#capture one face retouching

[clippsunil-blog]

Photo retouching services

Photo retouching services are offered by many companies and freelancers, and they involve editing digital images to improve their appearance or fix any flaws. These services can range from basic adjustments like color correction and exposure balancing to more advanced techniques such as removing blemishes, reshaping the body, or even adding or removing objects from the image. That's correct! Photo retouching services encompass a wide range of editing techniques to enhance the visual appeal of digital images. These services are commonly used in various industries, including fashion, advertising, e-commerce, and photography. Basic adjustments typically involve correcting exposure, color balance, contrast, and sharpness to improve the overall appearance of the image. More advanced techniques may include skin retouching to remove blemishes, wrinkles, or scars, as well as body reshaping to slim or enhance body contours. Other advanced retouching services may include background removal, adding or removing objects or people from the image, and composite image creation. These services are often used to create visually stunning images for advertising, marketing campaigns, or personal projects. It's important to note that photo retouching services should be done with care and attention to detail to maintain the integrity of the original image while enhancing its visual appeal.  

[grandisknight]

rafayel: an artist's nails

summary: It’s been a while since your last nail endeavor, and you seek out your creative lover to fill in the missing details once again.

tags: established relationship, fluff, silly rafayel, gender neutral!reader, kisses, light banter, nail polish

wc: 1.0k | (ao3)

a/n: hi hi! eek this is my first time posting like this to tumblr, i'm not too familiar with it so please forgive me for any mistakes (⸝⸝⸝- ᴗ -⸝⸝⸝ ;) i hope my short but sweet little headcanon does rafmc some justice! the idea came to me randomly while angst writing (hhhh) so here we are c:

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“Again?” He looks down at you from the impressive height of his ladder, palette and brush paused in mid motion. The canvas stretching his wall had streaks of pale blue, contrasting the rich sapphire that lay underneath them. Another masterpiece in the making, and you’ve caught him at a somewhat opportune time to air out your proposal.

“Please? I promise it’ll be the last time!” You gave him your best pout, hands clasped together in a pseudo prayer.

“That’s what you said two weeks ago, my love.” Rafayel shakes his head.

“Ra—fa—yel!” You called out, purposefully stringing his vowels in a way that he had a hard time saying ‘no’ to.

“Okay, okay. Give me a moment, yeah?”

Leaving his instruments behind, he descends from the perch of his ladder. Dusting off his hands on the edge of his slacks, he straightens his posture towards you with a few strides. Arms crossed over his chest, the warmth of coral and cooled blue examined your presence up close. “You don’t seem injured. Mission went well?”

“It did! But that’s not what I’m here for.” You flash your hands towards him, wiggling the tips of your fingers for dramatic effect. “Look at how much they’ve grown! They’re begging for a new design, and only one curated by Linkon City’s best painter could do the job.”

The bed of coral acrylic was slowly pushing past your natural nail, unflattering to the eye and no longer holding the fresh sheen it once had. It was long overdue for a retouch, and you trusted your boyfriend’s talented eye to decorate your fingers once more.

“Flattery will get you nowhere,” he half-heartedly remarks, but takes your hands into his own regardless. His fine fingers delicately trace over the rounded edges of your acrylics, tilting them alongside his head to capture their finish in the warm lighting of his art studio. “Hm… They are longer than before, I’ll give you that.”

An internal score in your mind was being kept, and you just landed your first point. “Exactly. So, I was thinking for the next design—“

“Woah, excuse you.” His fingers intertwined with yours, passing his warmth into your palms. He tugs you closer, hands closed like the prayer you presented just moments ago. Rafayel quirks a brow as he continues.

“Aren’t you forgetting something?”

You paused, a blink of confusion crossing your face. “…Am I?”

The plush of his lips puff out like a fish, awaiting your realization. Ah. You had to pay the kiss toll first—how could you forget?

You met his pout halfway, lightly pressing a kiss to pay your dues forward. Rafayel quickly chases your leaning figure, peppering a second, and then a third, to the lips curling into a faint smile at his antics and he mirrored yours all the same.

“Okay—Raf—Mm!”

He swallowed your interruptions with ones of his own, a barrage of straight smooches fluttering over your mouth. Only after the nth kiss did he finally part, rubbing his thumb over your knuckles with a hum in satisfaction.

“Payment accepted.” Rafayel lowered your hands, only to gently tug them in the direction of his desk.

Pieces of sketch paper and paints, pencils and more laid across the surface as you approached. He lets go momentarily, pulling out a chair and swiping away some tabletop space, before patting on the cushion in invitation.

“Alright, why don’t we start sketching out your ideas, yeah? Let’s see if we can make this new set better than the last.”

…

No sooner than a week later did you return to Mo Art Studio, feeling particularly energized as you practically skipped into his living space.

“Ah, you’re back.”

Rafayel called out to you before you had the chance to speak, swiping another shade of cerulean over the canvas. He looks over his shoulder, eyes twinkling at your appearance and brow upturned in curiosity. “You seem like you’re in a good mood. Did you get them done today?”

You nodded, waving him down with an equally bright expression. “Take a break! I want you to admire your masterpiece.” With an outstretched hand, you await his descending figure in a similar sense of deja vu.

“Yeah? You’re already here though,” Rafayel teases, taking hold of your invitation in turn. “But alrighty. Let’s go.”

Natural habits led your bodies to walk past the floor to ceiling entrance and into the sands hugging his estate. Seagulls chirp overhead as the fragrance of salty seas sting your nose, welcoming in the warmth of sunshine and ocean views all around.

“Maybe the crab from last week is still around,” you mention. “I think it was this way—Ah!”

Rafayel snickers at your enthusiasm, but paused you short of your wandering in an effort to pull you closer to him. He raises your combined hands outwards, turning them in every direction as he observes the new design.

Speckles of pale white and faint pink hugged the tip of your nail, pearly effects blending into the azure gradient that filled the rest of the space. Light traces of a circle or two resemble bubbles, a key seashell charm on your pinky finger and an exclusive Lemurian insignia resembling the bond over his heart were all littered across the set.

He nods in approval, and you could practically see the sharp rise of his shoulders in pride as he spoke. “Ah, they turned out really good this time. I wonder whooo designed them.”

You lean into his playful stance, pressing a kiss to his cheek and watching as his skin flushes in an adoring rouge. “Thank you, my love. Next time, we should do your nails too!”

“Yeah? I don’t know if I want to have another pot with steam drawn by you again,” he retorts, laughing as you lightly pushed his shoulder.

You raised your voice in self-defense, offering him a scolding glare. “Hey! I told you it was a steamed fish. Steamed fish! You of all people should know that well!”

Your voices faded away as you left your footsteps in the sand, the low tides pushing to support the harmony of your banter as the sun slowly settled. Safe to say, you wouldn’t be letting go of these nails blessed by the ocean anytime soon.

[beegomess]

Dark Paradise || Theodore Nott

Don't forget to watch the previous chapters

Reblogs and comments are greatly appreciated🫶🏼

09. Scape

The week seemed to take longer than usual for Theodore, who was anxious about the promise that he would see Y/N only on New Year's Day. Of course, the Malfoy already had an appointment for that date, but Y/N and Draco already had an idea of what to do. The plan would simply be to say that they would go to a party at the Greengrass house, where the sisters' parents had traveled after Christmas, but this detail would not be contact with Lúcios and Narcisa.

- Y/N, I think it's good for you to change, Blaise and Theodore will stop by in a little while. - Pansy said getting closer to Y/N in the middle of the big hall they were in, the friend nods, saying goodbye to her parents and warning that she was already going.

Y/N began to feel a huge lack of the wizarding world, in these circumstances, for example, she would only equip inside the party, without any stress with transportation. As she wandered about the privileges of witchcraft, she headed to a large corridor with an alternative exit from the huge mansion, she had completely forgotten to call Lorenzo, who depended on their warnings to go along.

Y/N changed the clothes completely hidden in one of the bathrooms of the huge mansion they were in. The girl exchanged the long silk dress she wore for a black dress with dropped straps on the shoulders, the straps were of a model that made it look like they were folded, the bust and waist very well outlined while the skirt of the piece was more open and structured by the fabric going to the middle of the thighs, while the feet were in the same heel as before. She loosened her hair and retouched her mouth with a lipstick a little darker than she used before.

She looked at both sides of the hallway before leaving the bathroom, she would wait outside until one of her friends arrived, she didn't want to risk being caught by one of her parents or some acquaintance. When making sure she was alone, her heels roared down the big corridor, showing that she was alone there. The corridor began to turn into an external corridor, with pillars and wind passing through them. Y/N walked a few more meters until he came across the image of Theodore near one of the pillars, he had his hands in his pants pockets and a few buttons on his shirt open. They both opened an enthusiastic smile when they saw each other.

- Are you ready? - He said when he saw her approaching, Y/N was really beautiful that day and Theodore tried his best not to show that he was waiting to see her all day.

- Always! - The girl seemed confident. - Let's go? - She says and they start walking towards the exit.

- I can't imagine how much your brother will complain about your clothes today. - Theodore said in a joking tone, in fact, he tried. Y/N quickly captured the truth behind the sentence.

- Draco doesn't care about that. You, however... - Y/N let the few drinks taken until that moment control her and Theodore smiled with her attention in his words, but before he responded he was quickly interrupted.

- Y/N! - Lorenzo calls from the end of the corridor, a smile appears on Y/N's face as soon as he turns around, Theodore, however, didn't seem so happy. - I'm glad I found you in time. - Enzo approaches.

- I'm really sorry, Enzo. I was so busy that I ended up forgetting to call you.

- All right, Y/N, don't worry. I ended up finding you in the end.

- Great...- And realizing the little silence that was on the spot, Y/N decides to call them again. - Well, then, let's go?

Theodore extends his arm over the girl's shoulders, who is strange about his attitude, but decides not to question at that moment. Lorenzo, on the other hand, perceives and rolls his eyes internally to understand what Nott was trying to do.

The young people walked a few meters ahead, arriving in a black car, of an old but extremely new model that Theodore had won from his father as soon as he learned to drive, the car was like a jewel or object that passed from generation to generation in the Nott family, however, it had rarely been used by the other owners. Theo thought it was useless to win a car at the time, but now he would appreciate it for having it.

- Wow, do you remember how we planned to play in this car when we were children? - Y/N says admired to see the car and Theodore, with a smile, goes ahead in opening the door for her, in the seat next to the driver, of course.

The trip to the party was strange for Lorenzo, who realized the way Y/N looked at Theodore. The boy was slightly enewy when Theo asked Y/N to light a cigarette for him while driving. She did it, opened the cigarette case she had given him as a gift, which Lorenzo discovered by her happiness in seeing that he was using the object. Y/N then put a cigarette between his lips, painting them slightly red and burning the tip of it with a lighter.

But Berkshire's main point was to see her take the cigarette to Nott's mouth, the way he smiled and praised the light taste of the cherry gloss she wore made Enzo wonder if this was just another provocation from Theodore, or if it was really Y/N who was allowing him to do all this.

When they parked the car, Y/N was the first to leave and go to Blaise's car to meet her brother, Mattheo and Pansy.

- It really is a beautiful car, Nott. - Lorenzo adds and Theodore who just nods, avoiding continuing the subject with the boy when they both got out of the car. - But be honest, Theodore, how many girls have been in the back seat? - Berkshire provokes and receives a cynical smile coming from Theodore.

