Why ImageCreateFromGIF/JPEG/PNG

[Anon]

For what reason would one choose to use the ImageCreateFrom... function instead of simply ImageCreate. If you've already got the image file it seems like you'd just want to use it directly. And if you're modifying it, what advantage is their to starting with an existing image. ... Oh, maybe I've answered my question. If you start with an existing image can you add stuff to it?
--David

[Anon]

Yep. You got it.

You can use PHP to modify images on the fly.

Let's say you sell downloadable graphics. You want to be able to show off your images without giving them away. You could use PHP to add a layer with a "SAMPLE ONLY" message or a "COPYRIGHT" text across it. Or any other kind of distortion you want to do. All without having to create and store a new image!

Isn't PHP great!

Jack

[Anon]

PHP is great indeed.

It's been mentioned before;
You can use the image functions to create new buttons on the fly. For ex; a button with a user's name on it to personalise a site. Or a button with today's date.
The possibilities are endless.

My personal favourite is for graphs etc.
I have a few guages and grids that php functions
can draw in. Works great.