Transforming Objects - MACROMEDIA FLASH MX 2004-USING FLASH Use Manual

Transforming objects

You can transform graphic objects, as well as groups, text blocks, and instances, by using the Free
Transform tool or the options in the Modify > Transform submenu. Depending on the type of
element you select, you can freely transform, rotate, skew, scale, or distort the element. You can
change or add to a selection during a transformation operation.
When you transform an object, group, text box, or instance, the Property inspector for that item
displays any changes made to the item's dimensions or position.
A bounding box is displayed during transform operations that involve dragging. The bounding
box is rectangular (unless it has been modified with the Distort command or the Envelope
modifier; see "Distorting objects" on page 152
modifier" on page
handles are located on each corner and in the middle of each side. As you drag, the bounding box
previews the transformations.
Working with the center point during transformations
During a transformation, a transformation point appears at the center of a selected element. The
transformation point is initially aligned with the object's center point. You can move the
transformation point, and you can return it to its default location.
For scaling, skewing, or rotating graphic objects, groups, and text blocks, the point opposite the
point you drag is the point of origin by default. For instances, the transformation point is the
point of origin by default. You can move the default point of origin for a transformation.
You can track the location of the transformation point in the Info panel, and in the Property
inspector for the graphic object.
To move the transformation point during a transform operation:
•
Drag the transformation point.
To realign the transformation point with the element's center point:
•
Double-click the transformation point.
To switch the point of origin for a scale or skew transformation:
•
Alt-drag (Windows) or Option-drag (Macintosh) during the transformation.
To track the location of the transformation point in the Info panel and Property inspector:
•
In the Info panel, click the center square in the coordinate grid to select it.
The selected square becomes black.
150 Chapter 8: Working with Graphic Objects
152) with its edges initially aligned to the edges of the Stage. Transformation
and "Modifying shapes with the Envelope