- In fact, the only girl who ever got into this car with me was Y/N. - Theodore had a suggestive smile and felt extremely pleased to take the audacity out of Lorenzo's face. Knowing that Berkshire would dwell on questioning if she was ever in the car before that night was what made Nott satisfied.

[...]

- Who are you rooting for? - Mattheo asks Pansy in the middle of the noisy place. The girl doesn't understand at first, but soon realizes Lorenzo and Theodore in different corners and distant from each other.

- I thought only I was feeling the tension between them. - Pansy laughs and approaches Riddle to answer. - I thought Berkshire was in front, but the way she looks at Theo is different.

- You should bet. - Blaise suggests, hugging Pansy from behind.

- It would not be fair, since Pansy has all the power to influence Y/N. - Mattheo said indifferent, which made the couple laugh.

- Well, I can't deny that. - Parkinson drinks a sip of his glass while smiling. - But you could also influence since you share the room with one of the suitors.

It was really noticeable to anyone there that there was an implicit dispute between the two boys, but Y/N seemed to be the only one who did not realize anything at all.

In the course of the party, some somewhat unlikely couples formed. Draco and Astoria clung somewhere at the party, the girl Draco said she never had a chance with him seemed to make him start wondering about it.

Daphne and a Muggle boy passed by Y/N and Pansy going towards the bathroom, at the same time that Mattheo grabbed a Muggy girl in the middle of the dance floor. Well, maybe the latter wasn't so unlikely.

Lorenzo realized the affinity he had with Zabini as they talked next to Theodore, who watched Y/N from afar.

- Maybe, and only maybe, the muggles know how to make happy parties. - Y/N and Pansy watched the people downstairs dance when Draco's sister confesses with a silly little smile. The girls rested from the last songs in which they danced, when Pansy pulled a marijuana cigarette from inside the bag, and Y/N opened her mouth in a perfect O. - You read my mind!

- Maybe you're right. - Pansy agrees passing the cigarette to her friend, to bring it only once, returning it soon after. - Um, look who's also here...- the brunette points her eyes at Pucey who was approaching the two.

- Draco said he would invite him, but I thought he wouldn't come. - Y/N had the most attentive eyes to the brunette who stared at her from afar.

- Well, I think I'm going to look for Blaise, he's been missing for a long time. - Pansy moves away, while Adrian looked at Y/N with his typical malicious smile.

In fact, Pansy had gone looking for Nott, but it seemed that the boy had evaporated. She bumped into so many people and none was him. Parkinson murmured angry for not finding him on the couch before.

- What a great time for you to disappear, huh? - Pansy seemed angry when she found Nott sitting in one of the bar chairs.

- What? - Theodore looks at her confused.

- Adrian is here...- He still looks with a confused face, although now he seemed more interested than before. - He should look for Y/N. - Theodore understands Pansy's message and quickly gets up, but is prevented from pulling the girl's face on his arm. - I wasn't the one who told you, did you hear? - The highest just nods and returns to the way to Y/N.

After walking a few meters hitting other people's bodies, Theodore approaches the parapet on which Y/N was leaning and lays one of his hands on the girl's waist, who until then had her back to him.

Pucey changes the path he used to see Nott's presence next to Y/N. At this point, Y/N already imagined that Theodore no longer looked at her as just a friend or Draco's sister, his attitudes in recent weeks had made this somewhat evident, but that night it was probably the second or third time he touched her spontaneously, as if he were taking on a role of possession in relation to her.

- I thought you had nothing else to do with Adrian. - Now facing each other, Theodore observes Y/N's beautiful face as he puts some strands of hair behind her shoulder, while his hand still holds her waist.

- I never had anything with him to have an effective end. - Y/N smiles at Theodore, who raises his eyebrows in surprise at her answer. He couldn't deny that it bothered him a little. - You've been a little worried about me lately, Theo. Don't you think so? - Y/N's hands are around Nott's neck while they stay again in their own world.

- I just don't think Pucey deserves you. - Theodore said a little more seriously, he stared at Y/N's eyes and his fun expression in hearing him say that.

- And who deserves it then? - Y/N was extremely close to Nott's face now, feeling her breath, she just expected him to give her what she wanted so much lately. Theodore put more pressure on her waist, and realized how she looked at his perfectly drawn mouth and it reminded him of a repetitive scene in his dreams with her.

A little far from them, Berkshire watched. The boy sat at the bar, next to Pansy who noticed where he was looking and saw how upset he looked.

- What do they have anyway? - Lorenzo murmurs to himself, but Parkinson listens and decides to answer to himself as well.

- Nothing... for now. - Pansy wouldn't say that to someone who is suffering for someone else, but the drink made her very sincere about who she expected to stay with her best friend. Lorenzo observed that Theodore was advancing slowly, he tried to think of some reason to interrupt, but he knew that Y/N also seemed to want that. It was then that Berkshire's wishes were fulfilled, and the couple was interrupted once again that night.

- Y/N! - Astoria calls among people and soon approaches, at the same time that Y/N turns to face her. The girl was whiter than usual and had her eyes slightly wide. - Draco is putting everything out, I need you. - She concluded and soon pulled Y/N by the hand, which in turn pulled Theodore.

The three cross the environment, shrugging their shoulders with strangers as they headed to the bathroom. As soon as they enter, Y/N sees the blonde leaning over a toilet with a sweaty forehead.

- By Merlin, Draco. - The sister approaches and runs her hand over the boy's back. When he raises his head, Y/N gives him some tissues that he took near the sink and helps to dry the sweat on his forehead. - You look terrible, can you get up? - the blonde nods and the girl helps him, letting him hold his forearms. - Let's wash your face and mouth, okay? Come on.

Theodore and Astoria just looked a little worried at the brothers' interaction. While Draco leaned his hands on the sink, Y/N deposited wet papers on the back of his neck. It was even beautiful to see how she took care of her brother, not fighting with him, not that she didn't want to fight for him to exaggerate, but I knew that now that would be of no use.

- Well, I think the party is over for us. - Y/N jokes, making Draco smile weakly. - Astoria, you come with us, don't you? We were going to stay at your house anyway.

- Of course.

- I can take you. - Theodore got ready.

- Are you sure you want to spend the first day of the year taking care of a drunk boy? - Y/N said smiling. - You don't have to if you don't want to. Daphne said their driver would take us.

- I would also go there. - Theodore said, smiling and putting Draco's arm on his own shoulder, helping the boy walk. - It wasn't just you who lied about where you were going.

- Astoria, can you tell Lorenzo that he's going with Blaise? - Y/N held his brother's other arm and they left towards the exit of the party while the girl nodded and disappeared for a few minutes.

- I love you, sister. You love me too, don't you? - Draco said draggedly while staggering, clearly there was still alcohol in his body. - Don't tell Astoria, but I threw up on her dress. - Y/N and Theodore can't contain the laughter with the last sentence. When Astoria came back, her dress really had a horrible stain.

Y/N lengthens her back after sitting Draco in the back seat of the car and soon she approaches to put on her belt. - I'll leave the window open in case you want to vomit, okay? - Draco didn't hear anything, the boy already had his eyes closed and started to sleep.

- Will he be okay? - Astoria asks worried and makes Y/N smile with the care of the girl.

- At what moment did he vomit on you? - Y/N asked curiously with a suggestive little smile on his face.

- Y/N! How horrible that you want to know this like that. Don't you see that your brother is not well? - Astoria said, angry and with her cheeks slightly flushed as she entered the vehicle, standing next to Draco.

- You've already answered! - Y/N and Theo laughed and got into the car, following a journey to the Greengrass Mansion, while Astoria watched Draco all the time, every movement he made when breathing or moving, so she didn't even notice the tension that hovered between Y/N and Theodore.

_______________________________

A/N: Guys, tell me what you think of this fic, I'm curious to know! I saw that some people are following all the chapters of it and I would like to know

xoxo, bee🫶🏼✨

next chapter>>>

[yacinthemorning]

Birdsongs

Chapter 8

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Summary: The Life Pilgrimage is the biggest music festival of the century, set to take place all across the continent. Small-time rock band, GIST, and the up-and-coming alternative band, Empire, are both lucky to be among the hundreds set to make appearances, but there's just one problem. Neither can afford the travel expenses on their own. For better or worse, they're stuck with each other for the next five weeks as they try to make their dreams come true.

And, perhaps, among the chaos and music, two unsuspecting souls find one another...

Ships: Jimmy/Tango (slow burn romantic), Joel/Lizzie (romantic), Jimmy & Scott (platonic)

Warnings: Drugs, verbal fights, weight shaming

The crowd at the current venue was much denser than the last, owed to a major city being within a few hours’ drive. Tango could feel the excitement course through every vein, trying to keep from hopping about while he waited for Gem to finish the next introduction. Not helped by the sight of Empire in the crowd, easily picked out from the crowd thanks to Lizzie’s bubble-gum hair. She was up on Jimmy and Fwhip’s shoulders to see above the crowd, cheering on Gem.

“I hope you like this next one, I wrote it all myself! It’s called Sunflowers and Butterflies.” Gem declared, to which the crowd roared back. Tango slammed down on the first harsh note with Skizz, a smile shared between the two. Their Glitter Girl picked up on her part quicker than usual, always excited to play this one. Though it started harsh like much of their music, it cascaded into something much softer and cheery. A summer day. Not like the one they had now, sweaty and dusty, but something refreshing, early in the day. GIST had always been about the mood in their music, and despite how different her songs were to their usual nerdier fair she always captured that same rhythm.

The second chorus faded out, and with it all instruments but Tango. A hard reset to the tune as they each slowly rejoined the melody until Gem kicked back into gear with a cheer. Despite the lack of mic Lizzie cheered almost just as loud. The rest of the crowd joined in. A revelling chorus weaved into the beat. What was a song without an adoring choir to accompany it?

Tango thought he never wanted to be anywhere else but right here and now.

It all ended far too soon. He was still high off the applause as they filed off stage, sweeping their musical darling off her feet into a bear hug. She screeched with laughter, “Tango!”

“That was the most amazing show ever, Gemstone!” He declared, to which Skizz and Impulse gladly agreed.

“Stop! It was okay.”

“If that was okay then I think great would instantly kill me.” Skizz barked, digging his hands into her hair and messing it up until she called for mercy. Banter between the bandmates rang nearly as loud as the crowd had in Tango’s ears.

“Out of the way!”

A hand pressed into Tango shoulder, nearly knocking both him and Gem to the ground. She stumbled out of his arms, only kept on her feet by Impulse being right behind her. Her baby blue wasn’t so lucky, smacking hard against the trampled grass and letting out a terrible noise. Instantly he felt his blood boil and spun around to give the jerk a piece of his mind, “Excuse you!”

It was some guy in the ugliest green shag carpet-looking jacket Tango had ever seen and a dye job a month overdue for retouching. He also had a black eye, and for a moment Tango searched his memory wondering if he’d been at the brawl in the previous town. His face contorted into a toothy sneer, revealing a missing tooth as he shouted back, “What’s your problem, shorty!”

“My problem is you running through my band like we’re bowling pins, wack-a-mole!” Tango snapped right back.

