#comprehensive image optimization

[indiadatasolutions]

Optimizing your Images for Ecommerce Success

If your business primarily depends on the internet, image optimization is an art you want to gain significant proficiency in. Uploading good quality product images is critical not only to attract your shoppers to but also to pursue Google and other search engines to list your products. Furthermore, optimized images also limit site load time. All in all, it is critical to build a successful online…

[anachrosims]

STICKY POST: ULTIMATE(ISH) GUIDE(S) TO SIMS 4 CC-MAKING; OR, A COMPREHENSIVE COMPENDIUM OF TUTORIALS, INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS, & FELLOW COMPILATIONS OF A LIKEWISE NATURE

In which I list a fuckton of tutorials, guides, and lists of such, each written, curated, and crafted by people far more talented than I.

More will be added as I find them.

---

@teanmoon's CC Guides - Includes tutorials on cloning, uv_1, weights, bump and specular maps, bi-color hair, and a Blender Cheat Sheet. High poly 'creators' have little excuse to churn out high poly, non-optimized garbage when they can lean on bump maps. (I know those can only do so much for more complex meshes, but for objects, texture maps can do SO much heavy-lifting).

@vintagesimstress's CC Guides - Includes tutorials on using Blender to create objects and clothing, especially for people who are just getting started.

@eliavah's uv-1 adjustment tutorial. Haven't tried this myself yet, but after glancing through it, it's something I will surely want to keep bookmarked.

@simlaughlove's CC Tutorials List - Includes many tutorials handily laid out by category on everything from object texturing to CAS morphs.

@thefoxburyinstitute's Nav Page - This blog is nonstop Sims 4 resources for e v e r y t h i n g. READ THIS POST FIRST as a guide on how to actually... nav.

@simsresourcehub's Tags List - What it says on the tin.

Transferring Weights in Blender 3.3.1 - Over at Sims4Studio forums.

@trillyke's List of Tutorials - Good ones!

@sims4tutorials - *GRAND GESTURES*

@katverse's Huge List of Tutorials - Tutorials on eeeverything.

@thatsimslady's Massive List of Tutorials - 31 pages????? Damn.

@kouukie's Sims 4 CAS with Marvelous Designer Tutorial - YouTube video!

@rusticottage's Gifmaking Tutorial - I love Sims gifs tbh.

@cowplant-pizza' Boes' Editing Masterlist - Includes stuff for Reshade, PSDs, PS Actions, and how to use them.

@melonsloth's Deco Sim Tutorial - Using SimRipper

@depthofpixels's Deco Sim Tutorial - Using SimRipper

@azuhrasims' Guide to Posing Sims - Includes how to pose sims, and handy workarounds! Super great for beginners and longtime users.

@radioactivedotcom's Guide to Posing - Includes additional posing resources. NOT for beginners.

@madameriasims4's Add a Flame to Your Basegame Candle - Great for mood lighting and historical gameplay!

@syboubou's Making a Lamp Start to Finish - a video tutorial

MORE BELOW:

Adding Lit DST to Fireplace

New image ref for default overrides

Make an RGB Spec for Objects

Bake a shadow onto your object in Blender

Linking all bedding to a single frame

Cutouts for Doors/Windows/Archways

Making objects see-through/glass

Making lamps light correctly

Give an object transparency (add an alpha)

Make a candle w/ multiple flames

Change LOD viewing distance

[utkuerdemozerblog]

UTKU ERDEM OZER (2)

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on advanced orthopedic solutions, where we address some of the most pressing musculoskeletal conditions affecting individuals today. From Dupuytren’s disease, a condition that leads to the thickening of tissue in the palm, to the complexities of a distal biceps tendon tear, we provide insights on innovative treatments that restore function and quality of life. Additionally, we delve into the advancements in hip and knee replacement surgeries, which have transformed the landscape of orthopedic care. At Utku Erdem Ozer, our commitment to excellence ensures that you receive top-tier medical expertise combined with compassionate care.

Dupuytren’s disease

Dupuytren’s disease is a progressive condition that affects the layers of tissue beneath the skin in the palm and fingers, leading to the formation of nodules and cords that can limit hand movement. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing this condition effectively. At our clinic, we specialize in tailored treatment options that cater to the unique needs of each patient.

One of the key benefits of seeking treatment for Dupuytren’s disease is the restoration of hand function. This can significantly improve the quality of life, enabling individuals to perform daily tasks with ease. Our experienced team employs a combination of surgical and non-surgical techniques to ensure optimal outcomes, reducing the risk of complications.

We understand that navigating treatment options can be overwhelming, which is why we provide comprehensive consultations. During these sessions, we discuss all available treatments, including the latest advancements in care that have shown promising results in alleviating symptoms.

Take the first step towards regaining your hand’s full functionality. If you or a loved one is suffering from Dupuytren’s disease, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Together, we can develop a personalized treatment plan that helps restore your hand’s mobility and comfort.

Distal biceps tendon tear

A distal biceps tendon tear is a significant injury that can lead to impaired arm function and discomfort. This injury occurs when the biceps tendon, which attaches to the forearm bone, is either partially or completely torn. Individuals who engage in repetitive overhead activities or heavy lifting are particularly susceptible to this condition. Recognizing the symptoms early on can greatly influence recovery time and treatment options.

The primary symptoms include sudden pain in the elbow, a popping sensation, and weakness in the arm, especially when trying to lift objects. Swift diagnosis through physical examination and imaging tests is crucial in determining the extent of the injury.

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the tear. Minor tears may heal with conservative measures such as rest, ice, and physical therapy, while more severe cases might require surgical intervention to reattach the tendon. This is where the expertise of a specialized orthopedic surgeon comes into play, ensuring that the best possible outcome is achieved.

Rehabilitation following surgery or conservative treatment is an essential part of recovery, helping restore strength and flexibility to the elbow. Engaging in a tailored rehabilitation program can significantly accelerate the healing process, allowing individuals to return to their favorite activities in no time.

If you suspect you have suffered a distal biceps tendon tear or are seeking treatment for related injuries, it's important to consult with a specialist. Early intervention can lead to a better recovery experience and prevent long-term complications. Don't let an injury hold you back—take the first step toward recovery today by contacting our expert team for a thorough assessment.

Hip replacement

Hip replacement surgery is a transformative procedure designed to alleviate pain and restore mobility for individuals suffering from severe hip conditions. Whether due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative diseases, the hip joint can significantly impact daily life.

This surgical option involves replacing the damaged or diseased hip joint with an artificial implant, providing enhanced stability and reduced pain. Many patients experience remarkable improvements in their quality of life, allowing them to return to hobbies and activities they once enjoyed.

Furthermore, advancements in technology have made hip replacement surgeries more precise and minimally invasive. With shorter recovery times and less post-operative discomfort, patients can often begin physical therapy just days after their procedure.

If you are struggling with hip pain that affects your daily routine, consult a specialist today to explore whether hip replacement is the right option for you. Regaining your freedom to move could be just a conversation away!

Knee replacement

Knee replacement surgery is a transformative procedure designed to alleviate chronic pain and restore mobility for individuals suffering from severe knee conditions, including osteoarthritis and traumatic injuries. This intervention can significantly enhance your quality of life, enabling you to return to daily activities with greater ease and less discomfort.

At the forefront of advancements in orthopedic care, the techniques used in knee replacement have evolved, offering patients minimally invasive options that promote faster recovery times and reduced hospital stays. Not only does this mean you can get back on your feet sooner, but it also often results in less postoperative pain compared to traditional methods.

After undergoing knee replacement, many patients experience improved joint function and a significant reduction in symptoms associated with conditions like Dupuytren’s disease or the limitations caused by a distal biceps tendon tear. This surgery allows individuals to engage once more in physical activities they may have previously avoided.

Choosing a skilled orthopedic surgeon is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes. When considering knee replacement, trust in the expertise provided at Utkuerdemozer.com, where patient care and advanced surgical techniques come together to ensure the best possible results. Don’t let knee pain control your life—explore the possibilities of a knee replacement today!

[aruanimess]

any aruani fic recs that you are your favorite?

Hello, anon!

So I've made a couple of posts in the past about this, but perhaps it's time to make a more comprehensive list. Sadly, the list of my favorites hasn't been expanded that much in the past year bc life has been kicking my ass since I haven't had much time for reading while also working on my own writing. But here goes.

Starting with the one-shots because they often get ignored:

Silhouettes by Jelly

Reincarnation AU. Armin spirals into madness as he tries to remember his past life, with Annie at the center of it all. Beautiful and concise, it'll have you sobbing on the floor.

Graffiti Love by brandymallory

Reincarnation AU. Armin and Annie are graffiti artists communicating with each other via murals. The understated, shimmering longing paired with the coolness of the street art scene is something else.

