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There are multiple ways to run a salon business. The owner can rent or buy a space and hire employees who work for a set wage. Or they can set up a salon booth rental arrangement. The latter option provides some unique benefits both for business owners and those who rent the space. The following post is your complete guide for finding a booth and/or renting booths to stylists. What is Booth Rental? With a booth rental salon, the salon owner simply rents chairs to other licensed cosmetologists instead of hiring them to work for a set wage. The owner gets the profits from renting the space. And those who rent the space essentially run their own business within the larger salon. They can set their own schedule and are responsible for their own marketing and client management. But they benefit from having the space and amenities of the established salon. How Much Does Booth Rental Cost? The precise cost of salon booth rental depends on the salon’s location and the amenities available. Typically, the average cost is about $400 to $600 monthly. However, salons situated in upscale neighborhoods and high-traffic locations such as Manhattan can demand thousands per month. In contrast, salons located in areas with lower traffic may have rates as low as $200 per month. How Does Salon Booth Rental Work? If you are in the process of finding out how to open a hair salon or how to open a nail salon, or you already own a salon, booth rental would simply allow you to earn income from renting each chair in your location. Each stylist pays a monthly fee and/or a percentage of their earnings. If you’re a stylist, salon booth rental allows you to essentially start your own business without setting up your own location. You simply rent the space from a booth rental business and start bringing in clients. You pay a monthly fee or a small percentage of earnings and keep the rest. Why You Should Consider Renting a Booth as a Stylist If you’re starting out as a stylist, you have to consider whether to rent a booth or look for more traditional employment. Here are some reasons to go with a booth rental business. Be Your Own Boss When you rent a booth from a salon, you’re basically an independent contractor instead of an employee. This means you get to book your own clients, set your own hours, and build a brand that’s entirely your own. As long as you follow the rules of your rental contract, you don’t have to worry about traditional employment constrictions. Set Your Own Schedule Salon booth businesses don’t operate like other local businesses. Since you’re not an employee, you can schedule clients only for the times you’re available. If you’re a busy parent, you can just schedule clients when the kids are in school. If you want to build a robust business, you decide how many clients you can handle each day. Save on Startup Costs For those who know they want to start their own beauty business, booth rental provides a low-cost way to build a client base. You don’t need to secure an entire building, purchase all your own supplies, and go through complicated permitting processes. You only rent the space. Have Your Own Clients However, you’re still responsible for booking your own appointments. And your clients are your own – not the salon’s. So if you ever choose to start your own full salon or move to a different location, you can easily keep your customers. Be Based in an Established Salon with Your Own Business An established beauty salon can also provide some important authority for your new business. It provides a professional setting to host your appointments. And the brand name may even carry some weight. What are the Disadvantages of Booth Renting? Renting a salon booth provides a lot of benefits for certain stylists. But it’s not right for everyone. Carefully consider the following elements before signing on. You’re Paying Rent as a Salon Booth Renter When you work for a salon, you receive a paycheck without having to invest anything upfront. But as a booth renter, you pay for the space and amenities. This may be worth it for some, but it could be difficult for those without any startup cash or clients. Less Name Recognition than Larger Salons Your salon booth is its own business. So you’re still going to be up against larger competitors. Your business model as an independent stylist needs to be able to gain clients steadily through the years. You are Responsible for Your Own Supplies The salon you rent space from will likely provide large items like chairs and access to sinks and phones. However, salon renters normally use their own tools. So you do need to budget for these purchases. Booth Rental Tips for a Profitable Business If you do decide that a salon booth rental business is right for you, a well thought out business model and plan can keep you on track. Here’s how to maximize profits while growing your clientele. Plan Your Business Model Working as a stylist in a booth rental salon is akin to running your own business. You set your own services and prices, decide your working hours, and choose whether to accept walk-ins. To remain organized and focused, outline your services, policies, expenses, and projections from the beginning. Develop a Pricing Strategy Part of your business model should include prices for all your services. This helps you customers know what to expect and can help you determine how much you need to work to meet your earnings projections each month. Get Your Record-Keeping Right Once you get started, you need a way of tracking earnings, expenses, and customers. Some new stylists just use spreadsheets. But you may want actual accounting software to manage finances, a CRM to track customer interactions, and a calendar to book appointments. Marketing and Promotion Invest in promoting your services. Leverage social media, local advertising, and word-of-mouth to enhance your visibility. Specialize in a Niche Consider specializing in a specific niche or style that sets you apart from competitors and attracts a dedicated clientele. Maintain a Professional Image Keep your booth clean, organized, and professional. This reflects on your business and can significantly impact customer perceptions and satisfaction. Continuously Upgrade Your Skills Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the industry. Consider attending workshops or training sessions to enhance your skills. Build Strong Customer Relationships Focus on building lasting relationships with your clients. Personalized service and understanding their preferences can lead to repeat business and referrals. Know Your Products and Services Many stylists offer a variety of hair care products along with their services. Keep a list of everything handy at your booth. And get to know each item and its price so you can speak intelligently when customers ask. Schedule Your Appointments and Consider Salon Software Appointment scheduling is a major factor that stylists work on daily. A calendar system or salon software can help you manage these. For example, Salon Iris allows you to customize forms to send to customers and easily collect data and complete transactions. And Boulevard is a business management solution that automates booking and personalizes appointment data. Understand that Marketing Your Business is Incredibly Important Marketing is a pivotal aspect of running a booth rental business. As a booth owner, you’re not just managing a physical space but also building a brand and attracting customers. Here’s a deeper dive into why marketing is essential and the strategies you can employ: The Significance of Marketing for Your Booth Business: Self-Reliance: Unlike working within a larger store or establishment, booth owners typically do not gain from the broad marketing strategies employed by bigger brands. As a result, individual marketing becomes essential. Building Brand Identity: Marketing helps carve out a unique identity for your booth amidst potential competition. Attracting and Retaining Customers: Regular marketing initiatives help in not only attracting first-time customers but also retaining them and encouraging repeat business. Effective Marketing Strategies for Booth Owners: Social Media Presence: Platforms: Utilize platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or even TikTok, depending on your target audience and product offering. Engagement: Regularly post updates, promotions, or behind-the-scenes content to engage your audience. User-Generated Content: Encourage satisfied customers to share photos of their purchases, which can serve as organic testimonials. Local Search Ads: Google My Business: Ensure you have a listing on Google My Business to appear in local searches. Pay-per-click (PPC) Campaigns: Invest in ads that target local keywords related to your booth’s offerings. Sponsor Local Events: Visibility: This can offer significant visibility, especially if your target audience aligns with the event’s attendees. Partnerships: Collaborate with event organizers for special promotions or booth placements. Loyalty Programs: Encourage repeat business by offering loyalty cards or discounts for regular customers. Email Marketing: Newsletters: Regular updates about new arrivals, special promotions, or events can keep your audience engaged. Personalization: Send personalized recommendations or offers based on past purchases. Collaborations and Partnerships: Partner with complementary businesses or local influencers for shoutouts, giveaways, or collaborative events. Make Sure You Choose the Right Salon The salon you choose should match your values and goals for your business. For example, if you plan to start a luxurious brand, choose a salon that is in an upscale neighborhood with modern decor and amenities. Choose a Salon in the Perfect Location You also need a salon that is convenient for both you and your customers. Distance is important, but also consider the types of customers in the area and local amenities like parking and walkability. Starting a Booth Rental Business as a Salon Owner If you’re a salon owner, offering booth rental to stylists can provide a consistent source of income. Here are several strategies to enhance this business model. What to Include in Booth Rental Before collaborating with stylists, it is important to clearly communicate their expectations. For instance, your booth rental fee may cover: salon chair mirror sinks hair dryers towels coffee, water, and snacks office tools like a phone and printer How to Make Booth Rental Profitable for Your Business When you own a booth rental salon, you turn a profit based on your ability to attract stylists. You can attract more stylists by offering features that may help them attract customers. For example, salons in high-traffic areas tend to be popular. However, if you don’t have the best location, offer more options like spa services that renters can offer their clients. Deciding on the Rental Rate The rental rate needs to be enough for you to turn a profit. But it also needs to be low enough that stylists are willing to pay it each month. If you have trouble attracting enough stylists, you may need to offer more amenities or improve your storefront so it appeals to more customers. If you have too many stylists interested in booth rental, you may want to raise rates. Advantages of Renting Chairs in Your Salon Running a salon rental business can be significantly less involved than running a traditional salon. Here are some top advantages: No need to hire and train employees Ability to earn passive income through monthly rent Easy to predict income each month No need to build a full service and pricing list Disadvantages of Renting Chairs in Your Salon However, renting chairs to independent stylists can also have drawbacks. Here are some to consider: Lack of control over services offered at your location Damage to reputation if customers have a bad experience with a stylist Complications with employment law over dealing with independent contractors Losing customers to chair renters in your salon, if you also provide stylist services there The Legal Aspects of Booth Rental Before you can start a salon using this business model, it’s important to get the legal aspects right. Here are some issues to consider. Contracts and the Booth Rental Salon Agreement Your rental agreement should lay out what space they’re provided and any add-ons that are included. It also needs to state exactly what they can and can’t do. For example, are they responsible for doing their own laundry? Can they sell their own products? What behavior is not tolerated around other renters and their clientele? A signed agreement with all this outlined may help you cut ties with any contractors who don’t follow the rules. State Laws Each state has its own regulations regarding booth rental. For instance, you might need to fulfill specific criteria related to collaborating with contractors or providing physical space. It’s advisable to consult your state’s business office for detailed information. Protecting Yourself Stylists who rent booths are generally responsible for their own insurance. Professional liability can protect against some legal action from clients. For salon owners, general liability can protect against injury on-site. Taxes Chair renters are responsible for tracking and paying taxes based on their earnings. And salon owners must also pay taxes on their rental income. Specific rates vary by state. Developing Your Own Company Policies Each salon needs policies for what stylists are allowed to do and what’s included in rental agreements. And then renters need policies for what services are offered and how customers can book and keep appointments. For example, write out rates for all services and let customers know when payment is expected and how and when appointments can be canceled. How do I start booth renting? First, find a salon in your area that suits your needs. For example, if you need to bring in new customers, look for salons in high traffic areas. Then compare prices and amenities. Once you find a salon, invest in the tools and supplies that are not included, like hair tools and beauty products from your favorite brands. What are booth renters responsible for? Booth renters are usually responsible for running most aspects of their business, including: Finances Marketing Creating service lists and prices Communicating with customers Appointment scheduling Providing services Should I charge booth rent or commission? When renting chairs in a salon, you have the option to charge either a flat monthly fee or a percentage of each renter’s commission. A flat rent structure offers more predictability, while a commission-based approach could potentially yield higher earnings if your renters generate significant income. Think about the level of accounting work you’re prepared to handle and how much predictability matters for your business model. CriteriaFlat Monthly FeePercentage Commission PredictabilityHigh - You know the exact amount you'll receive each month.Variable - Depends on the renters' income for that period. Potential EarningsFixed - You earn the same regardless of the renters' income.Flexible - Earnings can increase if renters have a good month. Accounting ComplexityLow - Simple and consistent tracking of fixed rental amounts.Higher - Need to calculate and track variable amounts regularly. RiskLower - Assured income irrespective of the renters' business.Potential for lower income during slow periods for renters. Incentive for RentersNone - Renters pay the same regardless of their earnings.Renters might be more motivated to earn more, as it also affects their own take-home amount. Business Model AlignmentSuitable for those prioritizing stability and simplicity.Works best for salons willing to share risks and rewards with renters. Are booth renters considered employees? No, booth renters in a salon are independent contractors. They basically run their own business. But they use some amenities at the salon. How do I prepare for a booth rental? If you’re thinking about renting a booth at a salon, here are some things to consider: Read your rental agreement to learn exactly what is included Invest in your own tools Market your services online or locally Get a salon software Schedule appointments Image: Depositphotos This article, "Booth Rental Guide for Salon Owner and Stylists" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The first moves by Germany’s chancellor-designate are bold and encouragingView the full article

Football club could also lay off as many as 200 people in Jim Ratcliffe’s latest round of spending cutsView the full article

To create automations using Apple's Shortcuts app on your Mac, you're dependent on Apple's support for various actions. While Shortcuts supports an array of useful actions, some aren't in the app yet, such as clearing all notifications or quitting all apps. If you want to add a few more helpful actions to your Mac automations, consider Shortcutie ($6), a powerful extension for Shortcuts that lets you execute actions Apple doesn't yet support. Shortcutie itself has no interface. Once installed, all of its actions will appear in Apple's Shortcuts app on your Mac. To access them, install the app, open Shortcuts, and select Shortcutie from the Apps tab in the right pane. The app requires Accessibility permissions to function, which is necessary because macOS's strict sandboxing rules prevent apps from running many of the actions this app supports. (Note: only grant apps you trust, like Shortcutie, this permission.) Once you grant it access, you'll find new, useful tools in Shortcuts, such as changing your default browser, clearing all notifications, hiding all windows, quitting all apps, and checking if your screen is being recorded, mirrored, or shared. macOS supports all of these actions, but they aren't available in Shortcuts, which prevents you from creating automation routines around these actions. Once you have Shortcutie, you can add these triggers to your shortcuts and execute complex automations that your Mac doesn't otherwise support. Don't forget that the Shortcuts app appears in the menu bar and you can run automations directly from the menu bar, too. That can make it much quicker and easier to run certain actions, such as the dreaded "clear all notifications." When you combine this app with Shortery, which lets you run Mac automations based on various triggers, you can automate pretty much everything. Credit: Pranay Parab Without Shortcutie, you can open the Notification Center and clear notifications, but macOS doesn't always show the clear all button, forcing you to clear notifications one-by-one. With Shortcutie, I set up a simple automation, and in two clicks, I'm now able to clear all alerts. Similarly, quitting all apps is quite easy with the action added by this app. You normally don't need to do this, but if your Mac has slowed down due to a memory leak or high ambient temperatures, Shortcutie's quit all apps action offers a one-click method to reduce the burden on your computer. Here are some more useful actions from the app: Empty Trash Eject all disks Clear recent lists (from menus) Set grayscale mode Show/hide desktop widgets Get URL and title of the active browser tab At the time of writing, Shortcutie supports 29 actions, and the developer, Sindre Sorhus, has promised to add more. The biggest concern is that Shortcutie relies on private APIs to access these actions and those can change at any point. The developer has promised to keep a tab on these changes and to support the app, but it does leave the app vulnerable to losing features. Regular updates should be able to fix any issues that may crop up in the future, but it's something to keep in mind. I'm not worried though, knowing the developer: Sorhus has created over 50 apps and utilities for Mac and iPhone (Lifehacker has covered many), so I expect he will continue to keep Shortcutie updated. View the full article

