Loading ...Creating a Custom Preloader in Flash CS3
by Greg Lunn - January 21, 2008
The ability to create a custom preloader is a must in any Flash developer’s toolbox, but the process is very different in ActionScript 3.0. External files are no longer loaded into a waiting empty movie clip on the stage like you might have done in earlier versions. Instead images, SWF files, and any other external content are loaded using the Loader class. The process is different, but not difficult. Let’s put together a basic custom preloader that can be used in a Flash movie for loading external images or other SWF files. »
Loading ...Adding a Poster Frame to Flash Video
by Greg Lunn - January 16, 2008
One of the new features of the video playback component in Flash CS3 is the ability to assign a preview image, or a poster frame, to an FLV to make it easier to position and adjust. However, this new feature comes with a footnote that reads, “The preview image is displayed at authoring time only. To generate a runtime preview image, use the export button and load the image back by writing your own ActionScript.” Unfortunately, the missing ActionScript is not included in the documentation. In this tutorial, I will show you one way to include a poster frame in front of a Flash video. »
Loading ...Full-Screen Video in Flash CS3
by Greg Lunn - July 10, 2007
One of the best new features in Flash Player 9 is its ability to play video full-screen, using the same outside-the-browser technique you’ve seen on YouTube and other video sites. One click opens the video to the full width of your monitor with a black background, and even includes a message letting the user know that they can return to their desktop by pressing the Esc key. Here’s the best part: using Flash CS3, you can add full-screen capability to your Flash video without writing a single line of ActionScript, and with only a tiny change to your HTML. Let’s take a look at how easy it can be. »
Loading ...Using the Tween Class
by Greg Lunn - July 2, 2007
In the past, if you wanted to create a bouncing animation using code, you’d spend hours pouring over physics equations and adjusting variables until you got it just right. By using the Tween class instead, you can create the same effect with just a few lines of code, and skip the high school physics review. A recent project gave me a chance to play with the Tween class, a relatively obscure set of scripts that can be used to create varying programmatic animation. »
Loading ...Drag and Drop in ActionScript 3.0
by Greg Lunn - June 14, 2007
Creating drag and drop functionality in Flash CS3 is quite different than in older versions if you’re using the new ActionScript 3.0. While still relatively straightforward, the code can be a little more intimidating to users who are less familiar with ActionScript programming. If you’re like me, you’re here to try to keep your knowledge up-to-date, so let’s learn how to create a simple ActionScript 3.0 drag and drop game step-by-step. Download the FLA and follow along with these steps. »