A Fistful of Latent Images by @aquietjune

Post-Canon Fort Salta fic. Armin and Annie navigate their relationship amidst the chaos of a post-apocalyptic world. Extremely well-written with great pacing, it captures the dissonance of normality after absolute devastation perfectly.

Look! by @lucaaazd

Modern AU. Kid Annie, still reeling from the loss of her father and subsequent adoption into her best friend's family, rescues Armin from his bullies. Grief and trauma mixed with the innocence of youth, its haunting carefreeness will fill you with an odd sense of optimism.

a crash course in curve lifts by @corner-stories

Modern AU, ice-skating. Armin and Annie, athletes who usually compete individually, train to perform a Pair routine for a gala (hopefully I got the lingo right). The commitment these two show to each other and their craft is absolutely heartwarming.

Now the multichapter fics:

A warrior in name, A traitor in game by @diam-etrical

Inspired by The Hunger Games. EMA in Marley. Set in a universe where the Warrior candidates have to fight to the death in an arena to get their titans. This will have you at the edge of your seat for sure. Also the character dynamics are expertly crafted.

Cigarette Duet by @darcycrow

Modern AU, set in Istanbul. Armin is a transfer student and new in town, he and Annie share a smoking spot in the schoolyard and bond over their existential dread, love of cats and weird relationship to intimacy. I'm here for the dry wit, the psychoanalysis and the sharp commentary about dating in the modern world.

Tater Tots & Heavy Thoughts by Anonymous

Modern AU. Armin is a social worker with a traumatic past, Annie asks him to help her brother who's a recovering drug addict (and then asks him out). This fic handles some extremely sensitive issues with care and compassion, it's a story about healing and not letting your past define you. Absolutely captivating and at times heartbreaking.

My Yellow Light in Your Soft Whispers by @annawayne

Post-Canon fic. Set roughly ten years after the Rumbling, Armin and Annie try to rebuild their trust in themselves and each other after a traumatic event. One of the most romantic entries on this list, steeped in rich symbolism and metaphor, the love Armin and Annie share is carved in every word, phrase and sentence.

See You Again by @dudewhy3

Modern AU. Estranged childhood friends, Armin and Annie, meet again after years apart, only Annie is sick and Armin is her doctor. It's a beautiful story about enduring love, compassion, second chances and vulnerability.

Love Letters from the Skies to the West Coast by @midnightraine131

Modern AU. Pastor's son Armin befriends Annie, a Californian girl who's new in town and also a bit of a wildcard. This is a sweet and funny story about the batshit shenanigans kids get up to, but also about the stifling confines of small religious communities.

Abandoned but worth a read regardless:

These City Lights by Katsy0c0

1920s AU. Armin is an up-and-coming Hollywood director and chooses Annie as his leading lady. An oldie but a goodie, the setting is exciting and glamorous and the relationship between the two is sweet and thrilling.

I Shall Slay by GoldenDoodleLover

Modern AU. Crack fic. Armin is recruited by his lit teacher Levi into a team of students who shall be participating in underground rap-battles. Absolutely hilarious and the verses are kinda fire.

[shanicodes]

Waves Skin ($70, Unlimited) by Shani Codes

WAVES is a responsive skin for JCINK forums and is optimized for Google Chrome. If you have questions about the skin, or seeing a full preview, feel free to join my support discord: discord[DOT]gg/G9zb4sQxdp

SKIN INCLUDES:

A light/dark mode toggle,

A font size toggle,

Custom forum layouts,

Pop-out with navigation, about section, and user links,

Full responsiveness for various screen resolutions, supporting both mobile and smaller screens,

Easy to edit member group variables,

CSS variables for fonts, colors, images, etc. for easy customization,

Post row with a sticky, hover mini profile,

A tabbed, main profile with sections for a freestyle and shipper, and FizzyElf's automatic thread tracker,

A filterable, searchable, and sortable isotope member list with counts,

And an included installation guide PDF with comprehensive instructions.

PURCHASE LINK: ko-fi[DOT]com/s/ce01265c57

[yandere-yearnings]

do u have any writing tips dar??? Ur stories are immaculate

nonnie?? that's so sweet of you to say, thank you😭🩷 in general, a lot comes to mind bc there's so many different components to writing (i.e dialogue, characterisation, structure,, even mindset!!) so if you want to hear abt anything specific pls lmk🥺 for now tho, i've summarised a few across the subject that i think are helpful, and they will be below the cut bc i'm shit at explaining things, so i ended up writing a lot hhh

i also wanna point out that these are just things that i've personally made note of over the years from my own experiences + being friends w/ other writers, but that doesn't mean they will apply to everyone!! more than anything, i always believe that you shouldn't let other ppl dictate how you do and enjoy things, so if smth works for you and you like it, there's nothing wrong w/ that even if it contradicts an opinion you got from some rando on the internet (a.k.a. me😔💔)

Know your game

I'd like to say that in writing, there's a vein of liberty that isn't echoed in very many other creative fields; a lot of the times you can go in blind, and still make something of it because the nature of fiction is liquid — if you can imagine it, it can work. So to say, I find that nine times out of ten, room for improvement doesn't necessarily lie in the content of someone's writing, and more so its execution.

You could play a desultory game of chess without knowing all the rules, but if you wanted it to be your best match, you'd have to be aware of every move you could make, no? What you do from there then becomes a matter of choice, and choice is a landmark divider between doing something and being good at doing something. There's a difference in omissions due to lacking the technical knowledge, and omissions made because you are aware they are optimal.

Knowledge on the fundamentals of literature will always serve you, and that isn't to say you have to study all forms and contexts, but if you want to write a story, for example, it will always help to know the common elements of one. Grammar, punctuation, structure — brushing up on those things will build your toolkit, and once you've got that, you have the self-autonomy to decide what to use from it. My three favourite writers only use commas and full stops, and their works are, on all levels, spectacular. Still, if you asked them how to use a semi-colon, they'd be able to tell you.

Appreciating the basics will also tie into your creative exploration as a writer, which is a cornerstone in developing your distinctive writing style. I doubt a person in any type of craft hasn't heard a variation of know the rules before you break them, so studying until you do, inside out, remains beneficial to both new and old writers alike.

2. Have a starting point

This tip is fairly applicable to a range of different types of writing, and how one would practice it depends strongly on individual preference and styles of working. Some people like to plan things out thoroughly whilst others, including myself, like to dive in headfirst, and there's nothing wrong with either approach. The commonality between both types of writer is that regardless, they will have at least a vague idea of where to start from — a scene that they've bullet-pointed prior, a lyric that resonated with them, a mental image, an emotion or even just a single word that everything branches from. What all these details achieve is writing that has motion, because you have something of substance to piggyback you to an end point (the establishment of which is also important, but I will not be covering in this post).

3. Decide a structure

Again, this can be done both comprehensively or as simply as just having the thought to adhere to a certain method. As you gain more experience as a writer, you'll begin to understand what works best for you and create a system of your own, but starting out, there are a number of templates that have already been established by writers that you can follow, and find by researching. What matters most is that by using one — whichever it may be — you're turning your text into a story.

As an example, I'll detail two that I use regularly, in their simplest forms for the sake of brevity:

A linear narrative moves from point A to point B, and from point B to point C, etc. and all subsequent points build on the previous ones until your goal is reached. It's a system that works well for shorter pieces because it has a definite structure, like a length of spine and its individual vertebrae (and although we're talking about writing here, I think Newton's Third Law of Motion sums it up very well: every action has a reaction.)

A coalescing narrative considers all points as separate elements that may or may not always interact, but all contribute to the end point to different extremes. It's a useful template for creating depth in a piece, but due to its complexity, is better applied to longer projects.

They are visualised respectively below.

4. Iterate

If you think of your first draft as a block of clay, everything you do to it will equate to it being moulded and shaped, and if you think of your first draft as a skeleton, everything you do to it will equate to flesh being put on the bones. If you want your piece to be the best it can be, there's a sort of detachment you must have from it, where you won't have the fear of changing it until it is in the image of what you have intended. Write and rewrite, add things, take them away, make a separate copy for every edit if that makes it easier for you, but keep working it until you are happy.

Iteration doesn't just apply to drafts — chapters, paragraphs, sentences and even singular words can be given the same treatment. When you pick up the habit, the process becomes second-nature and you'll find that the first lines you put down are the ones that make it into the final piece, and that is in light of sorting through the renditions unconsciously. Additionally, you don't have to do things in one sitting; sometimes taking a break and coming back to your writing with a fresh outlook is valuable.

5. Analyse and apply

One piece of advice I always see given when someone asks how to improve their writing is to read more, and though it is — at its core — a tip worth acknowledging, it always comes across as unserviceable to me. There is nothing that reading will change for you if you are not actively practicing the things you learn, or even actively learning to begin with. So to address it as a matter of semantics, I feel it's best put as studying the writing of others, as opposed to reading.