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau employees — most of whom are on administrative leave — were asked in an email to list what they accomplished last week. National Treasury Employees Union Chapter 335 said workers should list all the tasks they were told not to perform. View the full article

If you’re looking to enter the food service industry without the commitment of a fixed location, a food truck could be the perfect solution. This guide on how to start a food truck business is designed to assist aspiring food truck owners in launching their ventures. How to Start a Food Truck Business in Simple Steps Every food truck may look and operate a bit differently. Here are some common steps you can use to get started. Read More: Food Truck Business Plan Research Food Trucks Locally To succeed as a food truck owner, it is essential to understand your competition. Start by identifying popular cuisines and gaps in the market. Research other food trucks in your area to discover a unique niche, and take note of the hot spots and trends within your local food truck scene. Attending local food truck events can also provide valuable insights. This knowledge will be crucial as you learn how to start a food truck business. Choose a Niche and Know Your Target Market Food truck customers typically enjoy unique menu offerings. To gain insight into customer preferences, analyze demographic data. Consider introducing distinctive elements that differentiate your business, such as creative toppings for traditional favorites like burgers and tacos. Create a menu that reflects local tastes and accommodates dietary preferences. Name and Brand Your Business A catchy name and brand will make your business more memorable. Ensure your brand reflects the culinary experience you offer. Choose consistent design elements that are easy to read and communicate a style that appeals to your target customers. Your brand should align well with the vibe of your food truck. A catchy name and brand will make your business more memorable. Choose consistent design elements that are easy to read and communicate a style that appeals to your target customers. Write a Food Truck Business Plan Every business needs a plan; here are some things to include in your food truck business plan: Market analysis: Look at other food truck owners in your area and consider demand from local customers. Product and service list: What types of food will you offer? Consider ingredient cost and what you’ll charge for items; include any extra revenue streams like private catering. Marketing strategies: How will you market your business? And what expenses might come with your strategy? Financial projections: Based on your market and price list, what can you expect to earn? How does that compare to your projected expenses? Look into Small Business Grants Food truck owners may benefit from extra funds. Research local business development programs offering financial assistance. Look for available grants for new businesses in your area for extra support. Explore industry-specific grants, particularly those focused on culinary enterprises. Develop a Menu and Set Your Prices Within your niche, create a short list of items you can make with limited ingredients. Incorporate seasonal specialties to attract customers. Price items based on demand and costs. Consider the local economic landscape to set competitive and profitable prices. Secure a Truck You need a truck that’s large enough to prepare and serve food. Assess the layout for efficient food preparation and customer service. So, you have to find where to buy a food truck. You can find old vans or trucks in local classified ads and have them furbished with equipment. Evaluate the condition and potential modifications needed. Or buy an existing food truck from a business broker. You can also seek expert advice to make a cost-effective decision. Read More: food truck ideas Form a Legal Entity and Register Your Business All businesses need a legal entity; here are some for food truck operators to consider: Sole proprietor: This can work for those who operate individually, but it offers no liability protection. LLC: Offers liability and low startup costs; this is quite common for food truck operations. Corporation: This offers liability protection and a different tax structure, but it can be more complicated and costly to start. Open a Business Bank Account Keep your business and personal assets separate to simplify bookkeeping and build credit. Consider business credit cards for monthly purchases. Get Business Insurance Insurance can protect your assets if your business experiences any losses. Here are some common types of mobile food businesses. General liability Commercial auto Workers comp Property coverage Read More: food truck name ideas Get the Necessary Food Truck Equipment The exact equipment needed depends on your niche and how much food you work with, but here are some common categories: Cooking equipment like a griddle or fryers Refrigeration equipment Shelves or cabinets to store ingredients Food containers Cleaning supplies Get a POS System A point-of-sale system helps successful food trucks manage transactions. Common options include TouchBistro, Toast, and Square. Source Your Ingredients Find wholesale suppliers for all the items you need to create your menu. These are often the same food industry suppliers that work with restaurants with brick-and-mortar locations. Apply for Permits and Food Truck Licenses Food trucks often need business licenses, vehicle registration, commercial driver’s licenses, parking permits for specific locations, and mobile food service permits. Check with your local health department to see what paperwork is required. Prepare for Health Inspectors to Visit Local officials will also likely visit to check for cleanliness and food safety. Read More: food truck festival Sort Out Your Taxes Taxes vary by state. But many food truck owners must pay: Business income taxes Payroll taxes State sales taxes Create a Website and Market Your Business Customers often research their local food truck community online. So, create an online presence with your menu and social profiles to update your locations. Decide Where to Park Food truck vendors should seek out spots with lots of customers, like high foot traffic areas and special events. Make sure parking spots are approved through your local motor vehicle department. Employ Staff You might require a small team to prepare food and serve customers. Before conducting interviews and training, be sure to apply for an NIE number and fulfill your state’s other requirements. Maintain Your Truck Your food truck needs oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid flushes like any vehicle. Market Your Business and Expand To attract more customers, promote your brand through social media, update your location on food truck finder apps, and participate in popular food truck festivals. As you gain popularity, consider creating a franchise to extend your delicious offerings to new locations. Read More: food truck finder Why You Should be Part of the Food Truck Industry Food trucks offer plenty of exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. Here are some benefits of choosing this niche: Location independence: Your truck can go wherever potential customers are. If there’s a big event or area with lots of foot traffic on any given night, you can set up there to reach more people. Low startup costs: You don’t need a dedicated location or a huge team to run a food truck. So it can be easier to break into the industry. Built-in advertising: When you set up at an event or drive across town, your truck gets seen. If you have a catchy logo or design, this automatically helps you build brand recognition without extra advertising. Multiple income streams: Food trucks don’t have to only offer food at festivals and high-traffic areas. You can also offer catering to diversify your income streams. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Food Truck Business? The expenses associated with how to start a food truck business can differ greatly depending on various factors. In the United States, the typical investment ranges from $28,000 to $180,000, with an average cost of about $100,000. This fluctuation in expenses is affected by elements such as location, local licensing regulations, kitchen configuration, and cooking equipment. Additionally, the type of truck you select significantly impacts the total cost. Options include: New Truck with a New Kitchen Setup: An all-new setup can cost between $120,000 to $200,000. This option is free from maintenance or hidden costs at the beginning. Used Truck with a New Kitchen Setup: Opting for this setup could range from $80,000 to $115,000. While the initial cost is lower, a used truck may require more maintenance and repairs over time. Used Truck with a Used Kitchen Setup: This option is the most budget-friendly, with expenses between $55,000 and $90,000. Nevertheless, it carries the potential for increased maintenance and repair costs. Renting a Food Truck: If you’re starting on a tight budget, renting a food truck is a viable option, generally costing $2,000 to $4,000 a month. Additional expenses to consider encompass kitchen equipment and supplies (estimated between $10,000 and $25,000), initial inventory and food costs (approximately $1,000 to $3,000), marketing and advertising expenses, professional service fees (such as legal and accounting), employee salaries and benefits, maintenance and fuel costs, commissary or storage fees, as well as point-of-sale system and payment processing fees. Moreover, the development of mobile apps for improved branding and customer engagement can begin at $5,000, while more complex applications may exceed $20,000. Additionally, accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero can incur monthly fees ranging from $20 to $60. Effective inventory management is essential and includes costs for food ingredients, disposable supplies, cleaning supplies, fuel, propane, menu specials, and beverages. Furthermore, your marketing and branding initiatives can considerably influence your startup expenses, with costs associated with website development, advertising, branding materials, promotions, events, and food truck wrapping. Securing the required licenses and permits is essential for operating legally. This includes obtaining food service licenses, mobile food vendor permits, health department permits, fire department permits, parking permits, business licenses, sales tax permits, and commissary agreements. Additionally, utility costs like electricity, water, and waste disposal contribute to the overall operational expenses. Finally, consider the cost of labor and talent required to run the food truck, including chefs, servers, and cleaners. Overall, a detailed budget and a robust business plan are crucial for a successful launch and sustainable operation of a food truck business Is Owning a Food Truck Profitable? Yes, starting your own food truck can be profitable. Many food trucks make over $100,000 per year. Once startup costs and ongoing expenses are factored in, an annual profit of about $50,000 is usually possible. However, the exact amount you earn depends on your food truck concept, operating hours, menu, and locations. You can also look into food truck franchise options to cut your initial startup cost. Image: Depositphotos, Envato Elements This article, "How to Start a Food Truck Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you’re looking to enter the food service industry without the commitment of a fixed location, a food truck could be the perfect solution. This guide on how to start a food truck business is designed to assist aspiring food truck owners in launching their ventures. How to Start a Food Truck Business in Simple Steps Every food truck may look and operate a bit differently. Here are some common steps you can use to get started. Read More: Food Truck Business Plan Research Food Trucks Locally To succeed as a food truck owner, it is essential to understand your competition. Start by identifying popular cuisines and gaps in the market. Research other food trucks in your area to discover a unique niche, and take note of the hot spots and trends within your local food truck scene. Attending local food truck events can also provide valuable insights. This knowledge will be crucial as you learn how to start a food truck business. Choose a Niche and Know Your Target Market Food truck customers typically enjoy unique menu offerings. To gain insight into customer preferences, analyze demographic data. Consider introducing distinctive elements that differentiate your business, such as creative toppings for traditional favorites like burgers and tacos. Create a menu that reflects local tastes and accommodates dietary preferences. Name and Brand Your Business A catchy name and brand will make your business more memorable. Ensure your brand reflects the culinary experience you offer. Choose consistent design elements that are easy to read and communicate a style that appeals to your target customers. Your brand should align well with the vibe of your food truck. A catchy name and brand will make your business more memorable. Choose consistent design elements that are easy to read and communicate a style that appeals to your target customers. Write a Food Truck Business Plan Every business needs a plan; here are some things to include in your food truck business plan: Market analysis: Look at other food truck owners in your area and consider demand from local customers. Product and service list: What types of food will you offer? Consider ingredient cost and what you’ll charge for items; include any extra revenue streams like private catering. Marketing strategies: How will you market your business? And what expenses might come with your strategy? Financial projections: Based on your market and price list, what can you expect to earn? How does that compare to your projected expenses? Look into Small Business Grants Food truck owners may benefit from extra funds. Research local business development programs offering financial assistance. Look for available grants for new businesses in your area for extra support. Explore industry-specific grants, particularly those focused on culinary enterprises. Develop a Menu and Set Your Prices Within your niche, create a short list of items you can make with limited ingredients. Incorporate seasonal specialties to attract customers. Price items based on demand and costs. Consider the local economic landscape to set competitive and profitable prices. Secure a Truck You need a truck that’s large enough to prepare and serve food. Assess the layout for efficient food preparation and customer service. So, you have to find where to buy a food truck. You can find old vans or trucks in local classified ads and have them furbished with equipment. Evaluate the condition and potential modifications needed. Or buy an existing food truck from a business broker. You can also seek expert advice to make a cost-effective decision. Read More: food truck ideas Form a Legal Entity and Register Your Business All businesses need a legal entity; here are some for food truck operators to consider: Sole proprietor: This can work for those who operate individually, but it offers no liability protection. LLC: Offers liability and low startup costs; this is quite common for food truck operations. Corporation: This offers liability protection and a different tax structure, but it can be more complicated and costly to start. Open a Business Bank Account Keep your business and personal assets separate to simplify bookkeeping and build credit. Consider business credit cards for monthly purchases. Get Business Insurance Insurance can protect your assets if your business experiences any losses. Here are some common types of mobile food businesses. General liability Commercial auto Workers comp Property coverage Read More: food truck name ideas Get the Necessary Food Truck Equipment The exact equipment needed depends on your niche and how much food you work with, but here are some common categories: Cooking equipment like a griddle or fryers Refrigeration equipment Shelves or cabinets to store ingredients Food containers Cleaning supplies Get a POS System A point-of-sale system helps successful food trucks manage transactions. Common options include TouchBistro, Toast, and Square. Source Your Ingredients Find wholesale suppliers for all the items you need to create your menu. These are often the same food industry suppliers that work with restaurants with brick-and-mortar locations. Apply for Permits and Food Truck Licenses Food trucks often need business licenses, vehicle registration, commercial driver’s licenses, parking permits for specific locations, and mobile food service permits. Check with your local health department to see what paperwork is required. Prepare for Health Inspectors to Visit Local officials will also likely visit to check for cleanliness and food safety. Read More: food truck festival Sort Out Your Taxes Taxes vary by state. But many food truck owners must pay: Business income taxes Payroll taxes State sales taxes Create a Website and Market Your Business Customers often research their local food truck community online. So, create an online presence with your menu and social profiles to update your locations. Decide Where to Park Food truck vendors should seek out spots with lots of customers, like high foot traffic areas and special events. Make sure parking spots are approved through your local motor vehicle department. Employ Staff You might require a small team to prepare food and serve customers. Before conducting interviews and training, be sure to apply for an NIE number and fulfill your state’s other requirements. Maintain Your Truck Your food truck needs oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid flushes like any vehicle. Market Your Business and Expand To attract more customers, promote your brand through social media, update your location on food truck finder apps, and participate in popular food truck festivals. As you gain popularity, consider creating a franchise to extend your delicious offerings to new locations. Read More: food truck finder Why You Should be Part of the Food Truck Industry Food trucks offer plenty of exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs. Here are some benefits of choosing this niche: Location independence: Your truck can go wherever potential customers are. If there’s a big event or area with lots of foot traffic on any given night, you can set up there to reach more people. Low startup costs: You don’t need a dedicated location or a huge team to run a food truck. So it can be easier to break into the industry. Built-in advertising: When you set up at an event or drive across town, your truck gets seen. If you have a catchy logo or design, this automatically helps you build brand recognition without extra advertising. Multiple income streams: Food trucks don’t have to only offer food at festivals and high-traffic areas. You can also offer catering to diversify your income streams. How Much Does it Cost to Start a Food Truck Business? The expenses associated with how to start a food truck business can differ greatly depending on various factors. In the United States, the typical investment ranges from $28,000 to $180,000, with an average cost of about $100,000. This fluctuation in expenses is affected by elements such as location, local licensing regulations, kitchen configuration, and cooking equipment. Additionally, the type of truck you select significantly impacts the total cost. Options include: New Truck with a New Kitchen Setup: An all-new setup can cost between $120,000 to $200,000. This option is free from maintenance or hidden costs at the beginning. Used Truck with a New Kitchen Setup: Opting for this setup could range from $80,000 to $115,000. While the initial cost is lower, a used truck may require more maintenance and repairs over time. Used Truck with a Used Kitchen Setup: This option is the most budget-friendly, with expenses between $55,000 and $90,000. Nevertheless, it carries the potential for increased maintenance and repair costs. Renting a Food Truck: If you’re starting on a tight budget, renting a food truck is a viable option, generally costing $2,000 to $4,000 a month. Additional expenses to consider encompass kitchen equipment and supplies (estimated between $10,000 and $25,000), initial inventory and food costs (approximately $1,000 to $3,000), marketing and advertising expenses, professional service fees (such as legal and accounting), employee salaries and benefits, maintenance and fuel costs, commissary or storage fees, as well as point-of-sale system and payment processing fees. Moreover, the development of mobile apps for improved branding and customer engagement can begin at $5,000, while more complex applications may exceed $20,000. Additionally, accounting software such as QuickBooks or Xero can incur monthly fees ranging from $20 to $60. Effective inventory management is essential and includes costs for food ingredients, disposable supplies, cleaning supplies, fuel, propane, menu specials, and beverages. Furthermore, your marketing and branding initiatives can considerably influence your startup expenses, with costs associated with website development, advertising, branding materials, promotions, events, and food truck wrapping. Securing the required licenses and permits is essential for operating legally. This includes obtaining food service licenses, mobile food vendor permits, health department permits, fire department permits, parking permits, business licenses, sales tax permits, and commissary agreements. Additionally, utility costs like electricity, water, and waste disposal contribute to the overall operational expenses. Finally, consider the cost of labor and talent required to run the food truck, including chefs, servers, and cleaners. Overall, a detailed budget and a robust business plan are crucial for a successful launch and sustainable operation of a food truck business Is Owning a Food Truck Profitable? Yes, starting your own food truck can be profitable. Many food trucks make over $100,000 per year. Once startup costs and ongoing expenses are factored in, an annual profit of about $50,000 is usually possible. However, the exact amount you earn depends on your food truck concept, operating hours, menu, and locations. You can also look into food truck franchise options to cut your initial startup cost. Image: Depositphotos, Envato Elements This article, "How to Start a Food Truck Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Whether you're shopping for your very first security camera or already have a system at home you're looking to grow, you might find something worthwhile in Amazon's sale section on Ring and Blink cameras. As Amanda Blum, our smart-home tech reviewer at Lifehacker, mentioned in her review, the Blink Outdoor 4 is a worthwhile entry-level wireless security camera—and right now, you can get bundles for up to 50% off, with the five-camera bundle for $199.99 (originally $399.99). This is the lowest price I have seen for this particular bundle, after checking price-tracking tools. Wireless smart security camera, two-year battery, 1080p HD day and infrared night live view, two-way Blink Outdoor 4 $99.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Shop Now Shop Now $99.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg Wireless smart security camera, two-year battery, 1080p HD day and infrared night live view, two-way Blink Outdoor 4 (2-Pack) $119.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $179.99 Save $60.00 Get Deal Get Deal $119.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $179.99 Save $60.00 Wireless smart security camera, two-year battery, 1080p HD day and infrared night live view, two-way Blink Outdoor 4 (3-Pack) $155.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $259.99 Save $104.00 Get Deal Get Deal $155.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $259.99 Save $104.00 Wire-free smart security camera, two-year battery life, two-way audio, HD live view, enhanced motion Blink Outdoor 4 (4-Pack) $203.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $339.99 Save $136.00 Get Deal Get Deal $203.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $339.99 Save $136.00 Wire-free smart security camera, two-year battery life, two-way audio, HD live view, enhanced motion Blink Outdoor 4 (5-Pack) $199.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $399.99 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $199.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $399.99 Save $200.00 Wire-free smart security camera, two-year battery life, two-way audio, HD live view, enhanced motion Blink Outdoor 4 (6-Pack) $239.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $479.99 Save $240.00 Get Deal Get Deal $239.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $479.99 Save $240.00 Wire-free smart security camera, two-year battery life, two-way audio, HD live view, enhanced motion Blink Outdoor 4 (8-Pack) $314.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $629.99 Save $315.00 Get Deal Get Deal $314.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $629.99 Save $315.00 SEE 4 MORE The Blink Outdoor 4 is a wireless camera, meaning you'll be using 2 AA lithium batteries, which last for up to two years. The camera is also weather-resistant, has motion-activation alerts, a live-view mode (up to five minutes without a Blink subscription plan), shoots in 1080p, has two-way audio, and works great with the Alexa ecosystem. (Unfortunately, it is not compatible with Google or Apple Home Kit.) You'll get a Sync Module 2 with your order, which gives you local storage for your videos with a USB stick for up to 10 cameras, meaning you don't need to get the Blink subscription if you don't want to. The camera offers a 143-degree diagonal view wherever you set it up, and an optional person-detection feature if you get the Blink subscription plan. Keep in mind you will need a Blink subscription to use all of its features. The Blink subscription starts at $30 a year for the Blink Basic Plan. You can also get the Blink Plus Plan, which costs $100 a year and has more features, the most important of which is having an unlimited number of devices hooked up to your account. View the full article

