Video games have been a big part of culture since the 1970's and 1980's. The medium has been making an impact on society in more ways than one. That said, video games have been largely confined to a single room. Even with portable gaming through dedicated handhelds and smartphones, nine times out of ten the games take place indoors.
Two companies are planning to change that. Nintendo and Niantic Labs have been developing apps; Pokemon Go for the former, and Ingress for the latter. Pokemon Go has players catching and training the titular creatures while encouraging them to go outside instead of confining themselves into a room to play. Ingress is a competitive social game where dozens of players get together either as the Enlightened or the Resistance. Think geocaching combined with gaming and you get the idea. While Pokemon Go is going to be released somewhere in 2016, Ingress is available on iTunes and Google Play now.
The greatness of these two games are that they require people to go outside to get their gaming done. Not even Candy Crush or Words With Friends can do that. In the process, there's a possibility that players can make new friends in their outdoor ventures. That would mark a compromise between playing video games and going outside.
Of course, there's the possibility of meeting those random strangers that may have bad intentions. There are, after all, adult players in addition to children playing these games. Also, people have been protective of their data because of events unfolding around the world. They fear their data may be sold to other companies or even government agencies. No comment has been made at this time, but it does raise some questions about safety and privacy.
Overall, even with the controversy I applaud companies making an effort to make games that enable people to leave their homes and see the world. It would encourage players to see actual living beings, rather than some username on an online service. Even better, it would stop the racial slurs being spouted by kids playing Call of Duty and make them realize who they're actually talking to. That's definitely a positive that can be thought of in the age of mobile gaming.
Read more about Ingress and Pokemon Go on slate here: http://www.slate.com/articles/technology/future_tense/2015/09/ingress_a_video_game_that_inspires_people_to_go_outside.html
Download Ingress on Android here: Ingress - Android Apps on Google Play
Download Ingress on iTunes here: Ingress on the App Store
Tuesday, September 29, 2015
Saturday, September 26, 2015
Bing: The Search Engine That Pays
Search engines on the internet have made it possible for people with a computer or smartphone to find anything in no time at all. Google started this trend back in the 1990's and it's been big business ever since. That said, Google couldn't monopolize search engines forever. Internet sites like Yahoo and Ask.com rose to fill in niches that Google couldn't and in some cases get a piece of that technological pie.
One of those sites was Microsoft's Bing, which also rose to compete against Google. The second largest search engine in the world, Bing has had a very large history. It started out life as a search engine for MSN, before evolving into Windows Live search; then simply Live Search; and now Bing.
Bing stands out against Google by having multiple interface features; being able to preview video content; adjustable image and video search functions; instant answers; and integration with services like Facebook, Apple and Hotmail.
What also makes them stand out is their rewards program. Basically, through connecting a Microsoft account uses can use Bing to earn credits for searches; referrals; and bonuses. Earning enough credits nets users rewards like gift cards; credit for Skype; or even entries to contests for big prizes. While Google has a rewards program of their own, it requires users to have an add-on for their Chrome browsers. Bing can be used on any computer and on any web browsers.
Overall, Bing has been a well-competing search engine for some time now. It's gone through many changes and upgrades, but still stands the test of time against the five hundred pound gorilla of the internet. It's a testament to competition on the scale of the internet.
One of those sites was Microsoft's Bing, which also rose to compete against Google. The second largest search engine in the world, Bing has had a very large history. It started out life as a search engine for MSN, before evolving into Windows Live search; then simply Live Search; and now Bing.
Bing stands out against Google by having multiple interface features; being able to preview video content; adjustable image and video search functions; instant answers; and integration with services like Facebook, Apple and Hotmail.
What also makes them stand out is their rewards program. Basically, through connecting a Microsoft account uses can use Bing to earn credits for searches; referrals; and bonuses. Earning enough credits nets users rewards like gift cards; credit for Skype; or even entries to contests for big prizes. While Google has a rewards program of their own, it requires users to have an add-on for their Chrome browsers. Bing can be used on any computer and on any web browsers.
Overall, Bing has been a well-competing search engine for some time now. It's gone through many changes and upgrades, but still stands the test of time against the five hundred pound gorilla of the internet. It's a testament to competition on the scale of the internet.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
The #PerformanceMatters movement, and why it matters to me
Okay, before I go into details I was going to make a post about a service I use on a daily basis. Because of the importance of this topic, however, I'm going to have to postpone it until the next post.
