#tripod techniques

[studiocapturelife]

Mastering Interior Photography: Tips to Capture the Essence of Your Home

There aren’t many topics as interesting and intimate in photography as our homes’ interiors. Interior photography presents a special chance to highlight the personality and charm of your house, regardless of whether you’re an aspiring photographer or just want to capture the beauty of your living area on camera. But it takes more than just pointing and shooting to become an expert interior photographer. It calls for an acute sense of detail, knowledge of light, and the capacity to evoke feelings through imagery.

If you are looking for interior photographers, then Studio Capture Life offers best-in-class photographers for all your interior photography requirements!

In this blog, we’ll look at some professional tips and methods to help you take gorgeous interior pictures that really show off your house.

Preparation is Key

Set up the area you’ll be shooting in advance of even picking up your camera. Straighten up furniture, get rid of clutter, and clean up any spills. Pay close attention to the little things: fluff cushions, carefully organize décor, and make sure all surfaces are spotless and glossy. In addition to looking better in pictures, a well-organized area will simplify your work as a photographer.

Choose the Perfect Angle

Try a variety of angles to determine which one best suits each room’s layout. Photographing from a corner of the room frequently yields a wider angle and elongates the impression of space. But don’t be scared to use your imagination; though; taking pictures from above or below can emphasize unique architectural details and create visual interest.

Utilize Natural Light

When it comes to interior photography, natural light is your best friend. Try to take pictures during the day while the light is coming in through the windows. Align yourself so that the light is evenly distributed over the room, coming from behind you. Steer clear of direct midday sunshine as it tends to wash out colors and cast harsh shadows. Instead, for the most pleasing effects, go for gentle, diffused light.

Use a Tripod

Whenever possible, use a tripod to guarantee clean, sharp pictures. By doing this, you’ll be able to reduce camera shake and use shorter shutter speeds without compromising the clarity of your images. You can experiment with longer exposures with a tripod, which might be helpful in low-light conditions.

Focus on Composition

When framing your photographs, consider composition. Within the frame, keep an eye out for leading lines, symmetry, and balance. Think about the rule of thirds, which states that important items should be positioned along these lines or at their intersections, splitting the frame into horizontal and vertical thirds. This may result in a composition that is more lively and eye-catching.

Highlight Unique features

Don’t forget to take pictures of the little features that provide character to your house. These little accents, which may be anything from an oddball piece of art to a delightful architectural element, give your room originality and character. To bring these characteristics to life in your images, get up close and try some different camera angles.

Try Different Lenses

When it comes to interior photography, different lenses may produce remarkably different outcomes. Wide-angle lenses work wonders for enlarging small rooms and capturing sweeping perspectives. But watch out for distortion: keep crucial pieces away from the frame’s edges to prevent them from looking deformed or stretched. On the other hand, a longer focal length lens can draw attention to certain details and compress space in a room.

Capture in RAW Format

Instead of JPEG, photograph in RAW format for the most freedom and control over your photos. RAW files are considerably more information-rich and offer greater post-processing modification options. This can be very helpful when modifying color temperature, white balance, and exposure to get the desired effect.

Try A Few Different Post-Processing Techniques

Post-processing can elevate your interior images to a new level. Play around with the exposure, contrast, and color balance with editing software. If you want to straighten lines and fix distortion, think about using lens adjustments. Aim for a natural, genuine style that faithfully captures the space; don’t go overboard.

Conclusion

Interior photography requires time and practice to master, just like any other ability. If the results of your initial projects are not precisely what you had hoped for, don’t give up. Continue trying new things, picking up from your errors, and honing your skills. If you put in the effort and persevere, you can soon be taking gorgeous interior pictures that highlight the features of your house.

If you liked reading about the tips and tricks for interior photography, do visit our website for more such blogs!

[creativekomal]

Mastering the Art of Low Light Photography Techniques And Gear

Mastering the Art of Low-Light Photography: Techniques & Gear

Low-light photography is both an exciting and challenging aspect of photography that allows you to capture stunning images in dimly lit environments. Whether you’re shooting a romantic dinner scene, a cityscape at night, or business portraits in a low-light office, understanding how to make the most of the available light is essential. Mastering the art of low-light photography can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your images and make your portfolio stand out.

In this blog post, we will dive into the low-light photography tips you need to know, the essential gear required, and techniques that will help you create sharp, captivating images even in the most challenging lighting conditions.

1. Understanding Low-Light Photography

Low-light photography refers to capturing images in situations where there is not enough light to create the desired exposure using a standard shutter speed. This often occurs in indoor settings, at night, or when shooting subjects under artificial lighting. While it can be more difficult than shooting in well-lit environments, low-light photography opens the door to unique and dramatic shots.

Challenges of Low-Light Photography

Noise: Increasing the ISO in low-light conditions can result in grainy images.

Motion Blur: Longer exposures may lead to blurry images if the subject is in motion or the camera isn’t stabilized.

Focus: Autofocus systems struggle in low light, making it harder to achieve sharp focus on the subject.

Despite these challenges, the right low-light photography tips and techniques can help you capture stunning, professional-grade images.

2. Essential Camera Settings for Low-Light Photography

Understanding how to manipulate your camera settings is crucial to overcoming the challenges posed by low-light conditions. The three main settings you need to focus on are ISO, shutter speed, and aperture.

ISO Settings:

ISO controls your camera’s sensitivity to light. In low-light environments, you’ll need to increase your ISO to capture more light. However, increasing the ISO too much can introduce noise into your photos, so it’s important to find a balance.

Lower ISO (100-400): Ideal for shooting in bright light or well-lit environments.

Medium ISO (800-1600): Works well in most low-light conditions without introducing too much noise.

Higher ISO (3200-6400): When shooting in very low light, you may need to increase your ISO further. Just keep in mind that higher ISOs often introduce noticeable noise, which may reduce image quality.

Shutter Speed:

Shutter speed determines how long the camera’s sensor is exposed to light. In low-light photography, longer exposures are often necessary to capture enough light, but this can lead to motion blur if the subject moves or if the camera shakes.

Use a slower shutter speed (1/60 sec or slower): A slower shutter speed lets in more light, which is essential in low-light conditions.

Stabilize the camera: To avoid motion blur, use a tripod, or place the camera on a stable surface. For handheld shots, try using a shutter speed of at least 1/60 sec to avoid shake.

Avoid overly long exposures: Extremely long exposures can result in light trails or overexposed images, especially in urban settings at night.

Aperture (f-stop):

The aperture controls the amount of light that enters the camera and affects the depth of field in the image. A larger aperture (lower f-number) allows more light to enter, which is crucial for low-light conditions.

Use a wide aperture (f/1.4, f/2.8, f/4): This helps gather more light, especially in darker environments. A wide aperture also creates a shallow depth of field, which can give your photos a dreamy, soft background.

Low-light photography tips for business settings: When photographing products or business portraits in low light, using a wide aperture can help focus attention on the subject, while blurring the background. This technique also ensures you capture as much light as possible without compromising the sharpness of your subject.

3. Stabilizing Your Camera in Low-Light Conditions

One of the biggest challenges in low-light photography is preventing motion blur. In dim lighting, you might need slower shutter speeds to capture enough light, but this increases the likelihood of blur if the camera moves even slightly. Here are some tips to stabilize your camera:

Use a Tripod:

A tripod is essential for low-light photography as it keeps the camera steady during long exposures. Whether you’re shooting landscapes at night or indoor product photos, a tripod ensures that your camera stays in place and your images are sharp.

Use Remote Shutter Release or Timer:

Even slight camera movement can cause blur when using slow shutter speeds. A remote shutter release or self-timer can help you avoid touching the camera, which can induce vibrations.

In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS):

Many modern cameras come with in-body image stabilization, which helps reduce camera shake and allows you to shoot at slower shutter speeds without blur. If your camera has this feature, use it to your advantage in low-light settings.

Low-light photography tips for business: When doing business photoshoots in low-light environments, ensure that your camera remains stable at all times. A tripod and remote shutter release are particularly useful for corporate headshots or product shots, where clarity is key.

4. Using the Right Lens for Low-Light Photography

The lens you choose plays a significant role in how well you can capture images in low-light environments. Lenses with wide apertures allow more light to enter the camera, making them ideal for low-light photography.

Prime Lenses:

Prime lenses, such as the 50mm f/1.4 or 85mm f/1.8, are excellent for low-light photography because they offer wide apertures and are typically sharper than zoom lenses. The wide aperture allows you to gather more light, helping you take brighter photos in dimly lit settings.

Wide-Angle Lenses:

Wide-angle lenses (such as 24mm f/1.4) are ideal for low-light photography in urban settings or for capturing larger scenes. These lenses are great for night photography or cityscapes where capturing as much light as possible is essential.

Low-light photography tips for business portraits: For business photoshoots in Pune, using a prime lens with a wide aperture will help you capture crisp, well-lit portraits even in challenging lighting conditions. A 50mm or 85mm prime lens is perfect for business headshots and product photography in low light.

5. Post-Processing for Low-Light Photography

After capturing your images, post-processing is an essential step in low-light photography to enhance the quality of your photos. Software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop allows you to correct issues like noise, exposure, and contrast.

Reduce Noise:

Noise is a common issue when shooting in low-light conditions, especially with higher ISO settings. Use noise reduction tools in post-processing to smooth out grainy areas while preserving detail.

Adjust Exposure and Contrast:

Often, low-light photos can appear flat. In Lightroom or Photoshop, adjust the exposure and contrast to bring out the details in the shadows and highlights. This can make your photos look more vibrant and dynamic.

Sharpen the Image:

Low-light conditions sometimes result in slightly softer images. Use the sharpening tools in post-processing software to enhance the sharpness of your images, especially around key subjects like faces in business portraits.

Low-light photography tips for business and commercial photography: When editing business photoshoots in Pune, make sure your product images and portraits are as sharp and vibrant as possible without introducing too much noise. Adjusting white balance, brightness, and shadows can help achieve the perfect result.

6. Using Flash in Low-Light Photography

While natural light is preferred for its softness and warmth, using a flash in low-light photography can sometimes be necessary, especially for business photography where precise lighting is critical.

Use a Softbox or Diffuser:

If you’re using a flash, consider adding a softbox or diffuser to soften the light and reduce harsh shadows. This is especially useful for business photoshoots where you want flattering, even lighting on your subject’s face.

Bounce the Flash:

Instead of directing the flash straight at your subject, bounce the flash off a wall or ceiling to create a more natural, diffused light. This technique is often used for portrait photography to reduce the harshness of direct flash.

7. Conclusion: Learn the Best Low-Light Photography Techniques at The Lens India

Mastering low-light photography takes practice, patience, and the right tools. By following the low-light photography tips shared in this guide and using the correct gear, you can elevate your photography to a professional level, even in the most challenging lighting conditions.

For those who want to take their photography skills to the next level, The Lens India offers comprehensive photography courses and workshops that cover all aspects of photography, including low-light techniques. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our courses will help you improve your skills, gain hands-on experience, and build a portfolio that stands out.