In 2024, Amazon introduced its AI-powered HR assistant, which helps managers with performance reviews and workforce planning. Similarly, Tesla deployed AI personas to assist in real-time production monitoring and supply chain optimization. These advancements showcase how AI personas are becoming essential in business operations, streamlining processes, and enhancing decision-making. As artificial intelligence evolves, we’re witnessing two interrelated phenomena shaping our future: AI personas and agentic AI. These developments bring both opportunities and challenges. Understanding AI Personas AI personas are collections of digital elements that combine to form hybrid characters with defined traits and priorities that interact with users in sophisticated ways. They range from professional advisors to creative collaborators and emotional support systems. Their ability to adapt interactions based on user needs makes them powerful tools for organizations. AI personas can be understood through three key dimensions: Function: The specific role and tasks the persona will perform Epistemic perspective: The knowledge base and information sources the persona draws upon Relationship type: The mode of interaction that best serves the intended purpose AI personas maintain consistent personality traits while evolving through interactions. For instance, an AI persona might serve as a strategic planning partner in a business context, accumulating knowledge about the organization’s goals and culture over time. The Emergence of Agentic AI Agentic AI refers to systems with increasing autonomy and decision-making capability. Unlike traditional AI that processes inputs and generates outputs, agentic AI can initiate actions and pursue objectives independently within defined parameters. The intersection of AI personas and agentic AI creates new collaboration possibilities. Consider these examples: Supply Chain Management: Tesla’s AI system doesn’t just process inventory data—it autonomously adjusts production schedules, initiates parts orders, and redirects shipments based on real-time demand and disruption predictions. The system can decide to expedite certain components or switch suppliers without human intervention, though within predefined parameters. Financial Trading: Modern trading algorithms don’t simply execute preset rules. They actively monitor market conditions, news feeds, and social media sentiment, making independent decisions to open, adjust, or close positions. JPMorgan’s AI trading system, for instance, can autonomously modify its strategies based on changing market conditions. Network Security: Darktrace’s Enterprise Immune System doesn’t wait for security teams to identify threats. It learns normal network behavior and autonomously takes action to counter potential attacks, such as quarantining suspicious devices or blocking unusual data transfers. These systems showcase how AI can not only respond to requests but proactively identify opportunities, suggest improvements, and take initiative within defined parameters. Challenges and Considerations However, this evolution presents challenges: Authenticity and Trust: As AI personas become more sophisticated, maintaining transparency is critical. Organizations must establish clear guidelines on AI capabilities and limitations. Emotional Engagement: Humans naturally form emotional connections with AI personas, which can enhance interactions but also raise ethical concerns about dependency and manipulation. Autonomy Boundaries: Setting clear limits on what decisions AI personas can make independently versus requiring human oversight is essential. Managing the Future To harness these technologies effectively, organizations should focus on: Purposeful Design: AI personas should align with organizational goals, capabilities, and ethical guidelines. Human-Centered Approach: AI should enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. Ethical Frameworks: Transparency, privacy, and clear boundaries must guide AI interactions. Continuous Monitoring: Organizations should track AI behavior to ensure compliance and effectiveness. Implementation Frameworks The OPEN framework (Outline, Partner, Experiment, Navigate) provides a systematic four-step process for harnessing AI’s potential, guiding organizations from initial assessment through to sustained implementation. The CARE framework (Catastrophize, Assess, Regulate, Exit) offers a parallel structure for identifying and managing AI-related risks, that can guide organizations in implementing AI personas effectively: The OPEN framework helps organizations unlock AI’s potential through systematic: Outlining of possibilities and goals Partnership development with AI and stakeholders Experimentation with different approaches Navigation of evolving capabilities The CARE framework helps manage associated risks through: Catastrophizing to identify potential threats Assessment of risk likelihood and impact Regulation of risk through controls Exit strategies for when things go wrong Looking Forward The future of AI personas and agentic AI offers unprecedented potential for human cognition and collaboration. However, balancing technological advancement with ethical considerations is crucial. AI personas are reflections of human values and culture. Developing better AI personas isn’t just a technical challenge—it’s a human one. Organizations must embody values that AI systems can learn and replicate. Success lies in embracing AI with “mature optimism”—leveraging its potential while acknowledging limitations. The goal is to create AI personas that enhance human potential, support relationships, and help individuals become better versions of themselves. This transformation isn’t just about building better AI—it’s about fostering a future where artificial and human intelligence thrive together in meaningful ways. View the full article

Move by Wall Street bank comes as increasing number of groups bypass traditional debt marketsView the full article

Washington had urged countries to vote against European text and proposed its own alternativeView the full article

