What materials should a web designer using Photoshop send to a developer?

Question

I have been implementing mainly web and desktop applications and this is the first time that I actually started working with a graphic designer on a web site that is for public use. In this case the graphic designer is not doing HTML + CSS, but using Photoshop. What kind of material is normally provided as an end result in order for the design to be actually implemented? For example, should I get something more than just PSD files? How about different states (like link hover, active state etc.) or responsive design? Am I expecting too technical details? Any help appreciated.

Answer 1

In recent years, Photoshop has been replaced by programs like Sketch and Adobe XD as the industry standard for providing design specs to developers. That said, it's still possible to use Photoshop for this with a little more work. Thorough designers can create mockups for each page or state (including hover states, expanded menus, etc). You can create separate mockups for mobile, tablet, and desktop (those newer programs include responsive design features that make resizing easier). You might create layers with specs and notes regarding color, type size etc. If these notes are made in Photoshop layers, they can be easily turned on or off so that developers can refer to them when necessary. Thanks, and I hope this helps!