Visit The Lens India Photography Courses and Workshops to explore our offerings and sign up for a course today! Start learning how to master low-light photography and other essential techniques that will help you capture stunning images in any lighting condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Low-Light Photography

1. What is low-light photography?

Low-light photography refers to capturing images in environments with insufficient natural light. This often occurs in indoor settings, nighttime scenes, or areas with minimal artificial lighting. It involves techniques that help achieve proper exposure without overexposing or introducing too much noise.

2. Why does noise occur in low-light photography?

Noise appears in low-light photos when the ISO is increased to compensate for lack of light. Higher ISO settings amplify the camera’s sensitivity to light, but this can result in grainy or pixelated images. Learning how to balance ISO and post-process noise can help reduce this effect.

3. How can I stabilize my camera for low-light photography?

To prevent motion blur in low-light conditions, you can stabilize your camera using a tripod or by employing a remote shutter release or self-timer to minimize vibrations. Many modern cameras also feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which helps when shooting handheld.

4. What camera settings should I use for low-light photography?

The three main settings to adjust for low-light photography are:

ISO: Increase it to capture more light, but avoid going too high to prevent noise.

Shutter speed: Use slower shutter speeds for longer exposure, but ensure your camera is stabilized to avoid blur.

Aperture: Use a wide aperture (low f-number) to allow more light to reach the sensor, which is especially useful in dark environments.

5. Can I use a flash in low-light photography?

Yes, you can use a flash in low-light settings. However, to avoid harsh shadows and unflattering light, it’s best to use a softbox or diffuser to soften the light. Bouncing the flash off a wall or ceiling also creates a more natural, diffused lighting effect, perfect for portraits or product photography.

6. Which lenses are best for low-light photography?

Lenses with wide apertures (such as f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8) are ideal for low-light conditions. Prime lenses like the 50mm f/1.4 or 85mm f/1.8 allow more light into the camera and often provide sharper results than zoom lenses.

7. How do I reduce noise in my low-light photos during editing?

Post-processing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop offers tools to reduce noise. Use noise reduction features to smooth out grainy areas while maintaining detail. Additionally, adjusting exposure, contrast, and sharpness can further improve the quality of your low-light images.

8. What is the best tripod for low-light photography?

A sturdy tripod is essential for stabilizing the camera during long exposures in low-light settings. Look for a tripod that is lightweight for portability but stable enough to support your camera securely.

9. Is low-light photography difficult for beginners?

While it can be challenging at first, low-light photography becomes easier with practice. Understanding your camera settings and using the right gear, such as a tripod and wide-aperture lenses, can help you overcome common challenges.

10. Can I improve my low-light photography skills through a course?

Yes! Enrolling in a photography course that focuses on low-light techniques can accelerate your learning process. You’ll get hands-on experience and expert guidance, helping you improve your skills and enhance your photography portfolio.

At The Lens India, we offer comprehensive photography courses specifically designed to help you master low-light photography and other essential techniques. Our courses cover everything from camera settings and stabilization methods to post-processing and using the right gear. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, our expert instructors will provide the tools and knowledge you need to take your photography to the next level.

Sign up today and start mastering low-light photography with The Lens India Photography Courses!

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The Lens India 

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[pussyisg0d]

photographer!vi headcanons

sfw & nsfw

note: hi ive never done this before. writing these i have like a chubby!user (reader?? idfk) in mind since that’s basically me! its not directly mentioned though

----------------

sfw (slightly suggestive)

————

photographer!vi who has to constantly buy new sd cards cause all she does is take photos of you

photographer!vi who begs you to pose for her when you dress up all nice

photographer!vi who tells you how pretty you are and how you’re doing so good for her, just to get you to smile while posing

photographer!vi who’s camera roll is just photos of you with the occasional meme, landscape photo, or workout photo

photographer!vi who lets you take photos of her sometimes (specifically her back tattoo)

photographer!vi who takes mirror selfies with her camera after just working out (definitely transfers them to her phone just to show you)

photographer!vi who’s job is to photograph events that she ends up bringing you to just to show you off (and show off her amazing camera skills to you)

photographer!vi who sometimes does portrait photography

photographer!vi who makes it known she has a girlfriend whenever one of the women she’s photographing tries to flirt with her

photographer!vi who will teach you how to use a camera and get extremely good photos (if you dont know how already)

photographer!vi who occasionally will record videos of you and her’s everyday life (like a little mini movie)

photographer!vi who will move you like a doll so you’re posed how she wants you to be

photographer!vi who has a portfolio dedicated to you…..and other parts of you.

photographer!vi who will literally cry if you buy her a new camera, one she’s been wanting for years

photographer!vi who will buy a polaroid camera just so she can have a polaroid of you in her phone case

photographer!vi who will constantly compliment your looks. “you’re so pretty today baby.” “you look gorgeous in this lighting.”

photographer!vi who tests all new camera techniques she learns by taking photos of you

photographer!vi who pretends to be paparazzi when you model the new clothes you got

photographer!vi who, when the time comes, will be super critical and specific on how the wedding photographer should take the photos

----------------

nsfw

————

photographer!vi who will straddle you and lift your shirt to take a photo of your tits

photographer!vi who sometimes makes you pose naked for her

photographer!vi who will get so worked up she almost drops her camera

photographer!vi who has an album in her camera roll dedicated to your boobs

photographer!vi who will take photos of her strap buried inside you. “hold still baby…”

photographer!vi who tells you what a perfect photo your blissed out expression would make. “think it’d be a nice one for the collection? yeah?”

photographer!vi who buys a tripod so she can set the camera to take photos while she eats you out

photographer!vi who uses that exact tripod to record you two having sex, making you look in the lense. “look forward. wanna be able to see your pretty face.”

photographer!vi who will rewatch the videos while getting herself off

photographer!vi who will have you hold the camera, recording while you ride her

photographer!vi who will show you the sextapes, much to your embarrassment. “c’mon you don’t wanna see how deep i was?”

photographer!vi who sets the camera in front of you while she has you bent over so she can capture all the faces you make as she thrusts into you

photographer!vi who begs you to dress in pretty lingerie for photos

photographer!vi who will rip off the lingerie 5 minutes later

photographer!vi who will give you a box full of provocative photos of her for your birthday

photographer!vi who smushes your boobs together for a photo

photographer!vi who takes a mirror selfie with you bent over the bathroom counter as she pounds into you

photographer!vi who praises you during sex just like she does when she takes your photos

photographer!vi who’s surprised to see you using what she taught you to photograph her abs whenever they tense as she thrusts up into you

photographer!vi who after your wedding makes sure to record the whole bedroom session. from beginning to end.

----------------

lowkey got lazy here in the end but anyways teehee i love vi

©natssillygirlfriend ©pussyisg0d

[yourmoonie]

DEALING WITH DOUBTS

Intro:

When doubts, fears, or anxiety arise, don’t fight with them or think that it is a dead-end. Instead, acknowledge them with gratitude. Recognize that fears are trying to protect you, doubts can motivate growth, and impatience signals your eagerness for good things. Invite your fears to wonder, -> "What if success is close?" Let doubts challenge limits and turn impatience into excitement for what’s coming. Rather than resisting old beliefs, shift your view on these emotions, give them a new purpose, and trust your intuition.

1. Shifting your POV

Instead of seeing doubts as barriers, let’s view them as part of our growth. When doubts pop up, it's because something within us wants reassurance or clarity. It’s a signal, not a dead-end. Now stay with me

2. UNDERSTANDING WHY IT APPEARS

Doubts don’t just appear for no reason; they’re often tied to past experiences or beliefs

Doubt -> an underlying cause -> why It appears -> how to reframe It -> moving forward

3. DONT FIGHT WITH YOURSELF

Doubts can actually help us to question, refine, & build more solid beliefs

Each doubt that you move through gives you a deeper trust in yourself. Like a good friend who’s honest with you, doubts can be useful if you listen, learn, and grow beyond them

The example:

✨️THE DOUBT: What if I am not good enough to get my SP's attention

✨️ LISTEN: Hear the doubt as f it's a friend being honest, pointing out where you might feel insecure.

✨️ LEARN: Ask yourself why this feeling exists. Maybe it's tied to a belief about self-worth.

✨️ GROW BEYOND: Use this awareness to focus on building confidence and self-love, reminding yourself that you're worthy and valuable just as you are

✨️ RESULT: Instead of letting the doubt hold you back, you're using it as a push to strengthen your self-image

4. PICK & CHOOSE

After acknowledging & understanding doubts, it’s time to release them

Imagine each doubt as a passing cloud

You notice it, see what it’s about, and then watch it drift away. You don’t have to cling to every thought

Choose which ones you want to keep

5. REMIND YOURSELF OF YOUR TRUTH

When a doubt comes up, gently remind yourself of your truth

Let’s say you doubt if you’re capable of achieving your desire

You could say, “I trust my ability to manifest & I trust myself”

It’s not about forcing the doubt away but bringing yourself back to your inner belief

6. Appreciating them & letting them go

The next time you catch yourself doubting, try saying, “Thank you for showing me what I need to work on.” This way, you honor the doubt but also make a conscious decision to not hold onto it. Acknowledging it without fear takes away its power over you

7. TODAY'S LESSONS

So today, we learned to:

✅️ To acknowledge the doubts without fearing them

✅️ Appreciate what they teach us

✅️ Letting them go and refocusing on the truth

Doubts don’t have to control you. They can be gentle reminders to dig deeper into your own strength

Trust that you’re on the right path

Some ground techniques for you:

Mindfulness Exercise (My favorite):

When doubts or overwhelm arise, bring yourself back to the present moment. Count your fingers, look around, and connect with your surroundings. Remind yourself that you exist in this moment, and that the thoughts passing through your mind aren’t truly you. Let these thoughts drift by and rest in the knowing that everything is working out in your favor.

Energetic Grounding Exercise (Another favorite):

✨ Start by sitting comfortably in a chair. Visualize roots, cords, or chains extending from your feet deep into the earth and from your base chakra. Feel as though you’re solidly anchored, like a tripod.

✨ Then, imagine a rope or pillar of light entering your crown chakra. This light can be any color that feels healing and powerful for you. See it flow through your body, traveling from your head to your feet, passing through each chakra.

✨ Declare out loud that you are grounded to the earth. Visualize toxins and negativity releasing through the roots into the soil, where they are transformed into energy. Allow the crown chakra connection to draw in healing energy that flows throughout your being.

This practice can help you feel centered, calm, and aligned with positive energy.

[babylipsbaby]

♡ a modern girls guide to being a 2010s it girl: issue #04 ♡

Snow Day Activities

♡ Bubble Baths & Good Vibes ♡

When the weather outside is meh, it’s the perfect excuse to pamper yourself! Run a steamy bubble bath (or take a long, relaxing shower) with your favorite bath goodies; Lush, Bath & Body Works, or whatever makes you feel fancy. Follow it up with your skincare routine, slap on a face mask, and maybe even treat your hair to a deep-conditioning treatment. Don’t forget a mani-pedi! By the time you’re done, you’ll feel like a whole new person.

♡ Sugar, Spice, & Everything Nice ♡

Being snowed in is the perfect excuse to get your inner baker on. Whip up some cookies, brownies, or even a fancy meal you’ve been wanting to try. Not only will your house smell amazing, but the warmth from the oven? Instant cozy vibes. Oh, and don’t forget to snap a pic for the ‘gram!