Now then, onto the main event. I was on my Twitter account looking for pages and people to follow. As I was doing so, two hashtags caught my eye. They were #PerformanceMatters and #iAmOnBoard2015. I had a hard time figuring the two out and it wasn't until I dug further into various Twitter accounts and did a search on them did I learn the nature of them. I even took the liberty of spreading the word and mentioning two voice actors that I follow.
The voice actors I follow and am fans of are typically part of a labor union, which is an organization representing people part of a trade. In the case of these voice actors, they're part of two unions; the SAG, or Screen Actors Guild, and the AFTRA, or the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. These unions, in addition to providing benefits associated with other trade unions, make it possible for voice actors to provide their talents in anything that requires voice work.
Primarily it applies to video games and animation, but there are other mediums that the SAG-AFTRA covers, such as commercials; news reports; and even sound recordings. In the case of this topic, it's about video games and voice work in them. It's also about the treatment and payment of voice actors as well.
Relating to the hashtags and the unions, the SAG-AFTRA has been negotiating with employers to provide bonuses for a number of sales, downloads and subscriptions in games; stunt pay for stressful recordings; stunt coordinators for safer motion capture; and transparency of what union members were getting into in terms of their work. Employers, on the other hand, have not only rejected these negotiations but even had proposals of their own.
These proposals consist of letting producers charge $2,500 fines for actors being late or even any reason they can think of; fining agents large sums of money for not sending out voice actors to specified auditions; revoking SAG-AFTRA union franchises from agents for refusal
of submission to said aformentioned auditions; hiring their own workers to do motion capture work without dealing with unions to save money; and other proposals reducing fees and rolling back gains from SAG-AFTRA contracts. In short, cutting costs and punishing actors and agents for petty
reasons.
The agent franchise revoking set me off the most because of how agents would have to force voice actors to certain auditions or the agents in question lose their rights to send voice actors on union work. Some of this union work covered happens to be audiobooks, and that would affect potential authors such as myself hiring talent for audiobooks. While the topic is voice work in video games and the treatment of voice actors, the SAG-AFTRA union happens to cover audiobooks so this movement bears importance to me.
What I really want to say is that these voice actors are not just voice actors. They're hard working human beings like you and me, trying their damndest to earn an honest living in a world where work is a dime a dozen. I took this for granted in my younger years when I watched specific animations and played certain games, but as I got older I learned that the voices in those works weren't magic or artificial. They were the result of actual living beings doing what they love. While I won't go into details, I know of people struggling to earn a living because of powers beyond their control, such as careless corporations; self-centered politicians; and other groups and people that want to make things harder for everyone else. It's enough that a family member; friend or next door neighbor is having hard times working in the modern world, but when I hear of voice actors going through this trouble as well, that's a personal problem. This is especially taking in to consideration that most of the credentials of these voice actors consists of video games, and there's quite a few that I own that had the talents of these people.
Speaking of games and voice actors, here's my confessions. I may not buy every work that a certain voice actor has been in. I'm not into fighting games like BlazBlue or Mortal Kombat. I never liked Role Playing Games like Final Fantasy and Persona. I avoided the Silent Hill, Resident Evil and Metal Gear franchises despite being the owner of PlayStation video game consoles. I also admit that I buy video games and other voice heavy works based on what I enjoy, because they're hobbies to me.
Do I still support these voice actors despite these facts? Yes, greatly. If there's a medium or work that I like and if I hear a certain voice actor's voice or see a voice actor's name pop up on the credits of works that I like, that puts a smile on my face knowing that a work I like has been given life by people that I'm fans of. If these voice actors also like interests that I and any of their fans like, that also makes me happy and gives me incentive to support them even more.
The voice actors part of this union are voting to go on strike as we speak. While I myself cannot vote, support for this action is strong amongst readers and fans alike whether they play video games or not. Notice for this action has attracted the likes of Moviepilot and Variety, both of which are notable and reputable sources. Even Wil Wheaton and Jon Bailey, the former a Star Trek cast member and TV show host while the latter being the Honest Trailers voice person, are on the #PerformanceMatters bandwagon. It's only a matter of time before the strike happens and these major gaming companies wake up and learn that voice actors are not just people behind a microphone. It's time that these voice actors get the treatment they deserve.