Both Skizz and Impulse were on either side of him, but not as back up. Their hands simultaneously wrapped around his arms and started pulling him back. “Top, it’s okay.” Skizz, ever the shoulder angel, tried to deescalate.

“Bdubs, are you causing trouble?” A new voice chimed in, not sounding the least bit scolding. Three others had shown up, the front of the pack being the man who presumably spoke. An interesting looking guy, with mostly grey hair and mouth hidden behind some sort of mask, a look Tango might have taken in a bit better if he wasn’t already riled up. Their other two companions already looked exhausted, the bearded one shaking his head.

Bdubs hissed like a cat being hosed down, “I ain’t do nothin’, this freaking punk is the one causin’ me trouble!”

“You got a funny way of remembering things.” Growled Tango.

Gem pushed herself between them, “Tango my guitar’s fine, it’s okay.”

It almost worked if Bdubs hadn’t continued. “Yeah, listen to the little lady!”

Faster than he knew he could move his fist was twisted into the front of Bdub’s shirt, yanking his forward till their forehead cracked together, “Listen here, you little-”

“Alright, alright! That’s enough.” The silver haired man pushed them apart with surprising strength. Impulse’s arm wrapped around Tango’s shoulders and pulled him back further despite his protests. There was too much satisfaction in the new guy’s nod. “Bdubs?”

“What?”

“Apologize.”

He pursed his lips so tight Tango wondered if it hurt, but eventually muttered out the world’s least sorry, “Sorry.” Tango was ready to snap an ‘I’m not’ back at him if not for Impulse accepting the apology for him. It all seemed good enough for the other band, who shuffled the rest of the way past to reach the stage without another word. Not long after they met up with their travelling companions.

“Dude, is that Slab?” Joel perked up first, craning to catch a glance of the band that took GIST’s place.

At that, Tango did a double take. “Wha- Those jerks?” His voice went up an octave. On further inspection Tango could see it, though there was about twenty years of aging between the Slab he listened to in college and the band setting up in front of them. “Oh, wow, Etho went full salt, I didn’t think he was that much older than us.”

“Hey, we’re getting up there too. I got twenty-six grey hairs and counting!” Skizz said as he dropped to the grass.

They’d lost Joel completely, though, who was staring off towards the stage. Lizzie nudged him, a teasing smirk on her, “Go on, you dork.”

“What? Go where?” He said, gaze shifting to the sky. Some of Empire’s members began to giggle, which only added pink to the man’s cheeks.

It was Gem who leaned into the rest of her band with a similar expression to Lizzie. “He saw him play literally once when we were like 18 and now he has half a wall in his garage dedicated to the guy. He’s obsessed!”

“Uh, no I do not, Gem. I don’t know what you’re talking about.” The drummer sneered, arms folded in defiance. In truth, Tango and Impulse couldn’t say anything, only nod in solidarity. It may be a bit odd for someone Joel’s age, but Slab was still touring to sold out stadiums over twenty years into their careers for a reason. It only took Gem tugging on him in the direction of the crowd to get him to start running for it.

The rest of the Empires seemed much less interested, Fwhip corralling them towards some band Tango didn’t recognize, but looked far more Lizzie’s vibe. There was an awkward moment, where Jimmy paused between his bandmates and GIST. Whether he thought he should help them with the long trek back to the trailer or invite them along, Tango shrugged either way, shooing him off. “You’re free from watching us, now.” He said, only half-joking. “You can go enjoy yourselves.”

“I wanted to watch you, you’re amazing.” replied Jimmy with a frown, but he hitched his guitar up his shoulder and went.

For some reason it made Tango stumble. For reasons that had to do with the universe hating him, Skizz noticed. “Oh, Top, my man.” His tone immediately sent the hairs on Tango’s neck up like a porcupine, flashing his teeth at his bandmate before stomping off.

“Shut up.”

“Tangle Top, what sort of friend would I be if I did that?”

“A good one.” He snapped. Any further protest was muffled by the arm that wrapped around his shoulders, shoving him into a firm headlock. He struggled, only for a moment, before resigning himself o his fate. “What?”

“What’s all this about, hm?” There it was, his therapist voice. Tango was convinced the only reason the guy got into middle management instead of therapy was because his patients would have bludgeoned him to death with his own clipboard after he revealed exactly what was wrong with them. “Is it you’re feeling out of style? Not hip with the kids? A little lame?”

He elbowed his old friend, which got a laugh. “No Skizz, I know we’re lame. We play music that hasn’t been in for over a decade without a single bit of irony or retrofication, of course we’re lame.”

“Then it’s to do with your new best buddy, huh?”

Tango could use a clipboard right about now.

Skizz had that grin of his, that one that said he hit the nail on the head and knew it. “You’re ridiculous, Top. You just basked in the praise of hundreds of screaming fans but you can’t handle one little compliment from Jimbo?”

“It’s a bit different.” Tango pinched his fingers, shoving them in Skizz’s face in hopes he would get the message. “You know, one’s the faceless masses who chose to come see us. The other’s a friend.”

“Whatever you gotta tell yourself to sleep at night, Top.”

When they reached the trailer Pearl was already waiting for them, playing with the canary through the bars of its cage. Scattered about the table were various booklets and maps. Given that she was here and not miles away in the car, Tango assumed the bird situation had yet to be figured out. Not that he knew what to do about it. All he knew was that he’d rather Pearl deal with it than Fwhip or Scott after the other day. He could hear the little Impulse in his brain, it’s not fair to judge people in the middle of a stressful situation, but he couldn’t help it. Better to leave serious matters to Pearly-pop.

“Empire doesn’t play until tomorrow,” was the only part of their conversation he caught as he passed. Scott’s tone was back to its usual cadence, as was his wrinkles. The only thing out of place on the man was the slight redness to his eyes and a blunt tucked between his fingers. Unusual not in its use, but in the man trotting about with it when Tango had never once seen him show his face before putting himself together. After his outburst perhaps this was his current form of put together.

Pearl waved him over, and the two met up a ways away from the teal-haired man. “Unless we wanna hang out around here an extra day we aren’t gonna be able to bring the bird back.” She explained as he joined her. Understandable, but frustrating.

“What if the trailer goes on ahead and we meet back up at the next venue?” He suggested, miming the plan with his hands for her.

Her expression was grim, but she nodded. “That’s what we came to. It’s either that, or we wait and someone brings it back at the end of this on our way home.”

“And that’s gonna take someone way outta the way if we do.”

“Exactly.”

A solid plan, in theory. Looking around at their group, however, a different issue became clear. “It can’t be anyone from Empires.” Realized Tango. Whoever went would need to get a move on today, and as Scott had said, they needed their manager here. They weren’t like GIST, on the verge of retirement, they couldn’t afford to have him missing from the biggest event they’re likely to ever be in. On the other end, “If two of us go and we don’t catch up in time we won’t be able to play.”

Pearl nodded along. They’d already figured this long before he did. “And you’ll have a good chunk of our luggage with you either way. We can’t fit it all into the bus.”

Tango’s eyes drifted over their camp, to Scott who was still nursing a headache in the shade, to Skizz and Impulse laughing inside, and the empty seats of their companions out enjoying the shows. “Then you and me will go.”

“Tango...”

“We won’t be late.” He assured, patting her shoulder and pulling her in closer. “Look, we won’t be late. There’s two of us, we can drive through the night. And I ain’t know anyone as talented behind the wheel as you, so I know we won’t get into any trouble. We’ll just take our stuff and a couple things the others won’t miss. We’ll shove the pots and pans in there and they can eat KFC for a few days or something.”

“I could eat KFC for the rest of the trip.” Scot suddenly interjected with a half-hearted laugh. His hand hid his expression, leaving Tango unsure if he was joking.

Pearl stared at the man for a long moment, frowning deeply. A tooth poked out the side of her mouth, trying to stop itself from biting her lip. She sighed. “Yeah, alright. Let’s do it.”

“Kay, then let’s get to work. We got a lot of walking back and forth to do.” He gave her a final slap on the back, and the two got to work.

-

Lizzie shrieked as Jimmy stumbled over an empty beer can left out in the mud. “Okay, I want down now!” She warbled. Gem laughed at her from atop Fwhip’s shoulders as the two sprinted by, nearly knocking Jimmy over a second time and tearing a shriek from both siblings.

“Right, right.” Jimmy agreed. His knees shook as he bent down for her to climb off his shoulders, trying to keep his case from dipping into the mud. “Geez, lay off the crisps, Liz.” He tried to joke, for which he received a kick in the shin as she landed. It was enough to send him tumbling forward right into the mud. Hopefully it was just mud, but as it filled his nostrils there was the stench of ash and alcohol mixed in. The cocktail was almost enough to make him gag. “Hey!” He squawked after her, “I help you see and this is the thanks I get?”

There was the telltale signs. The last glance of a shocked look before her nose turned up to the sky, and the stiffness of how she held her shoulders as she stuttered through her words, “Well, you should have thought of that before you insulted a lady’s weight. Maybe you should hit the gym more.” And the hesitance to leave or break her facade to help. She may act more poised, but Jimmy knew they fell from the same tree. Fell being the key word. She spun around and nearly slipped in the exact same mud pool. Jimmy rolled his eyes and pushed back up, trying his best brush as much mud off his guitar before helping haul Lizzie back up onto her own feet. When he attempted to chastise her back he was interrupted by his own yawn. It cascaded to Lizzie. “Oh my.” She murmured.

“Must be the heat.” He giggled. Never mind the last couple of days, a week in he was remembering how exhausting it really was to be around so many people and noises. And in the middle of warm weather and no shade. Despite not playing, he felt ready to crash for a nap. From the look Lizzie gave she had the same idea.

When they reached the trailer there was no one else there. Bags and instruments were strewn about, the side panels left open. Jimmy frowned at the sight of the little canary, shrieking in its cage left out atop a stack of Lizzie’s suitcases in the sun. “What’s going on here?”

“Must be reorganizing so we can get our stuff easier tomorrow.” Lizzie hummed, tapping her foot against the edge of the tarp they’d laid out. “Although they’ve made a right mess of it.”

“That they did.” He lifted the cage up, cooing to the canary until it calmed to a stressed chirp. The metal bars were warmed. How long had the poor thing been out here? He shifted his guitar further down his back, wincing as he felt a glob of mud slop down the back of his shirt. “Right, lets get cleaned up.” And so the three went inside, careful to slip their muddy shoes off at the steps and brush away the largest clumps.

On the outside of their clothes and the half of his case that faced outwards the sun had already baked the mud into crumbling dirt, leaving them half dried out and half muck-covered. A terrible, disgusting feeling. They took the chance with no one else around to change. Though the inside of the trailer was cooler the sun beat down through the windows into the main area, and the siblings retreated to the bedroom, where the curtains were always drawn. “Thank you Gem.” Lizzie murmured as she sunk into the cool mattress.

Jimmy laughed, until the canary squawked again. “You be quiet, mister.” He hushed, putting the cage down in the corner and throwing a stray sheet over it. In the darkness the bird quickly calmed. Poor thing must have been tired as well from all its flapping about. His case went beside it, almost entirely blocking off the doorway. It was better than getting an earful for dirt on the bed. Jimmy joined his sister, making sure to land half-on top of her as revenge. Lizzie shrieked, smacking him until her rolled away cackling.

“I’ll throw you back in the mud!” She threatened.