As egg prices skyrocket, you too may be considering if it would be cheaper going straight to the source and raising your own flock. As the steward of four sweet but dimwitted backyard chickens, I'll caution that it's more expensive than you think—but with prices spiking as high as $1 per egg in some areas, it may be worth considering. Each day, I reliably pull three or four gorgeously colored eggs out of my backyard chicken coop. “They're free!” I think to myself. But these eggs are only “free” if one ignores the costs of feeding, sheltering, protecting, and entertaining a flock of tiny, feathered dinosaurs. Now, most people with backyard birds aren’t going the cheap route. You can definitely spend a lot raising fancy chickens that lay fancifully colored eggs, residing in Pinterest-worthy chicken coops and feasting on organic feed. By those standards, it’s definitely cheaper to buy your eggs. But is it possible to save money raising chickens by going the cheap route, and populating a merely serviceable coop with a few hardy egg layers? Whether or not you can save money farming your own eggs turns out to be a question of scale—and no matter how high egg prices go, it’s likely going to be cheaper to buy them in the store. Credit: Amanda Blum Chickens aren’t expensive, but the accessories can beLet’s start with the chickens themselves. You can purchase chickens as chicks just a few days old, and they are deceptively cheap. Your local farm store will likely have them in the spring and into the summer for $3 to $6 each, depending on the breed. These will be the pedestrian breeds of the birds—Rhode Island Reds, Brahmas, and White Leghorns—which is fine if your priority is a bird that will produce a lot of eggs and be weather-resilient. More exclusive breeds can go for as much as $25 per chick. Older birds cost moreYou don’t have to start with chicks. Some places will sell you poulets—chickens that are at least 15 weeks old. While the purchase price is higher (depending on breed, they can go for $30 to $60), these chickens can go straight into a backyard coop and will begin laying within a month or two. Paying $30 for a chicken might seem expensive when you can get a chick for $a tenth of that, but there are some financial benefits to skipping the early stages of chicken rearing. You won’t have to buy a brooder, heater, chick waterer or feeder, (which will save you between $100 and $150, all told), and you won’t need to shelter the chicken inside. You can also skip out on buying chick food and chick grit. At 15 weeks, your chickens can eat layer (adult) feed, which isn’t cheaper, but at least none of it will go to waste when your chicks outgrow their chick feed. But skipping the chick phase means you miss the opportunity to bond with your chickens. Raising my chicks inside and exposing my dog to them while they were small led to them being able to cohabitate once the chickens were grown. If I’d dropped poulets into the backyard, I doubt I’d have a relationship with them, and I’m pretty sure my dog would have viewed them as mobile chicken nuggets. You can get lucky and find someone on Craigslist or in a neighborhood faming group who needs to rehome their chickens. Those chickens are often fully grown layers—and, even better, available for free. Your coop will be your biggest expenseAdult chickens start laying eggs around six months old, but before that, you'll face a lot of one-time expenses, biggest among them a chicken coop. You can build a very simple coop yourself, but that's a risk. Your birds will face backyard aggressors (racoons, dogs, cats, vermin, and other wildlife) and your coop needs to keep them out, and a basic DIY coop might not be up to the task. Your coop's design will also impact how easy it is to tend to your flock. It needs to be tall enough to walk into so you can collect eggs and clean the coop out without having to stoop. How you design your laying boxes can determine how clean and easy it is to pull your eggs every day. The coop will need winter insulation, even if you have hardy chickens. So even if you build a coop, at minimum it’s still going to cost you a few hundred dollars in wood, construction fabric, wire, and other materials. Pre-built coops, meanwhile run from hundreds of dollars to thousands. Your adult birds will need a waterer as well as a feeder. You’ll also likely want to buy them some toys like a swing or mirror, because even though they are dumb, they need mental stimulation too. You'll even need to buy fake eggs so these bird brains know where to lay. All of that is going to cost you another $100 or so. Monthly costs can add upRemember, chickens don’t start laying eggs for about six months, so you'll spend at least that long paying out to support freeloading chickens. But once you’ve dispensed with the startup costs, you’ve got recurring monthly costs to deal with too—though at least the chickens should be producing eggs by that point. Each month, you’ll need to budget for food, grit, and oyster shells or another source of calcium. You’ll also need treats of some kind. On top of that, you’ll need material for the bedding in the coop, like pine shavings, hemp, or sand. A grown chicken eats about 1.5 lbs of food a week. They’ll grab grit as they need it, and chickens only need a quarter pound of it a month, but it adds up as your flock grows. Hens will eat as much calcium as they need, which means that if there isn’t enough calcium in your laying feed or treats, you’ll need a lot of crushed oyster shells. Don't forget the "soft costs" of chicken raisingOne of the reasons egg prices have skyrocketed is that the cost of all the inputs (from feed to grit) have gone up. The other reason is bird flu, which is now raging in every state in America. Your backyard flock is no less at risk than commercial birds, and ensuring your birds' safety is going to take work. Recommended biosecurity measures include keeping wild birds out of the shared yard, keeping one pair of shoes exclusively for when you're walking into a space you share with your birds, and ensuring that you watch for signs of sickness in your flock. If you’ve got cats, you may want to think twice about a backyard flock— bird flu can be transmitted to cats, and is almost always fatal. All of the extra work to keep your birds safe comes at a cost of your time, and unlike a commercial egg production house, you won’t be routinely testing your eggs for bird flu, so you’ll need to make sure you always cook them thoroughly. Will your backyard flock save you money? (Probably not.)So even if you keep things very lean, you're looking at $500 to $800 of startup costs for your chickens. (For my own flock of four, I spent almost $2,200 for an insulated coop, some basic toys, and all their chick gear.) On a monthly basis, I spend $40 for food, another $65 on grubs, $15 on pine shavings, and $9 on oyster shells and grit. That’s $130 a month, which yields 90 to 120 eggs (chickens don’t always lay an egg every day, and are only active layers for a few years). You don't have to be a math whiz to see that at this scale scale, and considering the monthly expenses, you'll never save money over buying from the store—even if you actually were buying 120 eggs a month at $1 each. Do the "chicken math"This is why “chicken math” exists. This term describes the tendency of chicken owners to add more birds, with the idea that the more chickens they have, the cheaper their eggs will become. Once you’ve got the startup costs covered, going from four to 10 chickens isn’t that much more expensive, and taking care of 10 chickens isn’t fundamentally different from taking care for four. I realize that you likely don’t need the eggs of 10 chickens (unless you do need 300 eggs a month?) but your per-egg production costs will go down as you scale up, which is why most backyard flock owners end up selling some of their eggs back to the farm store or to neighbors. Depending on your personal startup costs, your egg needs, and your willingness to set up shop as an egg salesperson, there is a break-even point here somewhere, but it's unlikely you'll reach it without significant effort. Chickens are fun to raise even if they don't save you moneyBut "free" eggs aren’t the only reason to start a backyard flock. Despite the mess my chickens cause in my yard, or the fact that they peck and scream at my bedroom window first thing in the morning, demanding grubs, I love the stupid birds. They have become my companions, and I enjoy the tasks of caring for them. They’ve even taken to watching TV with me while perched on the rosebush outside the living room window—all four fuzzy butts lined up on the branch. Every time I get annoyed with them, I remember they do pay rent, after a fashion: Four pastel colored eggs, every day. View the full article