Now then, onto the main event. I was on my Twitter account looking for pages and people to follow. As I was doing so, two hashtags caught my eye. They were #PerformanceMatters and #iAmOnBoard2015. I had a hard time figuring the two out and it wasn't until I dug further into various Twitter accounts and did a search on them did I learn the nature of them. I even took the liberty of spreading the word and mentioning two voice actors that I follow.
The voice actors I follow and am fans of are typically part of a labor union, which is an organization representing people part of a trade. In the case of these voice actors, they're part of two unions; the SAG, or Screen Actors Guild, and the AFTRA, or the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists. These unions, in addition to providing benefits associated with other trade unions, make it possible for voice actors to provide their talents in anything that requires voice work.
Primarily it applies to video games and animation, but there are other mediums that the SAG-AFTRA covers, such as commercials; news reports; and even sound recordings. In the case of this topic, it's about video games and voice work in them. It's also about the treatment and payment of voice actors as well.
Relating to the hashtags and the unions, the SAG-AFTRA has been negotiating with employers to provide bonuses for a number of sales, downloads and subscriptions in games; stunt pay for stressful recordings; stunt coordinators for safer motion capture; and transparency of what union members were getting into in terms of their work. Employers, on the other hand, have not only rejected these negotiations but even had proposals of their own.
These proposals consist of letting producers charge $2,500 fines for actors being late or even any reason they can think of; fining agents large sums of money for not sending out voice actors to specified auditions; revoking SAG-AFTRA union franchises from agents for refusal
of submission to said aformentioned auditions; hiring their own workers to do motion capture work without dealing with unions to save money; and other proposals reducing fees and rolling back gains from SAG-AFTRA contracts. In short, cutting costs and punishing actors and agents for petty
reasons.
The agent franchise revoking set me off the most because of how agents would have to force voice actors to certain auditions or the agents in question lose their rights to send voice actors on union work. Some of this union work covered happens to be audiobooks, and that would affect potential authors such as myself hiring talent for audiobooks. While the topic is voice work in video games and the treatment of voice actors, the SAG-AFTRA union happens to cover audiobooks so this movement bears importance to me.
What I really want to say is that these voice actors are not just voice actors. They're hard working human beings like you and me, trying their damndest to earn an honest living in a world where work is a dime a dozen. I took this for granted in my younger years when I watched specific animations and played certain games, but as I got older I learned that the voices in those works weren't magic or artificial. They were the result of actual living beings doing what they love. While I won't go into details, I know of people struggling to earn a living because of powers beyond their control, such as careless corporations; self-centered politicians; and other groups and people that want to make things harder for everyone else. It's enough that a family member; friend or next door neighbor is having hard times working in the modern world, but when I hear of voice actors going through this trouble as well, that's a personal problem. This is especially taking in to consideration that most of the credentials of these voice actors consists of video games, and there's quite a few that I own that had the talents of these people.
Speaking of games and voice actors, here's my confessions. I may not buy every work that a certain voice actor has been in. I'm not into fighting games like BlazBlue or Mortal Kombat. I never liked Role Playing Games like Final Fantasy and Persona. I avoided the Silent Hill, Resident Evil and Metal Gear franchises despite being the owner of PlayStation video game consoles. I also admit that I buy video games and other voice heavy works based on what I enjoy, because they're hobbies to me.
Do I still support these voice actors despite these facts? Yes, greatly. If there's a medium or work that I like and if I hear a certain voice actor's voice or see a voice actor's name pop up on the credits of works that I like, that puts a smile on my face knowing that a work I like has been given life by people that I'm fans of. If these voice actors also like interests that I and any of their fans like, that also makes me happy and gives me incentive to support them even more.
The voice actors part of this union are voting to go on strike as we speak. While I myself cannot vote, support for this action is strong amongst readers and fans alike whether they play video games or not. Notice for this action has attracted the likes of Moviepilot and Variety, both of which are notable and reputable sources. Even Wil Wheaton and Jon Bailey, the former a Star Trek cast member and TV show host while the latter being the Honest Trailers voice person, are on the #PerformanceMatters bandwagon. It's only a matter of time before the strike happens and these major gaming companies wake up and learn that voice actors are not just people behind a microphone. It's time that these voice actors get the treatment they deserve.