♡ Snowflakes & Selfies ♡

Playing in the snow is fun, but a winter wonderland photoshoot? Elite. Pick out a cozy-but-cute outfit, grab a tripod (or balance your phone on literally anything), and snap some aesthetic shots! Bonus points if you bring in some fun props; mugs, fairy lights, or even the snow itself.

♡ Netflix and Chill ♡

Cold weather = the ultimate excuse to curl up under a blanket and watch all the good stuff. Rewatch your comfort movies (Legally Blonde, The Devil Wears Prada, or literally any rom-com), catch up on your fave shows, or finally start that Netflix series everyone’s been talking about. Bonus points if you make popcorn and hot cocoa for the full cozy experience!

♡ Read, Relax, Repeat ♡

Snowy days are made for curling up with a good book and a warm drink. Whether you’re into fantasy, thrillers, or a cheesy romance, now’s the time to escape reality for a bit. Snuggle up in your comfiest blanket, sip on some tea or cocoa, and let yourself get completely lost in another world.

♡ Work it Out, Babe ♡

Cozying up all day is great, but don’t forget to get your body moving! If you can’t hit the gym, try a fun YouTube workout: try an at-home routine, do some yoga, or even have a little dance party in your room. Exercise doesn’t have to be boring, just find something that makes you feel good!

♡ Slay The Snow Day ♡

Being snowed in means a no judgment zone. Ever wanted to try an Aria Montgomery smokey eye? Go full VS Angel? Or perfect that King Kylie makeup look? Now’s the time! Play around, take some selfies, and find what works best for you.

♡ Perfect Your Messy Bun ♡

Just like makeup, your hair deserves a little experimenting, too! Try out new curl techniques, master the perfect messy bun, or even test a new braid style. No pressure, just a chance to get creative and have fun!

♡ Manifest Your Aesthetic ♡

You finally have time to reorganize your Pinterest boards, update your Tumblr, or refresh those old playlists. Your aesthetic deserves some love, too! Whether it’s revamping your mood boards or creating the ultimate main character energy playlist, use this time to craft your perfect vibe.

♡ New Hobby, Who 'Dis? ♡

You know that hobby you swore you’d try but never got around to? Now’s your moment! Whether it’s knitting, painting, scrapbooking, or making your own jewelry, take some time to be creative. Not feeling artsy? Try baking, journaling, or even learning a new language. Who knows? You might just find your new obsession.

Use #mgg2010 to find every issue!

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Previous Issue: Winter Outfit Staples

˚₊· ͟͟͞͞➳❥ Next Issue: Snow Day Movies

[fluffy-dixon]

Title: Rose🌹

Summary: Reader Suffers from anxiety and struggles with a bad attack. Daryl comforts them.

Pairings: Daryl x Reader

Era: Prison

Word count: Approx 940 I wrote this on my iPad.

Warnings: extreme anxiety attack? It’s supposed to be fluff but apparently it’s also angst.

This was my first ever one shot which I have re-written – I wrote this for Valentines Day.

--

You awoke to a crushing weight on your chest, panic surging as you struggled for breath. Another episode was upon you.

The cell’s darkness was absolute, save for a sliver of light that outlined the door’s draped sheet. It was just enough to search for your blankets—the ones Daryl had gathered for you, knowing they eased your distress. Though not essential, he’d always find a way to bring one back, hiding it for you to discover later.

Desperately, you searched the cot’s emptiness for any sign of the comforting fabric.

But there was nothing, and time was slipping away.

Tears streamed down your face, each one scalding like molten rock. Your throat constricted, a vice tightening and choking off your breath. You screamed silently within.

Air. You needed air.

Swinging your legs out, you hauled yourself into a sitting position, hands bracing on your knees. You adopted the tripod stance Daryl had shown you—tripoding. Gasping, you tried to steady your breathing, passing out was not an option.

Inhale through your nose, count to four, exhale. Again, inhale, count to three but relief eluded you; none of the learned techniques were working.

You needed air.

The tingling in your hands spread, a fiery sensation engulfing your arms, neck, and face.

Reaching for the oil lamp you kept for emergencies, you overextended, expelling the last of your breath as the lamp crashed to the floor, shattering.

The noise was sure to draw attention, giving the council yet another reason to cast you out. You were already a burden; this was the last thing you needed.

Defeated, you collapsed back onto the bed, the cell spinning around you. Your body convulsed, each tremor a jolt of electricity coursing through you.

Then, his voice.

“Y/N? Y���kay in there?!”

The Archer. Your archer. Best friend. Soul mate.

Sweat drenched you, blurring your vision, but his silhouette was unmistakable against the door’s curtain.

A groan of panic escaped you, but it was enough. In an instant, Daryl was there, his arms enveloping you in a protective embrace.

“C’mere, it’s okay,” he murmured, his voice a deep, gravelly comfort. You clung to the resonance of his words, a cry of relief breaking free as you felt the tension begin to dissipate.

“The blankets n’working?” You shook your head vigorously, pressing it into the crook of his neck, seeking refuge in his sturdy embrace. The scent of smoke and musk from his skin enveloped you, a comforting aroma you’ve always cherished.

“I can’t—find—” Your words faltered, but he hushed you gently. The dizzying whirl of the room gave way to a soothing rocking motion, cradling you towards calmness.

“Breathe w’me. You can do this, just as I taught ya.”

Inhale through your nose, count to four, then exhale.

A sob escaped your lips, your throat raw and aching with each laboured breath. Daryl’s rough yet tender hands glided over your arms, across your shoulders, and into your damp, dishevelled hair. His touch was a mirror to your disarray. As you looked up, Daryl brushed away the stray hairs from your face, tucking them behind your ears with a gentle precision, his gaze never leaving yours. His deep blue eyes held you captive, mesmerizing you, while the dim light cast shadows that accentuated the contours of his face.

More sobs wracked your body, and you squeezed your eyes shut, trying to stem the flow of tears. The imaginary shackles around your chest seemed to dissolve, allowing you to breathe freely once more. His method was effective.

“You’re doin’it, girl, I’m proud of ya,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to your clammy forehead, undeterred by the dampness. The kiss lingered, grounding you back to the present. When he pulled away, the absence of his warmth left your skin exposed to the chilly air, sealing the moisture from his lips onto your skin. This was a first—a tender, romantic gesture from him. The blush that crept over his cheeks and ears was mirrored by your own shaky, yet genuine smile. You yearned to voice your gratitude to the archer, but all you could manage was to nestle your head against his chest once more, closing your eyes and syncing your breaths with his. Your hand rested on his side, anchoring you as the room’s spin subsided.

Daryl’s free hand began to trace letters on your back. Instead of pain, the path of his fingertip left a trail of goosebumps, pulling you back to reality.

H-A-P-P-Y V-A-L-E-N-T-I-N-E-S.

He released one arm from around your waist and reached into his shirt pocket, pausing as he spoke.

“I carved something for you.” Daryl’s words were always sparse but laden with meaning. You were the only one privy to this side of him, a treasure you held dear. Each rare glimpse of his vulnerability was cherished, knowing the bravery it took for him to reveal himself.

Sitting up a bit more, you watched as Daryl retrieved a small object from his pocket, placing it in his palm and shifting it into the light for you to see. A gasp slipped through your lips, and you covered your mouth, a silent tear tracing your cheek at the sight of his gift.

An oak rose head, intricately carved.

“Happy Valentine’s Day,” he said softly.

[fairyboy1111]

A prayer for Hephaestus + Digital offering

I sing of strong-handed Hephaestus who spends his days working in forges, whose keen eyes pierce through the darkness like a pair of blazing torches

Who found his way back to Olympus after being cast from heaven’s lofty height, going up as do the lava and ash a volcano shoots into the sky

Indomitable lord of Lemnos, you yourself are fire, vigorous and all-consuming, your wrath is dreaded and dire 

For no creature can hold you, yet your grip sears the soul with pain, entire cities turn to mountains of ash when drowned in the light of your domain

Trees pop and cackle when you blacken their trunks and pluck their leaves, there’s no limit to the havoc your red breath conceives

Yet as skilled as you are in destruction, you excel far more in matters of creation, and time after time you’ve blessed mortal minds with ideas of world-changing innovation

When metals are melted through your ardent will and they swirl in a hot and bubbly pool of incandescence you inspire humans into molding them to their will, overtaking their bodies with your much-generating essence

So that they may forge weapons to defend themselves against whatever dangers may cross their path and utensils to handle and share their food with ease and care, armors to remain unscratched in the face of harm and sparklingly lovely jewelry to wear

Every material is subdued through your mighty sway, all-taming, smoke-cloaked god who leads the craftsman’s way

Hard rock bends to your will when a sculptor chisels it away, your embrace softens unyielding iron and hardens supple clay

Thanks to you ground-born wood is cut into endless shapes and grainy sand is turned to glass when your wisdom partakes

For you’ve taught to men from all across the earth the skills and techniques needed to reshape the matter around them into items of new that’ll help them in their day to day

Thus you’ve made our lives easier and our existences happier, and wherein we once dwelt in caves and ate flesh cold and raw, because of you we now live in houses and cook our meals over your glow, a switch worthy of awe

You devise not just utility, but also beauty beyond measure; you prompt people into begetting art that may be unto all eyes a source of joy and pleasure

Sowing the world with hope and reasons to smile, with good cause are you married to soft-veiled Aglaia, a goddess most sublime

And for those who have trouble moving you have designed tools purposed to help them on their endeavors; you yourself are supported by many devices as you attend to your labors

For they call you club-footed on account of your limping walk, and in accordance you’ve invented marvelous machines to help you move around; wonderful wheeled tripods that go to a fro on on their own account, as well as gold-wrought maidens, beauteous and mobile, that hold you as you stand

Oh, sooty prince, famed for your skill, divine blacksmith of whom hammers and tongs are the thrill

Anvil-throned, renowned warmth-bearer, heed my words and listen to my prayer

Gift me with the wits to better my life step by step and to understand how to make the best out of any situation using what I have at hand

Cleanse me in your flames so that I may be rid of all that holds me back, melt me down and build me anew, forge a version of me that’s wiser and yet kinder too

Gift me with sword and shield so that I can stand my ground when needed, yet also with a mirror to remind myself and others of the unique splendor we’ve been given

Never cease to kindle the spark of creativeness within my heart, purest amongst the blessed, you who lives in art

[whencyclopedia]

Etruscan Bronze Sculpture

The Etruscans produced bronze goods going back to the Villanovan period (1100-750 BCE) and used the material for all manner of objects, but it is their figure sculptures which have become some of the star attractions in museums worldwide. Bronze was a highly desirable material throughout antiquity and easily melted down for reuse so that it is even more remarkable that such fine works as the Chimera of Arezzo and Mars of Todi have survived to bear testimony today of the exquisite artistry of Italy's first great civilization.

Manufacture

Etruria was fortunate to have rich metal resources, especially copper, iron, lead, and silver. The early Etruscans put these to good use and bronze was used to manufacture a wide range of goods such as tools, weapons, armour, coinage, jewellery, hand fans, oil lamps, incense burners, mirrors, tripods, everyday dishes and utensils, cauldrons, horse bits, chests, and even chariots. Bronze was hammered, cut, cast using moulds or the lost-wax technique, embossed, engraved and riveted in a full range of techniques.

