Best practices, using images

[pnj]

When I import an image (.jpg/.png) into Flash CS4, it creates a symbol as well as the original image in the library.

What one of these is better to put on the stage? Or does it matter?

thanks.

[wizardgus]

hey, I'm not exactly an expert in Flash, but I think the image format you wish to use will most likely depend on what you want to use it for. If it's icons or graphics on your site, I would personally use .gif given that the size is smaller and the quality relatively good. I prefer to use .jpeg for displaying pictures (like a portfolio or a slideshow). Never really used PNG, but my guess is that whichever one of those two formats can give you a good quality with a fairly low memory size is the one you should use. The goal for internet sites is the lowest possible size (for quick downloading) with the best possible quality. I hope this helps

[pnj]

that doesn't answer my question.... what should I put on the stage, the .png or the symbol that is created when I import the .png?

[ASWC]

It really depends on what you want to do with it. The jpg/.png as it can't be referenced by code unless you check export for actionscript. On the other hand the symbol can be turned into a movieclip and referenced by code. You can delete the symbol if you don't use it and use only the jpg/png version while the opposite is not true (deleting the jpg/png would empty the symbol).

[snickelfritz]

You're going to embed the image in a movieclip or graphic symbol anyway.
The importer just saves you that step, by creating the symbol for you automatically.

[wizardgus]

sorry, I had misunderstood your question. If you are doing a website then I recommend to use the symbol (movieclip, graphic, or button) even when you will not touch it with the code, it keeps things on your site clean and neat and it gives you a higher chance to correct mistakes.