Introduction
Images are both used and abused by web page creators. The old adage "a
picture is worth a thousand words" has to be treated with caution, as images
on web pages have quite often been used for pure decoration, and as such
perform no useful purpose. However, a well placed image can illustrate a
complex point, which might otherwise be more difficult to express in words.
This tutorial will explore the issues surrounding the use of images on web
pages. We will emphasise 'correct' use, and come up with a list of guidelines
which will help when using images with your websites.
Types of image
There are two main types of image, and these are
Each of these are available in many different formats. However, web page
standards currently only support three formats of bitmap images (.gif, .png and .jpg), and
no
vector images.
Vector images and other formats of bitmap image need the
use of a 'plugin' or other form of operating system support for them to
be displayed within a web page as well as using different XHTML syntax. This is
only dealt with at a simple level in this tutorial. For more information
see the Embedded Media tutorial.