Beginning in the mid-8th century BCE, Etruscan artists benefitted from contact with Greek settlers (especially Euboeans) and traders from Phoenicia, Sardinia, Egypt, central Europe, and the Balkans. This brought technological refinements in metalwork and a whole new range of art ideas.

Many Etruscan towns set up workshops specialising in the production of bronze works and these included Acquarossa, Cerveteri, Chiusi, Populonia, Tarquinia, Vulci, Volsinii, and Volterra. To give an idea of the scale of production, the Romans were said to have looted more than 2,000 bronze statues when they attacked Volsinii (modern Orvieto) in 264 BCE, melting them down for coinage.

Continue reading...

[beautifulchris]

obsessed

pairing: dancer!lee minho x videographer!gn!reader

summary: minho was the most perfect guy you had the privilege of encountering—and working with. without even trying—or meaning to—, he got you wrapped around his fingers

genres: fluff, angst, strangers to lovers to exes!au, colleagues!au, first person pov!!

wc: 4,4k

tw: obsession, toxic relationship, swearing (in lyrics only, who would've thought), violence, injuries, mention of blood

notes: heyyy! this fic is part of my collection of fics! indented are the lyrics, banner made by me on canva. andddd i'd appreaciate it greatly if you could tell me what you thought about it!! happy reading!

listen to the song for a more immersive experience: spotify link | youtube link

networks: @kflixnet @k-labels @kwritersworld @whipped-kpop-creators @straykidsland

permanent tag list: @soobin-chois @exfolitae @linos-catnip @prettymiye0n (tell me if you want to be added/removed)

stray kids tag list: @raethethey

Lee Minho (1998).

Have you seen this man?

Perfect skin, heart face shape, a sharp nose, wide cheekbones, cat-like eyes, long eyelashes and pretty, pouty lips.

The moment I laid eyes on him, I knew it was over. He was just so attractive, always walking like he owned the place, and, without realizing it, I became infatuated with him.

I was a newbie videographer in this dancing company called Twinkle Toes. Yes, I did apply there because of its name, being an ATLA fan and all. Anyway, Minho was the best dancer they had.

The obsession started when I first saw him dance. His technique and control were perfect, I could clearly see why he was a professional dancer. All the fluid and effortlessly looking movements he made gave me goosebumps every time I was behind the camera. Or anywhere inside the room, really.

I approached him first. Complimented him on his dancing, which seemed to please him. I kept being supportive and throwing seductive glances his way every now and then. I became hungry for his attention.

Oh, my Lord, never met someone like you before Think I'm kinda going overboard Now I'm obsessed, how can somebody be so perfect? Boy, you really got me by the neck Whatever you want, you just gotta ask

I made no secret of my admiration. Soon, everybody knew but I couldn’t care less.

“You’re so strong, Minho,” I mused from behind the camera. “Thanks to your efforts, the video will come out perfectly.”

He failed to suppress a smile, yet dismissed the compliment with a vague movement of his hand. “It’s a team effort.”

Of course, I knew that. Yeah. The fourteen other dancers were good, but none of them were in the same league as Minho. He was above everyone in this company.

I was usually right.

After filming ended, I took my stuff—camera, tripod, laptop—and walked towards my designated studio where I could work on editing. I wasn’t totally installed when someone knocked on the door. It was so faint I thought I’d dreamed it, until they knocked again.

I opened the door, revealing a shy looking Minho, who didn’t seem to be able to meet my eyes. I found it adorable.

“Yes?”

“Uh, I… Can I come in?”

Now, why would he even want to come inside? Was my flirting so powerful that he already wanted to spend more time with me? I wasn’t one to complain about that.

“Sure,” I said, taking a step back and closing the door behind him.

“So that’s what your studio looks like,” he commented, looking around.

It was a small room with a large desk filled with everything I needed to do my job. The stuff I had with me in the danceroom plus a computer, lenses, microphones, cables, memory cards… Everything was perfectly organized. Bigger equipment—camera bags, studio light, reflectors, tripods—were tidied next to the desk. A gaming chair was in front of it, and on the other side was a two-seater sofa.

“Do you mind if I stay with you while you work?”

I smiled internally. It was so easy.

“No, of course. Are you done for the day?”

“Yeah, finally. Thanks.”

“What for?”

“For letting me stay with you.”

SCREAMING. PUNCHING THE WALL. I could’ve smacked his arm right now for saying this so casually. Sure enough, I didn’t. Instead, I motioned for him to sit on the sofa while I placed my laptop on the desk before opening it.

I could tell I was professional with how well I handled the situation I was in. I kept my desire to turn around and stare at him buried inside me as I edited the video. I had a week to finalize it for an upcoming dancing contest. I was determined to show the dancers’ best side through the video. I also tried not to show Minho too much, even though he was around 20% more present than the rest. It wasn’t my fault the videos he was in were better.

Oh, well. It was common knowledge he was our best hope at winning.

It was getting late, and I was feeling hungry. I saved my progress, switched off the computers and turned around. I’d imagined Minho to be fast asleep, as my job could be found boring from the outside. To my surprise, he was looking straight at me.

“Are you OK?” I asked, conscious he had been waiting for a long time.

See, I checked the time before closing my laptop. I had been working for a bit more than two hours.

He nodded. “Are you, though? Don’t you feel sore?”

Now that he mentioned it, I couldn’t feel my butt anymore. A common occurrence in this field. I got up, stretched arms, back, legs and unintentionally yawned.

“Do you want to get dinner?”

He seemed nervous all of a sudden. Ah, if I could make him mine right now…

“Only if you pay.”

“Deal.”

Ten minutes later, we were walking side-by-side toward a little restaurant owned by a strict-looking yet lovely grandma near our workplace. We’d eaten there before, with our coworkers.

As a typical small-business Korean restaurant, the room was approximately ten times bigger than my studio. Twelve four-seater tables were placed around the room at a relatively safe distance from each other. On every one of them were a wooden cutlery holder for four, and a matching little box full of thin napkins. The walnut-colored counter was on the far end of the room, and the hole that was supposed to be a door behind it led to the kitchen. The only thing giving a bit of privacy to the cook were white lace curtains attached to each side of the… door-shaped hole. On the left side of the room, a TV screen and posters—with pictures—of the menu were displayed on the wall. While on the right side, as well as a bathroom door, were decorations and an ‘appreciation wall’ with a lot of little notes and doodles from customers.

I wanted to sit next to it. If we ran out of things to say, we could always talk about that.

Grandma greeted us with a smile when she saw us, showing us to a table on the opposite side. “Hello grandma, can we actually sit at that one? It’s easier to watch TV there.”

Of course, I had no intention to watch TV, but no one needed to know that.

“Sure, my child, go sit. I’ll be right there.”

Thanking her, we sat right next to the rating wall.

There was one other customer closest to the counter. A regular, by the looks of it. Grandma went to the kitchen and came back with a steaming dish. She delicately put it down in front of the man before providing us with the menus. He thanked her and resumed his reading of a journal. Which I couldn’t identify because I don’t read journals.

Minho and I looked at the menu like we had no idea what to order. While I already knew what his favorite dish was, I opted for something I hadn’t tried before. You see, I like to try everything on the menu. It was a habit in restaurants I often went to. Of course, if it were to be a one-time restaurant, I would order the food that makes me salivate the most. Minho preferred savory foods. The tastier, the better.

He rapidly scanned the plastified paper on the table before looking up at me. “I’ve chosen. You?”

I straightened up, flashing my signature grin, and nodded once. “Same. Any drinks?”

“Soju?”

“Sure.”

Three young people entered the place. Grandma placed them on the left side of the room and came to us. “What would you like, my children?”

“Bulgogi bibimbap for me, please.”

“Jajangmyeon and a bottle of soju, please,” Minho ordered, taking the menu from me and giving them both back to grandma with a sweet smile.

She smiled like a lovely grandma would—contently with a hint of nostalgia.

We never got to speak about the appreciation wall nor did I once glanced at the TV, because we talked a lot and there were few moments of silence.

After that dinner, we spent a lot of time together outside the company. I believed he enjoyed my presence as much as I savored his. We flirted, went on dates every now and then, and recently started dating.

Then, around two months after our first day together, a new, talented dancer entered the company. Her body had beautiful curves. She had long, black silky hair, and toned abs. It didn’t help that she was gorgeous, social, and easygoing.

In just a few days, she had befriended the whole building. It felt like she had always been there. To my dismay, even Minho seemed to like her.

“What do you think of Soojin?” I asked as casually as manageable, considering I was eager to get an answer.

“She’s cool.” Minho shrugged, looking up at the blue sky. “And a good dancer. Why do you ask?”

How he could manage to look so ethereal under the sunlight yet give me such a soft glance was beyond my understanding. He got a hold on me, that was for sure.

“I agree, she’s good. You might have to share your spotlight in the next competitions and projects.”

He smirked. “Was about time. It’s been lonely up there.”

I knew he was joking. He never considered himself as above his colleagues. I frowned for another reason. I couldn’t ignore the thought from overwhelming me. Was I not enough for him? Was I just a pastime? I wasn’t a dancer. Was it a dealbreaker for him? 

Minho’s gentle glance became a concerned stare as he stopped in his tracks. “What’s wrong?”

“Do you like me?”

He opened his mouth, but I couldn’t wait for his response.

“Am I good enough? Do you like Soojin more? Do you want to date her? Are you just playing with me?”

Because I would still be wrapped around your finger either way.

“Hey, breathe, babe. I’m here, I’m with you.”

I did as told, and my next words came out as a whisper.

“Are you though?”

“Where is all this coming from? Why would I be interested in Soojin?”

“She’s gorgeous, talented, and a sweetheart. Who wouldn’t like her?”

He smiled softly, taking my hand in his. “Is this your way of telling me you’re interested in her?”

“I’m serious.”

“You have nothing to worry about. I like you.”

I wanted to believe him, but I couldn’t get rid of the voices.

Soojin and Minho were the jewels of the company. Meaning they had way more screen time—which was my job—and training sessions together—which was their job. I had to stand behind my camera for hours while watching them dance together. Helplessly watching their bodies touch and their breaths tangle. The sensual moves made me want to break something.

Jealousy stirred up inside me, and I think it showed, because several colleagues around the room sent me looks of pity and sorry.

I knew it was just the job for Minho, but I couldn’t help it. It was beyond my control. Ever since the choreographers created this dance, I have been vile to Minho. Exposing my jealousy to him in private.

“I’m sorry, sweetie. I hate hurting you. Really. However, I can’t simply stop dancing. It’s my dream life.”

“I’m not asking you to stop doing what you love, I’m asking you to stop doing it with her!” I snapped.

“Doing that will get me fired, you know that. I told you I picture you whenever I’m dancing with her. Is it not enough?”

He was pleading, but I could sense he was tired and frustrated.

“I like you, not Soojin. I need you to understand that.”

“You say that now,” I said in a low voice, “but I see the way she looks at you.” My voice broke, and I looked away.

Minho shook his head. “Please, stop. I’m exhausted. I’m dating you, aren’t I? What more do you need to be satisfied?”

