Larger Flash keyframe number, please! Jul22 '04

One of my "pet peeves" with developing sites in Flash is the tiny keyframe number, which indicates the current keyframe that you have selected. It’s just too small and unnoticeable.

In the above image, I’ve put a red box around the number, so everyone knows what I am referring to. Ironically enough, I’ve made it easier for YOU to find, yet while working in Flash, that red box is obviously not there, and the number blends in, making it hard for ME to find.

I often find that the current keyframe number is crucial in assisting with linear layout of animated elements.

These animated elements (movie clips) lie on this timeline of keyframes, much like an "animated flip book" is made up of dozens of pages with static pictures on each page – and when you flip through the pages real fast, you see the animation performed.

Flash uses this same concept, except animation in Flash is much more smooth and precise.

The keyframe number is something my eyes are always searching for. When working in Flash, you need to always know where you are – or, in other words – what keyframe you are on. And since this number is so important, you’d think it could be just a bit larger? Maybe?

It strains my eyes to always have to search for it amongst those other tiny numbers and widgets, in that same region.

My suggestions

So... being the innovator that I am, I am going to offer some suggestions on more consistent (and bigger!) places to showcase the keyframe number in Flash.

Properties panel

The "Properties" panel is a good spot. This panel can be moved around, so it can be closer to the timeline, if you move it there. I would like having it in a panel like this, because then I can move it wherever I want.

"Edit" tool bar

Or how about in the upper right corner... in the "Edit" tool bar? This is a convenient location, because there is not much up there.

Perhaps these suggestions are good, or perhaps not. Either way, I may consider pointing Macromedia to this entry, as a way of offering suggestions. You never know. Future versions of Flash may show the improvement from my suggestion!

Categories: Software

Add Feedback (view all)

Leave feedback

Feedback

Input format: The editor controls below will assist with Markdown syntax.

Status

Sub-status

Your info Name: Email (will not show on page):

Follow new comments via email? (You can turn this off any time)

Do you want your comments emailed to yourself?

Home Page (optional):

matthom is published and produced by Matt Thommes - an independent publishing enthusiast, mobile blogger, content creator, informative writer, web developer from Chicago. Never one to conform, Matt intends to promote the effect the web has on our lives, in an effort to intensify, instruct, and clarify all that is happening around us.