Firefighter Web Graphics

Different Types of Firefighter Web Graphics

Web graphics can take a few different formats. Some formats are animated, while others are static. Some are actual personal pictures, while others are posed stock photographs. For the purposes of web design, the most common graphics are JPEG files and GIF files.

• A JPEG file is an image file with a particular standard of image compression. JPEG stands for “Joint Photographic Experts Group.” Most images seen on the Internet are JPEG files.
• A “GIF” is another type of image file. GIF stands for “Graphic Interface File.” There are two main types of GIF – a standard GIF and a transparent GIF. A transparent GIF is an image where the white background is transparent, and only the body of the image is visible. This particular type of image is good for use with floating graphics and tight text wraps.

The difference between a JPEG and a GIF is that GIF images offer the options of transparency, animation, and are excellent for smaller color palettes, such as cartoon, etc. JPEG images are higher resolution and can compress photographs to a more manageable size without loss of quality. There are, of course, other types of files used for firefighter web graphics, such as animated files or Flash files.

Different Uses for Firefighter Graphics

There are many reasons why a website might require firefighter web graphics. Usually, website home pages will have an image or two to both break up the text and to attract the web page viewer. A strong photographic image would be best for this purpose. If the tone of the website is to support firefighters, or some sort of positive public relations exercise, then a picture of a smiling or friendly firefighter would do the trick. A more serious website concerning the dangers of the occupation or the possibility of injuries, might call for a more somber image. However, a light-hearted dedication site, such as a child-friendly firefighting site designed to educate youngsters about the dangers of fire, might make judicious use of animated graphics, transparent GIF bullet points, and cartoon images to keep the young website visitor entertained and interested.

Where to Find Good Graphics

There are numerous sources where good web graphics are readily available. Every type of image from animated to photographic to cartoons is on the Internet. Some sites that offer images are paid sites, where the user must pay a royalty, subscription or license fee for use of the images. Examples of such sites are:

• Shutterstock
• iStockPhoto
• GettyImages

There are also free graphics sites available, where nothing more than credit to the artist is required in return for use of the images. In some cases, particularly with free GIF files, no credit needs to be given at all, although a reciprocal link is always appreciated:

• Stck.Xchng
• MorgueFile
• GIF Animations

Whatever the need, there is an abundance of images available on the Internet to enhance any website that requires firefighter graphics. The trick is to select the ones that are necessary for the site and to use them well.