If you have a favourite author, go over their works twice — once as a reader to identify what you like about them, and then again as a writer to identify why you like those things. To put it into context, if I read something and decided that I enjoyed how clear and easy to understand it was, I'd do a second pass to figure out the attributing qualities. Perhaps it's the use of punctuation, chosen sentence forms or even the simplicity of words used. My first tip of knowing different literary fundamentals is complementary here, because it makes the analysis and application of isolated features that much more smooth, and also means you'd be able to adapt them into your own style instead of just copying the other writer, which is what you want to avoid.

(Some writers I personally recommend studying are @ozzgin, @monstersholygrail, @aayakashii and @urprettylildoe for readability and clarity in execution, @moyazaika, @carnivorousyandeere and @purerae for characterisation and dialogue, @suiana and @unhappy-last-resort for engaging plots and concepts, and @sabotsen and @lirational for word choice.)

[howlsofbloodhounds]

Because I had headcanon that Color is Autistic and has developed special interests in things such as photography, travel, maybe even things like social advocacy.

Maybe even philosophy and psychology. For now, in this posts, I’ll focus on the big two: photography and traveling. (I will also touch on how Color’s physical disability, chronic fatigue, his autism, and perhaps his ptsd/ separation anxiety from Killer also effect his ability to engage in his interests in another post.)

I think he’d develop some decent if not above average technical knowledge, such as camera types and functions. Detailed understanding of different types of cameras (DSLR, mirrorless, point-and-shoot, medium format, etc.) and their specific functions.

Knowledge about various lenses (prime, zoom, wide-angle, telephoto, macro) and their applications. Mastery of camera settings like ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and how to manipulate them for different lighting conditions and artistic effects.

In-depth understanding of how aperture, shutter speed, and ISO interact to create a properly exposed photograph. Proficiency in using software like Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop, or other photo editing tools for post-processing and enhancing images.

He’d learn about artistic elements such as composition techniques, lighten and color theory. Develop a familiarity with compositional rules like the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, symmetry, and how to creatively break these rules.

Knowledge about natural and artificial lighting, how to use light to create mood and depth, and techniques like backlighting, side lighting, and using reflectors. Understanding of how colors interact, complementary colors, and how to use color to convey emotion and direct viewer attention.

Awareness of different photography styles (portrait, landscape, macro, street, documentary, astrophotography, etc.) and genres, and what makes each unique.

Knowledge about influential photographers and their work, such as Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Annie Leibovitz, and contemporary photographers.

Understanding the evolution of photography, from daguerreotypes to digital photography, and significant milestones in the field. Awareness of current trends in photography, popular styles, and emerging technologies.

And, of course, he’d develop and grow practical experiences and hands on practice. Experience with on-location shoots, managing different weather conditions, and adapting to various shooting environments.

Knowledge about how to properly maintain and clean camera equipment to ensure longevity and optimal performance. Skills in troubleshooting common issues like lens flare, sensor dust, or focus problems.

He’d have a deep enthusiasm for specific techniques or subjects he enjoys photographing, whichever or whatever you all think those could be exactly.

Likely to have personal photography projects, well-organized portfolios, and possibly an online presence showcasing their work. Extensive collection of books, articles, videos, and tutorials related to photography.

A special interest in traveling, in addition to photography, would manifest in the character in several ways, showcasing their passion and extensive knowledge about various aspects of travel. Here are some specific aspects:

For his interest in travel, he’d be very well versed in the planning and research process. Color might create comprehensive travel itineraries, meticulously planning each day's activities, routes, and schedules.

He might gradually develop an extensive knowledge about various travel destinations, including historical sites, natural landmarks, cultural attractions, and lesser-known gems.

He’d display a proficiency in booking flights, accommodations, and transportation, as well as understanding visa requirements, travel insurance, and local regulations.

An expertise in packing efficiently, knowing what to bring for different climates and activities, and how to pack photography gear safely for travel. Color is likely to show a very deep and profound appreciation for different cultures, learning basic phrases or even fluency in multiple languages to better communicate while traveling.

He’d definitely show a deep interest in trying and understanding local cuisines, knowing popular dishes, and even recipes from various regions. He’d have at least some knowledge about local customs, traditions, festivals, and etiquette to respect and immerse themselves in different cultures.

He’d certainly develop some geographical and historical knowledge, with a detailed understanding of world geography, maps, and the ability to navigate using traditional maps as well as digital tools.

Knowledge about the history of the places he visits, including significant events, historical figures, and the cultural evolution of the region.

He might maintain detailed travel logs or journals documenting his experiences, including photos, notes, and personal reflections. He’d definitely collect souvenirs, postcards, or other memorabilia from his travels; often gifting them to beloved friends.

He’d probably engage with travel communities, forums, and social media groups to share experiences and gain insights.

This special interest would possibly lead to him gaining a lot of practical skills, such as in budget management. Expertise in budgeting for travel, finding deals, and managing expenses effectively.

He might display an ability to adapt to different environments, handle unexpected situations, and problem-solve while on the go.

Although it’d probably be harder for him than most, particularly if he has a harder time handling and dealing with change—especially if the change is unexpected and unplanned.

Knowledge about staying healthy while traveling, such as understanding local healthcare options, vaccinations, and travel safety tips.

He’d like combine both interests by using his photography skills to capture stunning images of the places he visits, creating travel blogs or photo albums to document his journeys.

He might create photo essays or visual stories that capture the essence of the cultures and places he explores. Share his travel experiences and recommendations with others, possibly through writing travel guides, blogs, or social media content.

All this is to say that Killer would definitely encourage Color to come with him to explore abandoned places and ghost towns, and Color’s going to be so overjoyed he starts hand flapping. He’s going to take so many pictures, he’s going to remember it forever.

[therealvinelle]

Would Alice tried to have stopped the sinking of the titanic?

This ask fills me with such restrained joy, you have no idea. Suffice to say that last time I posted about the RMS Titanic, expecting a deluge of asks wanting to hear all about the ship, I received a single "are you autistic?" anon instead.

Good times.

That being said:

Why did the RMS Titanic sink?

A non-comprehensive, very brief overview!

This is important if we're answering the question of whether Alice Cullen, a psychic whose gift kicks in when people whose life impacts hers make decisions, could predict the Titanic sinking in time to prevent it.

To that end I will look at some of the human decisions that led to the RMS Titanic sinking.

(TLDR: the ship sank due to the wrath of God. This much bad luck, this many coincidences, and so many minor decisions and insignificant mistakes all leading up to the loss of fifteen hundred lives can only be chalked up to God smiting the ship. The RMS Titanic didn't stand a chance, Alice could not have stopped this.)

1. The hull of the RMS Olympic is designed to have multiple compartments (The RMS Olympic, for the ignorants, was the RMS Titanic's precursor and sister ship. Minor alterations were made to the RMS Titanic, such as less open space but ultimately larger size, but they were otherwise nearly identical.) The hull design was a large cause of the confidence in the Titanic. The hull had sixteen watertight cells, separated by transverse bulkheads (a bulkhead is a partition wall on a ship that prevents flooding and stiffens the hull, that it's transverse means it extends from side to side on the ship) and the idea was that up to two of these could flood without compromising the ship. The trouble was this: they weren't actually watertight. The first four cells interacted with the higher levels, where the passengers were, and safety was sacrificed for comfort. Only bulkheads D through O were actually watertight. More worryingly, for a cell to be watertight, the top has to be closed as well, forming a cube. It wasn't, and as the ship was struck across the side, along the front where the bulkheads weren't waterproof, just under the waterline, several compartments were flooded right away, dooming the ship.

(Source and image courtesy. I also used this source.)

The design choices here were the process of long and arduous process, and started with the RMS Olympic, many years before the Titanic's construction even began, but while Alice at times has incredibly vague, ahead-of-time, "we've moved to Forks... I should get Edward a sleeveless shirt", decisions, this decision in no way concerns her. Alice would not see this ahead of time, and if she did there would be very little she could do about it.

2. The wrong type of iron rivets are used for parts of the hull The iron rivets used for the bow and stern that held the hull plates together were not optimized for the freezing Atlantic temperatures, causing them to snap when they were put under strain. The iceberg happened to strike the bow.

The iceberg may have opened a tear in the ship's hull, but the hull plates falling off as a result was the result of choice of material (the same as was made with the RMS Olympic and the RMS Olympic was fine! She survived several crashes without any plates falling off! Keyword being, as I understand, her crashes were not in sub-freezing Atlantic temperatures) and another that neither humans nor Alice would have seen coming.

Just really, incredibly, bad luck.

3. The man who had the key to the cupboard hold the ship's binoculars that the scouts in the crow's nest would use to spot icebergs, was on leave and the guy replacing him didn't get the keys before the RMS Titanic left port

What I just said on the headline.