“I don’t think either of us have the energy for that.” he sang, lifting his arms and letting them flop back down for emphasis. It only felt more like he was trying to imitate a bird than prove his point. It worked well enough, Lizzie rolling over without bothering to reply. No one to talk to, he felt the weight of exhaustion and heat overcome him, and bother Jimmy knew it he was out like a light.

-

The drive so far had been pleasant, Tango taking first shirt as they barrelled back down the road and Pearl mapped it out. A mix tape she’d made only a few months ago played over the stereo, blaring Simple Minds for the pair to sing along to.

“Don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t, don’t you,” Pearl cooed, shaking her head each time, until Tango joined in with a wide grin, “Forget about me!” Absent an instrument, Tango tapped his fingers against the steering wheel and made a horrid attempt at repeating the keys with his voice, causing Pearl to burst out laughing.

“Alright, mate, none of that! You sound terrible!”

“Reason number five million bajillion and seven why I’m the bassist and not the singer.” He drawled, still snickering.

“And why I’m the manager.” Pearl added, exaggerating the slur in her accent until it was hardly intelligible. It was a lie, Tango had heard her sing. Though she had no training like Gem or Lizzie, she was more than good enough for long car rides with the windows down.

Pearl let out a hooting sort of sigh, and stretched her long arms out behind the seat as far as she could. “I know I shouldn’t be but I’m glad to get a break from all that.” Said the woman as she slumped into her seat.

Tango hummed in agreement, letting his arm hang out the window. The car was still cramped as hell, but just being away from the large group was a breath of fresh air he hadn’t realized he needed. “It sneaks up on you. No matter how well you get along, being trapped with a bunch of people and no way to get away wears you out.”

“And we got another four weeks of this.”

Both groaned as it sunk in. “Well, hopefully someone steals a parrot or something before we leave for the next venue.” Tango tries to joke. “Though I’m not sure I could handle the twittering.”

Pearl gave him a pity laugh and turned around. “That little guy’s been quite good so far, actually. Almost five hours now it’s been silent.”

Tango made a noise of agreement. Thank whoever for the bird’s silence so far. Before they left he was dreading listening to it squawk for twelve hours straight. “Did you put blackout curtains over it, or did you suffocate it under the luggage?”

But Pearl turned to him, brows furrowed. “Nooo, I didn’t. Where did you even stuff it in back there, I can’t see it at all.”

“Me?” Tango balked. Dread filled his belly, and he quickly pulled over to the side of the highway. “I didn’t put anywhere, I went to grab it and it was already gone.” He explained. Pearl was already undoing her buckle.

Both stumbled out of the car and started with the trunk. It was nowhere to be seen. Soon they began to dig, undoing all the neat packing Pearl had done earlier. They dug, and dug, and nothing. Tango shifted things around, they had to have just missed it somehow, but Pearl was already wandering off with her face buried in her hands.

“Oh my god.” She groaned, muffled. “Are you kidding me?”

“Are you kidding me!” Tango repeated, tossing his duffel bag violently against the mess they’d made.

They slumped onto the edge of the trunk. Tango tried to retrace their steps, remember where Skizz had put the cage down while they were sorting through bags with Impulse. Tried to remember who said would grab what. It was an uphill battle against his terrible memory, and one that meant nothing now that they were in the middle of nowhere with a car packed full of everything but the one thing they needed.

The sun was beginning to set through the trees, casting long shadows across them. Only a few cars passed by, none stopping to check on them. He didn’t know if he was offended by the rudeness or thankful he didn’t have to explain to a stranger that they lost a bird.

“We have to go back.” Pearl announced, though she made no move to get back in the car.

Tango scoffed. “And what? We’ll have wasted ten hours at least, we don’t have time to drive the bird back now.”

“Well where else are we gonna go?”

Good point. Counterpoint, Tango wasn’t so sure he wanted to face their bandmates, and especially not Empire, with this humiliating story. The most they could do was continue on to some complete stranger’s house and tell them their buddy stole their bird, but also they didn’t have it and they’d return it in a month. He groaned, tossing his head forward. “Well, you wanna drive through the night or find a motel?”

“Let’s just get back.” Tango had never heard her so defeated. She pushed off the trunk and headed for the driver’s seat. “You catch some sleep, I already took a nap earlier.”

With a sombre ooze hanging over everything the pair crawled back into the car and made a U-turn back to the event.

[nyssasims]

Hii! I'm absolutely in love of how good your screenshots are, both in game and in cas, I was wondering is it possible you could make a little tutorial on how you do it? Idk why mine always look like blurry or something idk it's very uninspiring

hi @simsinfinitylt. thank you so much 🥺! and please do not feel discouraged. it really is all trial and error, i promise. it definitely took me a minute myself to find what worked best for me. this is my current editing system:

chapter 1: a pc for me the most important thing is to have a good computer that can play the game on max settings. make sure all your settings are maxed out, with laptop mode and edge smoothing off. i also play the game in 4k resolution (3840 x 2160), the max for my monitor (but it might be different for you).

additionally, i use the graphics overhaul overrider by simp4sims, the 'ultimate quality' preset.

graphic overhaul: graphics rules setters

here are my pc specs...

chapter 2: maybe she's born with it. maybe... it's reshade reshade honestly does most of the work as well as the world lighting mods by @softerhaze. i hope to be able to find time to make my own preset one day, but for now, i use the daisies reshade by @breezytrait. here are my lighting and visual mods...

reshade: daisies (i tweaked the preset a bit, mostly increasing the mxao here) world lighting mods: twinkle toes, shadows for days light replacements: no glow v2, out of the dark, inner glow cloud replacement: studio ghibli clouds

chapter 3: say click. take a pic

i take all of my screenshots in tab mode. i find that it's best to go into tab mode further away than you want the picture, then slowly move the camera forward with the arrow keys to frame the screenshot. this is especially great for really up close photos of sims faces.

i capture all my screenshots with the built in reshade capture function and use the no drift camera mod to keep the tab camera steady

tab mode mods: no drift

chapter 4: call me by your lightroom

now that the screenshots are taken, off to lightroom they go. i honestly don't do much editing in lightroom in terms of color grading. i mainly focus on the details and lights sections. here are my settings...

here are examples, before and after, of what the edits look like on top of the reshade

these are the same settings i use for all my photos. with the exception of the 'contrast' slider which I sometimes bring up for sims with darker skin tones. and the 'shadows' slider i sometimes bring down for night photos.

chapter 5: shout out to picsart. gotta be one of my favorite genders

from lightroom, i'll then import the photos into picarts to finish them off with light leaks and dust particles (as needed). i use the 'detail' brush under 'retouch' to color in sims and objects in the foreground (rocks, plants, bottles, etc.) to make them pop even more.

i also use this app to blur things that the reshade dof couldn't get to. here are some finished examples before and after.

chapter 6: the sons of picsart

for overlay graphics and texts, i use photoshop and phonto. for the psds, i'll import them into photoshop first to make edits then send them off to picsart to add them to my image. i'll use phonto to add texts and sometimes doodles

here are links to some of my favorite psds and other useful resources

photoshop psds: moodlets, promotions, holiday, ui mockups other resources: sims 4 icons, text message

chapter 7: she doesn't even go here

for cas photos, since there is no tab mode, i just take screenshots as is, with the reshade dof from my preset on to blur out most of the background.

i use the cas lighting by @breezytrait to brighten the cas room up.

cas lighting: hard side light

then edit them in lightroom with he same edits as in-game photos (see chapter 4).

chapter 8: the bell doesn't dismiss you, i do

and that is how i typically edit my photos. i hope this helps inspire you for your future content... and was extensive enough. but of course if you have anymore questions feel free to leave them down below. my inbox is always open and i'm happy to help 😊.

[teaspoonofdread]

THOUGHTS on Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga

I'll start with two statements regarding Anya Taylor Joy's casting and go from there.

I like her (I know some don't).

I agree she doesn't look like Charlize Theron (and we all know Charlize realized Furiosa as much as Miller did).

BUT a thing that struck me as soon as I heard she was cast was that she had that ethereal vibe of the Five (when I first saw them, the word 'mermaids' wouldn't leave my mind). I could see Anya playing a 'wife', which works with a backstory, I don't think any fan would like to watch play out on the screen...

Now let's try not to be too skeptical: she's tall like Furiosa, there's the probability she was more feminine as a girl living in a feminine world the Green Place of Many Mothers, she didn't need to be as muscular in her youth so she wasn't, etc.

Now. The trailer didn't manage to completely sell me the idea of Anya as Furiosa, but it eased some of my nerves. THE EYES! I saw a troll post on redit literally the day before the trailer dropped with close-ups of Theron and Joy (brown-eyed) captured "Furiosa eye color change?"

I've read the meta, I knew the eyes were carefully retouched in Fury Road in post-production, so I had hope. And seeing Anya's eyes in the trailer, I thought to myself, 'This is THE death stare. This is Furiosa'. And when she screamed all disheveled, I liked that part best. The one with her face covered, making the V8 symbol - second best.

I liked that she was shooting, I liked that cropped-out-seconds-rising-the-tension-rising-the-momentum Gorge Miller magic, I liked how over the top Lord Dementus was, it worked for me. Joe looked like Joe, I believe he didn't have any lines.

I definitely didn't like that head-touch with Tom Burke's character 😕 (sorry. He seems to have a lot of fans.)

And I didn't like the opening and closing shots. Can't quite place why: the opening one seemed like I'd already watched it before, also a bit too long, and the closing felt not authentic somehow. I wish she was more muscular. She just seems fragile in the classic Furiosa outfit.

Last roll of 'complains' before I start with the excitement-inducing points:

The over-explaining in the trailer itself, the big words with the exact number of years and all (like they could've converted into days, like they do in universe) but alas I suppose that's in order to bring in a wider audience. I hope it succeeds, tho!

Is a prequel the story I wanna visit - no. I'd like a movie about the Four - rebuilding, reforming, growing (green and as people), I want Max back even as I know it isn't like him to stay, and finally I want Theron and Hardy side by side, even as I know they wouldn't haha.

All of that is so unlikely. And there are so many spectacular novel-length fics about that. Hell, one such universe has been materializing in my mind for the past year. I almost don't want a movie about what comes after.

Still, I'd prefer a movie about the after rather than the before, but that's what's happening.

But I'm a nobody. The Creator of this world has a story he'd like to share, and it is centered around one of the most incredible characters in recent history, I think we're lucky to be able to witness that.

Now, onto the real excitement!

Disclaimer: this is less coherent even than what came before it.

First of all, we're finally getting a Wasteland movie by Gorge Miller (edited by Margaret Sixel!!!)

I cannot stress this enough!

We're getting chases, and War Boys and shiny mutant-cars, and we're going to GasTown, people! To the Bullet Farm! Helloo, I'm so ready, so curious!

And we're going to the Green Place, y'all! I'm so excited about it. Like they had horses wtf? Mary Jo Bassa! Canon Vuvalini names! Traditions! Defense strategies, weapons, male Vuvalini maybe, crows, so much lore...

But I'm most excited about that Lady driver and the little girl. I'm soo ready for the stories of women in the Wasteland!

To sum up: I'm mostly hyped for the expansion of the world because I love it so much. Because we'd see another of Miller's visions.

And I trust the team behind it enough to know it won't be an unremarkable movie.