Sunday, September 20, 2015
A hub for USBs: The IOGEAR USB 3.0 Hub
USB devices are commonplace in the world nowadays. Card readers for SD cards have them; smartphones can connect to USB ports for charging and data; external devices like keyboards, mice and external drives require USB ports to even work. They're also evolving with different standards that increase compatibility and speed. Alas, as we get more devices with USB it gets harder to find places to plug them all in. Eventually, it comes down to finding a hub to connect everything.
A company named IOGEAR was one of many companies that heeded the call to make these products. Some succeeded in rising to the occasion, while others were left in the dust and forgotten. IOGEAR is best categorized in the former, thanks to their USB 3.0 SuperSpeed 4-Port hub. This USB hub offers the latest in offering extra space for USB devices. It utilizes USB 3.0, which is faster compared to USBs 2.0 and 1.1. Speaking of which, there is compatibility for the latter two in case you have devices that are not USB 3.0.
Installation is simple: plug in the power adapter to the USB hub; plug the USB cable into the hub and to your computer; and then let your computer find the drivers to the USB hub.
I've been using this for some time now and have yet to find any problems, so long as the hub is plugged in to the computer directly. This is great because I have a place for my many USB flash drives so I can back up small files and documents on them. I can also have a dedicated USB port for my external hard drive again to make room for the aforementioned USB flash drives. A great product for those looking for the latest USB hub.
The IOGEAR USB 3.0 hub can be purchased here: http://www.amazon.com/IOGEAR-SuperSpeed-USB-4-Port-GUH374/dp/B006DEBNLW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1442758073&sr=8-3&keywords=iogear+usb+hub
A company named IOGEAR was one of many companies that heeded the call to make these products. Some succeeded in rising to the occasion, while others were left in the dust and forgotten. IOGEAR is best categorized in the former, thanks to their USB 3.0 SuperSpeed 4-Port hub. This USB hub offers the latest in offering extra space for USB devices. It utilizes USB 3.0, which is faster compared to USBs 2.0 and 1.1. Speaking of which, there is compatibility for the latter two in case you have devices that are not USB 3.0.
Installation is simple: plug in the power adapter to the USB hub; plug the USB cable into the hub and to your computer; and then let your computer find the drivers to the USB hub.
I've been using this for some time now and have yet to find any problems, so long as the hub is plugged in to the computer directly. This is great because I have a place for my many USB flash drives so I can back up small files and documents on them. I can also have a dedicated USB port for my external hard drive again to make room for the aforementioned USB flash drives. A great product for those looking for the latest USB hub.
The IOGEAR USB 3.0 hub can be purchased here: http://www.amazon.com/IOGEAR-SuperSpeed-USB-4-Port-GUH374/dp/B006DEBNLW/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1442758073&sr=8-3&keywords=iogear+usb+hub
Saturday, September 19, 2015
For those of you coming from Twitter.
Ah, you found me through my Twitter account. Well lucky you, because I've got a lot to explain.
First, this is my blog for my "Animator's Dream" novels that are in writing. If I write something relating to those works, I put them on this blog and link to my Twitter account for other Twitter users to see. Hashtags will be included regarding authoring in this case.
There are also quick product reviews that I will post on items that I personally own and use at least once a week. If there's any item of interest or use and if you need to know whether to buy it or not, I'll write a post reviewing that product.
Sometimes I'll put up a rant on the pop culture front; in rare cases I'll pick on more serious topics but nothing hot button. I'm leaving those topics to the dogs.
In rare cases, I may have a super special blog post that may be longer than other postings. These will be given unique labels relating to the topic at hand.
Not taking into account re-tweets, blog postings are how you can notice activity that happens on my Twitter page. If you spot any of my blog postings or see me re-tweet anything, hit the follow button so you can receive my content.
That's all. I look forward to using a (hopefully) better means of spreading my blog after the disastrous Facebook attempts. I hope you look forward to my blog posts.
First, this is my blog for my "Animator's Dream" novels that are in writing. If I write something relating to those works, I put them on this blog and link to my Twitter account for other Twitter users to see. Hashtags will be included regarding authoring in this case.
There are also quick product reviews that I will post on items that I personally own and use at least once a week. If there's any item of interest or use and if you need to know whether to buy it or not, I'll write a post reviewing that product.