Several small human decisions happening here, none of which Alice would see because none of them lead directly to the ship sinking. They would not have an actual impact until the iceberg spotters are sent out to scout for icebergs, at which point they realize they're spending their night playing a game of "is that an optical illusion or an iceberg?"

Even at that point, Alice isn't going to see anything because the scouts did spot the iceberg, the problem was the timing of when they spotted it. Had they had binoculars the timing would have been different and the ship would not have sunk, but even without them the ship might not have sunk.

4. The ship is warned about an iceberg: the captain doesn't get the memo

Icebergs were a known danger in the area at this time of year, and ships would warn one another about particularly hazardous ones. 1912 happened to be a year of unusually many icebergs, leading to (and don't quote me on this part because I'm going off memory) the captain taking a different route, hoping to evade them. Sadly, the fateful iceberg had also gone off route, where it was spotted by the SS Mesaba. The SS Mesaba warned the RMS Titanic, but Jack Philips (a hero who alongside his colleague is to thank for there being any survivors at all that night) made a typing error, changing the telegram tag from "MSG" to "MXG". "MSG" would have made the telegram urgent and seen it delivered straight to the navigation officer, "MXG" saw it discarded. (source (I also used this source for double checking other things in this post))

This isn't a decision, it was a mistake: Alice would not see this.

5. The iceberg is spotted and the scouts sound the alarm

Bad decision: the RMS Titanic was headed straight towards the iceberg and built to withstand collisions. Had it crashed bow first, only the first hull would have flooded (as RMS Olympic had proven was indeed survivable) and the ship would in every likelihood have been perfectly fine, if in need of repairs.

By reporting the iceberg, however, and only moments before impact, the scouts triggered the next bullet point.

(And no, Alice isn't seeing them either, because it's not the scouts' decision that sinks the ship. Remember, she sees only direct outcomes. The scouts' decision leads to other people trying to make the right decision in time, and she can't see what that decision will be, nor what its outcome will be, until that decision has been made.)

6. First Officer Murdoch gives the order to redirect the ship's course

Rather than crash directly into the iceberg, First Officer Murdoch hoped to avoid the iceberg altogether. He is widely believed to have ordered the ship to move "Hard a-starboard", and the ship pivoted at exactly the wrong time. The ship is struck along the side, opening multiple compartments along the front and dooming the ship.

(Source and image credit)

That decision Alice would have seen had she been aboard, but things happened so quickly I don't think there's anything she could have done by that point.

Alice does not prevent anything and at best gets to save a few people by retrieving collapsible A, a lifeboat which floated off the deck shortly before the ship sank, and help with collapsible B, which floated upside down and had survivors clinging to its hull(x).

Special source credit to this documentary.

Those interested should also check out this very short youtube animation of the ship's sinking, just ignore James Cameron's "badabing badabom" and you're good. If you're a real one, this real time rendition of the ship sinking is really good, impeccable research and to my recollection not sensationalist the way a lot of these real time sinking of a given ship tend to be (and I know that's an incredibly damning sentence).

Also: I can't stress enough this list of reasons why the RMS Titanic sank is non-exhaustive! It is however the ones coming to mind now and that are various levels of man-made and therefore possible, in theory, for Alice's gift to pick up on.

[unknownnullified]

Uttara-Ashadha Nakshatra and the Leader Warrior Archetype

In this exploration, we shall delve into the behavioral and sensory manifestations of natives belonging to the Uttara-Ashadha Nakshatra within the modern milieu. Each Nakshatra operates with distinct programming, and understanding these natives allows for the discernment of their patterns, revealing their primary Shakti (energy) necessary for achieving optimal performance. This comprehension equips entities to harness the unique capabilities of Uttara-Ashadha individuals, thereby yielding productive outcomes. Uttara-Ashadha Nakshatra, recognized as the 21st star among the 27 constellations within the celestial pantheon, is positioned in the celestial coordinates of ζ and σ Sagittarii. To delineate this Nakshatra within the three luminaries, it spans from 26°40' Sagittarius to 10°00' Capricorn in the Indian astrological format, and corresponds to 22°40' Capricorn to 6°00' Aquarius in the Western astrological format.

This Nakshatra encapsulates a diverse energy spectrum, primarily characterized by the congruent influence of Surya (the Sun). Due to its expansive cusp, Uttara-Ashadha interweaves between two zodiacal realms: Sagittarius, governed by Jupiter (Brihaspati), and Capricorn, presided over by Saturn (Shani), both of which reside in their respective dignities. This duality allows us to elucidate the modern operational efficacy of Uttara-Ashadha natives, who embody the quintessential qualities of the Sun, representing the core integration of masculinity, while simultaneously channeling the expansive Jupiterian energy associated with the 9th house—symbolizing the pursuit of Dharma and Knowledge—and the disciplined attributes of Saturn, the ruler of the 11th house ideals, emblematic of effort and perseverance through the communion and gains. In essence, understanding the intricate dynamics of the Uttara-Ashadha Nakshatra illuminates the pathways through which these individuals navigate the material realm, enabling them to harness their inherent strengths and fulfill their destinies with profound impact.

Part 1: Masculine Energy in its Material Form/ The Manifested Image of Man

Krittika, the first Sun-ruled Nakshatra, serves as the initial manifestation of the Primordial Masculine Ideal Man, often conceptualized as the Cosmic Adam archetype. This Nakshatra embodies the essence of the male principle in its most elemental form, representing a divine archetype that is both a creation and a reflection of the cosmic order. Krittika's placement at the cusp of Aries and Taurus signifies its dual nature—Aries, as the fiery initiator of new beginnings and the ruler of exterior appearances (1st House) that one will attribute from physical birth, and Taurus, as the grounded embodiment of material reality.

Krittika: The Primordial Masculine Ideal/Manifestation of the Cosmic Adam

Krittika can be viewed as the archetypal representation of the male form, encapsulating the foundational aspects of masculinity within the human experience. This Nakshatra signifies the birth of the physical male and what the physical anatomy it will incorporate, wherein the divine essence is expressed through tangible attributes and characteristics. The focus here is on understanding the male body in its entirety, exploring its male functions and how the physical body will form in its growth stages, while also delving into the complexities of male sexuality as it is experienced within the current male vessel.

Intercession with Rohini

As Krittika transitions into Rohini Nakshatra which is associated with the feminine Primordial Eve archetype, there is a profound interplay between the masculine and feminine principles. This transition highlights the dynamic balance between these energies, emphasizing the necessity of both in the creation process. Rohini, with its focus on nurturing and fertility, complements Krittika by offering a deeper understanding of emotional and relational dynamics that inform the male experience.

Uttara-Phalguni: Integration of Emotions/Evolution of Masculine Identity

Following the establishment of the physical male form in Krittika, Uttara-Phalguni signifies the next evolutionary stage in the male journey, wherein the integration of materialized emotions begins to take precedence. This Nakshatra embodies the principles of partnership and marriage with patronage attributes to it, emphasizing the importance of union as a means of receiving and sharing emotional wisdom. The interactions fostered in this phase promote a deeper comprehension of the emotional landscape that underpins masculine identity, guiding men to explore their feelings and vulnerabilities in the context of relationships or the influences it’s in.

Teaching and Learning through Union

Uttara-Phalguni serves as a nurturing ground for male comrades, where lessons are imparted regarding the core ideals of masculinity. Through partnerships, men learn to navigate the complexities of male emotional expression and develop a more nuanced understanding of their own male identities. The Nakshatra emphasizes the significance of collaboration and mutual support in cultivating a holistic masculine experience hence the star being signaled as The Star of Patronage.

Uttara-Ashadha: Physical Manifestation of Masculinity/Embodiment of Pure Masculinity

As the journey progresses into Uttara-Ashadha, the focus shifts towards the physical manifestation of masculine ideals in action. This Nakshatra represents the culmination of the emotional and sensorial experiences cultivated in the previous stages, translating them into tangible expressions of masculinity. The collective disposition of the five senses becomes a critical aspect of this phase, allowing for the discernment and appreciation of what true masculinity embodies in its most authentic form.

Distinguishing True Masculinity

Uttara-Ashadha emphasizes the clarity and distinction of masculine qualities as they manifest in physical action. The integration of emotional intelligence, learned through the experiences of Krittika and Uttara-Phalguni, culminates in a refined understanding of how masculinity can be expressed through responsible, ethical, and compassionate actions. This Nakshatra fosters a framework for men to embody their ideals in a way that resonates with both their inner truths and the external world.