I know it won't be another Fury Road because there never will be.

I watched it way too late, and it's my dream to see it on the big screen, which wouldn't happen. So I'm grateful for a second chance to experience something like it. And I'm hoping the fandom will live again, because from my lurking I've found it to be as intricate and smart and fucking amazing as Fury Road itself is, and I'd like to be a part of it this time around :')

[rose-arwen-padme]

Suppression: Sneak Peek at the next chapter

Hello there! I haven't been nearly as active on tumblr as I've wanted to be lately, but I thought I might make up for that with a sneak peek at one of the final chapters of the fic. This a flashback, and experienced readers know the text of flashbacks appear in the story in italics. Because the segment is on its own here, however, I'm changing it to regular font for the purpose of this post.

For those unfamiliar with my fanfiction story, Suppression, it follows the canon/legends AOTC story of Anakin and Padmé's courtship-- with a lot of extra scenes added in. Here are some links if you'd like to check it out!

AO3 Link and Fanfiction.Net Link

A galaxy's worth of gratitude to those who have found/followed me on tumblr. This sneak peek is meant as my sincere thanks to you all.

Hope you enjoy!

IX. NABOO

Chapter 57. The Holy Man Returns

O love, O fire! once he drew With one long kiss my whole soul through My lips, as sunlight drinketh dew. ― Alfred Lord Tennyson

“Don’t hold back,” I stated firmly. “I want them to be able to see it from the other side of the chamber.”

Rabé silently followed my instructions, drawing the makeup brush in the red pigment before reapplying it to my top lip. She was careful to mind the established lines so the effect did not bleed— ironic, as the color of the cosmetic was meant to symbolize spilled blood. The Scar of Remembrance deepened under her expert hand. The ceremonial markings represented the suffering my people endured before the Great Time of Peace. Since the day my term began, I’d donned the lipstick, face coat, and twin dots to solemnly remember an ancient history I had no personal recollection of. Today, it was my war paint. History took second-standing to contemporary threats. My pacifist home had an enemy… and we were losing.

I squinted at the blinding light coming through the window’s horizontal shades, but I didn’t move. Rabé had asked me to stand in the bright path of Coruscant’s sun so that she may better retouch my makeup. I obeyed the rules of my handler as devoutly as she obeyed the decrees of her Queen.

The tip of my tongue and the juices in my mouth captured the flavors. The red pigment tasted like almonds, as it always did; the white like sour candy. At least, to me. Sabé often insisted the white tasted how her aunt’s “nasty perfume” smelled. After a minute more of ministrations, Rabé retrieved a mirror the size of a datapad for a final check. She held it up from a meter away, and a ghostly white face interrupted by dark hues stared back at me. There was the red, of course, but she’d also filled in the brown of my eyebrows well— not that I used them much to convey expression when I adopted the Amidala persona.

Today had to be a careful exception. An exception to the usual brand of stoicism because I was here to plead a case, and I would seek to touch the emotions of those listening. Careful, because the Senator for the Trade Federation would be there too. For the sake of my home world, I could not afford to look unbalanced in front of him.

“Does it please you?” Rabé’s accent enveloped her question in its lovely way.

Weary of the weight of the horned headpiece, I only slightly dipped my chin in approval.

It was an ingenious trick— Eirtaé’s suggestion— to wear the ornate horns for the all-important event, as it added a significant amount of height and authority to my petite frame. The red and gold layers of my wide dress helped greatly as well. But although the adornments of arched hair and many tassels were counterbalanced by the full train of sectioned hair going down my back, I was still getting reacquainted with having such a massive embellishment on my head. Just three days on Tatooine allowed me to fall back into the comfort of being a regular girl again, with a regular girl’s braids. If I hadn’t worn the medium-sized, fanned headpiece during my strategy meeting with Senator Palpatine— easing me back into the physicality of Queen— the transition from simple handmaiden garb to this might have given me whiplash.

With my styling complete, Rabé stashed the mirror and went to help the others. Sabé and Eirtaé were storing the rejected wardrobe options back into my upright trunks.

The silence as they worked was deafening.

It was unnerving for all of us— to be a group of four, instead of our usual six. The compensating rhythm was awkward and… sad. There was too much space in the opulent room. Too much empty air. Fear for Saché and Yané fueled my growing impatience. It had been gracious of Palpatine to offer rooms to his Queen in his own apartment, but I was restless to trade these red walls and black statues for the audience I’d traveled here for— the audience I’d abandoned my people and run a blockade to be seen by.

{Our only hope is for the Senate to side with us.}

“How much longer must we wait?”

“Senator Palpatine promised he will be here to escort you before the special session begins.” If Sabé’s voice had an accent, it was one of lingering regal authority. Similar to me, albeit in the opposite direction, my decoy was still adjusting into her alternative-self. Her vocal cords were finding their way back to her natural tone after using the Queen’s voice, in which she’d been meticulously confined ever since we’d switched roles in the palace. It had been, by far, the longest she’d ever had to use it.

Rabé’s voice rang with concern. “Do you think it is as he said? The Supreme Chancellor does not have the power to help us?”

“Chancellor Valorum called for this special session so that I may address the Senate. I cannot believe they will allow the injustice to continue once they’ve learned of it.” Surely, the state of the government couldn’t be as bleak as Palpatine claimed. His idea of calling for a vote of no confidence had to remain a last resort. Even if Valorum was ineffectual, it was far better for Naboo to have an ally in a weakened Chancellor than for me to make an enemy of one. I fought back a nervous fear flooding through my chest. This would be the most important speech, not just of my political career, but of my life. “I have one chance to get this right.”

“The truth is on our side,” Sabé affirmed. “All you need to do is tell the truth.”

I dipped my chin in agreement, though I knew the theatrics of politics made it more complicated than that. My eyes dropped to the floor. After a moment, I closed my lids completely in order to concentrate. I hadn’t been in the Senate Rotunda since my time as an Apprentice Legislator. I pictured the unparalleled magnitude of the chamber. Its thousands of identical hoverpods. I would need to convince as many of their occupants as I could. “Esteemed representatives…” I lowered my voice into the Queen’s register. “Esteemed representatives of the Republic.”

I was fortunate the tone we’d chosen to hide our voices behind was pitched so low. It wasn’t unusual to the Naboo to elect fourteen-year-olds into sovereignty, but I was aware that many other planets— even with cultures populated by humans— did not share such a respect for their younger generations. Wardrobe, word-choice, timbre, posture, expression— I needed to broadcast the maturity of someone twice my age.

Wardrobe was complete, posture and expression were second-nature, and I was already successful at tapping back into the trademark voice. That just left the speech.

Back and forth, I paced across the blush-red carpet in my slowed, weighted walk. Three pairs of piercing eyes watched me work through the very best selections of Basic. I did not feel the gaze of doting handmaidens, but of frightened daughters. Sisters. Nieces. Each of them, just like me, had families and friends left to unknown fates. Each of them was as invested as me in the outcome of this nightmare— but their loved ones’ lives were solely in my hands, not in theirs.

The weight of monarchy had never felt so heavy on my adolescent shoulders.

I bit down on my lip without thinking and tasted the white pigment. Doing so made me realize how much Sabé must’ve thought about her aunt these past days.

{The Senate is full of greedy, squabbling delegates.}

“Esteemed repre… Honorable representatives of the Republic. Distinguished delegates.”

{There is no interest in the common good.}

Every sentence would be an opportunity for a catastrophic stumble.

“Chancellor Valorum— Your Honor, Supreme Chancellor Valorum. I have come to… I come to you in a time of great peril for my people.”

{The Chancellor has little real power. He is mired by baseless accusations of corruption.}

“I come to you under the most perilous of circumstances.” I shook my head. “That’s not it.” My stomach twisted in the hand of anxiety’s grip.

Sabé’s voice came from somewhere behind me. “What about, ‘under the gravest of circumstances?’”

But my attention had been caught by Rabé. She was speaking into a comm. “Let him in.”

As she left our room and moved towards the circular atrium, I felt a rush of irritation. There wouldn’t be a need for a security-comm check if Senator Palpatine had arrived. Until I felt comfortable with my heartfelt-but-not-hysterical, emphatic-but-not-weak plea, I didn’t want any visitors. I made eye contact with the others. “If it isn’t Captain Panaka, an escort arriving to take me to the Senate, or the Viceroy himself coming to announce his retreat, I do not wish to be disturbed.”

Eirtaé suddenly looked hopeful. “What if it is Chancellor Valorum?”

I appreciated her optimism but knew the odds of it being right were slim to none. I heard the entry door close. Soon after, I was sure I heard my name— my real name, the name my parents gave me— spoken. I made my voice loud. “Who is it?” My feet carried me the steps it took to pass the wall barrier and see the visitor for myself.

Rabé announced the answer just as a scrawny arm and a matted head of blond hair came into view. “Anakin Skywalker to see Padmé, Your Highness.”

Our eyes connected. I waited a half-second— just a half-second— to see. It was strange, that though the success of the decoy switch was a life-or-death matter, I wanted Ani to see through it. But the funny little boy who knew so much— who gave me his bed while he slept next to it on the sandy floor; who blushed when I embraced him after he victoriously risked his life to help us— regarded me without any sign of recognition at all.

Good, I reminded myself, papering over the unexpected disappointment. That’s a good thing.

He bowed like any nine-year-old without practice at it would. Ani wasn’t going to be a critical news-bearer or an escort. I wasn’t as annoyed to see him as I might’ve been by another interrupter, but I didn’t have time for this. My voice was curt. “I’ve sent Padmé on an errand.”

I inwardly— never outwardly— flinched at my blunder. Eirtaé and Sabé were behind me. Rabé stood next to Ani. Three handmaidens had come to the capital with the Queen of Naboo. Three handmaidens and a Queen stood within his sight. Luckily, Ani didn’t seem to count or care. It only mattered to him that the angel he sought wasn’t here.

There was something about the way he nervously twitched his hands that pulled at my heart. This child had snuggled into my arms in the ship’s booth just hours ago, looking up at me with trust while he cried for his mother. I’d sung him lullabies until he’d fallen asleep. Now, he was clearly intimidated by the imposing figure— the stranger— before him. “I’m on my way to the Jedi Temple to start my training, I hope.” He became crest-fallen. “I may never see her again, so I came to say goodbye.”

Never see each other again?

No, no, not now. Not like this.

He’d burst into my life so recently, and at such a desperate hour, but the concept of a final goodbye between us was surprising in its discomfort. And yet… was it? Anakin Skywalker had been the only person or reason why I’d smiled— even laughed— since the moment Federation starships arrived in Naboo’s orbit. He’d been my eye of calm in the center of an overwhelming storm. He’d become my friend. Now, I was supposed to look at him as if I barely knew him— as if this was the first conversation we’d ever had.

I’d never wanted to wretch away the Amidala mask so badly before.

See me, Ani. Give me a sign that you see who I am, or even that you suspect these words are coming from me.

“We will tell her for you. We are sure her heart goes with you.”

It was as much emotion as I dared to infuse in my voice.

He bowed respectfully. Again, there was no indication Ani wondered if he was talking to the person he’d claimed just days ago he was going to marry. If anything, I detected an emerging smirk at my headpiece, like he found it a tad much. Padmé would have agreed with him. “Thank you, Your Highness.”

