saving/loading image

[role]

hi guys... i have completed my map editor

but i have to load all images to create a small map.
therefore many images that i don't use, but i still have to

load it.

then i think i want to create the map using

MemoryImageSource, saving pixel by pixel.
but (once again) i don't know how to use it, i have lack

knowledge about color.

anyone can show me links about saving/loading an image to a

file? or a code maybe?
and how the performance if i using MemoryImageSource? slow or

fast? and i only use AWT for my game


thanxx