Joomla is perhaps one of the most versatile and hugely popular open source Content Management Systems (CMS). Apart from managing content on web, it is also a web application framework which can be accessed independently. A Joomla template differs from a Website template from the fact that, once you install Joomla and apply it, without any further coding experience you can work with the Joomla configuration. Wish to design a photo gallery template? Joomla is the right platform and to learn how, you are in the right page!
Having assumed that Joomla platform is downloaded and installed in your system and with a little command over HTML, CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) and PHP, get going with designing your own template on Dreamweaver or just a notepad. Before that let’s have a quick glance of what a Joomla Template actually is. It is simply a directory located in the installations “template” directory which Joomla uses to incorporate unique look and feel to your website. Interestingly the template developers prepare these files and package them as Joomla Photo Gallery Templates and we unknowingly install them here, getting instant make over for the templates!
The main template file is ‘index.php’, which defines the Joomla template structure. index.php is nothing but a set of html codes with php tags in necessary locations. It basically commands as to where to load the content and components. ‘templatedetails.xml’ file, holding the name, type and other parameters is recognized for its existence by Joomla, is another key file. There are n number of sites which can give this file for free and readily transferred by filling up simple forms online. Save time and effort in creating this particular file. ‘template_css.css’ in the css directory has all the template style sheets which direct fonts, colors and style for your template. Similarly, for better organizational structure create directories for images, thumbnails and texts. It has the merits of easy editable features and trouble shooting among the others. Most versions of Joomla platform follow this structure, but note that 1.5 and above have ‘style.css’as the extension for naming its template css files. Joomla add ons like RSGallery can be downloaded and installed to give that edge of special functionality to your photo gallery template.
With these tools and tips, go ahead and explore the Joomla in creating breathtaking photo gallery templates. As a creative and unique template involves one’s own styles and effects, few elements like slide shows, auto resize and watermarking, thumbnail creator, download and upload options for visitors, comments and polls and so on can impart a breathtaking effect of a dynamic template. No doubt it involves sweat and blood; but the fruits you reap are sweeter!
Sat, Nov 26, 2011
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