Sometimes I'll put up a rant on the pop culture front; in rare cases I'll pick on more serious topics but nothing hot button. I'm leaving those topics to the dogs.
In rare cases, I may have a super special blog post that may be longer than other postings. These will be given unique labels relating to the topic at hand.
Not taking into account re-tweets, blog postings are how you can notice activity that happens on my Twitter page. If you spot any of my blog postings or see me re-tweet anything, hit the follow button so you can receive my content.
That's all. I look forward to using a (hopefully) better means of spreading my blog after the disastrous Facebook attempts. I hope you look forward to my blog posts.
Thursday, September 17, 2015
Possible Twitter Account
I'm writing this post because I'm considering creating a Twitter account for this blog.
I've hosted this blog on Google's Blogger service and put up postings on Facebook so people would notice. Unfortunately, that's not working out the way I wanted it. Hardly anyone actually looks at the Facebook page for this blog and the blog in general. Not giving away any names, but I know of some people with Twitter accounts and people are reaching out towards them at alarming rates. It doesn't help that Facebook has to rely on costly post boosting while Twitter has spreads through simple sharing, called re-tweets, and hashtags. Those two by themselves are responsible for multiple followers for anyone with a Twitter account. Facebook has hashtags as well, but they're not as potent there as on Twitter.
I will admit I don't do much with the Facebook page for the blog, right down to not having a proper cover for it. While I could make a cover for the blog page, making the page look good is meaningless if there's nobody to even look at it. At that point, however, it's time that I moved on to other means of spreading the word.
I've hosted this blog on Google's Blogger service and put up postings on Facebook so people would notice. Unfortunately, that's not working out the way I wanted it. Hardly anyone actually looks at the Facebook page for this blog and the blog in general. Not giving away any names, but I know of some people with Twitter accounts and people are reaching out towards them at alarming rates. It doesn't help that Facebook has to rely on costly post boosting while Twitter has spreads through simple sharing, called re-tweets, and hashtags. Those two by themselves are responsible for multiple followers for anyone with a Twitter account. Facebook has hashtags as well, but they're not as potent there as on Twitter.
I will admit I don't do much with the Facebook page for the blog, right down to not having a proper cover for it. While I could make a cover for the blog page, making the page look good is meaningless if there's nobody to even look at it. At that point, however, it's time that I moved on to other means of spreading the word.
Monday, September 14, 2015
The Rise of Audiobooks
I google searched 'audiobook article' one day to find extra information regarding audiobooks to revise my writing report with. Two articles in particular that caught my eye came from both the Wall Street Journal and the Independent, both being high reputation websites.
The articles interested me because it shows how far audiobooks have come in terms of accessibility. In my writing report, I mentioned how it was a luxury for school libraries and public libraries had entire sections for audiobook access. I also stated, however, that the evolution of technology has made it possible for audiobooks to be available to anyone with a computer and/or a smartphone. Previously, audiobooks had to be carried around via CD player or tape cassette, both cumbersome devices. Nowadays, MP3 files; iPods and mobile media players almost replace such devices and make it easier to enjoy and carry around audiobooks.
In addition, audiobooks in the marketplace are now worth unbelievable profits. Sales of audiobooks are on the rise and it's changing the way books are read in a positive way. Amazon's audible service has over twenty thousand audiobooks with narrations and they add more a month. Billions of dollars in revenue are raked in, and prices are on par with that of e-books. This is a far cry from the past where audiobooks cost $50 tops.
This is a big deal for me because I want to hire voice actors for audiobook adaptations of my work. Voice actors also benefit because it's considered a lucrative side job for them. Hollywood talent tends to take the reign of some audiobook titles, but my works won't have such talent. I wanted to get voice actors from anime; cartoons and games involved in my audiobook projects. Ditto that remark for any animated or game based adaptations of my work.
I was actually inspired by such voice actors reading books that I got from the library. That's what motivated me to write my novels, so the same would happen with my work. That's why I want to write novels: to introduce new stories and to get my role models involved.
The articles that this post pertains to can be found here:
The New Explosion in Audio Books - Wall Street Journal
Sound and the story: The rise of the audiobook - The Independent
The articles interested me because it shows how far audiobooks have come in terms of accessibility. In my writing report, I mentioned how it was a luxury for school libraries and public libraries had entire sections for audiobook access. I also stated, however, that the evolution of technology has made it possible for audiobooks to be available to anyone with a computer and/or a smartphone. Previously, audiobooks had to be carried around via CD player or tape cassette, both cumbersome devices. Nowadays, MP3 files; iPods and mobile media players almost replace such devices and make it easier to enjoy and carry around audiobooks.