It stinged. The worst part was he didn’t scream. His voice was stern and accusing. No words would leave my lips. He took my silence as a cue to leave the toxic environment I created. I couldn’t blame him for wanting to stay away.

But I could blame someone else.

I tried to film Soojin in her less good angle, but it felt like she was flawless under any angle. It was frustrating, not even being able to compromise her while doing my job.

Minho, being smart and all, realized what I was trying to do while Soojin was doing a solo dance. His eyes were glued to me the whole time. He grabbed me by the arm the minute I finished for the day and brought all my stuff back to my studio. He made me turn around to face him.

“What did you do back there?”

I was hurt by his suspicion, even though he was right. I stood my ground and lied through my teeth. “I didn’t do anything.”

He sighed in exasperation and let go of me. “Look, I won’t say I know you because clearly, as much as I thought I did, I actually don’t. But I know you did something.” His face softened, but his lips stayed pressed in a thin line. “Please, help me understand. Why would you resent Soojin so much you’re willing to risk your job? What do I ignore?”

I was angry. Why would he defend her if nothing was happening between the two?

“Why do you care so much, Minho? Who is she to you?”

He stepped back, blinking a few times. “This again? I don’t recognize you anymore, Y/N. I thought I knew you. Since Soojin joined our crew, you’ve changed. I believe I didn’t give you any reason to be jealous of her, excluding my job. Then again, I know how to separate professional and personal matters. I chose not to where you’re concerned because I liked you. But now, I don’t think I want to do this any longer. It’s draining me, and I lost my will to fight for us.”

Wait. What?

“Are you breaking up with me? Is that it?” I sounded frantic—and I was. All I understood from his tirade was that he was leaving me, probably for her. This bitch. She dared steal my boyfriend.

“All these past weeks fighting made me reconsider our relationship. I’m sorry, Y/N. I like you, but I can’t be with you.”

He silently stared at me for a moment, hurt and determination visible on his face, before turning heels and heading out.

My legs gave out. Minho broke up with me. I had no intention to accept this. It was all this woman’s fault. She had bewitched him, I was sure of it.

When I ran into Minho the next day, he avoided looking me in the eyes. Everybody could see something was wrong. They could even sense it, as the tension was thick in the air.

“Is something wrong?” Soojin asked as she entered the room. She looked around the room and offered me a sweet and innocent smile.

I wanted to lunge at her. It took everything in me to stand still.

“Let’s get started,” the director said as soon as his left foot touched the floor. He clapped his hands, getting everyone’s attention. He stopped at the center of the room. “Today we’re going to film a two-minute promotional video for our project. I count on you, Y/N, to make this video as appealing as all the other ones you made until now.” He winked at me. “Dancers, I expect you to be in good shape. I need you to accentuate your moves.” This time, he winked at Minho and Soojin.

I was close to rip my hair out.

We did as told. While the dancers gave their all in their dancing, I moved around them with my camera to capture their moves from different angles, creating a nice flow. Nowadays, videographers would use a gimbal to provide support and stabilization, but my camescope and feet were all I needed. This type of work called for a more natural flow, which could only be done without any device.

I knew how to be professional, too, but hated every second I spent filming the top dancers sensually touching each other’s bodies, especially from this close. The looks they gave one another, were they really only professional? I wasn’t sure Minho had ever looked at me like he was staring at Soojin at this moment.

I decided to put aside my anger for the sake of my job, and made the best promotional video yet. Not that I would ever admit it, but their chemistry was undeniable and greatly increased the quality of the video.

Slowly, but surely, I watched Minho and Soojin grow closer. I tried multiple times to reconnect with him to prevent the inevitable, but he was unyielding. He wouldn’t let me touch him and refused to be in a room alone with me. I found his reactions a bit over the top and insulting. But, even worse, he seemed to be protective of Soojin, as if he was scared I would hurt her if he let her out of his sight.

I would, but it was still vexing.

If you go and get yourself somebody new I don't know what the hell I'd do But if I found out, I will go and turn up at her house Break a nail and rip her hair right out Huh, and I hope you like that I'm crazy like that

Life went on, Minho still got me by the neck unbeknownst to him, and I was still wary of Soojin. A month had passed and a new project started.

“This time, crew, the theme is love. I want to feel it, alright? Do whatever it takes. I’m not worried though, because I believe in you all.”

The little speech the director gave ended up with a round of applause and a whistle from several of the dancers. The choreographers were sending each other smirks, as if they were waiting for this moment. I, obviously, loathed the idea. I had barely managed to contain myself this past month. That was going to be torture.

I was right.

The first official practice for the dance, a week after the announcement, I was behind the camera. If I thought they were close during the past month, I was mistaken. For the most part, their bodies were colliding with each other in a way that made the young managers embarrassed. My blood boiled. If there weren’t all these people around, I would’ve ripped Soojin’s hair out already.

When the song ended, their faces were mere millimeters from one another. They closed the gap between their mouths. I heard a few gasps from the crowd. My eyes lost focus. The fury building inside me sent a throbbing pain in my head. I left the room in a hurry before I could regret my actions. The last thing I saw in the long mirrors were their lips connected in a heated kiss.

I wanted to throw up. I ran to the restroom and sat on the ground in one of the cabins. I touched my cheeks with the back of my hands to check my temperature and realized I was crying. I couldn’t possibly be sad, could I? I stayed seated for what felt like hours, developing a plan to get revenge on Soojin. I was not going to let her go unscathed after what she had done.

The pain eventually subsided. Rage was all that was left in me. I was determined to make the bitch pay. I checked myself in the mirror, relieved to see there was no trace of me crying, and nodded to myself to give me courage. I came back to the dance room like nothing happened. Everybody stopped moving and watched me walk to my camera.

“Sorry, I had an emergency,” I told no one in particular, shooting an apologetic smile around the room. “Please, continue.”

I changed a few parameters on the camera and the room came back to life.

I was one of the first ones to leave the room. I stored my stuff in their respective places. Minho was waiting for me when I walked out of my studio.

“Y/N, I’m sorry—-It just happened—”

I scoffed. “Whatever.”

I'll do anything for you, boy, anything Yeah, I'll do anything, anything for you Yeah, I'll do crazy shit And I'll get away with it Boy, I'll do anything, anything for you

I raced to my car and waited there until Soojin entered her own car. I watched Minho go to her window and talk to her when she rolled it down. She nodded and smiled at him. Sickening. He went to his own car and I followed Soojin when she exited the parking lot. I stayed at a safe distance, but what if Minho knew what I had in mind and warned her?

I shook my head. It didn’t matter. She drove around fifteen minutes and parked in front of what looked like a family house. Was it her own place or did she come to her parents thinking I wouldn’t dare touch her there?

I smiled conspiratorially. None of them really knew me. I parked right behind her and stormed out of my car. I stopped at her window like Minho had done earlier and waited for her to roll it down. She stared at me with fear in her eyes and gulped.

I put on a fake smile and my sweetest voice. “Come on out, Soojin, don’t be scared.”

She slowly reached for the handle and opened the door.

“Look, I’m sor—”

I grabbed her by the neck and threw her on the asphalt. She grunted and rolled over. I pulled her hair up and ignored her faint struggle, whispering in her ear. “You really thought you could steal my boyfriend from me and get away with it?” I let out a nasty laugh.

She shuddered, tears welling up in her eyes. “You’re not together anymore,” she cried. “I’m sorry for hurting you. I didn’t mean to, I swear.”

“You’re too cute. I guess that’s your advantage.”

I pulled her hair a little higher and balled my other hand into a fist. I moved my arm back to gain momentum, but never got to use it. Minho shouted my name from his car, parked right behind mine. I let go of Soojin and watched him dash towards us.

“What’s happening?”

He kneeled next to her, checking her face and scratched arms. She cried, burying her face in his chest and wrapping her arms around his stomach. I huffed and folded my arms over my chest. The second she calmed down, Minho got up and faced me. He frowned.

“What did you do?” His tone was accusing. It angered me.

“Are you for real? How could you get over me that easily? Was I nothing to you?”

“Y/N,” he warned, pinching his nose bridge. Then he gave me a firm stare. “I’m sorry I hurt you. I never meant to. I just assumed you got over it the way I did.” His voice matched the look on his face.

Got over it? Oh, boy.

“I guess I loved you more than you ever did me.”

His surprised expression made no sense to me. He did not comment on it. Instead, he reached for Soojin’s hand and helped her up. “I’ll get you home,” he said softly.

He used to talk to me like that. Take care of me like that. My blood boiled but I just watched, feeling abandoned, as they walked away from me.

When he returned, a few minutes later, I was waiting, my back pressed against the driver’s side door of my car. “What was that about?” he inquired, stopping around three meters away from me, arms crossed over his chest.

“I’ll do anything for you, Minho. Anything. And I got angry at the way she snatched you from me.”

He stepped back, dropping his arms at his sides. “What do you mean, anything?”

“Literally anything.”

“But, Y/N, we broke up. You don’t have to. Besides, she didn’t snatch me, I fell for her.” My heart hurt. Did he really stop loving me that easily? “I’m sorry. Really, I am. I can’t undone our history, nor can I control my feelings.”

“You would undone our history if you could?” That was what hurt the most, I think. That, right there. He regretted being with me.

“No, but what you did today… I’m not sure I can forgive you. You scared Soojin, you scared me. If I knew you would be like this, I—”

“Don’t finish that sentence, please.”

Minho sighed. “I enjoyed being with you, Y/N, honestly. However, that was too much. I won’t ask you to quit your job, but can you please, leave Soojin and I alone? I feel like a dick asking you, especially since you’ll have to watch us a lot, and I also don’t want to quit this amazing company.”

“I’ll do it,” I breathed. A single tear ran down my face. “I’ll quit. I can’t stand by and watch you both all lovey-dovey. And I don’t want to hurt you. I’m sorry.”

It was my fault. I planted the seed of desire in Minho’s head, and my jealousy nourished it. The plant grew and he fell in love with her. I should've known. He never explicitly told me he loved me.

Minho reached for me and for a second, I was tempted to just let him, but that would've been wrong. I wasn’t sure I could leave if he showed me affection. I turned around and hopped in my car.

“Have a good life,” were my last words to my beautiful ex boyfriend before I took off.

The next day, I gave my resignation letter to my boss, and apologized a ton for leaving so suddenly. I pretended to have an urgent family matter hundreds of kilometers away, and moved out during the week. I wanted to put as much distance between Minho and me as possible to help me forget about him. It wasn’t an easy feat. But I moved into a small apartment in another city, got a job in a dancing company named “Encore Dance” and resumed my life.

There, I met a man so pretty I could cry.

Hwang Hyunjin.

Have you seen this man?

thanks for reading! feedback is always appreciated :) masterlist

[blueiscoool]

The Oldest Known Firearm in the U.S. Found in Arizona

Independent researchers in Arizona have unearthed a bronze cannon linked to the 16th-century expedition of Francisco Vázquez de Coronado, and it is marked to be the oldest known firearm found in the continental United States.

The 42-inch-long, roughly 40-pound sand-cast bronze cannon was discovered at the location of a Spanish stone-and-adobe structure in the Santa Cruz Valley that is thought to have been a part of the short-lived settlement San Geronimo III.