The journey from Krittika through Uttara-Phalguni and into Uttara-Ashadha encapsulates the evolution of the male archetype from primordial essence to fully realized masculinity. Krittika lays the groundwork for physical manifestation, while Rohini, Swati and Revati introduces the interplay of feminine energy. Uttara-Phalguni facilitates emotional integration through a patronage way, and Uttara-Ashadha culminates in the embodiment of masculine ideals in action and battles. Together, these 3 Nakshatras constitute a profound narrative of growth, exploration, and the multifaceted nature of masculinity, inviting men to navigate their identities with depth and authenticity in the material world.

Part 2: The Vishvedevas: An Exegesis

The etymology and conceptual framework of the The term "Vishvedevas" derives from the Sanskrit root "Vishva," meaning "all" or "universal," combined with "Deva," which signifies "god" or "divine." Collectively, the Vishvedevas represent the totality of divine forces that permeate the universe, embodying the essence of inclusivity and pluralism within the cosmic order. They function as custodians of dharma (cosmic law and order) and are invoked to ensure the welfare of all beings. The Nature of the Vishvedevas are not confined to individual identities or attributes; instead, they embody a collective consciousness that transcends personal deification. This collective nature allows them to act as intermediaries between the divine and the earthly realms facilitating the flow of spiritual energy and wisdom. The word comes to mind called Universality the power to connect and be connected to all beings gives a urge to human complexities just like the teachings of Shravana Nakshatra which is why The Vishvedevas epitomize the principle of unity in diversity, acknowledging the interdependence of all beings. They represent the idea that every entity, regardless of its form, is an integral part of the cosmic tapestry. Which the interplay of the trope called The White Knight comes into fruition in cinema films that resonates with Uttara-Ashadha natives and his two solar ruled brothers like Krittika and Uttara-Phalguni, this theology is linked heavily and subliminally, the concept of the protagonist falling in physical love with a marginalize individual/character that is considered either of economical inferiority, different racial background and Caste class and even the most controversial of all Gender and sexual preferences falling not by the external conditions but the realization that these marginalized love interests are important and contributes to the material echelon equally in the field of physical romance. Which is why many of these male natives of this Nakshatra and in the other two sun-ruled constellations are linked to have had scandals or have been sighted with Transsexual Women, behind the scenes or even in public affairs, but we will get into that topic later on as we progress to the narrative.

Uttara-Ashadha: Spiritual Etymology

The film that comes in essence, is the film directed by Micheal Leigh called "Naked" as its interpreted as a cinematic manifestation of the Uttara Ashadha archetype, where the confluence of intellect, existential inquiry, and the quest for authenticity culminate in a richly textured narrative that invites viewers to reflect on the nature of existence itself. As a cinematic oeuvre the lead role was giving to actor David Thewlis (Uttara-Ashadha Moon Native positioned in Sagittarius), encapsulates the tumultuous odyssey of its protagonist, Johnny, whose character serves as a vessel for profound philosophical inquiry and existential dread. Thewlis’s portrayal is replete with erudite discourse, reflecting a multitude of influences, from nihilism to existentialism, which resonate with the intellectual vigor emblematic of those born under the influence of Uttara Ashadha but to the Extend of Uttara-Bhadrapada (David Thewlis has it in his sun placement.)

Uttara Ashadha, as a nakshatra, is characterized by a relentless pursuit of truth and an intrinsic drive towards moral and philosophical rectitude. This celestial positioning imbues its natives with an innate propensity for introspection and a yearning to unravel the complexities of existence. Johnny’s eloquent yet acerbic soliloquies articulate a profound disillusionment with societal norms, echoing the Uttara Ashadha native's propensity to challenge conventional wisdom in favor of a more profound understanding of reality.

The film's narrative arc, marked by Johnny’s meandering through the urban landscape of London, serves as a metaphor for the existential quest inherent in Uttara Ashadha's ethos. His encounters with diverse characters illuminate the multifaceted nature of human experience, revealing the often-painful juxtaposition between lofty ideals and the starkness of reality which Venusian Nakshatra exhibits more of this concept and indulges simultaneously. This existential dichotomy is a hallmark of the Uttara Ashadha journey, where the pursuit of higher truths can lead to alienation and introspective turmoil.

Moreover, the sophisticated lexicon employed by Johnny underscores the intellectual depth associated with Uttara Ashadha. His dialogues are not merely an expression of his cynicism but also a reflection of a deeper philosophical quest—an endeavor to articulate the ineffable complexities of the human condition. In this light, the film serves as a poignant exploration of the interplay between intellect and emotion, a thematic resonance that is deeply ingrained in the essence of those aligned with Uttara Ashadha’s energies.

Here’s a video that has correlations with Uttara-Ashadha’s energy.

Part 2: Hexagram 61 and Hexagram 6

With the movie Naked we can see that Purva-Bhadrapada Nakshatra has an equal temperament of aspirations that Uttara-Ashadha natives are trying to bring in physicality, which is the desire to attain the radiant and resplendent essence of divine knowledge that which is a hallmark of the Purva Bhadrapada nakshatra. This aspiration reflects an intrinsic yearning for enlightenment, where individuals seek to illuminate their own consciousness and, by extension, the collective awareness of humanity. The pursuit of such divine spiritual wisdom transcends mere intellectual understanding; it embodies a profound connection to the cosmos, facilitating a deeper appreciation of universal truths and the intricate tapestry of existence. As sun ruled individuals are inspired by Purva Bhadrapada, these natives delve into the realms of spiritual enlightenment, the outcomes of this pursuit extend far beyond personal gain. The acquisition of divine knowledge often manifests as a transformative force, enabling individuals to become beacons of wisdom and guidance within their communities. By embodying the principles of compassion and altruism, those aligned with this nakshatra contribute to the betterment of society, fostering an environment of understanding and interconnectedness. Their insights and teachings serve to uplift and support the entire world, promoting harmony and fostering a collective awakening to the higher dimensions of existence.

The hexagram that embodies the essence of Purva Bhadrapada is the Hexagram 61, known as "Inner Truth" or "The Truth Within." This hexagram symbolizes the profound connection between the inner self and the greater cosmos, reflecting the journey towards self-realization and the unveiling of deeper truths. It represents a synthesis of enlightenment and the quest for authenticity, urging individuals to seek clarity in their thoughts and actions.

Hexagram 61 consists of a structure that conveys the idea of introspection and the discovery of inner wisdom. The upper trigram, K'an (Water), signifies the depths of intuition and emotional understanding, while the lower trigram, Tui (Lake), represents receptivity and the nurturing aspect of knowledge. Together, they illustrate the harmonious interplay between the depths of consciousness and the expression of that knowledge in the external world. This hexagram encapsulates the essence of Purva Bhadrapada, where the quest for divine knowledge is fundamentally tied to the nurturing of global consciousness. It emphasizes the importance of inner reflection as a means of uncovering truths that can ultimately support and uplift humanity. In essence, the radiance of divine knowledge, when shared with others, fosters a greater sense of unity and spiritual evolution, aligning with the overarching goals of Purva Bhadrapada's shakti and the 11th House ideals. Now with Uttara Ashadha, these natives embodies the challenging essence of Hexagram 6, known as "Conflict" or "The Arising of Tensions." This hexagram encapsulates the intricate dynamics of struggle and resolution that are often encountered in the pursuit of truth and moral righteousness, reflecting the steadfast nature of Uttara Ashadha natives.

The upper trigram of Hexagram 6, Ch'ien (Heaven), symbolizes strength, authority, and the expansive potential of the cosmos. In contrast, the lower trigram, K'un (Earth), represents receptivity, nurturing qualities, and the grounding aspects of existence. The interplay between these two trigrams signifies the balance required when navigating conflicts, particularly those that arise in the quest for higher ideals and spiritual growth. Uttara Ashadha individuals, inspired by the transcendental aspirations of Purva Bhadrapada natives, often find themselves in situations where their commitment to truth and integrity is tested. The energy of Hexagram 6 reflects the challenges that may arise from differing ideals or external pressures that conflict with their moral compass. Such tensions can arise in relationships, professional endeavors, and personal aspirations, necessitating a careful navigation of the complexities inherent in human interaction. Which is the darker undertones of this Nakshatra, where it can hyper-convulse by external circumstances and becoming tense within the process and becoming absolutely critical that their own solar heat rays becomes impossible to bare when entities come in physical contact with Uttara-Ashadha and his solar comrades, it will become diluted to the falsehood provided by the illusionary perceptions of flesh. Which makes sense because Men are more vulnerable to the laws of externalism and external societal pressure/the heightened obsession of the flesh to the point that it’s fixed in its external ideals, mortal men becomes diluted and moves away from the inner spiritual-truth or masculine solar path that transcends far beyond the matter of flesh and becomes hyper-fixated to what it’s only publicly available as the only truth and the invisible inner truth is just mere folklore, for this proposition will become a tragical ending of the collective’s future and human civilization as a whole, destruction and immoral debaucheries becomes heightened and the soul begins the merging sequence with the temporal body, giving away the soul’s true purpose for an exchange of blissful ignorances and pleasure of flesh, which is where Ego is most dominant in Sun, for Leo is linked to the attachment of ego and being in its own sign in Sun and exalted in Aries where Sun is more progressive. So, this hexagram highlights the importance of diplomacy and negotiation in resolving conflicts. It serves as a reminder that the path to achieving one's goals is not always linear, and individuals must be prepared to confront challenges with wisdom and grace. The essence of Uttara Ashadha, defined by its noble pursuit of universal truths, finds resonance in the understanding that conflicts can ultimately lead to growth and deeper insights when approached with a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Moreover, the influence of Purva Bhadrapada imbues Uttara Ashadha with a desire for spiritual illumination and a quest for knowledge that transcends mere personal ambition. The collaborative nature of their relationships fosters an environment where conflicts can be viewed as opportunities for learning and transformation, rather than mere obstacles. This alignment encourages a profound exploration of the human experience, reinforcing the idea that the pursuit of truth often requires overcoming adversity and embracing the complexities of existence. In conclusion, the embodiment of Hexagram 6 in Uttara Ashadha reflects the nuanced interplay of strength and receptivity in the face of conflict. Inspired by the spiritual aspirations of Purva Bhadrapada, Uttara Ashadha individuals are equipped to navigate the tensions that arise in their pursuit of moral rectitude and truth. This journey, while fraught with challenges, ultimately fosters resilience and a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all beings, enriching their experience and contributing to their growth as individuals dedicated to the higher ideals of existence.