Kickstarter is a way to fund a creative project. Its mission is to bring these types of campaigns to life and create a project with a funding goal and project deadline. Then Kickstarter backers can pledge cash. Essentially, this is a crowdfunding platform designed for entrepreneurs seeking alternative sources of funding. You will need to complete several steps, and there are payment processing fees associated with the funds raised. What Is Kickstarter? There are lots of different sites that raise funds. Kickstarter is different from other crowdfunding platforms. This one is dedicated to supporting the creative ecosystem. They are a community of people like poets, painters musicians, and writers as well as gamers and others. It started out as a project and has since become a Public Benefit Corporation. Kickstarter is an independent company with around 80 people who work together. The most winning Kickstarter projects that have been funded have won Grammys and Oscars. They are transparent about how their cookies collect information. Here are some cookies settings that reject info from Google. How Does Kickstarter Work? This is different from other crowdfunding campaign sites. A successful campaign will raise money for an individual project. Here’s how. A campaign creator sets both the deadline and the funding goals. These campaigns look for donors. The platform has been called crowdfunding because each project or idea looks for donations from a large number of people. Kickstarter funds come from people who enjoy creative efforts. Kickstarter creators who miss their deadline don’t get any of the money raised. A project’s success depends on a community effort. That’s the ingredient for most successful projects. READ MORE: How the Co-founder of Kickstarter Changed Startup Funding Forever What Creative Projects Can Be Launched with Kickstarter? Kickstarter has funded hundreds of thousands of projects across various fields, including tech, design, illustration, and comics. Below are some of the standout projects. Slow Rise Bakehouse Expansion This is a bakery in Forest Grove, Oregon that’s looking to expand. They use different types of whole grains in their products and partner with farms nearby. The Smart Belt This Kickstarter project comes from Wilmington, DE. This is another one of the Kickstarter campaigns that has surpassed its funding goal. The product page contains a link designed to drive in more backers. Domestic Duffel // Your Roadtrip Companion The travel bag comes from a business owner with specific funding goals. This is one of the small businesses that offer several pledge options. Potential backers can go through a list of Add ons. Scroll down on the project page. Black Coffins #2 A project’s success depends on creativity. This business idea is a good example. This is the second part of a supernatural western horror story. Some successful campaigns use the Kickstarter platform for comic books. Like this one. It has an interesting project page. Capsule Gravity: Your Futuristic Efficiency Booster This is a multifunctional timer with an excellent success rate on the site. It has reached and exceeded its fundraising goals. It’s one of the most successful campaigns on Kickstarter and a testament to their creative services. READ MORE: Kickstarted Launches Designed by Artist Can You Use Kickstarter for Business? Raising money for a business is one of the options. This is an excellent platform for businesses and startups. It’s a great platform because you don’t give up equity or go into debt. If you’re a new business consider this crowdfunding site. It has helped over 224,973 projects with 82,311,041 pledges. Kickstarter works without the need for a business loan. There are even some experts you can draw on for paid advertising. You can even use the default settings to change the currency you view your campaign in. Does It Cost Money to Start a Kickstarter? This funding platform takes a 5% fee from the funds raised for any project. Additionally, your small business will incur a payment processing fee of 3-5%. Both the platform fee and other transactions are handled through Stripe. Kickstarter funding is based on the all-or-nothing funding model. That includes a set number of days to reach your goal. How to Start a Successful Kickstarter Campaign You will need a significant number of donors to achieve your fundraising goal. Here are some tips on how to create a successful project. You need to set a realistic starting point. Based on the amount of money that you’re going to need. The idea is to cover costs Decide on the channels that you’re going to use for your campaign. Social media sites work well. Decide on the type of backer rewards you’re going to give out. Kickstarter has things they prohibit like financial returns. You can’t offer revenue-sharing. And you can’t offer equity. Or solicit business loans. It’s a good idea to create a buzz with the landing page before your product launch. Here are a few tips on getting that right. Take advantage of what the platform offers. Kickstarter offers some tools to get you started. There’s a Projects We Love badge, A Recommended section, and others. There are a number of different factors that influence how these work. However, one of the big ones is how much momentum you gain by putting together visitors and backers. AspectDescription Setting Realistic Starting PointBegin with a funding goal that realistically covers your project costs. Calculate the minimum funds needed to execute your idea successfully. Choosing Campaign ChannelsSelect effective channels to promote your campaign. Leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Designing Backer RewardsOffer enticing rewards to backers, keeping in mind Kickstarter's restrictions. Avoid financial returns, equity offers, or business loan solicitations. Creating Pre-launch BuzzBuild anticipation with a well-designed landing page before your campaign launch. Use captivating visuals, engaging content, and a clear call to action. Utilizing Kickstarter ToolsTake advantage of Kickstarter's built-in tools. Aim for a "Projects We Love" badge and inclusion in the "Recommended" section. Build momentum by attracting visitors and backers to your campaign. The Unique Value of Kickstarter for Creative Ventures Kickstarter’s Distinct Focus on Creativity Unlike other crowdfunding platforms, Kickstarter is specifically designed to support creative projects, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of artists, writers, musicians, and innovators. Kickstarter’s mission is to empower creators to transform their ideas into reality by connecting them with a community of backers who share their passion. Diverse Creative Fields Kickstarter accommodates a wide array of creative endeavors, from tech innovations and design projects to illustration, comics, and more. This diversity is reflected in the hundreds of thousands of successfully funded projects spanning various domains. Community-Centric Approach The platform operates on a community-driven model, where individuals contribute to projects they believe in, enabling creators to bring their artistic visions to life. Kickstarter’s success stories include projects that have earned prestigious awards like Grammys and Oscars, showcasing its impact on the creative landscape. Crafting a Successful Kickstarter Campaign: Key Steps and Considerations Setting the Stage for Success A compelling campaign begins with setting realistic funding goals and deadlines, ensuring that the project’s financial needs are covered. Creators must determine the channels they will leverage for campaign promotion, with social media platforms proving effective in reaching a wider audience. Creative Backer Rewards Backer rewards play a pivotal role in enticing support. Kickstarter prohibits offering financial returns, equity, or business loans but allows for creative rewards such as exclusive merchandise, early access, or personalized experiences. Creating Pre-Launch Buzz Building anticipation is crucial. Creators can create a landing page and generate excitement through teasers and updates before the official campaign launch. Kickstarter’s built-in tools, such as the “Projects We Love” badge and the “Recommended” section, can provide additional visibility and momentum. Harnessing Kickstarter’s Tools Utilizing Kickstarter’s tools like badges and recommendations can boost a project’s visibility and engagement, driving more visitors and backers to the campaign. Kickstarter’s Financial Framework: Costs, Benefits, and Accountability Fees and Financial Structure Kickstarter charges a 5% platform fee on funds collected from successful campaigns supporting the platform’s operations. Additionally, payment processing fees ranging from 3% to 5% are applied to contributions, with Stripe handling transactions securely. All-or-Nothing Funding Model Kickstarter employs an all-or-nothing funding model, where campaigns must reach their set funding goal within a specified timeframe to receive any funds. This model encourages accountability and motivates creators to rally their communities in support. Enhancing Engagement Through Storytelling on Kickstarter Crafting a compelling narrative for your Kickstarter campaign can significantly enhance engagement and support from the community. Storytelling is a powerful tool that can evoke emotions, create a connection, and build trust with potential backers. Here’s how to weave a captivating story that aligns with your project’s goals and resonates with your audience. Narrative Structure: Start by sharing the inspiration for your project, the obstacles you’ve encountered, and how you’ve worked to overcome them. This approach allows backers to grasp the motivation and enthusiasm behind your project. Authenticity and Transparency: Share genuine stories and experiences related to your project. Authenticity fosters trust and can motivate backers to support your vision. Visual and Emotional Appeal: Incorporate visuals such as images, sketches, and videos that complement your story. Emotional appeal can be a significant motivator for backing a project, so highlight the impact your project could have on individuals or communities. Update and Engage: Regularly inform your backers and potential supporters about your progress, challenges, and stories throughout the journey. By providing updates, you foster a sense of community and encourage continued support. Kickstarter Campaign Analytics Understanding and analyzing your Kickstarter campaign’s performance is crucial for achieving your funding goals. Traffic and Engagement Metrics: Monitor the visitor count on your campaign page, identify their sources, and assess their level of engagement. Utilize this information to determine which promotional channels yield the best results. Conversion Rates: Measure the percentage of visitors who become backers. A low conversion rate may indicate the need to improve your campaign’s messaging or rewards. Backer Demographics: Analyze the demographics of your backers to tailor your communication and marketing efforts. Understanding your audience can help you reach more like-minded individuals. Funding Trends: Monitor your campaign’s funding progress over time. Identify patterns or periods of increased activity to replicate successful strategies or address slow periods. Leveraging Community and Partnerships on Kickstarter Collaboration can play a vital role in the success of a Kickstarter campaign. Partnering with other creators, influencers, or organizations can broaden your reach and add credibility to your project. Here are some strategies for building partnerships and fostering a supportive community around your campaign: Cross-Promotion with Creators: Partner with other Kickstarter creators for cross-promotion. Sharing each other’s campaigns can tap into new audiences and mutual support. Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers who align with your project’s values and audience. Their endorsement can significantly boost visibility and credibility. Community Engagement: Build a community around your project by actively engaging with backers and potential supporters on social media, forums, and Kickstarter’s comments section. A strong community can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and additional promotion through word-of-mouth. Partnerships with Organizations: Seek partnerships with organizations or companies that can offer support, resources, or exposure for your campaign. These collaborations can provide a solid foundation for your project’s success. Navigating Success and Challenges on Kickstarter Project Success and Ownership Projects that are successfully funded give creators complete ownership of their work, enabling them to maintain creative control and independence. While financial gains cannot be directly solicited, Kickstarter serves as a platform to fund artistic endeavors without relinquishing equity or incurring debt. Addressing Project Failures In cases where a project falls short of its funding goal, backers are not charged, and the project does not proceed. Unfulfilled pledges are dropped after seven days, ensuring transparency and accountability. Kickstarter’s Legal Landscape Any legal matters arising from Kickstarter campaigns are governed by New York State law, providing a clear framework for resolving disputes and ensuring accountability. Is Kickstarter Right for You? Ideal for Small Businesses and Startups Small businesses and startups can benefit from Kickstarter’s platform, leveraging it as an alternative source of funding without giving up equity or taking on debt. Over 224,973 projects have been helped by 82,311,041 pledges, showcasing the positive impact on entrepreneurial ventures. Considerations for Nonprofits Nonprofit organizations seeking to overcome fundraising challenges can explore Kickstarter’s potential, adhering to specific guidelines and rules tailored to their missions. Bank Account Requirement Creators need a bank account to effectively utilize Kickstarter’s features and facilitate fund disbursement, ensuring a seamless experience for both creators and backers. What Happens If a Kickstarter Project Fails? A project can fall below its funding goal when it ends. Sometimes, a Kickstarter campaign has pledges you can’t collect. Those get dropped after seven days. You’re Kickstarter account still gets the balance less fees when the campaign ends. Can You Make Money on Kickstarter? When you’re a project creator, 100% of the ownership of your work stays with you. However, you can’t use the platform for financial returns, to solicit loans or equity offers. If you’re wondering about any possible legal action from using Kickstarter, follow this link. Any disputes are covered by New York State law. Is It a Good Idea to Start a Kickstarter Campaign? A successfully funded campaign works wonders for small businesses and startups. Nonprofit organizations that have issues raising enough money should consider the platform. But there are specific rules to follow. Remember that you will need a bank account for the site to function effectively for you. Kickstarter is both reliable and credible, and it is backed by venture capitalists. If you’ve still got questions about this platform, check out their recent articles. Image: Envato Elements This article, "What is Kickstarter?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Kickstarter is a way to fund a creative project. Its mission is to bring these types of campaigns to life and create a project with a funding goal and project deadline. Then Kickstarter backers can pledge cash. Essentially, this is a crowdfunding platform designed for entrepreneurs seeking alternative sources of funding. You will need to complete several steps, and there are payment processing fees associated with the funds raised. What Is Kickstarter? There are lots of different sites that raise funds. Kickstarter is different from other crowdfunding platforms. This one is dedicated to supporting the creative ecosystem. They are a community of people like poets, painters musicians, and writers as well as gamers and others. It started out as a project and has since become a Public Benefit Corporation. Kickstarter is an independent company with around 80 people who work together. The most winning Kickstarter projects that have been funded have won Grammys and Oscars. They are transparent about how their cookies collect information. Here are some cookies settings that reject info from Google. How Does Kickstarter Work? This is different from other crowdfunding campaign sites. A successful campaign will raise money for an individual project. Here’s how. A campaign creator sets both the deadline and the funding goals. These campaigns look for donors. The platform has been called crowdfunding because each project or idea looks for donations from a large number of people. Kickstarter funds come from people who enjoy creative efforts. Kickstarter creators who miss their deadline don’t get any of the money raised. A project’s success depends on a community effort. That’s the ingredient for most successful projects. READ MORE: How the Co-founder of Kickstarter Changed Startup Funding Forever What Creative Projects Can Be Launched with Kickstarter? Kickstarter has funded hundreds of thousands of projects across various fields, including tech, design, illustration, and comics. Below are some of the standout projects. Slow Rise Bakehouse Expansion This is a bakery in Forest Grove, Oregon that’s looking to expand. They use different types of whole grains in their products and partner with farms nearby. The Smart Belt This Kickstarter project comes from Wilmington, DE. This is another one of the Kickstarter campaigns that has surpassed its funding goal. The product page contains a link designed to drive in more backers. Domestic Duffel // Your Roadtrip Companion The travel bag comes from a business owner with specific funding goals. This is one of the small businesses that offer several pledge options. Potential backers can go through a list of Add ons. Scroll down on the project page. Black Coffins #2 A project’s success depends on creativity. This business idea is a good example. This is the second part of a supernatural western horror story. Some successful campaigns use the Kickstarter platform for comic books. Like this one. It has an interesting project page. Capsule Gravity: Your Futuristic Efficiency Booster This is a multifunctional timer with an excellent success rate on the site. It has reached and exceeded its fundraising goals. It’s one of the most successful campaigns on Kickstarter and a testament to their creative services. READ MORE: Kickstarted Launches Designed by Artist Can You Use Kickstarter for Business? Raising money for a business is one of the options. This is an excellent platform for businesses and startups. It’s a great platform because you don’t give up equity or go into debt. If you’re a new business consider this crowdfunding site. It has helped over 224,973 projects with 82,311,041 pledges. Kickstarter works without the need for a business loan. There are even some experts you can draw on for paid advertising. You can even use the default settings to change the currency you view your campaign in. Does It Cost Money to Start a Kickstarter? This funding platform takes a 5% fee from the funds raised for any project. Additionally, your small business will incur a payment processing fee of 3-5%. Both the platform fee and other transactions are handled through Stripe. Kickstarter funding is based on the all-or-nothing funding model. That includes a set number of days to reach your goal. How to Start a Successful Kickstarter Campaign You will need a significant number of donors to achieve your fundraising goal. Here are some tips on how to create a successful project. You need to set a realistic starting point. Based on the amount of money that you’re going to need. The idea is to cover costs Decide on the channels that you’re going to use for your campaign. Social media sites work well. Decide on the type of backer rewards you’re going to give out. Kickstarter has things they prohibit like financial returns. You can’t offer revenue-sharing. And you can’t offer equity. Or solicit business loans. It’s a good idea to create a buzz with the landing page before your product launch. Here are a few tips on getting that right. Take advantage of what the platform offers. Kickstarter offers some tools to get you started. There’s a Projects We Love badge, A Recommended section, and others. There are a number of different factors that influence how these work. However, one of the big ones is how much momentum you gain by putting together visitors and backers. AspectDescription Setting Realistic Starting PointBegin with a funding goal that realistically covers your project costs. Calculate the minimum funds needed to execute your idea successfully. Choosing Campaign ChannelsSelect effective channels to promote your campaign. Leverage social media platforms to reach a wider audience. Designing Backer RewardsOffer enticing rewards to backers, keeping in mind Kickstarter's restrictions. Avoid financial returns, equity offers, or business loan solicitations. Creating Pre-launch BuzzBuild anticipation with a well-designed landing page before your campaign launch. Use captivating visuals, engaging content, and a clear call to action. Utilizing Kickstarter ToolsTake advantage of Kickstarter's built-in tools. Aim for a "Projects We Love" badge and inclusion in the "Recommended" section. Build momentum by attracting visitors and backers to your campaign. The Unique Value of Kickstarter for Creative Ventures Kickstarter’s Distinct Focus on Creativity Unlike other crowdfunding platforms, Kickstarter is specifically designed to support creative projects, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of artists, writers, musicians, and innovators. Kickstarter’s mission is to empower creators to transform their ideas into reality by connecting them with a community of backers who share their passion. Diverse Creative Fields Kickstarter accommodates a wide array of creative endeavors, from tech innovations and design projects to illustration, comics, and more. This diversity is reflected in the hundreds of thousands of successfully funded projects spanning various domains. Community-Centric Approach The platform operates on a community-driven model, where individuals contribute to projects they believe in, enabling creators to bring their artistic visions to life. Kickstarter’s success stories include projects that have earned prestigious awards like Grammys and Oscars, showcasing its impact on the creative landscape. Crafting a Successful Kickstarter Campaign: Key Steps and Considerations Setting the Stage for Success A compelling campaign begins with setting realistic funding goals and deadlines, ensuring that the project’s financial needs are covered. Creators must determine the channels they will leverage for campaign promotion, with social media platforms proving effective in reaching a wider audience. Creative Backer Rewards Backer rewards play a pivotal role in enticing support. Kickstarter prohibits offering financial returns, equity, or business loans but allows for creative rewards such as exclusive merchandise, early access, or personalized experiences. Creating Pre-Launch Buzz Building anticipation is crucial. Creators can create a landing page and generate excitement through teasers and updates before the official campaign launch. Kickstarter’s built-in tools, such as the “Projects We Love” badge and the “Recommended” section, can provide additional visibility and momentum. Harnessing Kickstarter’s Tools Utilizing Kickstarter’s tools like badges and recommendations can boost a project’s visibility and engagement, driving more visitors and backers to the campaign. Kickstarter’s Financial Framework: Costs, Benefits, and Accountability Fees and Financial Structure Kickstarter charges a 5% platform fee on funds collected from successful campaigns supporting the platform’s operations. Additionally, payment processing fees ranging from 3% to 5% are applied to contributions, with Stripe handling transactions securely. All-or-Nothing Funding Model Kickstarter employs an all-or-nothing funding model, where campaigns must reach their set funding goal within a specified timeframe to receive any funds. This model encourages accountability and motivates creators to rally their communities in support. Enhancing Engagement Through Storytelling on Kickstarter Crafting a compelling narrative for your Kickstarter campaign can significantly enhance engagement and support from the community. Storytelling is a powerful tool that can evoke emotions, create a connection, and build trust with potential backers. Here’s how to weave a captivating story that aligns with your project’s goals and resonates with your audience. Narrative Structure: Start by sharing the inspiration for your project, the obstacles you’ve encountered, and how you’ve worked to overcome them. This approach allows backers to grasp the motivation and enthusiasm behind your project. Authenticity and Transparency: Share genuine stories and experiences related to your project. Authenticity fosters trust and can motivate backers to support your vision. Visual and Emotional Appeal: Incorporate visuals such as images, sketches, and videos that complement your story. Emotional appeal can be a significant motivator for backing a project, so highlight the impact your project could have on individuals or communities. Update and Engage: Regularly inform your backers and potential supporters about your progress, challenges, and stories throughout the journey. By providing updates, you foster a sense of community and encourage continued support. Kickstarter Campaign Analytics Understanding and analyzing your Kickstarter campaign’s performance is crucial for achieving your funding goals. Traffic and Engagement Metrics: Monitor the visitor count on your campaign page, identify their sources, and assess their level of engagement. Utilize this information to determine which promotional channels yield the best results. Conversion Rates: Measure the percentage of visitors who become backers. A low conversion rate may indicate the need to improve your campaign’s messaging or rewards. Backer Demographics: Analyze the demographics of your backers to tailor your communication and marketing efforts. Understanding your audience can help you reach more like-minded individuals. Funding Trends: Monitor your campaign’s funding progress over time. Identify patterns or periods of increased activity to replicate successful strategies or address slow periods. Leveraging Community and Partnerships on Kickstarter Collaboration can play a vital role in the success of a Kickstarter campaign. Partnering with other creators, influencers, or organizations can broaden your reach and add credibility to your project. Here are some strategies for building partnerships and fostering a supportive community around your campaign: Cross-Promotion with Creators: Partner with other Kickstarter creators for cross-promotion. Sharing each other’s campaigns can tap into new audiences and mutual support. Influencer Partnerships: Collaborate with influencers who align with your project’s values and audience. Their endorsement can significantly boost visibility and credibility. Community Engagement: Build a community around your project by actively engaging with backers and potential supporters on social media, forums, and Kickstarter’s comments section. A strong community can provide valuable feedback, encouragement, and additional promotion through word-of-mouth. Partnerships with Organizations: Seek partnerships with organizations or companies that can offer support, resources, or exposure for your campaign. These collaborations can provide a solid foundation for your project’s success. Navigating Success and Challenges on Kickstarter Project Success and Ownership Projects that are successfully funded give creators complete ownership of their work, enabling them to maintain creative control and independence. While financial gains cannot be directly solicited, Kickstarter serves as a platform to fund artistic endeavors without relinquishing equity or incurring debt. Addressing Project Failures In cases where a project falls short of its funding goal, backers are not charged, and the project does not proceed. Unfulfilled pledges are dropped after seven days, ensuring transparency and accountability. Kickstarter’s Legal Landscape Any legal matters arising from Kickstarter campaigns are governed by New York State law, providing a clear framework for resolving disputes and ensuring accountability. Is Kickstarter Right for You? Ideal for Small Businesses and Startups Small businesses and startups can benefit from Kickstarter’s platform, leveraging it as an alternative source of funding without giving up equity or taking on debt. Over 224,973 projects have been helped by 82,311,041 pledges, showcasing the positive impact on entrepreneurial ventures. Considerations for Nonprofits Nonprofit organizations seeking to overcome fundraising challenges can explore Kickstarter’s potential, adhering to specific guidelines and rules tailored to their missions. Bank Account Requirement Creators need a bank account to effectively utilize Kickstarter’s features and facilitate fund disbursement, ensuring a seamless experience for both creators and backers. What Happens If a Kickstarter Project Fails? A project can fall below its funding goal when it ends. Sometimes, a Kickstarter campaign has pledges you can’t collect. Those get dropped after seven days. You’re Kickstarter account still gets the balance less fees when the campaign ends. Can You Make Money on Kickstarter? When you’re a project creator, 100% of the ownership of your work stays with you. However, you can’t use the platform for financial returns, to solicit loans or equity offers. If you’re wondering about any possible legal action from using Kickstarter, follow this link. Any disputes are covered by New York State law. Is It a Good Idea to Start a Kickstarter Campaign? A successfully funded campaign works wonders for small businesses and startups. Nonprofit organizations that have issues raising enough money should consider the platform. But there are specific rules to follow. Remember that you will need a bank account for the site to function effectively for you. Kickstarter is both reliable and credible, and it is backed by venture capitalists. If you’ve still got questions about this platform, check out their recent articles. Image: Envato Elements This article, "What is Kickstarter?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As with other AI bots like ChatGPT and Copilot, there are free and paid options for Google Gemini: For $20 a month, you can upgrade to a Google One AI Premium plan, which includes Gemini Advanced. Chances are you're already signed up to a host of digital subscriptions, so is Gemini Advanced shelling out even more cash? Here's how the features on the free plan and the Google One AI Premium plan stack up against each other right now—bear in mind the paid plan includes some extras beyond the Gemini Advanced AI, which I've listed at the end. As a Google One AI Premium subscriber, I've talked a little bit about my experience of these features, too. Comparable features You couldn't create this image as a free Gemini user, because it's got a person in it. Credit: Lifehacker Features that match across both the free and paid plans is probably a good start. All users, whether they subscribe to a paid plan or not, can make use of file uploads and analysis in their prompts, though Gemini Advanced users can work with larger files (uploads can go up to 1,500 pages if you're paying). Image generation is available for all Gemini users, though images including people are only available on Gemini Advanced. All users can have real-time chats with the AI through the Gemini Live interface, and all users can connect to other Google apps, including Google Maps and Google Flights. The other basic AI capabilities—generating and rewriting code and text, looking up information online, offering advice on just about every topic imaginable, and coming up with new ideas and perspectives— are the same across the board. However, Gemini Advanced is smarter in all of these areas. Better models The current model picker for Gemini Advanced users. Credit: Lifehacker With Gemini Advanced, you get access to the best AI models Google has to offer: These models do eventually travel down to the free tier, as new ones are released. It's hard to quantify the difference, but Google says it's top-tier models are "far more capable at highly complex tasks" such as coding, reasoning, and creative collaboration. At the time I'm writing this, the best AI model available for free users is Flash 2.0, and the best Gemini Advanced AI model is 2.0 Pro Experimental. In the tests I've run with code and text generation, the advanced AI model is noticeably better in terms of detail and comprehensiveness—but the free AI model is perfectly fine. The more demanding your needs, the better Gemini Advanced is going to be for you. If you're working on thorny math problems or complex software coding, then the upgrade is probably worth it; if you're sticking to making your emails sound less prolix, maybe not. More AI features Deep Research is one of the extra tools paying users have access to. Credit: Lifehacker Another extra you get with Gemini Advanced is Deep Research, which essentially goes off and writes a comprehensive report on a topic of your choice, using resources found on the web. I asked the tool for a full breakdown of the features of the Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold and what it means for the foldables market, which it returned in seven minutes. The article that came out the other end was mostly accurate and well-written, if a bit generic. It hit all the key points that users would need to know, before listing website sources at the end, which is handy for fact-checking—as well as a reminder that AI doesn't actually know anything, it just scoops up and sorts human knowledge. Then there's NotebookLM, the research-focused AI tool from Google that can make AI-hosted podcasts for you. You get more of NotebookLM across the board, if you're on the Google One AI Premium plan: 20 audio podcasts per day rather than 3, 500 questions and answers per day rather than 50, 300 sources per notebook rather than 50, and 500 notebooks per user rather than 100. Gemini Advanced subscribers can also create their own custom Gems. Credit: Gemini After that there are the Gemini Gems, the customized AI bots you can create inside Gemini to concentrate on specific tasks. You can create Gems for coding, resume writing, or fitness coaching for example, load up documents for them to refer to and train from, and specify the tone and approach of their responses. Certain other features are exclusive to Gemini Advanced right now, including the option to have Gemini remember certain pieces of information about you (like your job and interests), and the ability to access previous chats. It remains to be seen whether these more minor features will eventually make their way down to the free plan. Finally, Gemini Advanced users can get the AI built right into Google's online apps, including Google Docs and Gmail. This can be useful for analyzing files and messages, and composing new ones, but it's something I tend to completely ignore because I can't really find a use for it—your mileage may vary. Is Google One AI Premium worth it? You can try Gemini Advanced for free for a month. Credit: Google I should also mention that Google One AI Premium is a Google One plan: You get 2TB of storage for Gmail, Google Photos, and Google Drive, which would set you back $10 a month separately. You're essentially paying another $10 for Gemini Advanced, so your choice depends partly on whether or not you need any more Google storage. If you spend a lot of time making serious use of AI or just playing around with it, then Gemini Advanced may well be worth it for you: The AI is better, you've got the tools like Deep Research and Gems to make use of, and you get AI piped into other Google apps too. For my job, it's of course beneficial to be able to test out the latest models, and all the features Gemini has to offer (but not to churn out articles, of course). If you're not finding any practical applications of AI for yourself right now, then the free version of Google Gemini is perfectly fine: There's still a lot you can do with it, and it still returns a high standard of responses across a full range of tasks. It's also worth bearing in mind that you can try out Google One AI Premium free for a month, to see for yourself whether you can get enough value out of it. View the full article