To finance an expedition to North America in 1539, Vázquez de Coronado took out large loans and mortgaged his wife’s possessions. The Spanish conquistador and his 350 soldiers intended to locate the legendary (and nonexistent) Seven Cities of Gold north of Mexico. By 1541, they had reached southern Arizona, where they established a settlement they called San Geronimo III, or Suya. San Geronimo was the first European town in the American Southwest.

Rather than accumulating immense wealth, Coronado and his men plied, and spent the next three years plundering, enslaving, and murdering their way across the region. These transgressions did not go unanswered. In the predawn hours of one fateful morning in 1541, the native Sobaipuri launched a surprise attack on the town. Many settlers were killed in their beds, and the survivors fled in disarray. The cannon — meant to intimidate and protect — was never even loaded.

Although Coronado was bankrupt and facing war crime charges when his expedition came to an end in Mexico City, his impact on North America would last for many generations.

One site in particular has produced a large number of artifacts associated with the explorers, according to the authors of a study published on November 21st in the International Journal of Historical Archeology. Researchers found European pottery, weapon parts, including a 42-inch-long bronze cannon, and glass and olive jar fragments in the ruins of a stone and adobe building in Arizona’s Santa Cruz Valley.

“Not only is it the first gun ever recovered from the Coronado expedition, but consultation with experts throughout the continent and in Europe reveal that it is also the oldest firearm ever found inside the continental USA,” Archaeologist Deni Seymour explained.

The early firearm also called a wall gun, was typically used as a defensive weapon positioned on a wooden tripod on fortification walls and required two operators. However, in Coronado’s case, such a cannon would have been used offensively, typically to pierce the weaker walls of buildings in Indigenous communities.

Archaeologists were able to date the cannon to Coronado’s time using radiocarbon dating and optically stimulated luminescence techniques, and the other artifacts matched descriptions of the supplies and possessions of his expedition. However, the wall gun’s simple casting suggests that, in contrast to more elaborate Spanish cannons, it might have been built in Mexico or the Caribbean—and possibly even acquired from Ponce de León’s previous expedition.

By Oguz Kayra.

[howlsofbloodhounds]

So this is part 2 of this post, if yall wanna give it a read for context.

In this post, I’ll be talking about how Color’s physical disability of having only one eye would influence how he interacts with his special interests in photography and travel.

As well as how his PTSD, autism, chronic fatigue, and separation anxiety from Killer could also affect things.

With one eye, Color might have reduced depth perception, which could make it challenging to gauge distances accurately. He might rely more on autofocus features, practice to enhance his spatial awareness, or use techniques like focus stacking for precise shots.

He might prefer using cameras with electronic viewfinders (EVF) or live view screens rather than optical viewfinders, which could be more challenging to use with one eye. Adjusting camera settings and composing shots via a larger display would be easier.

He might develop unique framing and composition techniques, leveraging his perspective creatively. Color could take extra time to ensure his shots are well-composed, possibly using grid overlays or other aids to help with alignment.

Customizing camera gear to suit his needs, such as using tripods, stabilizers, or remote controls, to help steady the camera and compose shots more comfortably.

He might spend additional time in post-processing to correct any minor misalignments or issues that arise from the reduced depth perception during the shooting process.

For travel, navigating unfamiliar places might require more caution, especially in crowded or complex environments. He might use mobility aids, rely on GPS and mapping apps, or travel with companions to ensure safety.

Color could engage in meticulous planning to minimize unexpected challenges, such as researching accessible routes, accommodations, and transportation options.

Color might use his experiences and perspective to connect with others, sharing how his disability influences his travel and photography, fostering understanding and empathy.

Developing strategies to cope with the physical demands of travel, such as pacing himself, taking regular breaks, and prioritizing destinations or activities that are less physically demanding.

His unique perspective could inspire him to create compelling stories or advocacy pieces about accessibility in travel and photography, raising awareness and inspiring others with disabilities.

Embracing his distinct view of the world, his photography could offer unique perspectives that stand out, turning his perceived limitation into an artistic advantage.

He might become involved in communities focused on accessible travel and photography, sharing tips, experiences, and inspiring others with similar challenges.

Autism and chronic fatigue would likely significantly impact Color’s ability to engage with his special interests in photography and travel.

In photography, chronic fatigue would necessitate careful energy management. Color might plan shorter, more focused photography sessions and prioritize rest to avoid burnout.

Streamlining his workflow, from setting up equipment to post-processing, to conserve energy. This could include using presets in editing software or organizing his gear for easy access.

He could chose photography locations that are easily accessible and require minimal physical exertion. He might also prefer locations close to home or base to reduce travel time and energy expenditure.

He would likely use ightweight equipment to reduce physical strain, possibly investing in high-quality but compact cameras and lenses. He might also use monopods or lightweight tripods for additional support.

Autism can come with sensory sensitivities. Color might choose quieter, less crowded locations for photography and use noise-canceling headphones or other tools to manage sensory overload.

With travel, he’d have to pace himself. Planning travel with built-in downtime to rest and recharge. He might avoid overly ambitious itineraries and allow for flexible scheduling to accommodate his energy levels.

He’d probably chose ccommodations that are comfortable, quiet, and accessible, ensuring he has a safe space to retreat to when needed.

He’d prefer modes of transportation that offer comfort and minimal stress, such as direct flights, train travel, or driving. He might also opt for private or semi-private tours to control the pace and environment.

Keeping up with healthcare needs, including regular check-ups, medication management, and any necessary accommodations. He might also carry a travel health kit tailored to his specific needs.

He’d combine photography with travel in a way that maximizes enjoyment and minimizes strain. For example, he might focus on travel photography during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon) when conditions are optimal, and the rest of the day can be used for rest.

Creating content that reflects his experiences with autism and chronic fatigue, such as blogs, vlogs, or social media posts. This can help raise awareness and provide valuable insights to others with similar challenges.

Engaging with communities of autistic travelers and photographers to share experiences, tips, and support. This can provide a sense of camaraderie and practical advice tailored to his needs.

Establishing routines that provide predictability and reduce stress. This might include having a consistent photography and travel routine, preparing for trips well in advance, and creating checklists.

Practicing mindfulness or relaxation techniques to manage stress and sensory overload. This can help maintain focus and calm, particularly in challenging environments.

Utilizing assistive technologies, such as apps for energy tracking, sensory-friendly gear, or digital tools that aid in planning and organization.

Color’s PTSD from solitary confinement and isolation in the Void, combined with his separation anxiety towards Killer, can create a complex situation that both challenges and shapes his engagement in traveling and photography.

Color’s need to stay on the move due to PTSD makes traveling appealing, as it provides a sense of freedom and escape from confinement. However, this constant movement could also become exhausting and anxiety-inducing if it lacks purpose or stability.

His separation anxiety towards Killer might lead him to seek Killer’s company while traveling. Traveling with Killer could provide a sense of security and reduce his anxiety, but it also means his travel plans would need to align with Killer’s availability and willingness to join him.

Color might need to carefully plan his travels to ensure he has safe and familiar places to stay, reducing the unpredictability that could trigger his PTSD. Having a structured itinerary could help him feel more in control and less anxious.

Traveling to new and unfamiliar places might sometimes trigger memories of his isolation, especially if he encounters situations that remind him of the Void. He would need to find a balance between exploring new places and ensuring his mental well-being.

Photography could serve as a therapeutic outlet, allowing Color to process and express his emotions through capturing images. It might help him make sense of his experiences and provide a way to externalize his trauma.

Color might be drawn to photographing subjects that reflect his internal state or provide a sense of solace. He could focus on themes like freedom, movement, and connection, finding meaning and healing in his work.

Having Killer around while engaging in photography could provide comfort and reduce his anxiety. Killer might even become a frequent subject in Color’s photos, symbolizing their bond and mutual support.

Color might need to develop strategies to manage his anxiety while photographing, such as taking breaks, grounding exercises, or having a trusted companion like Killer present. This would help him stay focused and engaged in his special interest.

The mutual separation anxiety between Color and Killer could strengthen their bond, as they rely on each other for emotional support. This bond could provide Color with the stability he needs to engage in his interests.

Color would need to balance his need for movement and exploration with Killer’s needs and limitations. They might develop a mutual understanding and compromise, ensuring both their well-being while pursuing their interests.

Color might prefer traveling to places where he can easily find comfort and familiarity, such as visiting friends or known locations. This reduces the stress of the unknown and helps him stay grounded.

Establishing routines or rituals while traveling and photographing can provide a sense of stability. For example, always starting the day with a specific activity or having regular check-ins with Killer can help Color manage his anxiety.

They might have frequent phone calls if Killer ever can’t join Color on his travels, at particular times of the day.

I can see Color sticking to this routine at the exact time and getting anxious and worried if Killer doesn’t call or pick up, which is likely to happen at some point simply because he has memory issues and sticking to routine is hard for him. But Color, at least for a bit, is likely to assume the worse.

Color might also keep a photograph of him and all his friends close by on his person. (I also like to think that Delta made his camera, he keeps some of Beta’s drawings with him, and also he’s memorized the recipe for Epic’s chocolate cookies.)

If he and Killer have already had their wedding by this point, he’d likely keep his ring close and near. Perhaps kissing it before bed, and fidgeting with it becomes a new comforting stim.

Over time, engaging in his special interests despite his PTSD and anxiety can help Color build resilience. Each successful trip or photography session can boost his confidence and reinforce his ability to cope with challenges.

Color might find deeper meaning in his travels and photography by using them as tools for healing and connection. Documenting his journey and sharing it with others can create a sense of purpose and community.

[tylermileslockett]

Atalanta #4 (Atalanta Outwrestles Peleus)

At the funeral games for King Pelius, Atalanta wrestles the Argonaut, Peleus, winning the match through strength and technique.

Looking to Homer and the Iliad and the funeral games for Patroclus, we can get a overview of the ancient greek funeral games. The body of the fallen was placed upon a funeral pyre, offerings or sacrifices are made, and the pyre burnes. In the funeral games was an opportunity for Greek men to compete and show their Arete, or excellence, in a given skill. Events like; Chariot races, boxing, wrestling, running, sword fighting, shotputting, archery, and javelin throwing. The winners of the contests could hope to be awarded the glorious olive wreath crown; or other precious objects like tripods or horses. In fact these funerary competitive games are seen as the ancient roots of the Olympic games. Although it was Hercules who created the first Olympic games to honor his father, Zeus.

Let’s take a look at Atalanta’s wrestling partner; Peleus, who plays an important role in Greek myth. As one of the heroes of the Argonautica, he later becomes a king of Phthia (in Thessaly) and is most famous for his marriage to the sea nymph Thetis. Zeus learned the prophecy that through his coupling with Thetis, her offspring would overthrow the Olympians, so he gave Thetis to a mortal; King Peleus. Chiron the centaur gave King Peleus the tip that he should ambush and hold tight to Thetis, as she transformed between forms. After succeeding to capture her, she agrees to marry, and the gods attend the wedding ceremony. This is the banquet where Eris, goddess of discord, sneaks in the golden apple inscribed with “for the farest,” setting off an argument between Athena, Hera, and Aphrodite. When Paris, prince of troy is Aphrodite promising Helen to Paris, setting off the Trojan war.

