Graphics are a value-added enhancement to your Web pages. Therefore, think of them as the frosting on the cake. Don't go hog-wild trying to create eye-popping graphics for your Web pages until you've managed to develop their content. Bake the cake first, in other words, and then add the frosting.
In this appendix, the following topics are covered:
Choosing an image editor
Understanding image formats
Creating text banners
Creating interlaced and transparent GIF images
Optimizing GIF and JPEG images
Using gradient fills and drop shadow effects
Creating graphic buttons, bars, and balls