When it comes to selecting a Web graphics program, there are so many choices it can often be difficult to determine which program is right for you. While the tendency is to want to go with the most popular program available, that's not always the most appropriate option for every person's needs. I hope to help you make the best choice for your needs by summarizing the most likely candidates. Those indicated as companion tools would not be appropriate as your only Web graphics tool.
1. Adobe Photoshop
Photoshop is one of the most advanced and versatile programs available, and most professional Web developers will want to have Photoshop in their arsenal of tools. Although Photoshop no longer comes bundled with ImageReady, over the years, many Web graphics features have been included in Photoshop. Photoshop now provides tools and features for creating GIF animations, image slicing and optimization, batch processing and automation. It integrates tightly with Adobe's other products such as Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Fireworks, Flash, and GoLive.
2. Adobe Fireworks
Fireworks was developed from the ground up specifically to meet the needs of professional Web designers. Fireworks features tight integration with Macromedia's other products (now owned by Adobe) such as the vector-based animation tool, Flash and Dreamweaver, a popular Web page editor among professionals. Fireworks is only capable of working within the RGB color environment, so it's not an appropriate choice for working with images intended for commercial printing. Fireworks integrates tightly with Adobe's other products such as Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, and Flash.3. Stone Studio
This Web design suite for Mac OS X includes Create, PhotoToWeb, PStill, GIFfun, Slice & Dice, Pack Up & Go, and TimeEqualsMoney. Create is the primary Web design component and can be purchased individually. It offers text and drawing tools, effects, automated Web page production, content development, and page layout features. PhotoToWeb allows you to create Web photo albums and slide shows. GIFfun creates animated banners. SliceAndDice creates image maps and navigation bars. Companion tools.4. Adobe Photoshop Elements
Photoshop Elements is built around core elements of the Adobe Photoshop interface and feature set without the high-end features. Elements is primarily a tool for photo editing, processing, and enhancement, but it can also function for creating Web graphics such as buttons, banners, animations and Web galleries for personal and business use. It's designed primarily for amateur photographers, digital imaging enthusiasts, and small business users.Last Updated: Dec. 2008