Like this art? It will be in my illustrated book with over 130 other full page illustrations coming in June to kickstarter.  to get unseen free hi-hes art subscribe to my email newsletter

Follow my backerkit kickstarter notification page.

Thank you for supporting independent artists! 🤘❤️🏛😁

[fleetways]

OKAY! It’s time for the Chimera Baby Lore Post!!

🌼 How did you come up with the OC's name?

In both a meta and non-meta sense, Chimera Baby’s name is probably the most notable part about them. The name Chimera Baby is a reference to m-flo and LiSA’s Tripod Baby, ft in the game Shadow the Hedgehog. For over 6 months that was her official non-official name, as I couldn’t decide on a name for her. I received over 15 name suggestions, but in July I ran a poll at which point she was dubbed Mira!

As it turns out, Mira happens to be the name of a binary star system. Two stars in a dance doomed to end in supernova—rather fitting for a chimera character, wouldn’t you say? I like to imagine Shadow was the one to name Mira something meaningful and space-themed like that, meanwhile Sonic named the other child something totally arbitrary (“His name is Mochi because he's white lol”)

On that note, I’ve also decided Sonic calls Mira “Chili” exclusively, because its silly and he would. So Mira, Chimera Baby, CB, and Chili are all names she goes by!

🌸 How old are they? (Or approximate age range)

I like to depict them anywhere from baby to teenager, but in their most recent incarnation I’d say they’re somewhere between 15-17

��� Do they have any love interest(s)?

At the moment no. She’s generally too aloof and off putting for anyone to approach her with romantic intent, but maybe in the future….

🍓What is their favorite food?

Strawberries and Triangle Chao Fruit

⭐️ What do they do for a living?

💥 Do they have any hobbies?

Besides combat training, CB enjoys the occasional outdoor activity. Sometimes her friends goad her into a game of soccer (which she is an absolute beast at), but she generally prefers solo sports such as archery, rock climbing, or hiking. Sometimes her brother convinces her to fish with him, but she finds it pretty boring (but would never turn him down)

💃 What do they do best?

Mira excels at hand-to-hand combat. As the reigning champion of Chao Karate, Mira takes their martial arts training very seriously. They also possess exemplary control over chaos energy, and incorporates this into their technique. While they may not be as fast as their fathers, they make up for it with not just raw power, but an extremely disciplined technique.

Her skills also happen to make her an amazing breakdancer, but she’ll break your face if you ask her to demonstrate.

☀️ What is one of your OC's best memories?

A tie between making her baby brother laugh for the first time and the time she drew first blood for the first time in a fight with Shadow

🌧️ What is one of your OC's worst memories?

The aftermath of almost drowning as a child after she saved a chao friend.

✍️ Is their current design the first one?

For the most part—I did redesign their shoes because originally they were rocking some McDonalds drip.

💡What originally inspired the OC?

This post i made ^^

Basically its a mix of me poking fun at the phenomena of Sonadow fan-children all looking kinda similar, and this plush reminding me of actual chimerism in animals and wanting to create a character with that characteristic! Over the months my ironic love for her has grown into genuine fondness—so while she remains primarily as a parody, she’s also a character I’m having fun exploring concepts with <3 Much like both Shadow and Sonic the Hedgehog, you can take her as seriously or not seriously as you wish!

👾 What genre do they belong in?

PS1-era graphics Jet Set Radio game

🏳️‍🌈 What is your OC's gender identity and sexuality?

Non-binary and trans (you decide what direction). And she’s bisexual bc i love bisexuals <3

🍃How many sibling does your OC have?

One little brother Mochi—he is a perfect angel who is also her closest friend. She adores him, but you wouldn’t know from seeing them interact.

⚠️ What is the OC's relationship w/their parents like?

So I mentioned that Mira was reared in a chao garden, where her dads basically only visited once every couple days if not longer (Sonic and Shadow are not very attentive parents, go figure). However, this was honestly a perfectly fine arrangement as I headcanon mobian children don’t need the same level of parental contact as human children (Hell, Cream is kind of an outlier FOR having a present parental figure in her life).

That being said, I imagine Shadow spent more time with her when she was really young before stepping away, which made her really latch onto Shadow more than Sonic during that time. Especially seeing as Sonic is the most laissez-faire parent ever but simultaneously was the type to abandon her on a floating platform in midair with a trail of badniks so she can learn how to homing attack.

Much like her father before her, her latent Black Arms genes have caused her to develop a burning desire to destroy Shadow—a fact that Shadow seems strangely indifferent about. While this fact has pretty much wrecked their previous relationship, there are circumstances where Mira will put aside her goal and work with Shadow against a common enemy or towards a common objective (of course, this doesn’t stop her from trying to stab him in the back during these operations).

Her relationship with Sonic has remained mostly the same, with Sonic treating her much more like a friend or little sister than a daughter. They have lunch together at least once a month, and usually she’ll go to him for advice on any social interaction matter—conversations that have become much more frequent now that she’s begun to make friends.

💗 What do you like most about the OC?

I think I popped off with her design—chimerism is such an interesting concept and I loved balancing her two sets of genes without making it seem too busy. I also love her dynamic of trying to kill Shadow and how you would think her growing up in chao garden basically alone would have contributed to that, but that's not the case at all she’s just like that <3

‼️ Who is your OC's arch-nemesis or rival?

Shadow the Hedgehog is her self-proclaimed nemesis, but she makes a fair share of enemies and rivals wherever she goes due to her punch-first-ask-questions-later attitude. One notable rival is another OC of mine named Sauvik the Badger—another cold and brooding anti-hero much like her. Sauvik and Mochi are something of a team, but being a protective big sister she wants him to stay away from her brother. This generally leads to a fight that Mochi is inevitably forced to break up.

⏰ How long have you had the OC?

She was created in January of 2023!

—

That’s all! Feel free to ask any other questions and remember to vote for her here!

@sonic-oc-showdown

[onceuponapuffin]

Fanatic Intervention Part 23!!!

Okay, so yes this took me a while, but it's here :)

Let's do this.

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*********************

With a click, the tripod locked into place. Jeremy went behind his recording phone to check the angle one more time. It looked perfect – he would be dead center of the screen as he started his latest masterpiece. He nodded in satisfaction and hit record. He needed to get as much footage as he could before Doug showed up to “bust” him. As much as his viewers loved watching him do this stuff and get away with it, the numbers always jumped whenever he “got caught” and had to get himself out of trouble. Lucky for him he had friends at the police station who were happy to play along for the right price. Doug, specifically, was his most reliable buddy cop. He had like, 3 kids, so he was always happy to have the extra cash. Jeremy was pretty sure he’d taken them to Disney World on it last year. Jeremy’s dad may not have been around all that much, but one thing he’d made sure Jeremy learned early was the power of holding others’ financial stability in the palm of your hand.

Jeremy stepped into the camera’s line of sight, made it look like he was adjusting the angle, then he winked and ran a hand through his hair. Gotta look cool for the camera. Then, he picked up a bottle of spray paint, shook it, and tossed into the air. He missed the catch, but that’s alright, his editor Luca would make it look good in post. Then he started painting. The comments had asked for him to paint something called Trollface. Honestly he’d had to Google it and he thought it was the weirdest thing he’d ever seen, but if it got him views and followers, then sure. He could see the faint chalk lines that his artist Matteo had drawn for him ahead of time. Luca would erase those in post. With another smile at the camera, Jeremy pressed the trigger, and began painting Trollface on the side of the federal office building.

*******************************

Okay, you decide, the time has come. You need to say something.

“Um, hey everyone?” You start as Crowley steers deeper and deeper into the busy streets of LA, “I think the car is a Swiftie.”

Aziraphale sighs and looks at Crowley. “Is this one I want to ask about? I still rather regret asking last time”

“Listen, every song for the last three hours has been Taylor Swift,” You insist, “And the second someone mentions it, the song changes to a different artist, but then it just goes right back!”

Anathema raises an eyebrow at you.

“Don’t give me that look,” You say to her, “You are not someone who should be looking at me like I’m crazy.”

“Maybe it’s just an AI feature,” Sardis suggests, “You know, it sees that there are Taylor Swift songs on our playlist, and Taylor Swift is a pretty big deal right now, so it just gives us more of her songs.”

“No,” You say, “It’s the car, I’m sure of it--” You’re prevented from saying anything else because Crowley slams on the break and leans on the horn. Someone had the audacity to try and cut him off. You have no idea who would try something like that, but you are very sure that they will find themselves regretting it later. To your right, you see Sardis shaking his head. Anathema is swearing under her breath in at least two languages, and Aziraphale is holding on to anything he can get a grip on as though his life depends on it. You, for your part, are trying a bunch of breathing techniques to try and shake off the shock of what just happened. While inhaling and counting on your fingers, you happen to look out the window, and you get the breath knocked out of you for a second time.

“WAIT I THINK I SEE HIM!” You scream, pointing out the window. Crowley slams on the brakes again and swerves in the direction you’re pointing. A corner of your brain is once again comforted to realize that he does actually use his mirrors. Aziraphale shrieks and grabs the overhead handle with both hands. Anathema swears really loudly, but Sardis actually looks where you pointed and becomes rather excitable himself.

“THAT’S HIM! THAT’S HIM!” Sardis yells, confirming your suspicion.

What are the chances, right? Yeah, okay we’ve done this bit before, I’m not gonna harp on it. You get how this goes by now. Suspend your disbelief – we have things to do.

The kid in question – Jeremy – is busily vandalizing the side of an office building. He’s within view of the street, which honestly you find really annoying. Couldn’t he at least have the decency to go around back? No, you figure, probably not. That tik tok seemed to suggest that he wanted to get caught. How on earth were you going to convince him to help save the world?

The car comes to a screeching halt right behind the boy who, weirdly enough, doesn’t seem alarmed by the sound. He doesn’t jump or anything. At least, not until he turns around, then he almost leaps three feet in the air. There’s suddenly surprise and confusion on his face as Crowley cuts the engine and hops out. Aziraphale also scrambles out the door, but you figure that’s probably less about the mission and more about Crowley’s driving.

Jeremy drops his spray paint and runs.

Aziraphale groans. “Must it be running?” He asks no one in particular. There isn’t any time to reply before Sardis goes rushing past the lot of you.

“You coming slowpokes?” He calls over his shoulder.

“No!” Aziraphale answers, “You’re doing quite well on your own! We’ll catch up with you!”

“Speak for yourself!” Anathema huffs at the angel. Then she picks up her skirt and starts running after Sardis, heels and all. You look over your shoulder and see that Crowley and Aziraphale have hopped back in the car. Wait, wait, you’re gonna get left behind. After only a second of indecision, you book it back to the car behind the husbands and you only just manage to get your other foot in the door before the door slams behind you and Crowley takes off at full speed. How does he know where he’s going? You have no idea, but you’re not asking questions. Besides, you’re busy being thrown around the backseat because he took off too fast for you to put on your seatbelt.

“OI! OUTTA THE WAY!!” He yells, full volume, laying on the horn. The traffic bends to his will, as do the lights. There are miraculous spaces for Crowley to weave between cars, every light is green, and he drives through construction zones without any trouble. Once you finally manage to sit back up and click in a seatbelt (it immediately locks tight, which is uncomfortable, but you decide it’s the better of your options), you glance at Aziraphale, whose eyes are shut tight. You vaguely register that the car has started playing Taylor Swift again.