In addition, audiobooks in the marketplace are now worth unbelievable profits. Sales of audiobooks are on the rise and it's changing the way books are read in a positive way. Amazon's audible service has over twenty thousand audiobooks with narrations and they add more a month. Billions of dollars in revenue are raked in, and prices are on par with that of e-books. This is a far cry from the past where audiobooks cost $50 tops.
This is a big deal for me because I want to hire voice actors for audiobook adaptations of my work. Voice actors also benefit because it's considered a lucrative side job for them. Hollywood talent tends to take the reign of some audiobook titles, but my works won't have such talent. I wanted to get voice actors from anime; cartoons and games involved in my audiobook projects. Ditto that remark for any animated or game based adaptations of my work.
I was actually inspired by such voice actors reading books that I got from the library. That's what motivated me to write my novels, so the same would happen with my work. That's why I want to write novels: to introduce new stories and to get my role models involved.
The articles that this post pertains to can be found here:
The New Explosion in Audio Books - Wall Street Journal
Sound and the story: The rise of the audiobook - The Independent
Friday, September 11, 2015
Novel Progress as of 2015
I've been writing my Animator's Dream novel since the year 2010. That's five years of me writing out this novel, but I have to admit some of that time was spent taking a break from it.
The time spent writing this book consisted of going through my outline and getting inspirations for the characters in the various chapters. I also spent time revising and even overhauling the manuscript. The issue is that I've written more content than I wanted and I felt some of it was irrelevant filler. In rare cases it's a matter of changing text based on subject matter, but those instances are rare.
Now, I will admit most of my time had been spent not writing the novel but that's because I was taking a break and gathering thoughts. I only got back into the groove of writing it because it'd been on hold for a long time. I hear of stories of writers putting out books every few months and here I am with my first novel having been under writing for a half of a decade. These are people churning out books and making some kind of money while I am still working on my own.
That's changed now. I've started getting back on track and even set up special scheduling to keep myself working. In addition to school and secondary tasks, I've been making plans for my career and overall future. I'm not going to specify what kind of plans since this is no place for my personal life and details, but it's time for me to change for the better and to complete long-term goals. This includes this novel.
The time spent writing this book consisted of going through my outline and getting inspirations for the characters in the various chapters. I also spent time revising and even overhauling the manuscript. The issue is that I've written more content than I wanted and I felt some of it was irrelevant filler. In rare cases it's a matter of changing text based on subject matter, but those instances are rare.
Now, I will admit most of my time had been spent not writing the novel but that's because I was taking a break and gathering thoughts. I only got back into the groove of writing it because it'd been on hold for a long time. I hear of stories of writers putting out books every few months and here I am with my first novel having been under writing for a half of a decade. These are people churning out books and making some kind of money while I am still working on my own.
That's changed now. I've started getting back on track and even set up special scheduling to keep myself working. In addition to school and secondary tasks, I've been making plans for my career and overall future. I'm not going to specify what kind of plans since this is no place for my personal life and details, but it's time for me to change for the better and to complete long-term goals. This includes this novel.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Photoshop Freeware: GIMP
When you think of a computer program used for graphic design, the first that comes to mind is Adobe's Photoshop. Accessible to newbies; artists and professionals, Photoshop has access to multiple tools and effects that allow for high quality pictures and designs. It even has other capabilities such as 3D designs and limited animation. With great power, however, comes a great price; with prices starting at $500 and some outlets selling Photoshop at $1,000, this is no bargain. While Adobe offers Photoshop in their Creative Cloud suite, a monthly subscription is required to use the program. This is an option some aren't willing to accept or can't afford. Granted, there's Photoshop Elements also by Adobe but that program doesn't hold a candle compared to the main event. Still, graphic artists and designers of all kinds need a photo and art program of some kind to earn a living.
Fortunately, there's someone who believes in the spirit of free software. That someone made GIMP; short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, it serves to be a freeware alternative to Photoshop for those not willing to pay massive prices or monthly subscriptions. While it works closely like Photoshop, there are some features that make it stand out from its commercial bretheren.