Notable mentions of Solar Dominant Natives appreciating Purva-Bhadrapada Natives

Jack Harlow (Uttara-Phalguni Moon): inspired by Kanye West (Purva-Bhadrapada Moon) who made a nice statement towards his appreciation for Harlow’s musical works and later Jack expressed how he considered Kanye himself his Hero and his approval meant a lot.

YG (Uttara-Phalguni ASC): Made a Statement that he would vote for Kanye as President.

Logic (Uttara-Ashadha Sun): Expressed in his interviews that Kanye West was his biggest aspiration and that his influence in his musical resume was inspired by Kanye himself.

To be continued…

[ferronickel]

Hail, flatter! This one, who is a layperson of the arts and comixcraft, has a query for you:

So like, what is flatting?

I've seen your flats in Wifwulf, and I've read about the flats in Looking Glasses, and generally get that it results in an image with similarly coloured areas sharing the same false-colour.

But like, how is it then used? The final images seem to contain more colours and shading, so why not just go straight to this? Why do false colours get used instead of the real ones? How do you pick the colours and how many get used?

How come this is a thing that a whole other person can do separately? I guess that's because it's time consuming - so it saves time somehow?

Thank you! I come in the spirit of humility wishing to relieve my ignorance of your noble craft!

OHOHOHO!!! You've activated my trap card and now I get to ramble about comics craft! And in my area of professional expertise, too! Be prepared for a long post

I'm going to start with the last part of your question:

How come this is a thing that a whole other person can do separately? I guess that's because it's time consuming - so it saves time somehow?

So the thing about comics is that it is one of the most intensely time consuming mediums to create. One person can make comics on their own fairly easily, but it takes forever to produce. Consider that I've been working on Looking Glasses for 18-19 months and have drawn about 87 pages. Now, the western comics industry expects issues to be produced monthly, generally 24 pages in length. It's very difficult for a single person to work at this rate, so the labor of producing comics has been divided. Generally these jobs become:

Writer (writes the script)

Editor (edits the script)

Artist (draws the lineart)

Colorist (colors and renders the art)

Letterer (adds balloons, dialog, and sfx)

Flatter (sometimes 'color assistant' they take the art and prepare it for coloring)

This isn't comprehensive though, there are a bunch of other jobs, like designers and layout artists. Occasionally the artist job gets broken into Pencilers (who sketch the art) and Inkers (who ink the sketch). Basically, by splitting the work amongst a number of people you can produce comics much faster. Not all of these jobs are required, and creator-owed books might have artists do their own coloring and lettering, while big work-for-hire books might have twice as many people working so they can pump out a spider-man book every other week.

Okay, so why Flatters?

Flatting at it's most basic level is just coloring inside the lines. You take a black and white page of art, and you have to fill in every part of the page that will eventually be colored. It's a pretty time consuming task depending on how involved your lineart is.

Flatting a page of Looking Glasses doesn't take me all that long, usually less than a half hour, which is pretty quick. Looking Glasses pages tend to be... optimized for flatting though. There are only ever a few characters and there aren't a ton of background details.

You mentioned Wifwulf (created by my longtime friend and collaborator Dailen Ogden), here's one of it's pages:

Basically everything that's a different base color, (every tree, plant, bit of moss, character, etc.) needed to be picked out separately. Each page of Wifwulf took me a few hours to flat. If Dailen had been doing that themself, those hours would have really added up, but instead they could spend that time drawing and coloring. Now, that said, these pages have a lot of texture, so it's hard to see exactly what I did.

Here's an example from a comic I worked on early in my career. (Lineart by Patrick Custodio)

The writer for this comic loved to put in these incredibly complex crowd scenes, which is something the artist excelled at drawing. I was coloring and flatting at this point on the book, and before I could even start coloring properly, I would need to flat for like eight hours. (I have a much more efficient method these days) It was frustrating because I just wanted to work on the actually creative part, but the majority of my time was spent on something monotonous. As soon as I got the writer to hire a flatter for me, coloring a page would take me only one or two hours, not nine or ten.

So that's why flatters exist, mainly to ease the workload on colorists.

But like, how is it then used? The final images seem to contain more colours and shading, so why not just go straight to this?

Flatting serves a couple of purposes. It's main function, like I said above, is just coloring in the lines. After finishing your lineart it has to get colored in, so in a layer below the lines, you add colors.

The secondary function is preservation. I like to work in a way that is non-destructive, basically, at any point in the process I can restore an earlier version of the drawing if I make a mistake or don't like something. Flats are integral to this.

In digital art, there's this thing called anti-aliasing, where the edges of a line or shape have a drop off of pixel color or opacity. It makes the edges look smoother or blurrier. The three dots on the left are Anti-Aliased, while the one on the right is Aliased, there's no drop off, just hard pixels.

Anti-aliasing is fine until you need to change the color using the paint bucket, or select using the magic wand...

See how the anti-aliased art doesn't play well with these tools, but the aliased art does? So with something like Wifwulf, the final art is going to be full of texture that makes it impossible to select anything again once it's painted. By having a dedicated aliased flats layer under the rest of the artwork, you can always re-select any part of the image you want.

I always leave my flats layer alone, and do any detail work in layers above. For example when I was painting this, it really helped to be able to select just the titan so I could work on those paints without worrying about brushstrokes overlapping the rest of the characters.

One of the other things you can do with flats is quickly selecting certain elements. On most pages, I flat my panels, figures, and background elements separately. Later, with a single button press, I can select just the characters in the scene, or entire panels at a time, which makes things like shading a whole lot easier.

Why do false colours get used instead of the real ones?

If you're flatting for other people you often don't know what the final colors are going to be, so you just pick random ones. Garish colors can be helpful because it makes it obvious that they're not the final colors. Why don't I use the correct colors on my own pages when I'm flatting? Habit, mostly. It's also faster to grab random colors than to track down the correct ones. Sometimes two different things will have the same final color but I like to flat them with different colors so I can select them individually if I need to.

You can see the process a bit here. In my flats, Lancer's spade (eye? eyes? thing) is a different color from his tongue, even if they end up being the same white in the final image. This would help if I ever needed to select just his eyes for some reason. You can also see how I select his body fur color and then add details on top, like his colored fingers and the grey on his arm. Those elements have blurry anti-aliased edges, and it would be impossible to re-select them without flats.

How do you pick the colours and how many get used?

I use the default "additional color set" palette in clip studio and just work my way through it. I pick row and work my way down (for a change of pace I vary which row I start with). How many is mostly dependent on the artwork. You just keep going until you run out of individual objects to color. I have worked on pages where I've run out of colors on this palette and had to start making up more. Typically a page of Looking Glasses only needs around 20-30, though.

So! That's flatting! It's a little known job, and it's how I got started with my comics career, so I have a lot of thoughts on it. I was trying to be concise (lol), so I hope this all makes sense, but I'd be happy to clarify or answer any other questions about this process. I know I didn't really go into how I flat my work, so I can make that post if anyone is interested.

[innocet]

there's a longpost going around about The Sam Problem (Sam Jones's notorious spotty characterization) and I didn't want to bloat it by adding a bunch more but I did want to say that even before a single novel had been published with Sam, these conversations were being had. Jonathan Blum met Kate Orman on the usenet newsgroup rec.arts.drwho, before he "slept his way into" (his words) writing for the novels. He was Posting quite a bit in the lead-up to the publication of Vampire Science and shared a lot of inside baseball as to what what going on among the writers of those early EDAs. This is going to be a lot of transcription of usenet threads from 1996 so they're going under a cut.