A year before Elon Musk helped start OpenAI in San Francisco, philanthropist and Microsoft cofounder Paul Allen already had established his own nonprofit artificial intelligence research laboratory in Seattle. Their mission was to advance AI for humanity’s benefit. More than a decade later, the Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence, or Ai2, isn’t nearly as well-known as the ChatGPT maker but is still pursuing the “high-impact” AI sought by Allen, who died in 2018. One of its latest AI models, Tulu 3 405B, rivals OpenAI and China’s DeepSeek on several benchmarks. But unlike OpenAI, it says it’s developing AI systems that are “truly open” for others to build upon. The institute’s CEO Ali Farhadi has been running Ai2 since 2023 after a stint at Apple. He spoke with the Associated Press. The interview has been edited for length and clarity. Why is openness important to your mission? Our mission is to do AI innovation and AI breakthroughs to solve some of the biggest working problems facing humanity today. The biggest threat to AI innovation is the closed nature of the practice. We have been pushing very, very strongly towards openness. If you think about open-source software, the core essence was, “I should be able to understand what you did. I should be able to change it. I should be able to fork from it. I should be able to use part of it, half of it, all of it. And once I build my thing, I put it out there and you should be able to do the same.” What do you consider an open-source AI model? It is a really heated topic at the moment. To us, open-source means that you understand what you did. Open weights models (such as Meta’s) are great because people could just grab those weights and follow the rest, but they aren’t open source. Open source is when you actually have access to every part of the puzzle. Why aren’t more AI developers sharing training data for models they say are open? If I want to postulate, some of these training data have a little bit of questionable material in them. But also the training data for these models are the actual IP. The data is probably the most sacred part. Many think there’s a lot of value in it. In my opinion, rightfully so. Data plays a significant role in improving your model, changing the behavior of your model. It’s tedious, it’s challenging. Many companies spend a lot of dollars, a lot of investments, in that domain and they don’t like to share it. What are the AI applications you’re most excited about? As it matures, I think AI is getting ready to be taken seriously for crucial problem domains such as science discovery. A good part of some disciplines involves a complicated search for a solution—for a gene structure, a cell structure, or specific configurations of elements. Many of those problems can be formulated computationally. There’s only so much you can do by just downloading a model from the web that was trained on text data and fine tuning it. Our hope is to empower scientists to be able to actually train their own model. —Matt O’Brien, AP Technology Writer View the full article

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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Gardening season is approaching faster than it might seem, and like a lot of modern gardeners, I get an assist from technology every year. I use tech to help raise seeds into seedlings, plant them outside, produce a harvest, and still have a whole life outside of the garden. From weather stations and soil monitors to apps and calendars, here's all the tech I'm dusting off right now to start getting ready. A weather stationIt begins with the basics. I have a Tempest weather station in my front yard, and a few smart temperature gauges in the backyard. Although you can easily pull weather information from a local weather station (you’d be surprised how many neighbors have them; locate them at Weather Underground), I still find it incredibly helpful to know the real microclimate of my yard. I know when rain, hail, snow is going to hit, and the actual temperature at any time, whether I’m at home or away. For outdoor temperature monitoring, I’ve yet to find sensors that are as hardy as the Aqara or Switchbot. Soil monitorsThe temperature outside is important for planting, since you shouldn’t place plants outside until the overnight temps are stable above fifty degrees, but soil temperature is just as important. There’s never been great soil sensors before now, but this year I’m trying the ThirdReality Smart Soil Sensor in a few locations. I’m also excited to try the new Moen soil sensors. Not only are the sensors going to tell me when my soil is warm enough for planting, they can give important humidity data to my smart watering system—I’ve used a Hydrawise for three seasons and I’m incredibly happy with it. Hydrawise looks and acts like a normal drip or sprinkler control, but it has a wifi module that will connect to your phone and a local weather station and it uses the data to decide whether to water that day, and how much. It's great to be able to control my drip system from my phone, and get detailed reports on how much water was used. Garden appsThat’s all helpful to know when to plant, but I start seeds inside, and I use a bucket of different tech tools to help. First, there’s the planning stage. You don’t start all your seeds at once, you seed so the seedlings they produce are ready at about the time they can go out into the ground outside. Keeping track of what to plant when can be overwhelming, so I use Seedtime to create a planting calendar—its app and desktop interface are incredibly helpful.. A seedsheet in excel, and the trays they represent Credit: Amanda Blum The seed trays themselves hold 50, 72, or 128 seedlings, and you don’t put a label marker into each cell, which would be time consuming. I use a method taught to me by Meg Cowden of Seed to Fork, and use Google Spreadsheets to keep track of what is in each tray. The trays are numbered and marked with a front and back, and the spreadsheet details what is in each cell of the tray. When I go to plant, I bring my phone with me, or sometimes I print out a sheet. Automations and controllersI’ve discussed at some length how I plant seeds and what I use, but I rely on technology to ensure I’m keeping my seedlings on track. For instance, seedling heat mats ensure the soil in the trays is warm enough for seeds to germinate, but you need to control that heat because if the temperature gets too high, seeds get baked. I use an Inkbird controller to do so. It includes a probe to put into the soil, and then from your phone (or the controller), you specify a temperature range. The controller will turn the heat mat on and off to ensure it maintains the right temperature. I’ve also learned (the hard way) that too much humidity can lead to viruses and other problems in my seed-starting room, so with an Aqara temperature and humidity sensor, I use a Google Home automation to kick on the overhead fan when humidity gets too high. The fan’s air benefits the plants, too, which form stronger stems with a breeze. Calendars, voice assistants and remindersOutside, the Monty compost monitor reminds me to turn over my compost occasionally when the worms aren’t doing their job. It sends notifications to update me on the status of my compost, which is quite helpful. Truly, reminders are the key to much of my garden success. I have an entire Google calendar that is solely for garden reminders, such as when to plant specific seeds outside, check on plants, or put trellises up. Those reminders stream to my Google Nest speakers and my voice assistant will speak up to let me know if I forgot something. Most importantly, the calendar can be repurposed year to year. Security cameras I’ve been surprised how much I engage my smart cameras around the yard; yes, they catch critters who can cause damage (I’m particularly aware of neighborhood cats setting up in my garden this year, due to their ability to transmit bird flu), but it’s even helpful during a storm to check on how some fragile plants are doing. I’m excited to test the new Petal cameras coming from Bird Buddy, which use solar power and are installed at plant level. They use AI to report how your plants are faring. I hope to use these to capture weekly updates of my yard from the camera’s positions. I use these photos in wintertime, to decide what to plant each year. View the full article