I turned away, fearful that my mask would not hold much longer. Fearful he would finally recognize me, which I knew couldn’t be allowed. I kept my eyes on him until the last possible moment, dreading and hoping for the flash of awareness that never came.

And then he was gone.

After I heard the exterior doors slide shut, I stared down at the floor, as immobile as Palpatine’s polished statues. When I eventually looked up at the two handmaidens studying me, I saw surprise in their expressions. It didn’t matter. My eyes were already scanning the room for something precious.

“There was a gray, drawstring pouch. I put an amulet in it. Is it here, or was it left on my ship?”

Rabé walked back into the room and looked between the three of us. She’d heard my question, but she, too, shrugged along with the others. “I am not sure.”

“There are designs carved into it. It’s strung on a thick, brown cord.”

Eirtaé apologetically offered, “I didn’t see a gray pouch anywhere.”

I told him I didn’t need the Japor snippet to remember him by, but I couldn’t have lost it so quickly!

“It’s of great importance to me.”

Rabé looked perplexed. “Do you require it for your speech?”

The speech.

The hooded trio were scrutinizing me, clearly confused. They didn’t know if this amulet was a lucky token of some kind I wanted for a superstitious cause, or perhaps a literal bargaining chip important to a secret strategy known only to their Queen.

I opened my white and red mouth to explain, but no words came out, except, “No… I don’t need it for the Senate.”

Sabé accepted the situation for whatever it was. She nodded and declared, “We will find it after.”

Once again, I heard the endowed authority that was supposed to be in my voice instead present in hers. I clung to it. On a rational plane, I knew the level of wrongness I felt under my skin was absurd.

But somewhere very deep within— some ancient part of my young soul that spoke a language I was years away from understanding— grappled with the poisonous idea that I’d never see Anakin Skywalker again.

“Yes. Make sure it is not lost.”

[dragonmuse]

(So this will post together on AO3 with yesterday's excerpt. I was curious about Lucius and Charlie being older, so when AsIsHerRight followed up with that request, it was set in stone. Charlie is 23.)

Charlie only had a wait a few second after knocking before Izzy opened the door. 

“Hi! I’m here to steal your boyfriend. 

“Take him,” Izzy held the door open for him. “He’s being a fucking pill anyway.” 

“I can hear you!” Lucius yelled from the bedroom. 

“I know you can!” Izzy yelled back, a faint smile on his lips.  

“Problem?” Charlie laughed, going straight into a squat, hand held out for Sweeney, who had come to investigate. “Hey, little man, how’s it going?” 

Sweeney purred like a chainsaw, butting at his fingers. 

“Luc found a gray hair and he’s trying to get me to be sympathetic,” Izzy said dryly. 

Considering Izzy didn’t have a single black one left by now, it wasn’t hard to figure that it had gone over like a lead balloon. 

“Don’t tell my secrets,” Lucius chided, walking into the living room. “Now he’s going to be looking for it.” 

“I can’t think of anything I’d care less to do,” Charlie assured him. “Anyway, aren’t you like fifty already? Totally normal to be gray.” 

Lucius made an inhumane screech and Charlie giggled manically. 

“Forty-three! Stop prematurely aging me,” Lucius aimed a kick at him and Charlie hopped back. Sweeney ambled away, apparently done with them both. “I’m not going anywhere with you.” 

“That’s your call, but the tickets are pretty good.” 

“Fine. But only because I want to see this monstrosity of performance art,” Lucius grumbled. 

He didn’t look forty-anything to Charlie. It was something about Lucius’ face, still gently rounded that kept him looking younger. Or maybe Charlie just had him preserved in amber in his head like he did with many of the older people in his life. Just captured in a timeless ‘older than me’ void where little noticeably changed. 

“You sure you don’t want in?” Charlie offered to Izzy. “Pretty sure we could still get another seat.” 

“Rather stick pins in my eyes.” 

“Sounds like a fun night you have planned,” Lucius kissed Izzy’s cheek. “Try not to bleed on the rug.” 

“Have fun, Pup,” Izzy touched his back lightly.  

“Will do. Ready?” 

“Yep, let’s go.” 

They set out into a balmy evening, heading down the block to the station. 

“So how’d you find out about this?” Lucius asked. 

“Alma found it actually,” he admitted. “She sent me the listing since she knew I’d be around. I think she wanted to go and wants a report.” 

“When is she getting back from Ireland?” 

“Next month, I think. Have to double check. Apparently the dig is going well. Mom and Pop went out to visit her a few weeks ago and said she was all fired up. I’ll be proofing drafts for years probably.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“Oh, I proof her shit and she proofs mine. Started last year. Our fields are different enough that we don’t get hung up on the facts or anything, just look for grammar and spelling stuff. I bet she’s going to publish like a fiend when she gets back.” 

“That’s sweet,” Lucius grinned. “Good to hear you guys found a way to pick on each other that’s actually helpful.” 

“Ugh, I know right? She gets to be annoyed by my commas and I get to shoot down all her purple prose. And neither of us are allowed to get mad about it.”  

“So the master’s is going all right?”

“Good enough. It’s comfortably uncomfortable,” Charlie allowed. “You’re good?” 

“Got a pretty large commission recently. Can’t complain.” 

“Except about the grays.” 

“Fuck off,” Lucius groaned. “I know it’s ridiculous. I don’t even mind getting older, just snuck up on me. I had such a good streak going.”  

“What was the commission?” Charlie said soothingly. “Tell me about your successes, old man.” 

“I will eat your heart in the marketplace and gain internal irritating youth,” Lucius said without heat. “It was a mural for another gay club, if you can believe it. I did the eye so long ago, but I had to retouch it over the summer and apparently that caught someone’s attention.” 

“So what’re you doing with it?” 

“Got a few sketches over to them earlier in the week, waiting to hear back. Club has a retro vibe, kind of 70s, so I went with a shattering disco ball effect.  Maybe use cement and embed bits of real mirror in it for effect.  We’ll see.” 

“Disappointingly non-phallic,” Charlie judged as they went down the steps. 

“They specifically requested no dicks. Customer is sometimes wrong, but I like money, so here we are.” 

“Has your dick well run dry?” 

“Never,” Lucius grinned. “Just smaller jobs. Nothing worth special attention recently. How’s your man?” 

“He’s good. Keeps texting me because he’s bored out of his mind. Apparently he’s already done everything worth doing in the city they’re playing in,” he shook his head. “He needs a portable hobby.” 

“Knitting?” 

“I’ve suggested it. I think he just prefers asking me the most random things that come into his skull.” 

“Yeah,” Lucius said dryly. “You sound really annoyed by that.” 

“Ugh, shut up,  I love him so much it’s kind of stupid,” he groaned. “Like I should not find this endearing. He’s being ridiculous.” 

“He’s trying to connect with you when you’re apart,” Lucius shrugged. “That’s not ridiculous.” 

“No I mean-” Charlie started then stopped. “You think so?” 

“For fuck’s sake, what’d you think he was doing? Playing Jeopardy?” 

“Sometimes that’s literally what he’s doing,” Charlie mumbled. “We watch it together sometimes and he doesn’t get the literature questions.” 

“Of course you do,” Lucius rolled his eyes. “Sounds like a hot date night.” 

“Oh, I’m sorry, are you painting the town red these days?” Charlie scoffed. 

“Frequently. What about you? Roll all your door mats back in?” 

“Nah, still says welcome on most of my underwear,”  he stopped on the platform, rocking back on his heels. “We’ve got an agreement. Technically, I could be on the make right now.”

“And instead you’re slumming it with me?” Lucius pressed a hand to his chest. “I’m flattered.” 

“Yeah, I am,” Charlie looked at him seriously. “I missed you.” 

There was a beat and then Lucius visibly melted, “Charlie.” 

“Don’t,” he held up a warning finger. “That’s as far as I go. We are not getting mushy.” 

“Aw, he likes me! He really likes me!”  

“Less and less right at this moment.” 

Their train arrived and they picked a pole, Charlie wrapped his elbow around it, taking out his phone and firing off a text to Felix. 

Charlie: it’s Faulkner and I love you. 

Felix: thanks! Have fun tonight, love you too! 

“I thought we weren’t doing mushy,” Lucius taunted. 

“We as in you and I. We as in me and Felix can be as mushy as we like. You owe me for like a decade of PDA in front of me at least.” 

“Were you terribly scarred by all the wholesome homosexual affectionate behavior? Do I need to pay some of your copays?” 

“Please,” Charlie snored. “Dad pays those. It’s like watching the guilt trickle into my bank account.” 

“What’s that look like?” 

“Better mental health apparently.” 

With a tilt to his head, Lucius gave him a one over. “Yeah. You seem pretty good to me. You feel good?” 

“Yeah, most days,” Charlie sighed. “Who’s perfect with this shit? There’s low times, but at least I know what’s up now. I can watch out for it.” 

“Tell your brain not to be an asshole,” Lucius said sagely. 

“Try to anyway. The meds help with that.” 

“Good. Whatever it takes.” 

“Serious check in time over now?” 

“Sure.” 

“Cool, okay, so I hooked up with this guy last month and he’d lost a nipple in a skiing accident.” 

“....you have my attention.” 

They traded stories back and forth, nothing actually graphic, just toeing the line a little. By the time they go to the theater, they were both laughing and it was a good thing because the show itself was fairly dry. There was a lot of yelling and the performer did shave off their eyebrows as a part of it, but it wasn’t very compelling. 

“I have regrets,” Charlie decided as the thing sputtered to a close with a malfunctioning curtain call. 

“Mm. Could’ve been worse. Dinner?” 

“Please.” 

“There’s a place around here...” Lucius got his phone out. “Does killer gnocchi and I have such a craving.” 

“Who gets a craving for gnocchi? It’s potato with pasta confusion.” 

“Bite your tongue.” 

Lucius did get his gnocchi and Charlie got a massive eggplant parm. Along with drinks, whiskey sour for Lucius and a Tom Collins for Charlie.

“I didn’t think of you as a gin guy,” Lucius admitted. 

“I dunno. I like it. Plus I never vomited it up in college, so no bad sensory memories.” 

“Gross and relatable,” Lucius raised his glass. “Here’s to many more years of that.” 

“To being gross and relatable,” Charlie laughed. 

Their glasses rang quietly together, lost in the dinner rush of the restaurant, but not lost on them in the least.

[whitepicketfenceblog]

To me, they're basically the same picture. A few moments nonchalantly captured by a rapidly fluttering shutter.

To the subjects of my hasty photography, every single picture is completely different, each deserving scrupulous examination. I am leaning just a couple inches too far left. The sun doesn't hit my face right. My shades are sitting just a smidge too low. My friend isn't close enough. The ripples in the water are too far away.

Only so much can change in just two seconds, ladies. Geez.

The funny thing is, this is just the first screen. Even after an album is initially narrowed down, there comes multiple rounds of deliberation and elimination before any images are uploaded to the holy altar that is the Instagram feed:

Does this fit in with the rest of the pictures I plan on posting?

How should the images be ordered? Is this "first slide" worthy?

Do my friends look good? Should I ask for their permission to post?

But perhaps most important of all:

Is it natural?

Nobody wants to be known for retouching their images. Nobody brags about how much plastic surgery they have undergone. Nobody talks about the different poses and angles that did not make the final post. Nobody even mentions the thousands of photos they had to take before finding "the one."

