what the best software "flash"

[Hummingbird]

hi

i'm going to start to do flash what is the best software for doing this
i would like something easy to use,i have no knowleadge of flash so any help on the best software to to buy would be helpful

nice one andy

[Jacorre]

The only program I've used for Flash is Adobe Flash. Adobe - Flash CS3 Professional, Interactive Multimedia, Interactive Design. Like any application it will take time to learn but there are many tutorials out there for it. Not sure if there are other programs out there for Flash that are easier to use?

[notjustgraphics]

Hey Andy!

I highly recommend considering Swish MAX available here: SWiSH - Easy Flash Animation Software Tools, Templates & Tutorials

It is an extremely well supported and affordable alternative to Macromedia/Adobe Flash and compiled elements are nearly interchangeable.

Admitedly there are some advanced functions in Macromedia/Adobe's version that are not in Swish, but for 99% of developers, Swish is more than enough!

I find the Swish interface a little less pretty, but much more convenient than Macromedia's... The way you interact with the timeline is a little more intuitive and the built in and guided scripting functions are definately beginner friendly.

I'd say start here and work up to Adobe Flash when you need too...

Mike.

[SonOfSane]

Adobe flash would be my first. But it is like any new graphic/desgin application and has alot of fancy buttons and "stuff" you are not going to understand right away. Swish Max is a great alternative to Adobe that lacks some features but to most consumers will never reall be missed.

It also depends what you want to do in flash. if it just a few cool things you want to do there are some smaller application used for basic flash animation that could possibly be of use to you.

[Hummingbird]

thanks everyone for the input

i'll think i'll try swish max i've downloaded it and have given it a go i've pick up on things allready and having fun with it, i'm just trying to make a bird fly across the screen into someones hand,i don't know if i can do it but i'll get there,can i cut out images like i can in photoshop so the bird ain't in a square because it's going to look well naff,i ain't going to ask anymore questions unless i really stuck

thanks andy