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As a small business owner, freelance photographer, or budding entrepreneur in the field of photography, choosing a suitable portrait lens is an essential step. This guide will help you understand the different types of portrait lenses and the factors you should consider while choosing the one that best fits your needs. What Are Portrait Lenses? A portrait lens is a specialized tool designed to capture stunning, intimate images of people. These lenses, often used by professional portrait photographers, offer a focal length and maximum aperture that provides a flattering perspective and an appealing shallow depth of field. The focal length refers to the distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is focused. Usually, portrait lenses come in the form of prime lenses, which have a fixed focal length, or zoom lenses, which offer a range of focal lengths. Prime Lens The advantage of a prime lens, like the 85mm f/1.8, is its wide maximum aperture that allows you to create images with a shallow depth of field, putting the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background. Prime lenses also often produce sharper images and perform better in low-light situations than zoom lenses. Zoom Lens Zoom lenses, in contrast, are highly versatile. They offer a range of focal lengths, enabling you to swiftly adjust your composition without the need to move closer or farther from your subject. A popular zoom lens for portraits is the 70-200mm f/2.8. It delivers longer focal lengths, perfect for compressing facial features and isolating the subject from the background. Mirrorless Camera Lens Whether you are using a digital SLR or a mirrorless camera, having a quality portrait lens is essential. Mirrorless cameras, which represent a newer technology, are gaining popularity because of their compact size, lightweight design, and outstanding image quality. Manufacturers such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony offer excellent mirrorless cameras, each paired with a variety of compatible lenses. Product Recommendations: Top Portrait Lenses for Small Photography Businesses Finding the right portrait lens is no small feat. As you’ve read, there are several factors to consider in order to find the best portrait lens for your needs. We’ve established a set of criteria to guide you in selecting a portrait lens that aligns with your specific needs: Focal Length (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Generally between 50mm to 135mm for optimal framing and perspective. Rationale: Ensures flattering proportions and a natural field of view for portraits. Aperture (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: A wide aperture (such as f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8) enhances light capture and allows for improved control over depth of field. Rationale: Enables beautiful background blur (bokeh) and excellent performance in low-light conditions. Lens Mount and Compatibility (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: Compatible with your camera body (e.g., Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E-mount). Rationale: Ensures the lens will function seamlessly with your existing equipment. Image Quality (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Sharpness, contrast, and color rendition. Rationale: Critical for producing professional-grade photographs. Autofocus Performance (Importance Scale: 8/10) Criteria: Fast and accurate autofocus, with manual override options. Rationale: Essential for capturing sharp images, especially in dynamic shooting situations. Build Quality and Durability (Importance Scale: 7/10) Criteria: Robust construction, weather-sealing for outdoor shoots. Rationale: Ensures longevity and reliability in various shooting environments. Price and Budget Considerations (Importance Scale: 6/10) Criteria: Cost-effectiveness, meeting the balance between quality and budget constraints. Rationale: Maximizes return on investment without sacrificing essential features. Additional Features (Importance Scale: 5/10) Criteria: Image stabilization, specialized lens elements to reduce aberrations. Rationale: Enhances image quality and user experience. Using these criteria, we’ve handpicked a range of portrait lenses that stand out.. Each lens on our list has been assessed based on these factors. Browse our picks below and find your next portrait lens! Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Product Features: 85mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture: Standard focal length with a large aperture, ideal for creating defocused backgrounds and delivering sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum aperture. Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) drives rapid auto focusing with near-silent operation. Natural angle of view and perspective: The lens offers a natural angle of view and perspective that’s perfect for portraits and natural images. Background blur: The lens’s wide aperture can create a background blur (bokeh), making your subject stand out against a soft, out-of-focus background. Compact size and weight: Measuring just 3 inches in diameter and 2.8 inches long, and weighing 15 ounces, this lens is easy to carry and handle. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Buy on Amazon Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Product Features: Focal Length: This lens offers a focal length range from 18mm to 55mm, which makes it versatile and suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. Aperture: The maximum aperture varies from f/3.5 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end. This is useful for managing depth of field and shooting in various lighting conditions. Vibration Reduction (VR): Nikon’s Vibration Reduction technology helps reduce the effect of camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. AF-P: This lens features Nikon’s AF-P (Pulse motor) technology, which offers fast, quiet, and smooth autofocus operation The lens is fully compatible with a variety of Nikon DSLR cameras, such as the D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300, D3400, D3300, D500, D850. Certain models, including the Df, D5, D810, D750, D7200, D7100, may experience limited functionality. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Buy on Amazon BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Product Features: This portrait lens is designed for Z-mount cameras, including the ZFC, Z5, Z50, Z6, Z7, Z6II, and Z7II. It features eye-controlled focusing and subject tracking, along with automatic aperture functionality, A mode, S mode, and EXIF information recording. A large F1.4 aperture offers greater control over the depth of field, enabling a soft blur effect in the background. Precise brass mount and a silent motor for sensitive and precise focusing. The lens includes a hood that can be reversed for convenient storage when not in use. This feature not only makes it easier to store the lens but also offers protection and reduces stray or scattered light. 10 optical structures in 9 groups, including 1 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens and 1 high refractive lens. BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four-Thirds Cameras Product Features: F1.7 Large Diameter and Mid-Telephoto 85mm focal length offering a versatile field of view perfect for a variety of scenes. 31cm Closest Focusing Distance allows you to capture stunning close-ups with clarity. POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) ensures steady and sharp images, even at slower shutter speeds. 240fps Drive AF ensures rapid autofocus, capturing fleeting moments with precision. Large F1.7 aperture perfect for low-light photography, capturing bright and clear images. 10 elements in 8 groups, including 1 aspherical lens for superior image quality. Maximum Magnification of approximately 0.2x/0.4x (35mm camera equivalent), providing ample scope for detail-oriented work. Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four Thirds Cameras Buy on Amazon Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount . Product Features: Stepper motor technology that ensures smooth, quiet, and progressive autofocus for precise imaging. Dust and water-resistant construction for reliable usage in various weather conditions. Large lens hood included as standard, designed to reduce side flares, improving overall image clarity. Flare and ghost image reduction design ensures maximum image quality by minimizing unwanted light artifacts. The standard 56mm focal length is versatile for a wide range of photographic styles and situations. Made in Japan – guaranteeing incredible craftsmanship and quality. Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount Buy on Amazon Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Product Features: The built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization ensures sharp images by reducing blur that can occur from camera shake. The 7-blade circular aperture produces defocus effects that enhance the subject by blurring the background. Large F1.8 maximum aperture allows for exceptional performance in low-light conditions. 50mm focal length is ideal for a range of photography styles, including portrait, landscape, and more. Minimum focus distance of 1.28 ft (0.39 m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.16x, allowing for detailed close-ups. 49mm filter diameter is compatible with a range of accessories. Included Lens hood (ALC-SH116), Lens front cap, and Lens rear cap for maximum protection. Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Product Features: Manual focus operation: This lens requires full manual focus operation on the DSLR camera Compatible with various Nikon DSLRs: The lens is designed for an extensive range of Nikon DSLR cameras 8-piece circular aperture: Enjoy a smooth and large focus range, ideal for capturing stunning portraits and landscapes Hybrid aspherical lenses and ultra multi-coating contribute to better image quality by reducing aberrations and improving light transmission. Large aperture: The lens’s large aperture helps in creating shallow depth-of-field images with an attractive bokeh effect. Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Buy on Amazon Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Product Features: Newly designed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for swift autofocus control F1.4 aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and depth-of-field control, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects. 9 aperture blades Compatible with the Mount Converter MC-11, this lens can be adapted for use with Sony E-mount systems 14 lens elements built in 12 groups for ultra-high resolution Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Buy on Amazon VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Key features: Compact and efficient design compatible with Fujifilm X-mount mirrorless cameras Short telephoto focal length paired with a bright f/1.4 maximum aperture for outstanding control over depth of field High-quality optical design featuring extra-low dispersion and high refractive index elements The lens design incorporates an STM stepping motor, allowing for quick, nearly silent, and accurate autofocus performance while also providing a full-time manual focus override. Internal focusing design that contributes to speedy performance. Micro-USB port for firmware updates that ensures your lens continues to deliver optimal performance. VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Buy on Amazon NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Product Features: 85mm f/1.8 lens with a nine-blade diaphragm for soft, rounded bokeh Two ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating ensure lifelike accuracy and reduce lens flare and ghosting. A dust and drip-resistant design that provides comprehensive sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it perfect for outdoor use and challenging environments. Customizable control ring allowing for on-the-fly adjustments to camera settings. NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Buy on Amazon Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Product Features: 35mm focal length (53mm equivalent in 35mm format) that provides a “normal” angle of view Constructed with 8 elements in 6 groups, including 1 Aspherical Element 44.2-degree angle of view for capturing broad landscapes and tight interior shots 7-blade rounded diaphragm opening for creating beautiful bokeh effects 52mm filter size – compatible with a wide range of filters The focus range of normal 0.8m to infinity and Macro 28cm to 2.0m, offering versatility for close-up and distant subjects. Maximum magnification of 0.17x, making it suitable for capturing detailed close-ups. Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Buy on Amazon Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Product Features: Supreme lightweight portability: This lens is engineered to be extremely lightweight, making telephoto shooting a fun and stress-free experience. It’s a good choice for photographers who need to carry their gear for extended periods. Lens structure comprises 15 elements in 10 groups, designed to deliver high-quality images with excellent detail and contrast. Close focusing distance of 31.5″ at the wide end and 59.1″ at the tele end Maximum magnification ratio of 1:9.4 at the wide-angle end and 1:5.1 at the telephoto end. Moisture-resistant construction offers some degree of protection against the elements. Focal length: The lens offers a versatile focal length of 70-300mm, making it suitable for portrait photography, as well as a variety of shooting scenarios, including landscape, wildlife, and sports. Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Buy on Amazon Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens . Product Features: Compatibility with Nikon F mount full frame mirrorless cameras and DSLRs, ensuring a perfect fit for your Nikon equipment. Classic 85mm portrait lens with a wide f/1.8 aperture, enabling beautiful photos with a smooth background blur effect, even in low-light conditions. Wide applications range from selective architecture, landscapes, and portraits to short-range sports and theatre photography. Autofocus lens and automatic aperture offering ease of use Lens structure comprising 6 groups and 11 elements for delivering sharp and detailed images. USB connection for firmware updates to keep your lens operating at its peak performance. Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens Buy on Amazon Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is a prime lens, and why is it often recommended for portrait photography? A prime lens is a type of lens that has a fixed focal length. In other words, unlike a zoom lens, a prime lens doesn’t allow you to zoom in or out to change your framing; to get closer or farther from your subject, you have to physically move. So why would anyone prefer this over the versatility of a zoom lens? The answer lies in the image quality and aperture size. Prime lenses often offer superior image sharpness and a larger maximum aperture (lower f-number) compared to zoom lenses. This larger aperture allows more light to reach the sensor, which not only helps in low-light conditions but also provides a shallower depth of field. A shallow depth of field is desirable in portrait photography because it keeps the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background, helping the subject stand out. What’s the difference between a full-frame camera and a crop sensor, and how does it affect the choice of portrait lens? A full-frame camera has a sensor that’s roughly the same size as a 35mm film frame, whereas a crop sensor is smaller. The main impact of this difference is the ‘crop factor,’ which affects the effective focal length of lenses. For instance, a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera with a crop factor of 1.5x will have an effective focal length of 75mm. Therefore, when choosing a lens for a crop sensor camera, you need to account for the crop factor. If you want the equivalent field of view to an 85mm lens on a full-frame camera, for instance, you’d need a shorter focal length on a crop sensor camera. The sensor size can also impact the depth of field and low light performance, with full-frame cameras generally performing better in these aspects. How does focal length affect a portrait? Focal length can significantly impact how a portrait looks. Shorter focal lengths (wide-angle lenses) can distort facial features when used close-up, making them less desirable for close-up portraits. However, they can be good for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the scene around the subject. Longer focal lengths (telephoto lenses) can compress facial features and provide a more flattering perspective. They also help to isolate the subject from the background, which is often desirable in portrait photography. Why do some photographers prefer zoom lenses for portrait photography? While prime lenses are frequently suggested for portrait photography, some photographers favor zoom lenses for their versatility. A zoom lens enables you to modify your framing without the need to move closer or farther from your subject, which can be especially beneficial when shooting in tight spaces. Some contemporary zoom lenses also provide outstanding image quality and a fairly large maximum aperture, making them appropriate for portrait photography. For example, a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is a favored option for portraits. Image: Amazon This article, "Portrait Lens: Top Picks For Your Photography Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

