WEB PUBLISHING
COMPUTERS
Computer Buying
Computer Building
AUDIO / VIDEO
Camcorders
GENERAL INFO.
FEATURES
The Webcast
The Forum
Monthly Broadcast
Why Widescreen?
HDTV Images
HOME
How do I change the background color or use a picture as a background?

White is the most common background color for major web sites, but that doesn't mean you can't use something else.

In most programs, you'll find a "Page Properties" or similar menu item that will allow you to change the background to something other than the default white. For example, in Dreamweaver, look for the "Page Properties" section under the "Modify" menu. In GoLive, click on the arrow next to the work "Head" near the top of your document window. At this point, you can choose a solid color or a graphic element. Usually, the graphic element forms a repeating pattern since it's usually just a small element.

If you choose to use a graphic, keep it simple so it doesn't detract from the content of the site. For fastest load times, choose simple colors and save the graphic as a GIF file. Try to keep your image under 150 pixels square so it loads quickly.

If the background is merely providing "pilar bars" on either side of a centered page (like on this site), you don't have to worry about interfering with text elements. However, if you plan to use the background element behind the actual body content portion of your page, make sure it doesn't obscure the text on the page. Allow plenty of contrast between the graphic and the text (i.e. a very dark background and very light colored text). You may wish to blur the background element slightly when you create it in your graphics software so hard edges won't make the text difficult to read.

When you choose to use a graphic element as a background, also choose a solid color that closely matches the main color of the graphic. This way, you won't have a white background while a visitor's slow Internet connection loads the graphic file. For example, we have a background color that matches the base color that appears behind the repeating "GF" logo. This way, only the logo appears to be missing if the background takes a bit of extra time to load or the browser fails to load it.


©Copyright 2003-2007 Kimberlite Productions and GadgetFAQs.com
No part of this site may be reproduced or redistributed without written permission.

Some of the tips and advice may void your equipment or service warranty. When in doubt, consult your owners manual and/or seek professional assistance. GadgetFAQs.com does not recommend performing any task that may damage your equipment, void your warranty or violate applicable laws. The use of certain software may violate DMCA or other copyright laws. Since laws vary, depending upon your location, check local regulations regarding any activities you choose to engage in.

Apple, Ipod, ITunes, Windows, DirecTV, Dish Network, Dell, Blu-Ray, HD-DVD and other product names are trademarks of their respective owners. Use of those names is for review or demonstation purposes only. No infringement is intended or should be implied. In addition, no endorsement should be inferred.

GadgetFAQs.com is not responsible for the content of any outside site it may be linked to. In addition, GadgetFAQs.com is not responsible for any innaccurate or deceptive claims made by any outside web site. Links from GadgetFAQs.com to other sites does not imply our endorsement of those sites.