Shortly after Sam was first announced in DWM, Blum shared her character outline as written by Terrance Dicks:

SAMANTHA JONES - SAM for short - is about 17. Thin and wiry, she has close-cropped blonde hair. She wears the usual clothes of a teenager in the Coal Hill School of 1997, and uses the local accent and racy slang of her fellow-pupils. For all her cherished street-cred image, SAM is of middle-class origins, though she does her best to conceal it. Her father is a doctor and her mother is a social worker. Both parents chose to work in the inner-city area of Coal Hill with all its problems. Both were taken aback when Sam insisted on going to the Coal Hill comprehensive, instead of the private school they had planned for her. SAM sees herself as a natural rebel. Her main problem is the fact that her parents are so understanding, liberal and tolerant that they don't provide much to rebel against. Moreover, both are so busy with demanding jobs and various good causes that SAM, as an only child, actually gets very little of their time and attention. To survive emotionally, she has become capable, self-sufficient and independent. SAMANTHA JONES is and idealist and a crusader - everything from Ban the Bomb to Save the Whale - impeccably politically correct and a shade self-righteous. She is bossy, brave to the point of recklessness, and tends to make snap judgements and act on them. SAM always knows what's right, and what's best for everyone. When SAM first meets the DOCTOR, he is confused and amnesiac. She sees him as an engaging eccentric who needs looking after. By the end of the first adventure the DOCTOR is himself again. During their travels together SAM gradually becomes aware of who and what he is. She finds the knowledge awe-inspiring - but she would never let the DOCTOR know it, and continues to treat him with a lively disrespect. The DOCTOR sees SAM as a sort of enjoyable irritant. He finds her energy, optimism and know-it-all enthusiasm amusing, stimulating and sometimes maddening. Although the DOCTOR in his current incarnation is an exceptionally attractive young man, and SAM is on the brink of becoming a beautiful young woman, this aspect of things is kept below the surface. Despite the relative closeness of their apparent ages, the relationship stays on the level of big brother/younger sister or even father/daughter. Beneath her outward assurance SAM is still very young - to the DOCTOR, incredibly young. If SAM ever wishes the DOCTOR would notice her a little more, this is something she keeps very much to herself. But she does her best to keep him out of the clutches of any intergalactic seductresses they may encounter - purely for his own good, of course.

And immediately, something I admire so much about Blorman, is that they're willing to play with this. A lot of the misogyny in Sam's characterization comes from an annoyance at her mere existence and a conviction that there is nothing at all potentially worth exploring about her. Because the idea of her annoys the author, she must be Inherently Annoying, and is written as such rather than engaging with any of her actual character traits.

Blorman both admit (mostly Blum, as Orman's activity on rec.arts.drwho was either small check-ins or trolling/taking the piss at this point) that there isn't much there in this outline, or that at the very least some of it comes across as mean-spirited.

[BLUM] I'm sure on paper, Ace or Sarah sounded a bit cardboard as well -- it took skilled writers (and script editors) to make them something special. It helps that we all *want* to make Sam likeable... we know that a good companion is supposed to be an identification figure, not an irritant. Though if Terrance meant Sam's activism and "political correctness" to be a bit of a joke, he's in for a shock -- he's just handed her development over to two activists! :-) We both see how annoying or condescending the character could be, so we're basing her on the activists we've known -- who generally *have* had a sense of humor, and more importantly of self-awareness.

(Blum had been beefing with Dicks for a bit at this point.)

"You people are incredible, I just bet if Paul or Kate had created this outline you'd be gushing about how great it sounded and how clever it was." [BLUM] Perhaps that's because Kate or Paul wouldn't have created this outline. "And I won't mentioned the incredibly insulting condescending tone of Jon's little rant. Never forgiven Terrance for not liking the movie, have you Jon?" [BLUM] Quite the reverse, actually. Terrance told us about Sam before he went on about how much he hated the movie. We've just had to sit on the news about Sam until now -- if anything, my response in the "Terrance hated the movie" thread was colored by knowing what he had to offer in its place.

and already they're brainstorming a lot of the INCREDIBLY juicy Sam character moments that show up in Vampire Science, all strongly informed by the character outline, not in contradiction to it.

[BLUM] This is one of the big contradictions we spotted in the outlines -- along with the fact that Sam is being a "rebel" by doing precisely the sort of liberal activist work her cause-oriented parents would approve of! Our attempt at rationalizing it is that Sam's parents' activism is very small-scale and vanilla (these days), oriented only on one little neighborhood -- they're still doing good, but they've gotten settled and lost their big dreams. Sam is rebelling against the paucity of their imagination by trying to make big changes to the world. And her parents don't think they're putting their futures -- or their lives -- on the line by working in the neighborhood the way they think Sam is by going to an inferior and dangerous (ITHO) school…

Again, it was mostly Blum in the trenches on this front, and Orman says in a later addition that it was also mostly him in the trenches trying to sort out Sam's characterization, and that her concerns with writing Vampire Science lay elsewhere. That said, she does chime in with this, which I just adore the graciousness and positive thinking of:

Well, I think people can criticise the *outline*, but outlines are seldom representative of what ends up on screen, or on the page. Pointing out the potential pitfalls of the character is quite useful to the authors! Because Terrance is just briefly introducing the character, Jon and I get to really work on her, breathing life into that basic sketch and modifying its less likeable elements. What a marvellous job to be given!

Sam Jones is what led me to the opinion that there are no bad characters, only bad writers. If you are intent on a character being Bad and unlikable, you're going to write them unlikably! Because you don't like them! Writing, especially for something with established characters, gives you a tremendous opportunity to "yes, and." to be curious and find out what does interest you about a character. To look at contradictory characterizations and think "what might lead a person to these contradictions?" Blorman specifically are masters of this, and it's what makes their writing some of the most engaging of the wilderness years.

bonus, also in this thread:

(archived thread is here, if anyone wants to take a look. Fair warning that these threads are people As They Were In 1996, with all that may imply.)

[utkuerdemozerblog]

UTKU ERDEM OZER (4)

Welcome to a transformative journey towards optimal health and wellness with our cutting-edge services at https://www.utkuerdemozer.com/en. Whether you're grappling with Piriformis Syndrome, navigating the challenges of Kienböck’s Disease, or recovering from a Pectoralis Major tear, our dedicated team is here to provide targeted solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our holistic approach ensures that we address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of your discomfort.

Piriformis Syndrome

Piriformis syndrome is a condition that occurs when the piriformis muscle, located deep in the buttock, spasms and causes pain in the buttocks. This muscle can irritate the nearby sciatic nerve, leading to discomfort that radiates down the leg. Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include tingling, numbness, and pain, significantly impacting daily activities and mobility.

Understanding the unique aspects and effects of piriformis syndrome is crucial for effective management. Many individuals with this condition find relief through a variety of treatments, including physical therapy, stretching exercises, and targeted massage. Incorporating these practices into your routine can enhance flexibility, strength, and overall quality of life.

Seek professional guidance to address your specific symptoms. Our specialized services can help you navigate the complexities of piriformis syndrome and develop a personalized treatment plan. Don't let pain hold you back—take the first step toward recovery today!

Kienböck’s Disease

Kienböck’s disease is a debilitating condition that affects the lunate bone in the wrist, resulting in a gradual loss of blood supply. This condition often leads to avascular necrosis, where the bone tissue dies due to insufficient blood flow. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial, as they can significantly influence the treatment outcome and speed up the recovery process.

Key Symptoms

Wrist pain that worsens with activity

Swelling in the wrist area

Decreased range of motion

Stiffness in the wrist

Difficulty gripping or lifting objects

Benefits of Early Detection and Treatment

Identifying Kienböck’s disease in its initial stages enables quicker treatment options. Effective management may include rest, splinting, and physical therapy, which can alleviate symptoms and improve functionality. In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be required to restore blood flow to the lunate bone, ultimately influencing long-term outcomes positively.

Why Choose Us for Treatment?

At Utku Erdemozer, we specialize in diagnosing and treating orthopedic conditions, including Kienböck’s disease. Our expert team employs advanced imaging techniques and personalized treatment plans to ensure every patient receives the highest level of care. Don’t let wrist pain disrupt your life—schedule a consultation with us today!

Pectoralis Major Tear

A pectoralis major tear is a serious injury that can significantly impact your strength and mobility. This injury often occurs during high-intensity activities like weightlifting, particularly when performing bench presses or explosive sports movements. When you experience a tear, it can lead to acute pain, weakness in the affected arm, and difficulty in performing daily tasks.

