has to load that symbol once, regardless of how many times it has been placed in your movie. If you need to alter a symbol, use the Break Apart command, and then you will be able to make adjustments to it.
Smoothing
If you are having a problem with pixelated images, you can try using the smooth option under the settings for your raster graphic. In the Library, right click on your image and choose properties. When the window pops open, there will be a check box for "smooth". If you click on this option, Flash will smooth out any issues with pixels that your movie has had.
**Note that this is not a good option to use if you are trying to show a high resolution image as it will soften the appearance.**
Adjust Export Settings
When exporting your .swf file from Flash, go into the settings and make sure that the quality is set properly. Most times, you don't need to have web content set to 100%. This will somewhat reduce your file size. Also remember to check on audio and playback settings.
Google Search
There are constantly new changes being made to internet technology. On occasion I would recommend a thorough google search for any new tips that might be circulating out there!
Labels: Flash Movie, Flash Player, jpg, Load faster, swf
posted by Jessica - evolveALOUD, LLC @ 8:35 AM
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