Lately, while browsing on the Internet you may be encountering a
trend in websites that are using the parallax effect or parallax
scrolling.
Parallax scrolling is a special scrolling technique in
computer graphics, wherein background images move by the camera slower
than foreground images, creating an illusion of depth and adding to the
immersion. This effect also changes depending on the position of the
viewer.
The parallax scrolling effect was sometimes used in
computer games in 90’s. In these games, the technique of parallax can be
seen when multiple background layers with different textures, are
overlapping each other and are moving at different speeds.
The
same principle is used to implement the parallax scrolling effect on a
website. Using this effect on a website, creates an illusion of 3D space
and thus makes an interesting and fun website experience. Parallax
scrolling is a process of simple animation that creates illusion of
depth. Scrolling can be executed either vertically or horizontally, or
not in a straight line.
This effect can optimize websites
especially websites designed for selling products. Parallax scrolling is
not really suitable for news sites, portals, social networks or forums.
Parallax scrolling is a great way to makeover or refresh a website that
doesn’t have a lot of content.
What if your site consists
only of little content/information with your contact information? And,
let’s just say, it is a basic, template, informational one-page website,
now if you add the parallax scrolling effect, this would instantly turn
it into an interesting and catchy website.
I have some
examples for you. Look at the following examples of sites with the
parallax effect. But I have to warn you, this effect is so compelling
that you’ll definitely want to try it on your own website ;).
No scroll: mortenstrid.no
Horizontal scrolling: www.laurentiuswonen.com/jaarverslag2010
Vertical scrolling: www.iutopi.com
See also:
Tips to Make Your Website iPad Friendly
Top 5 Trends in Web Design