One of the key benefits of early diagnosis and intervention is the potential for a quicker recovery. At our clinic, we specialize in a comprehensive approach, integrating both rehabilitation and surgical options to address a pectoralis major tear effectively. Our team is dedicated to returning you to your active lifestyle as safely and efficiently as possible.

Understanding the importance of tailored rehabilitation programs can also greatly enhance your recovery process. We prioritize individualized treatment plans that focus on restoring strength and function while minimizing the risk of re-injury. This approach ensures that you receive the specific care necessary to support your healing journey.

If you suspect you've sustained a pectoralis major tear, don't hesitate to consult our experts. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your long-term outcomes. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards regaining your strength.

[bliow]

AGARTHA Aİ - DEVASA+ (2)

In today’s digital landscape, a captivating and functional website is crucial for any business looking to thrive online. Full service web design encompasses a comprehensive approach, ensuring every aspect of your site is tailored to meet your unique needs. From the initial concept to the final launch, this service provides an array of offerings, including website service, responsive web design, and custom design services. Whether you’re a startup seeking to establish your brand or an established enterprise aiming to enhance your online presence, understanding the elements of full service web design is essential. 

Full service web design

Full service web design encompasses all aspects of creating a website, from initial conceptualization to ongoing maintenance. This approach ensures that every detail is carefully considered to meet the specific needs of a business or individual. With a team of experienced designers and developers, full service web design offers a seamless experience that integrates aesthetics, functionality, and user experience.

One of the key advantages of opting for a full service web design is the cohesion of the website elements. Since all parts of the project are managed by a single team, there is less chance for miscommunication or inconsistency in design. This results in a more polished final product that reflects the brand’s identity while providing an engaging experience for visitors.

Additionally, full service web design allows for customized solutions tailored to unique requirements. Whether you need an e-commerce platform, a portfolio site, or a blog, a full service provider will offer dedicated support and expert advice throughout the entire process, ensuring your vision comes to life exactly as you imagined.

Website service

In today's digital landscape, website service is essential for businesses to thrive and maintain an online presence. A well-structured website serves as a powerful tool that encourages customer engagement and drives sales. By investing in a comprehensive website service, businesses can ensure that their website not only looks great but also functions seamlessly across all devices.

A key aspect of website service is the ability to optimize for search engines. By implementing SEO best practices, businesses can enhance their visibility and attract more organic traffic. This is where a reliable website service provider plays a crucial role, as they possess the expertise and techniques necessary to elevate your search engine rankings.

Furthermore, ongoing support and maintenance are vital components of a reliable website service. As technology evolves and user needs change, having a team that can promptly address issues or updates will keep your website relevant and effective in reaching target audiences. This ongoing relationship is instrumental in achieving long-term success in the digital realm.

Responsive web design

Responsive web design is an essential aspect of modern web development that ensures a seamless user experience across a variety of devices. With the increasing use of smartphones and tablets, having a website that adapts to different screen sizes is not just a luxury but a necessity.

The core principle of responsive web design is fluidity. This means that the layout of your website adjusts dynamically based on the screen width, ensuring that content remains accessible and visually appealing regardless of the device used. This approach improves usability and can significantly boost conversion rates.

Incorporating responsive web design techniques involves using flexible grids, images, and CSS media queries. These elements work together to create a layout that responds gracefully to changes in screen size, making your website not only functional but also competitive in the digital marketplace.

Custom design services

In today's digital landscape, custom design services have emerged as a vital component of creating a strong online presence. Businesses understand that a one-size-fits-all approach does not cater to their unique needs and branding. Therefore, opting for custom design services allows them to differentiate themselves in a crowded market.

These services offer tailored solutions that resonate with a company's specifics, from colors to typography and layout. By leveraging custom design services, businesses can ensure that their websites not only reflect their brand identity but also provide an intuitive user experience. This is crucial for keeping visitors engaged and encouraging them to take the desired actions.

Investing in custom design services ultimately contributes to better customer satisfaction and improved conversion rates. With a website designed specifically for their target audience, businesses can more effectively communicate their message and achieve their goals. This bespoke approach is invaluable in today's competitive environment.

[selfhelpforstudents]

Revolutionize Your Note-Taking: Creative Methods for Retaining Information

Girls in Finance project server // other posts

In the fast-paced world of academia, effective note-taking can make a significant difference in your ability to absorb and retain information. Here are some creative and proven methods to revolutionize your note-taking and elevate your study game:

1. Mind Mapping:

Visualize Connections: Use mind maps to create visual representations of concepts and their relationships.

Enhance Creativity: Mind mapping encourages a non-linear approach, helping you think more creatively about your subjects.

2. Cornell Method:

Structured Layout: Divide your notes into key sections, including cues, main notes, and a summary.

Active Review: The Cornell Method promotes active review, enhancing your understanding and retention.

3. The Feynman Technique:

Teach What You Learn: Pretend you're teaching the concept to someone else. This technique exposes gaps in your understanding.

Simplify Complex Ideas: Break down complex topics into simple explanations to solidify your grasp on the material.

4. Visual Annotations:

Highlight and Doodle: Use colors, symbols, and doodles to emphasize key points and make your notes visually engaging.

Memory Aid: Visual annotations create memorable cues that aid recall during study sessions.

5. Digital Note-Taking Apps:

Flexibility: Explore digital tools like OneNote, Evernote, or Notion for organized and searchable notes.

Multimedia Integration: Embed images, audio, and links to enhance your notes with multimedia elements.

6. The SQ3R Method:

Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review: A systematic approach to reading textbooks actively.

Engage with Material: Turn headings into questions, read with a purpose, and quiz yourself for optimal comprehension.

7. Interactive Notebooks:

Include Interactive Elements: Incorporate foldables, pockets, or pop-ups to make your notebooks interactive.

Hands-On Learning: Interactive notebooks provide a tactile experience that reinforces learning.

8. Memory Palaces:

Create Mental Associations: Use spatial memory to associate information with specific locations in a familiar environment.

Ideal for Sequences: Memory palaces are effective for memorizing sequences or lists.

9. Dual Coding:

Combine Visual and Verbal Information: Enhance your understanding by combining written notes with visual aids like diagrams or charts.

Boost Retention: The dual coding theory suggests that combining modalities reinforces memory.

Remember, the key to successful note-taking is finding a method that resonates with your personal learning style. Experiment with these techniques, mix and match them, and discover the approach that maximizes your understanding and retention of information. Happy note-taking!

Girls in Finance project server // other posts

[shanicodes]

Hollow Crown Skin ($65, Unlimited) by Shani Codes

HOLLOW CROWN is a responsive skin for JCINK forums and is optimized for Google Chrome. If you have questions about the skin, or seeing a full preview, feel free to join my support discord: discord[DOT]gg/G9zb4sQxdp

SKIN INCLUDES:

A light/dark mode toggle,

A font size toggle,

Custom forum layouts and category images,

Pop-out with navigation, updates, about section, and user links,

Full responsiveness for various screen resolutions, supporting both mobile and smaller screens,

Easy to edit member group variables,

CSS variables for fonts, colors, images, sizes, etc. for easy customization,

Post row with a sticky, hover mini profile,

A tabbed, main profile with sections for freestyle and shipper, and FizzyElf's automatic thread tracker,

A filterable, searchable, and sortable isotope member list with counts,

And an included installation guide PDF with comprehensive instructions.

PURCHASE LINK: ko-fi[DOT]com/s/e65d3a5664

[aiseoexperteurope]

How to optimize images for beter AIO, (AI Search) Google AI overview, Perplexity, ChatGPT

(1) Research the mechanisms by which AI search engines like Google AI Overview, Perplexity, and ChatGPT analyze and interpret image content, including their use of computer vision and contextual understanding from surrounding text. (2) Identify general best practices for image SEO that are beneficial for AI search, focusing on elements such as descriptive alt text, meaningful file names, image captions, and the relevance of on-page textual content to the image. (3) Investigate specific recommendations or documented guidelines from Google on how images are selected and utilized within its AI Overviews, and how to optimize for this feature. (4) Explore how Perplexity AI incorporates and ranks images in its responses, and search for any specific advice or patterns related to image optimization for its platform. (5) Research how ChatGPT (especially versions with browsing capabilities or image understanding features) processes visual information and what factors might influence image visibility or interpretation by the model. (6) Analyze the role and benefits of using structured data (e.g., Schema.org markup for images) in enhancing the discoverability and comprehension of images by AI search algorithms. (7) Evaluate the importance of technical image attributes such as resolution, compression, file formats (e.g., WebP, AVIF), and mobile responsiveness for AI search performance and user experience. (8) Synthesize the findings to provide a comprehensive guide on optimizing images effectively for improved visibility and understanding by AI-driven search systems, including Google AI Overview, Perplexity, and ChatGPT.