As I discussed in the previous article, So, What's Next?, website elements are what tie a site together and give it a cohesive feel. They include such things as the background (whether a picture or simple color), colored scrollbars, graphical buttons (actual images that are clickable or that simply convey a message), images (photographs, bookcovers, etc.), forms (such as email and feedback forms that are interactive), etc.
Most graphical elements, like simple background colors can easily be accomplished with the use of CSS and HTML, but others like graphical buttons and images take a little more work. Depending on the look you want, you might need to either purchase the services of a graphic designer, purchase basic or advanced graphic design software, or download a free image manipulator.
Please keep in mind we are not endorsing any of these products, services or tutorials, only providing you with the insight to find them and, hopefully, make an informed decision on which one will work best for your needs.
Free Image Manipulation Software:
Free Software Tutorials:
There are a number of graphic design software packages available. I've found that Adobe is the one most commonly known and used. The following Adobe products are listed in order from the simplest to most complex (and cheapest to most expensive).
Graphic Design Software:
Now, for the more adventurous and advanced users, Adobe makes a suite that encompasses full new versions of Photoshop CS2, Illustrator CS2, InDesign CS2, GoLive CS2, and Acrobat 7.0 Professional. This might be a bit much for the beginner, and it is definitely the most expensive software referenced in this article but I wanted to make sure you know all the options.
Adobe Creative Suite Premium
Adobe Photoshop Tutorials:
For those who don't know how or can't draw (freehand or otherwise), you'll need to have images to manipulate. You can find a great deal of them online at stock photo places or you can buy stock photo cds. And, there are also many places online where you can find free clipart. Be sure to watch copyrights! Most artists/websites/cds will allow you to use images for private (not for sale) use.
Stock Photos:
Downloadable Clip Art:
Stock Photo & Clip Art CDS:
Font CDS & Sites:
If you don't want to make your own graphical elements, there is absolutely no shame in hiring it out. It can be very time consuming. But you might want to at least try it with some of the freebies first. You could find you enjoy it.
I believe by this point, you should have your content figured out, your layout decided upon, your color scheme in action, and now you'll be tying it all together with the little touches that will make your website reflect you and what you want to convey to visitors.
Ready for the next step? Check out the next article, Step 5: Hosting
This article was written in conjunction with a free workshop given in the WeWriteRomance.com forums.