First, GIMP has support for PSD files out of the box; PSD is the native Photoshop file, and if one doesn't have Photoshop at home they can use GIMP to continue working on projects. GIMP also has features similar to or even equal with Photoshop, such as lasso tools; clone stamps and even healing tools. GIMP also has line stroking tools and effects, great for making line art scanned to the computer.
GIMP can also save in a variety of formats like .JPEG; .GIF; .PNG; .TIFF, and many more. This is a plus for those that need Photoshop but want to save money. It also has support for plug-ins that add to GIMP further, which is also an advantage because it gives extra features not found in GIMP. In rare cases the latter turns GIMP into a completely different program altogether.
The only bad thing about GIMP is that it can do things just as well as Photoshop, but not everything. For one thing, GIMP won't be able to do 3D graphics, and you'd have to get plugins to do basic animations.
Overall, if you want an alternative to Photoshop and are intimidated by massive price tags or subscriptions GIMP is for you. While not as powerful, GIMP is a program marked by its versatility and community support. I strongly recommend it.
Download GIMP here: http://www.gimp.org/downloads/
Fortunately, there's someone who believes in the spirit of free software. That someone made GIMP; short for GNU Image Manipulation Program, it serves to be a freeware alternative to Photoshop for those not willing to pay massive prices or monthly subscriptions. While it works closely like Photoshop, there are some features that make it stand out from its commercial bretheren.
First, GIMP has support for PSD files out of the box; PSD is the native Photoshop file, and if one doesn't have Photoshop at home they can use GIMP to continue working on projects. GIMP also has features similar to or even equal with Photoshop, such as lasso tools; clone stamps and even healing tools. GIMP also has line stroking tools and effects, great for making line art scanned to the computer.
GIMP can also save in a variety of formats like .JPEG; .GIF; .PNG; .TIFF, and many more. This is a plus for those that need Photoshop but want to save money. It also has support for plug-ins that add to GIMP further, which is also an advantage because it gives extra features not found in GIMP. In rare cases the latter turns GIMP into a completely different program altogether.
The only bad thing about GIMP is that it can do things just as well as Photoshop, but not everything. For one thing, GIMP won't be able to do 3D graphics, and you'd have to get plugins to do basic animations.
Overall, if you want an alternative to Photoshop and are intimidated by massive price tags or subscriptions GIMP is for you. While not as powerful, GIMP is a program marked by its versatility and community support. I strongly recommend it.
Download GIMP here: http://www.gimp.org/downloads/
Saturday, September 5, 2015
This Honey Badger Cares: The Honey Add-On for Web Browsers
Saving money: a skill that's important for survival next to cooking. Some use coupons to cut down on bills; others take advantage of special offers in stores; then there's good, old-fashioned savings accounts and smart financial management. In the 21st century, however, all of that is taken to the next level.
An add-on for web browsers, Honey helps whenever you're trying to find a coupon code for shopping on the internet. It works with a wide variety of stores, ranging from retailers like amazon.com, to restaurants such as Papa Johns and Domino's.
Installing the add-on is simple. Go to the Honey website, scroll down to the "Download Now Free" button, and the web browser will do the rest. Congratulations, you now have access to coupon codes and extra savings.
In addition, there's a rewards program associated with the Honey add-on where you earn a currency called HoneyGold. For each dollar amount you spend, you earn the associated amount of HoneyGold. This can be used for redeeming amazon.com gift cards and, if their website is any indication, actual gold. Yeah, that gold; the same gold found on Fort Knox, Jewelry and to a degree electronics.
Overall, this add-on is strongly recommended for those trying to save money. Install it, and you'll be able to do just that.
Download the add-on here: https://www.joinhoney.com/
Join the HoneyGold program here: https://www.joinhoney.com/honeygold
An add-on for web browsers, Honey helps whenever you're trying to find a coupon code for shopping on the internet. It works with a wide variety of stores, ranging from retailers like amazon.com, to restaurants such as Papa Johns and Domino's.
Installing the add-on is simple. Go to the Honey website, scroll down to the "Download Now Free" button, and the web browser will do the rest. Congratulations, you now have access to coupon codes and extra savings.
In addition, there's a rewards program associated with the Honey add-on where you earn a currency called HoneyGold. For each dollar amount you spend, you earn the associated amount of HoneyGold. This can be used for redeeming amazon.com gift cards and, if their website is any indication, actual gold. Yeah, that gold; the same gold found on Fort Knox, Jewelry and to a degree electronics.