“You okay, Azi?” You call. The seatbelt is constricting you too much to get his full name out. Fortunately he seems MUCH too distracted to notice.

“As long as Crowley doesn’t discorporate us, I’ll be fine,” The angel mutters. The look on his face says otherwise.

“Yeah, Crowley please don’t kill us,” You call to the driver’s seat. From the rearview mirror you can see the smile on his face, and just how yellow his eyes are getting.

“We’ll be FINE,” He says through his devilish smile, as a maniacal laugh rises in his throat. Well, nice to see someone is enjoying themselves.

“Good lord,” Aziraphale mutters. Honestly, you can’t tell if he’s trying to be sassy or if he’s actually praying. Could easily be either.

You close your eyes, and do your best not to throw up.

After what feels like too long, the car finally drifts to a screeching halt. You’re thrown sideways, and find yourself feeling grateful for the hug of the seatbelt – it’s the only thing keeping you from being thrown against the door like a ragdoll. The doors and seatbelt unlock with a click, and your door is thrown open for you. It takes you a second to get your bearings, and as soon as you step out of the car, you see three figures running toward you at full speed. Jeremy, and right behind him, Sardis and Anathema.

Jeremy’s attention is behind him. Clearly he doesn’t expect anyone to have gone around. By the time he looks back, he’s going to fast to stop – and he bumps into Crowley.

“Well well well,” The demon says, towering over the teen, “It’s been a while, now, hasn’t it?”

❤️ ❤️ ❤️ ❤️ 🖤

As per usual, feel free to tell me your thoughts and ideas in the comments :)

I'll to my best to keep the updates on some kind of normal-ish schedule.

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[yvetteheiser]

Yvette Heiser’s Guide to Capturing Magical Nightscapes

Nighttime photography offers a unique and mesmerizing challenge for photographers. The interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant glow of city lights, and the tranquility of dark skies create opportunities for stunning and dreamlike images. Yvette Heiser Texas: A Complete Guide to Mastering Phone Photography serves as an excellent resource for those interested in capturing these scenes with a smartphone. Yvette Heiser, an experienced photographer with a passion for capturing the beauty of nightscapes, shares her expert tips on how to master this fascinating genre of photography

1. Understand the Lighting Conditions

One of the first things Yvette emphasizes is the importance of understanding the lighting conditions at night. Unlike daylight photography, where natural light is abundant, nightscapes often rely on artificial light sources such as streetlights, neon signs, or moonlight. The key to a successful night photograph is making the most of the available light. Yvette advises photographers to scout their location during the day to understand how artificial lights will interact with the surroundings once night falls. Pay attention to the position of lights, how they illuminate the scene, and where shadows will fall.

2. Use a Tripod for Stability

Long exposure times are often necessary when shooting nightscapes to capture the beauty of low-light scenes. Yvette stresses the importance of using a tripod to keep the camera stable during these extended exposures. Even the slightest movement can result in blurry images, so a sturdy tripod is essential. If you don’t have a tripod, consider placing your camera on a stable surface, such as a ledge or railing, to minimize camera shake.

3. Experiment with Exposure Settings

When it comes to capturing nightscapes, the right exposure settings are crucial. Yvette recommends shooting in manual mode to have full control over your camera’s settings. Start by adjusting the aperture to a lower f-number (like f/2.8 or f/4) to allow more light into the camera. Next, adjust your shutter speed—longer exposures (10-30 seconds or more) are often needed to capture the full effect of the scene, whether it’s the movement of stars or the soft glow of city lights. Finally, set the ISO to a lower value (around 100-800) to reduce noise in your images.

4. Focus on Composition

Composition remains just as important at night as it does during the day. Yvette encourages photographers to use the rule of thirds to create a balanced and visually appealing composition. Consider the placement of light sources, leading lines, and how the sky interacts with the ground in your frame. Nightscapes can look particularly stunning when they include reflections in water, such as rivers or lakes, so keep an eye out for scenes where these elements might come into play.

5. Embrace Post-Processing

Post-processing is where the magic of nightscape photography can truly shine. While it’s important to get the shot right in-camera, Yvette suggests using photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop to bring out the details and colors in your night images. You can enhance contrast, adjust exposure, and bring out the vibrancy of artificial lights. Additionally, consider adjusting the white balance to achieve the desired mood—whether it’s the warm glow of streetlights or the cool blue tones of a starry sky.

6. Capture the Stars

For those interested in capturing the night sky, Yvette shares her techniques for shooting stars or even the Milky Way. A wide aperture, low ISO, and a shutter speed of around 15-20 seconds can help capture the beauty of star trails. Use the “500 rule” to calculate the maximum exposure time without star trails, which is 500 divided by your lens’s focal length. Keep in mind that a clear, dark sky with minimal light pollution is key to capturing stunning starry scenes—Yvette Heiser’s Vision: Capturing Dreamlike Nightscapes offers valuable insights into how to achieve these breathtaking shots.

Conclusion

Capturing magical nightscapes is a rewarding yet challenging aspect of photography. With the right gear, a good understanding of lighting and exposure, and a creative eye for composition, photographers can transform ordinary nighttime scenes into extraordinary works of art. Yvette Heiser’s advice serves as a helpful guide for anyone looking to explore the world of night photography. So grab your camera, head out into the night, and start creating your own magical images!

[chaos-chloe]

A Clooless Surpirse Attack

Summary: Enjoying your day off by yourself, that funny

TW: Platonic relationships

The sun lounged high in the sky, casting a golden hue over our backyard, I laid all sprawled out comfortably on my sun chair, a blanket of warmth coaxing my thoughts into a trance. My playlist hummed softly, a gentle soundtrack for a perfect, lazy day. But unbeknownst to you, your friends—Droid, Puffer, Grizzy, and Pezzy—were not so peacefully enjoying their morning.

In the shadows of the kitchen/dining room, a conspiratorial meeting was underway. Puffer, with his knack for technology, had hacked into the water gun app and was ready to unleash a sophisticated ambush. Grizzy, with his endless energy, was bouncing with excitement, practicing his sneaky stealth moves. Pezzy, the strategist of the group, had drawn a battle plan on the back of a pizza box, while Droid, the prankster, creatively envisioned how they could turn this simple idea into a video, or a topic on their podcast.

In front of them, remnants of last night’s pizza served as both their sustenance and battlefield strategy. The atmosphere was electric with youthful mischief, and the air buzzed with the promise of an impending adventure.

Puffer, eyes glinting with the excitement of his recent technological exploits, leaned closer, showcasing his phone. “I’ve hacked into the water gun app to modify our settings! We can control the range, the spray patterns, and even sync it to the beat of music we choose.”

“Epic! That means we can launch surprise water blasts and leave them confused with our synchronized strikes,” Grizzy chimed in, bouncing in place. He couldn’t contain his enthusiasm. The mere thought of their impending ambush had him practically vibrating with anticipation.

Meanwhile, Pezzy meticulously traced lines on the pizza box, layering it with doodles, diagrams, and battle plans. “Here’s the plan: we’ll start at this corner of the yard for a surprise attack, then we circle around to launch water balloons from behind the garden shed. Droid, you take the front line and distract them while we flank from the sides!”

Droid, the resident prankster and content creator, nodded enthusiastically. His creative mind ran wild with the possibilities. “And I can film everything! Just think about the footage we could get—the slow-mo, the dramatic splashes! We can turn this into the most legendary episode for our podcast. ‘The Great Water War of Summer 2023!’ It’ll get tons of views!”

With their plan solidified, each member took on a role that best suited their talents. Puffer gathered the modified water guns, fitting them with accessories for optimal function, while Grizzy practiced his low-to-the-ground sneaking technique, perfecting his silent approach. Pezzy checked their ammunition, arranging water balloons with military precision, while Droid set up the camera on a nearby tripod, ready to capture the moment.

As the appointed hour approached, the group exchanged glances filled with mischief and camaraderie. The target of their surprise was you—an unsuspecting sunbather, blissfully unaware of the storm brewing just beyond the kitchen door. A sense of solid camaraderie filled their hearts, igniting their excitement further.

“Alright, team! On my signal!” Pezzy whispered, holding up his finger and counting down. The energy in the room was palpable as they huddled closely. “Three… Two… One!”

With a sudden burst, they flooded into the yard like a playful tide. Grizzy, leading the charge, aimed his water gun with laser focus. Puffer and Pezzy flanked, expertly maneuvering through the yard to their designated spots. Droid, even the showman, activated the camera to capture the magic of their friendship.

The silence was electric. You shifted, sensing something was amiss, but before you could react, they launched into action! Water flew in every direction, bright laughter echoing against the walls of the house as you were caught completely off-guard.

“Surprise!” they shouted in unison as you stood up, wide-eyed and drenched. The sunlit joyous chaos unfolded before you, with slow-motion shots of water splashes, squeals of laughter, and the delightful cacophony of summer fun.

As the playful ambush transformed into an all-out water battle, Droid made sure every moment was captured—slow-motion sprays and gleeful escapes turned into a vivid tapestry of memories that would make for great content. You, initially shocked, broke into laughter, joining in the fray as you quickly grabbed a nearby water balloon to unleash your own revenge.

With laughter erupting from every corner of the backyard, the initial shock of the ambush melted away, leaving nothing but the exhilaration of a water-soaked skirmish. You quickly scanned your surroundings and spotted it—a brightly colored water balloon, just within reach. With newfound determination, you lunged for it, your heart racing with the thrill of battle.

“Time for some payback!” I shouted, my voice ringing with joy filled the air with laughter. In an instant, I was charging forward, aiming my balloon with all the precision of a seasoned water warrior. Grizzy, still caught up in his raucous laughter, turned just as I hurled the balloon toward him.

SPLAT!

The balloon burst spectacularly against Grizzy's chest, showering him with a cascade of water, causing him to stumble backward in surprise. The sight sent me into fits of laughter, which ignited the competitive spirit in the guys even more. Droid, camera in hand, caught it all—the moment of impact, Grizzy’s wide-eyed expression followed by his uproarious laugh, poised proudly for victory.

As I zigzagged around the yard, bursting balloons with the precision of a sharpshooter, Pezzy laughed heartily while dodging the water flurry, all the while yelling, “All’s fair in love and war—I just need to get a few more shots for the ‘great ambush reveal’ ceremony!”

Puffer, never one to back down, charged towards me with his water gun in full blast, expertly spraying me from head to toe. I barely had time to react as you raised your balloon defensively, half-soaked but still laughing.

“Get ready, Puffer!” I yelled, quickly retaliating with a water balloon that grazed his shoulder, sending him laughing into a spin.

The intensity of the battle crescendoed, filled with gleeful shouts and comedic antics—a game where everyone was an unwitting hero in their own epic saga. Droid remained in the thick of it, capturing frame after frame of the chaos unfolding, delighting in the beauty of friendship turned into playful warfare.

As the sun began to slip lower in the sky, painting it with hues of orange and pink, your group was laughing so hard they could barely keep track of water balloons anymore. Instead, it became a free-for-all, with whoever got soaked next was just part of the fun.