GSoC 2008 Picture Browser

Rationale

Importing images is one of Scribus's core features and is already implemented. However, it lacks a proper and easy to use picture browser to make the selection of pictures from large collections easier.

Motivation

My motivation for this project is that i think this feature will greatly improve image handling in Scribus and I plan to deliver a vital contribution for all Scribus users (including myself). Furthermore, I like playing around with graphics and UI design, so that adding this feature corresponds with my personal interests.

Overview

The basic goal is to create a picture browser which allows the users to select images from a neatly arranged preview with just a few clicks. Adding eyecandy like pictureflow will enhance the browsers usability. Further features could include the displaying of metainfo and the support of digital cameras.

Details

Picture Flow

Previous experience

I have no previous experience with PictureFlow, but i think getting familiar won't be a problem.

Implementation

Accessing the picture browser will be possible from the context menu of the desired pictureframe as well as from the regular File/Open dialogue option, which will enable you to create a new pictureframe containing your image. The picture browser will use the exisiting and possibly the new image fileformat plugins to make sure it can display all imagetypes supported by scribus.

Existing work

For the basic structure, i will orientate myself by OpenOffice's gallery as well as other well-established picture browsers. Picture flow capability can be taken from the homonymous program which can be implemented quite easily.

User interface

I think the best solution is to keep this as simple as possible, just a section on the left where you can browse through your folders, and a preview section right next to it showing the images of the selected folder (if desired using PictureFlow).