Overall, this add-on is strongly recommended for those trying to save money. Install it, and you'll be able to do just that.
Download the add-on here: https://www.joinhoney.com/
Join the HoneyGold program here: https://www.joinhoney.com/honeygold
Thursday, September 3, 2015
The Anker Bluetooth Keyboard: A Great Hardware Piece
The QWERTY keyboard; a staple of computer users since its inception, and is practically required next to the mouse to even operate a computer. Over time, however, keyboards change along with the world around them. They get new types of connections; can be used over a wide area of operating systems; even have additional buttons for exclusive features. In the case of Anker's Bluetooth keyboard, they become wireless.
Introductions out of the way, the Anker Bluetooth keyboard is a compact keyboard that can be used with anything that has support for Bluetooth hardware. Ranging from computers with either built-in or added on Bluetooth radios; Android devices like the Samsung Galaxy lineup; Apple's iOS systems; even Sony's PlayStation 3 supports this keyboard.
Pairing is simple. Turn on the keyboard, press the blue Fn key and the Z key, activate the Bluetooth finder on whatever device you have, pair the device by inputting the code that pops up, and you're done. Oh, and don't forget to charge the device up in case it doesn't have power.
The keyboard is more or less a bang for one's buck, costing only $16 online at amazon.com and working just as well as any keyboard. Highly recommended.
Buy this keyboard discussed in this blog here:
Amazon.com - Anker Bluetooth Keyboard
Introductions out of the way, the Anker Bluetooth keyboard is a compact keyboard that can be used with anything that has support for Bluetooth hardware. Ranging from computers with either built-in or added on Bluetooth radios; Android devices like the Samsung Galaxy lineup; Apple's iOS systems; even Sony's PlayStation 3 supports this keyboard.
Pairing is simple. Turn on the keyboard, press the blue Fn key and the Z key, activate the Bluetooth finder on whatever device you have, pair the device by inputting the code that pops up, and you're done. Oh, and don't forget to charge the device up in case it doesn't have power.
The keyboard is more or less a bang for one's buck, costing only $16 online at amazon.com and working just as well as any keyboard. Highly recommended.
Buy this keyboard discussed in this blog here:
Amazon.com - Anker Bluetooth Keyboard
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Sending SASEs to Special Services and Celebrities
Got a celebrity you like and want an autograph from? Can't make it to that fan convention due to circumstances out of your control? Sending a document to an official organization for publishing? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I've got the thing for you.
The SASE, or Self Addressed Stamped Envelope for short, is a special document that consists of two envelopes each with postage stamped on. It is used to send fan requests for autographs or manuscripts to publishing companies. Sweepstakes companies even request these documents in the event someone wins a massive prize.
The process is simple: have two envelopes with postage for both of them. The smaller envelope should NOT, repeat, NOT sealed up as this is reserved for the receiver to do so. Also have the intended delivery address--your address by the way--on this smaller envelope. Put the smaller envelope in the larger envelope. The larger envelope should have both the delivery address to the celebrity or company on it and a return address should things go wrong. Seal up the larger envelope, put postage on it and send it out. Hopefully you'll get a response in a few weeks.
That's all. Not so bad, is it?
Sources:
Self Addressed Stamped Envelope - Wikipedia
How to Send an S.A.S.E. (Self Addressed Stamped Envelope)
The SASE, or Self Addressed Stamped Envelope for short, is a special document that consists of two envelopes each with postage stamped on. It is used to send fan requests for autographs or manuscripts to publishing companies. Sweepstakes companies even request these documents in the event someone wins a massive prize.
The process is simple: have two envelopes with postage for both of them. The smaller envelope should NOT, repeat, NOT sealed up as this is reserved for the receiver to do so. Also have the intended delivery address--your address by the way--on this smaller envelope. Put the smaller envelope in the larger envelope. The larger envelope should have both the delivery address to the celebrity or company on it and a return address should things go wrong. Seal up the larger envelope, put postage on it and send it out. Hopefully you'll get a response in a few weeks.
That's all. Not so bad, is it?
Sources:
Self Addressed Stamped Envelope - Wikipedia
How to Send an S.A.S.E. (Self Addressed Stamped Envelope)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)