In other words, nobody wants to be a try-hard. But it takes a try-hard to compete with and meet the constantly growing expectations of other try-hards. With the democratization of photography and editing software, everyone could produce the perfect photo if they wanted to. You just got to work your behind off to achieve it.

So I guess I'll keep clicking away.

[photo-editing12]

What is the cost of a headshot?

Introduction

A headshot photograph is one that shows the area from just above the chest all the way to your face. What it captures: This focuses on the face and head from a higher angle. The primary objective of a full headshot is to display the face of a person. It has to beautify their appearance and should agree with their features. Well, you see headshots for the way a person's face looks. They are just for social media and IMO kind of apps which are for personal use. Further, head: used as a profile photo in most of the online business communities Headshots are provided to go with the portfolio. It also offers a clean, business centric outlook on the face. A headshot photo retouching concentrates on the face and upper body, as opposed to a full length shot. It accurately captures the facial features and the attire.

How is a full headshot photo used?

A full-length headshot is a photo where only your entire face, neck and shoulders will be visible. You wear your archetype many ways: it is probably the primary image, how people use or rely on you in work and personal life.In this article, we will describe the situations in which it is applied. Yet platforms such as LinkedIn need a professional headshot rest assured not one with you blurry in the background. It adds a recognition to it and has its own human touch It also acts as an icon that can be placed on corporate websites, to show employees the It serves as a representation of company personas and this will continue with the namestrationally. 

A professional headshot: First and foremost, your most basic necessity to set up a presence online. A professional headshot upgrades your look across all of the social networks, Facebook and Twitter included. This visual card tells who you are and what your brand stands for in a snap of the eyes. High-resolution Gallery with a Full headshot to make that First Impression on your online presence It should talk about you. Investment in YOU for personal profiles.

Credit: the light committee

For business accounts, once again it is a social proof. This will make you look serious and elegant

Stay winning both metaphorically and with literally the most fire headshot to put on your resume.  In today's tough job market, having a strong personal brand is very important. When you apply with a professional resume photo, your submission becomes much more relatable. It is the tether that connects your visual identity to prospective employers. This tip will help you in your interview. Increase your chances of being picked by including a pro headshot.

It humanizes your application, it gives a name to the face. Candidates will make hiring managers remember them and inspire the engagement process. Well equipped with this knowledge puts you a step further in front of job competitors that is neck to neck competition between candidate and the other.

Headshots are almost always a necessity in the entertainment business. Full face and hair is clearly visible for all the full Face portrait photo for actor & Modeling work taken from different angles. Those are the things talent scouts and directors use to choose people. This plays a big role in casting in today's film and fashion world. Casting directors and agents are using these pictures to get an idea of what you look like. You will also be able to determine if the role or project is a good match for you.

Appearance + attitude: A good headshot shows it all at first glance It is crucial in business and social settings. It ends up as business cards and follow-on bodies of work with legs.

 A standout picture can elevate your professional reputation among others. Could help with Follow up as well

The major figures feature a photo with their face directly on the point. These images appear in brochures, posters, and press announcements. A portrait of a pro with charisma, but for attracting viewers it is the essential part to building your brand. This greatly changes the perspective of the audience about you as a professional. But in each of these cases, a full-color headshot is merely exhibiting you being your genuine safest sense. This creates a personalized touch to exchanges and makes them more memorable. First, check out an example of a great headshot just doing what they should be–showing you as professional and confident but also approachable. This obviously leaves a favorable impact & makes them want to really engage with you!

How many types of full headshot photos are there and what are they?

Click Here To Find Full Headshot Photos There are full headshot photos for a reason This is also the case for business profile headshots on LinkedIn and corporate websites. That type of crisp image, pure-crisp and very formal. It has a neutral background. Lighten up I mean subtly lighten one headshot. That is good to use on social media, and your sites. It generally supports a light or slim not serious foreground, and directly set Position (or dense Empty fun) Creative Headshot Always choose Creative headshots for the professionals in order to flaunt your different styles. 

Credit: the light committee

There is a word for this photography and that goes as portfolio work, which is usually admired by the actors or models and some other artistic personalities. This may mean particular settings, lighting or even clothes. That is how you know a corporate headshot really only means a professional photo of yourself. Business Formal It is a term that companies use in directories or professional publications. The face veers into business-appropriate bling rather than swim watch. Profile pictures on online places and in social media websites should be clear. They don't have to be professional headshots. They can ambiently get a small bit of hamartia. Whether it be all kinds of headshots, make a person show to the world properly.

What role does a headshot photo play in our daily lives?

We ALL need a headshot photograph. It also helps represent oneself truthfully in all successful places among a corporate veil. Because it is the first thing that everyone sees about us on social media. They feel a bond with each other.They are polished, professional looking shoes used for professionalism headshots (Resumes, Linkedins and corporate sites)

We all have something about us that separates us from the pack and can make it so we are top of mind to employers or clients. If you build your career from the creative side where most things are done by headshot. (out) The necessary lifeblood of auditions and portfolios. It lets casting directors and agents know what we are like in person and how well prepared we will be on set. It enhances how we represent ourselves. It's also crucial for our communication with others.

How can we benefit from using a full headshot photo?

A complete headshot photo carries a lot of meaning.

It helps project a seamless, professional image through various points of contact. This is the case, for instance, on Linked in and co., where a close-up headshot allows you to be identifiable at a glance and makes it easier for people to get an attractive first impression of your appearance. As with all of our personality in the age of social media and personal sites, one full headshot conveys this well as we make ourselves seem more interesting online. It also helps to be remembered by friends, colleagues and other contacts that we might need in the future.

Credit: bartholomew photography

Regarding work and professional networking, a full headshot can make us outstanding by making our resumes or profiles more personal. This is especially important for those who work in the creative industries (eg, acting or modeling) as a full headshot expresses to professionals what we look like and how our style suits their needs. To summarize, A good full headshot makes us more visible to the outside world and one step closer to our virtual personality.

Conclusion

Depending on the photographer and what is offered, a headshot can be more expensive based on basic as well as intricate sessions.  They are often used for job profiles, social media sites, resumes, and casting calls to help build a clear image of you.

This can be professional, casual, creative or corporate photographs depending on the requirement Your ability to be visible, create your brand story and connect with others is established through a good headshot. 

[clippsunil-blog]

skin retouching and photo masking service

Welcome to Merchynt's world of creativity, where every image is transformed into a masterpiece! 🎨 Our skin retouching and Photo Masking Service are designed to elevate your photographs to new heights of perfection. Whether you're a photographer looking to enhance your portfolio, a business in need of stunning visuals, or simply someone who appreciates impeccable image refinement, Merchynt is here to exceed your expectations. ✨

Our Photo maskings is not just about editing; it's about crafting enchanting visuals that captivate and inspire. With our meticulous attention to detail and commitment to excellence, we ensure that every image tells a story of beauty and sophistication. 💫

Join the ranks of satisfied clients who have experienced the Merchynt difference. Discover the transformative power of our services and unlock the full potential of your images. 🌟 Trust in Merchynt for unparalleled quality, reliability, and creativity. Let us turn your vision into reality!

[dunphotostudios]

Elevate Your Professional Image with a Business Headshot from DunphotoStudios

In today’s fast-paced, visually-driven world, your professional image matters more than ever. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, an entrepreneur, or just starting out in your career, a high-quality business headshot can make a powerful first impression. It’s not just about having a picture on your LinkedIn profile or company website; it’s about presenting yourself in the best light—literally and figuratively.

At DunphotoStudios, we understand the importance of a strong professional image. That’s why we offer top-notch business headshot services right here in Tampa, FL. Our goal is to capture your confidence, approachability, and professionalism in every shot.

Why Choose DunphotoStudios for Your Business Headshot?

1. **Tailored Experience:** We know that each professional has unique needs and preferences. Our sessions are customized to suit your style, whether you’re looking for a classic corporate look or something more modern and dynamic.

2. **Convenience:** We get it—time is money. If you’re pressed for time or simply prefer the comfort of your own office, we offer on-location sessions. Our mobile setup allows us to bring the studio to you, ensuring a seamless and efficient experience. Whether it's for individuals or entire teams, we've got you covered.

3. **Group Sessions:** Managing a team? We also cater to group sessions, making it easy to update your entire staff’s headshots in one go. Consistency in your company’s visual branding starts with uniform, professional images of your team.

4. **Expert Guidance:** Not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera, and that’s okay. Our skilled photographers will guide you through the process, helping you relax and bringing out your best side. From selecting the right wardrobe to adjusting your posture, we ensure every detail is perfect.

The DunphotoStudios Process

When you book a session with us, you’re not just getting a headshot; you’re getting a complete professional photography experience:

1. **Consultation:** We start with a brief consultation to understand your needs and goals. This helps us tailor the session to reflect your personal brand or company’s image.

2. **Photoshoot:** Whether you visit our studio or we come to you, our sessions are efficient yet thorough. We’ll take multiple shots from different angles, ensuring you have a variety of options to choose from.

3. **Review and Selection:** After the shoot, you’ll have the opportunity to review your images and select your favorites. We offer expert advice to help you choose the best shots.

4. **Professional Retouching:** Once your selections are made, our team of skilled editors will enhance the images, ensuring that you look polished and professional while maintaining a natural appearance.

5. **Delivery:** You’ll receive your final, retouched images in high-resolution digital format, ready to be used across all your professional platforms.

Book Your Session Today

Don’t let an outdated or unflattering headshot hold you back. A great business headshot is an investment in your professional success. At DunphotoStudios, we’re committed to helping you put your best face forward.

Ready to elevate your professional image? Book your session today and let us capture the essence of your brand.

Located in Tampa, FL, but remember—if time or location is a concern, we’ll come to you. Convenience, quality, and professionalism are just a click away.

Visit : Dunphotos.com or call us at (813) 784-3537 to schedule your session. We look forward to working with you!

**#BusinessHeadshots #ProfessionalPhotography #TampaPhotographer #DunphotoStudios**

[wizprout]

9 Latest Photography Trends of 2024 | Let’s Media Solution

Photography is still changing as we go toward 2024, adopting new ideas, styles, and technologies. Both professional and amateur photographers are constantly searching for the latest trends to incorporate into their work. We’ll look at the biggest photography trends in this blog, from cutting-edge methods to hot new subjects that are predicted to rule in 2024.

1. Integration of AI and Machine Learning

Photography is changing in ways never seen before because of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI). Even more sophisticated AI-powered photo-editing, sorting, and enhancement technologies will be available in 2024. By automating time-consuming processes like colour correction, face retouching, and backdrop removal, these technologies free up photographers to concentrate more on their creative work.

2. VR & AR

The ways in which we view and make photographs are about to change dramatically as AR and VR become more widely available. Nowadays, photographers are able to produce immersive experiences that allow spectators to interact with virtual elements in a picture or explore 3D settings. With its more captivating method of presenting visual content, this trend is especially well-liked in the real estate, travel, and product photography industries.

3. Accessible Drone Technology

As drone technology advances, more people are using them to take breathtaking aerial photos, contributing to their continued rise in popularity. By 2024, drones with higher resolution and more control and stability will be smaller and more manageable. For photographers specialising in landscapes, events, and real estate, these developments will present fresh angles that were previously unattainable.

4. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Photography

Growing environmental consciousness has led to a notable trend in photography: sustainable techniques. Photographers are adopting more energy-efficient equipment, reducing waste, and employing eco-friendly materials. A global shift towards environmental awareness is also reflected in the growing interest in capturing topics relating to sustainable living, climate change, and wildlife protection.

5. Vintage and Retro Styles

Photography trends are still influenced by nostalgia, with retro and vintage styles becoming increasingly popular. Photographers who want to convey a feeling of authenticity and timelessness often use film photography, polaroid-style prints, and antique editing techniques. The allure of bygone eras lends a distinctive touch to portrait, fashion, and wedding photography, which is where this trend is most noticeable.

6. Simplicity and Minimalism

A world full of information is making minimalism photography more popular. This minimalistic style emphasises simplicity, producing visually spectacular images with a restrained colour scheme, clear lines, and negative space. Minimalism is a strong trend in both fine art and commercial photography because it draws attention to the topic and the feelings it portrays.

7. Real and Sincere Moments

These days, authenticity is widely prized in visual culture. In 2024, people will become more and more interested in unposed, real-life events that capture authentic feelings and situations. This trend is especially noticeable in wedding and lifestyle photography, where unplanned images frequently convey more interesting tales than well-planned ones.

8. The Evolution of Mobile Photography

With the constant advancement of smartphone cameras, mobile photography is becoming more and more powerful. Smartphones are quickly replacing cameras as the primary instrument of choice for many photographers because of features like numerous lenses, AI-enhanced shooting modes, and robust editing apps. Anticipate even more remarkable mobile photography in 2024 as these devices continue to push the limits of what is possible with small, portable cameras.

9. Inclusivity and Diversity

In photography, representation is more important than ever. Diversity and inclusivity are being promoted widely as a reflection of the multitude of cultures, identities, and experiences that make up our global community. A more inclusive visual narrative is being created by photographers who are showcasing marginalised communities, praising diverse body types, and shattering prejudices.

Conclusion

The 2024 photography trends are a result of a confluence of artistic development, cultural changes, and technological breakthroughs. The photography industry is seeing exciting and significant changes as practitioners embrace artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and sustainable techniques, all the while showcasing authenticity and diversity. Keeping up with these trends can encourage you to push the limits of creativity and innovation while also keeping your work current. Two thousand twenty-four promises to be an exciting year for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike, with lots of exciting new innovations to look forward to.

Capture your moments with the best in the business! At Let’s Media Solution, we specialize in providing top-tier photography and videography services tailored to your unique needs in the vibrant city of Dubai. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project and let us bring your vision to life.

[b623-photo-app]

B623 is your ultimate all-in-one photo and video editing app! With 12 camera options, this app offers free features and tools to enhance every moment.

Key Features:

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AI PHOTO ENHANCER: Improve picture quality, add cartoon effects, and stylish text with AI tools.

PHOTO COLLAGE MAKER: Create beautiful collages with various layouts, filters, and frames.

AI PHOTO CAMERA: Capture perfect snaps with real-time filters and beauty effects.

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Mannequin Product Photography and Its Importance

If you’re in the apparel business, you might have faced the challenge of demonstrating a product in the most appealing manner. For comprehensive product visualization, customers expect to view products from various perspectives. While showcasing products being worn is essential, the high cost of models and the potential alienation caused by mannequins present challenges.

In this blog, you will discover how ghost mannequin photography can help your e-commerce business stand out and dig into its importance and the steps to create stunning product images. Moreover, even after following the best practices, there are few things you want to get changed, contacting Ghost Mannequin Photo Editing Services are recommended. 

What is Ghost Mannequin Photography?

Ghost mannequin photography allows you to take multiple photographs of a product on a mannequin and then combine the photos to remove the mannequin in post-production processing. By using this method, you can create realistic and practical presentations of clothing, which allows customers to easily visualize the product. The result is a lifelike image that keeps the spotlight firmly on your product.

It involves photographing products on a mannequin and then removing it during post-processing to create the illusion that a garment is being worn by an invisible model. You need mannequins, a camera, a well-lit studio setup, and software like Adobe Photoshop for post-processing, or help from experts. 

Importance of Ghost Mannequin Photography

Realistic product presentation: Ghost mannequins offer a realistic depiction of the product without any visual distraction. This technique assists the customers in seeing themselves wearing the product and where they fit on a human body, which improves their experience and confidence in shopping on the particular platform.

Cost and time efficiency: Models are rather expensive to hire, and this makes mannequins the best options to be used in advertising. It is a faster and less expensive technique.

Enhanced depth and dimension: The traditional flat-form image of the product makes it difficult for customers to know the true form of the product, while ghost mannequin adds a third dimension to the photos, enabling the customers to gauge the shape of the product and get a feel of what it would be like when worn.

How to Create Mannequin Product Photography

As per experts at ghost mannequin photo editing, let's learn how you can create a ghost mannequin effect starting from scratch:

Planning your photography: 

Selecting the mannequin: Select a mannequin that is of the appropriate size and style.

Dressing the Mannequin: Carefully put on the garment over the mannequin, making sure that it fits it perfectly, and organize it properly to optimize its outlook.

Lighting: Proper lighting brings out features of the garment that include its pattern and details. Make sure that the lighting conditions for both the mannequin shots and the foam board shots are exactly the same.

Background: It is better to have a plain background that doesn’t distract from the product itself, i.e., grey or white. White mannequins usually work best with white backgrounds and make image editing and retouching infinitely easier.

Photographing the Product: One should also consider the angles and arrangements of the product. The product must be captured from different angles, i.e., from the front, back, and sides. Every single finalized product image will need at least 3–4 shots per product.

Post-Processing: 

Generating the invisible mannequin effect can be best done in Adobe Photoshop by photo shadow creation services.

1: Create Layers: First, load the mannequin image and the foam board image in Photoshop. Choose a mannequin picture and put it in the new layer. Cover it in white; it will be your base when you are done filling the other layers in.

2: Select the product in the Mannequin Image: Choose the product, zoom in tight, and choose your favorite selection tool, such as a single-click tool for the bottom item, lasso or magic wand.

3: Build and put mask: It can be achieved with the help of the Refine Edge tool, under the Select menu.  Press OK in the Refine Edge tool, and your mask is placed. Now, the product will float above the blank backdrop.

4: Repeat Previous Steps with the Foam Board Image: Bring in all three steps above in your foam board product image; photographing the product inside-out will allow you to show the inside-back of the product, thus finishing the mannequin effect. Draw a new layer,'select out the product’, and construct or refine the mask.

5: Overlapping of the images: Take the mask from the foam board picture and drag it onto the invisible mannequin product picture. Arrange the layers in such a way that the image of the foam board is below the mannequin’s picture.

6: Remove unnecessary parts of the foam board layer: Hide the mannequin layer and brush out the unneeded parts.

7: Add shadows and save: Finally, create a shadow between the two layers to add depth to the product, and save a copy of the Photoshop file.

Need Ghost Mannequin Photography or Ghost Mannequin Photo Editing Services?

Mannequin product photography has enormous advantages for e-commerce businesses, especially fashion businesses. It is clear and consistent, and it also gives you a professional look, which in turn will please the customer and hence help in selling more products. 

In fact, it is effective for both a small company selling clothes online and an individual designer’s online shop; it can enhance the appearance of clothes’ images and the overall experience of customers. For any help in this aspect, talk to Global Photo Edit, and avail their exceptional Ghost Mannequin Photo Editing Services.

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Dallas Headshot Photographers: Capturing Your Best Professional Image

In the contemporary carping enterprise world, one cannot overemphasize the role of the first impressions. Whether you are an executive trying to advance in a company, an entrepreneur looking to make new clients or buyers, an actor seeking for auditions, or a person searching for an interesting activity to partake, a good headshot can be the way to making doors open more and opportunities increase. And that is when Dallas headshot photographers are often present, offering their knowledge in order to place your great face forward.

Why Professional Headshots Matter? Your headshot is often the first thing that these capacity customers, employers or casting directors see when looking at you. Essentially, it is your official face to the world. An aesthetic display of your official/public persona that communicates professionalism, amiability, and self-assurance. A incredible headshot can:

1. Enhance your online presence on platforms like LinkedIn, organization websites, and industry directories 2. Make you stand out in a sea of candidates or competition 3. Convey your character and help people connect to you before meeting in man or woman 4. Demonstrate your dedication to first-rate and attention to detail

Choosing the Right Dallas Headshot Photographer Dallas is domestic to many gifted best headshot photographer dallas, however now not all concentrate on headshots. When choosing a headshot photographer, consider the subsequent elements:

1. Portfolio: Look for a diverse variety of headshots that exhibit the photographer’s fashion and capacity to capture various personalities and professions. 2. Experience: Seek out photographers with precise revel in in enterprise, company, or acting headshots, relying to your desires. 3. Reviews and testimonials: Read what past clients have to mention approximately their enjoy and outcomes. 4. Studio setup: Some photographers have dedicated studios, even as others may work on place. Choose what works nice for you. 5. Pricing and packages: Compare services and make certain you understand what’s included in every package deal. The Headshot Session: What to Expect A expert headshot session generally includes: 1. Consultation: Discussing your desires, desired fashion, and any specific requirements on your enterprise. 2. Wardrobe choice: Your photographer may also provide steerage on clothing picks that image well and align along with your expert photograph. 3. Hair and makeup: Some photographers provide those services or can propose specialists. 4. Multiple poses and expressions: A desirable photographer will guide you thru diverse poses and facial expressions to seize a number of appears. 5. Lighting and heritage alternatives: Professional photographers use lights techniques and backgrounds to decorate your functions and create the favored mood. 6. Review and choice: You’ll have the possibility to review your pictures and pick out your favorites for retouching.

Preparing for Your Headshot Session To get the maximum out of your session with a best headshot photographer dallas, don’t forget these suggestions: 1. Get masses of rest the night before to appearance refreshed and alert. 2. Stay hydrated and keep away from alcohol within the days main up on your shoot. 3. Bring multiple outfit options to provide range and backup alternatives. 4. Practice your facial expressions in the mirror to sense greater comfortable at some stage in the shoot. 5. Communicate openly together with your photographer about any concerns or precise photographs you’d want to capture.

Making the Most of Your New Headshot Once you have got your polished, Dallas Headshot Photographer, put it to work: 1. Update all your expert on line profiles along with your new photograph. 2. Use it continually throughout your advertising substances, enterprise playing cards, and website. 3. Include it in press releases or media kits while promoting your commercial enterprise or personal logo. 4. Refresh your headshot each few years to hold your photograph present day and applicable.

The Dallas Advantage Choosing a Dallas Headshot Photographer offers numerous blessings: 1. Local understanding: Dallas photographers recognize the metropolis’s business lifestyle and can tailor your headshot to local expectancies. 2. Convenience: No want to tour a long way for a top-satisfactory headshot consultation. 3. Network possibilities: Local photographers regularly have connections in diverse industries, probably starting doorways for you.

Investing in a professional headshot with a professional Dallas photographer is an funding on your personal emblem and professional destiny. It’s a small step which could make a massive distinction in how you’re perceived inside the business world. So why wait? Take the plunge and e-book your session with a pinnacle Dallas headshot photographer today. Your destiny self-will thanks for putting your quality face ahead and beginning new doorways of possibility.