As a small business owner, freelance photographer, or budding entrepreneur in the field of photography, choosing a suitable portrait lens is an essential step. This guide will help you understand the different types of portrait lenses and the factors you should consider while choosing the one that best fits your needs. What Are Portrait Lenses? A portrait lens is a specialized tool designed to capture stunning, intimate images of people. These lenses, often used by professional portrait photographers, offer a focal length and maximum aperture that provides a flattering perspective and an appealing shallow depth of field. The focal length refers to the distance between the lens and the image sensor when the subject is focused. Usually, portrait lenses come in the form of prime lenses, which have a fixed focal length, or zoom lenses, which offer a range of focal lengths. Prime Lens The advantage of a prime lens, like the 85mm f/1.8, is its wide maximum aperture that allows you to create images with a shallow depth of field, putting the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background. Prime lenses also often produce sharper images and perform better in low-light situations than zoom lenses. Zoom Lens Zoom lenses, in contrast, are highly versatile. They offer a range of focal lengths, enabling you to swiftly adjust your composition without the need to move closer or farther from your subject. A popular zoom lens for portraits is the 70-200mm f/2.8. It delivers longer focal lengths, perfect for compressing facial features and isolating the subject from the background. Mirrorless Camera Lens Whether you are using a digital SLR or a mirrorless camera, having a quality portrait lens is essential. Mirrorless cameras, which represent a newer technology, are gaining popularity because of their compact size, lightweight design, and outstanding image quality. Manufacturers such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony offer excellent mirrorless cameras, each paired with a variety of compatible lenses. Product Recommendations: Top Portrait Lenses for Small Photography Businesses Finding the right portrait lens is no small feat. As you’ve read, there are several factors to consider in order to find the best portrait lens for your needs. We’ve established a set of criteria to guide you in selecting a portrait lens that aligns with your specific needs: Focal Length (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Generally between 50mm to 135mm for optimal framing and perspective. Rationale: Ensures flattering proportions and a natural field of view for portraits. Aperture (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: A wide aperture (such as f/1.4, f/1.8, or f/2.8) enhances light capture and allows for improved control over depth of field. Rationale: Enables beautiful background blur (bokeh) and excellent performance in low-light conditions. Lens Mount and Compatibility (Importance Scale: 10/10) Criteria: Compatible with your camera body (e.g., Canon EF, Nikon F, Sony E-mount). Rationale: Ensures the lens will function seamlessly with your existing equipment. Image Quality (Importance Scale: 9/10) Criteria: Sharpness, contrast, and color rendition. Rationale: Critical for producing professional-grade photographs. Autofocus Performance (Importance Scale: 8/10) Criteria: Fast and accurate autofocus, with manual override options. Rationale: Essential for capturing sharp images, especially in dynamic shooting situations. Build Quality and Durability (Importance Scale: 7/10) Criteria: Robust construction, weather-sealing for outdoor shoots. Rationale: Ensures longevity and reliability in various shooting environments. Price and Budget Considerations (Importance Scale: 6/10) Criteria: Cost-effectiveness, meeting the balance between quality and budget constraints. Rationale: Maximizes return on investment without sacrificing essential features. Additional Features (Importance Scale: 5/10) Criteria: Image stabilization, specialized lens elements to reduce aberrations. Rationale: Enhances image quality and user experience. Using these criteria, we’ve handpicked a range of portrait lenses that stand out.. Each lens on our list has been assessed based on these factors. Browse our picks below and find your next portrait lens! Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Product Features: 85mm standard lens with f/1.8 maximum aperture: Standard focal length with a large aperture, ideal for creating defocused backgrounds and delivering sharp, high-contrast images even at maximum aperture. Ring-type ultra-sonic monitor (USM) drives rapid auto focusing with near-silent operation. Natural angle of view and perspective: The lens offers a natural angle of view and perspective that’s perfect for portraits and natural images. Background blur: The lens’s wide aperture can create a background blur (bokeh), making your subject stand out against a soft, out-of-focus background. Compact size and weight: Measuring just 3 inches in diameter and 2.8 inches long, and weighing 15 ounces, this lens is easy to carry and handle. Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras Buy on Amazon Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Product Features: Focal Length: This lens offers a focal length range from 18mm to 55mm, which makes it versatile and suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios. Aperture: The maximum aperture varies from f/3.5 at the wide end to f/5.6 at the telephoto end. This is useful for managing depth of field and shooting in various lighting conditions. Vibration Reduction (VR): Nikon’s Vibration Reduction technology helps reduce the effect of camera shake and blur, especially in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds. AF-P: This lens features Nikon’s AF-P (Pulse motor) technology, which offers fast, quiet, and smooth autofocus operation The lens is fully compatible with a variety of Nikon DSLR cameras, such as the D7500, D5600, D5500, D5300, D3400, D3300, D500, D850. Certain models, including the Df, D5, D810, D750, D7200, D7100, may experience limited functionality. Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras Buy on Amazon BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Product Features: This portrait lens is designed for Z-mount cameras, including the ZFC, Z5, Z50, Z6, Z7, Z6II, and Z7II. It features eye-controlled focusing and subject tracking, along with automatic aperture functionality, A mode, S mode, and EXIF information recording. A large F1.4 aperture offers greater control over the depth of field, enabling a soft blur effect in the background. Precise brass mount and a silent motor for sensitive and precise focusing. The lens includes a hood that can be reversed for convenient storage when not in use. This feature not only makes it easier to store the lens but also offers protection and reduces stray or scattered light. 10 optical structures in 9 groups, including 1 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lens and 1 high refractive lens. BALITY APS C Z Mount Sensitive 56mm F1.4 Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four-Thirds Cameras Product Features: F1.7 Large Diameter and Mid-Telephoto 85mm focal length offering a versatile field of view perfect for a variety of scenes. 31cm Closest Focusing Distance allows you to capture stunning close-ups with clarity. POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) ensures steady and sharp images, even at slower shutter speeds. 240fps Drive AF ensures rapid autofocus, capturing fleeting moments with precision. Large F1.7 aperture perfect for low-light photography, capturing bright and clear images. 10 elements in 8 groups, including 1 aspherical lens for superior image quality. Maximum Magnification of approximately 0.2x/0.4x (35mm camera equivalent), providing ample scope for detail-oriented work. Panasonic LUMIX G Lens for Micro Four Thirds Cameras Buy on Amazon Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount . Product Features: Stepper motor technology that ensures smooth, quiet, and progressive autofocus for precise imaging. Dust and water-resistant construction for reliable usage in various weather conditions. Large lens hood included as standard, designed to reduce side flares, improving overall image clarity. Flare and ghost image reduction design ensures maximum image quality by minimizing unwanted light artifacts. The standard 56mm focal length is versatile for a wide range of photographic styles and situations. Made in Japan – guaranteeing incredible craftsmanship and quality. Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN for EF-M Mount Buy on Amazon Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Product Features: The built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization ensures sharp images by reducing blur that can occur from camera shake. The 7-blade circular aperture produces defocus effects that enhance the subject by blurring the background. Large F1.8 maximum aperture allows for exceptional performance in low-light conditions. 50mm focal length is ideal for a range of photography styles, including portrait, landscape, and more. Minimum focus distance of 1.28 ft (0.39 m) and a maximum magnification ratio of 0.16x, allowing for detailed close-ups. 49mm filter diameter is compatible with a range of accessories. Included Lens hood (ALC-SH116), Lens front cap, and Lens rear cap for maximum protection. Sony – E 50mm F1.8 OSS Portrait Lens Buy on Amazon Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Product Features: Manual focus operation: This lens requires full manual focus operation on the DSLR camera Compatible with various Nikon DSLRs: The lens is designed for an extensive range of Nikon DSLR cameras 8-piece circular aperture: Enjoy a smooth and large focus range, ideal for capturing stunning portraits and landscapes Hybrid aspherical lenses and ultra multi-coating contribute to better image quality by reducing aberrations and improving light transmission. Large aperture: The lens’s large aperture helps in creating shallow depth-of-field images with an attractive bokeh effect. Lightdow 85mm F1.8 Manual Focus Full Frame Portrait Lens for Nikon Buy on Amazon Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Product Features: Newly designed Hyper Sonic Motor (HSM) for swift autofocus control F1.4 aperture delivers exceptional low-light performance and depth-of-field control, allowing for beautiful bokeh effects. 9 aperture blades Compatible with the Mount Converter MC-11, this lens can be adapted for use with Sony E-mount systems 14 lens elements built in 12 groups for ultra-high resolution Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG HSM Art Lens for Canon EF Buy on Amazon VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Key features: Compact and efficient design compatible with Fujifilm X-mount mirrorless cameras Short telephoto focal length paired with a bright f/1.4 maximum aperture for outstanding control over depth of field High-quality optical design featuring extra-low dispersion and high refractive index elements The lens design incorporates an STM stepping motor, allowing for quick, nearly silent, and accurate autofocus performance while also providing a full-time manual focus override. Internal focusing design that contributes to speedy performance. Micro-USB port for firmware updates that ensures your lens continues to deliver optimal performance. VILTROX 56mm F1.4 f/1.4 XF Autofocus APS-C Portrait Lens for Fujifilm X-Mount Buy on Amazon NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Product Features: 85mm f/1.8 lens with a nine-blade diaphragm for soft, rounded bokeh Two ED glass elements and Nano Crystal coating ensure lifelike accuracy and reduce lens flare and ghosting. A dust and drip-resistant design that provides comprehensive sealing to protect against dust and moisture, making it perfect for outdoor use and challenging environments. Customizable control ring allowing for on-the-fly adjustments to camera settings. NIKON NIKKOR Z 85mm f/1.8 S Portrait Fast Prime Lens for Nikon Z Cameras Buy on Amazon Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Product Features: 35mm focal length (53mm equivalent in 35mm format) that provides a “normal” angle of view Constructed with 8 elements in 6 groups, including 1 Aspherical Element 44.2-degree angle of view for capturing broad landscapes and tight interior shots 7-blade rounded diaphragm opening for creating beautiful bokeh effects 52mm filter size – compatible with a wide range of filters The focus range of normal 0.8m to infinity and Macro 28cm to 2.0m, offering versatility for close-up and distant subjects. Maximum magnification of 0.17x, making it suitable for capturing detailed close-ups. Fujifilm Lens XF35mmF1.4 R Buy on Amazon Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Product Features: Supreme lightweight portability: This lens is engineered to be extremely lightweight, making telephoto shooting a fun and stress-free experience. It’s a good choice for photographers who need to carry their gear for extended periods. Lens structure comprises 15 elements in 10 groups, designed to deliver high-quality images with excellent detail and contrast. Close focusing distance of 31.5″ at the wide end and 59.1″ at the tele end Maximum magnification ratio of 1:9.4 at the wide-angle end and 1:5.1 at the telephoto end. Moisture-resistant construction offers some degree of protection against the elements. Focal length: The lens offers a versatile focal length of 70-300mm, making it suitable for portrait photography, as well as a variety of shooting scenarios, including landscape, wildlife, and sports. Tamron 70-300mm F/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD for Sony Full Frame Mirrorless Camera/APS-C E-Mount Buy on Amazon Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens . Product Features: Compatibility with Nikon F mount full frame mirrorless cameras and DSLRs, ensuring a perfect fit for your Nikon equipment. Classic 85mm portrait lens with a wide f/1.8 aperture, enabling beautiful photos with a smooth background blur effect, even in low-light conditions. Wide applications range from selective architecture, landscapes, and portraits to short-range sports and theatre photography. Autofocus lens and automatic aperture offering ease of use Lens structure comprising 6 groups and 11 elements for delivering sharp and detailed images. USB connection for firmware updates to keep your lens operating at its peak performance. Meike 85mm f1.8 Wide Aperture Full Frame Auto Focus Telephoto Lens Buy on Amazon Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) What is a prime lens, and why is it often recommended for portrait photography? A prime lens is a type of lens that has a fixed focal length. In other words, unlike a zoom lens, a prime lens doesn’t allow you to zoom in or out to change your framing; to get closer or farther from your subject, you have to physically move. So why would anyone prefer this over the versatility of a zoom lens? The answer lies in the image quality and aperture size. Prime lenses often offer superior image sharpness and a larger maximum aperture (lower f-number) compared to zoom lenses. This larger aperture allows more light to reach the sensor, which not only helps in low-light conditions but also provides a shallower depth of field. A shallow depth of field is desirable in portrait photography because it keeps the subject in sharp focus while blurring the background, helping the subject stand out. What’s the difference between a full-frame camera and a crop sensor, and how does it affect the choice of portrait lens? A full-frame camera has a sensor that’s roughly the same size as a 35mm film frame, whereas a crop sensor is smaller. The main impact of this difference is the ‘crop factor,’ which affects the effective focal length of lenses. For instance, a 50mm lens on a crop sensor camera with a crop factor of 1.5x will have an effective focal length of 75mm. Therefore, when choosing a lens for a crop sensor camera, you need to account for the crop factor. If you want the equivalent field of view to an 85mm lens on a full-frame camera, for instance, you’d need a shorter focal length on a crop sensor camera. The sensor size can also impact the depth of field and low light performance, with full-frame cameras generally performing better in these aspects. How does focal length affect a portrait? Focal length can significantly impact how a portrait looks. Shorter focal lengths (wide-angle lenses) can distort facial features when used close-up, making them less desirable for close-up portraits. However, they can be good for environmental portraits where you want to include more of the scene around the subject. Longer focal lengths (telephoto lenses) can compress facial features and provide a more flattering perspective. They also help to isolate the subject from the background, which is often desirable in portrait photography. Why do some photographers prefer zoom lenses for portrait photography? While prime lenses are frequently suggested for portrait photography, some photographers favor zoom lenses for their versatility. A zoom lens enables you to modify your framing without the need to move closer or farther from your subject, which can be especially beneficial when shooting in tight spaces. Some contemporary zoom lenses also provide outstanding image quality and a fairly large maximum aperture, making them appropriate for portrait photography. For example, a 70-200mm f/2.8 lens is a favored option for portraits. Image: Amazon This article, "Portrait Lens: Top Picks For Your Photography Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

If you want your iCloud data to be as well-protected as possible, you need to turn on Advanced Data Protection (ADP)— but that's no longer going to be an option in the UK. Apple is pulling ADP from the country, reportedly following a request from the UK government for a backdoor into encrypted iCloud files, and the fallout is likely to have global consequences. What is ADP? ADP applies end-to-end encryption (the gold standard for data security) to just about everything you've got backed up in iCloud, making it virtually impossible for anyone else to access it. If ADP isn't enabled, only certain types of data get this protection, such as passwords and payment info, Messages in iCloud, and your health data. It's important to note that this data remains fully protected from everyone—even Apple and UK spies. Without ADP, the rest of your iCloud backups (think iCloud Drive, Photos, and Notes, for example) are still protected, but with a lower level of encryption. That protection does a very good job at keeping out bad actors and preventing your data from being hacked, but it can still be accessed if required by Apple employees and—crucially for this current story—government and law enforcement agencies. While Apple and the governments and security services of the world would tell you they have robust checks in place when it comes to who can get at encrypted data, the possibility for access is still there. With ADP (and other places where end-to-end encryption is deployed, like WhatsApp) that possibility goes away. Even if the FBI or MI5 demand files, they can't be delivered. Earlier this month, The Washington Post reported that UK officials had requested secret, backdoor access into Apple's fully encrypted data files. The demand was apparently made under the auspices of the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016, which gives the country's security services widespread access to user data in the name of investigating criminal activity: Fighting terrorism and stopping child abuse are two common reasons given for creating an encryption backdoor. It's a fight that's been going on for years. Governments and law enforcement agencies want their own special keys to the locks protecting user data across the world, ostensibly to halt criminals in their tracks. Privacy campaigners and tech companies like Apple argue there's no effective way of limiting a backdoor to just the "good guys" and not the "bad guys" (even if it was easy to distinguish between the two, which it isn't). Apple's move in the UK—and the global implications Users in the UK now see a message like this. Credit: Lifehacker Apple's policy has long been that it will never offer backdoors to its encrypted data, so it would seem to have decided that its only other option is to pull ADP. Brits without ADP enabled can no longer turn it on, while those who do have the feature set up will have to eventually turn it off (though Apple hasn't said when). "Apple can no longer offer Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the United Kingdom to new users and current UK users will eventually need to disable this security feature," Apple spokesperson Julien Trosdorf told The Verge. "We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy." As you would expect given the sensitive nature of the issue, government officials in the UK haven't said anything about what's been reported—and you'll see Apple makes no direct reference to it either, because to publicize a demand made under the Investigatory Powers Act is itself a criminal offense. As for other organizations, such as Google and Meta, we're still in the dark. Presumably the UK government has made the same request, but details haven't leaked out—and no one involved can talk about it. Google and Meta, like Apple, have repeatedly said they're against encryption backdoors. It's a mess if you're in the UK (like me), but it affects everyone: Given the rather blurry national borders we now have in the internet age, UK agencies would most likely have been able to access end-to-end encrypted data from users across the world through this backdoor, which for now looks off the table. I've got ADP switched on, but unless the issue gets sorted out, I'll have to turn it off soon—meaning some of my iCloud data is more vulnerable to snooping again. As is often the case, it's ordinary users who end up losing out, while the debate on encryption backdoors rumbles on. View the full article

Corporate lay-offs are the first for coffee shop chain since 2018View the full article

Dropping things on your foot and rating how much it hurts is a growing trend on TikTok. The meme's popularity may be indicative of something deep and troubling in youth culture. So, maybe, is injecting butterflies and turning goth. You be the judge. What is "Amialivecore?" On his substack "The Trend Report," Kyle Raymond Fitzpatrick pulled together a ton of disparate cultural expressions among online youth to identify a style he calls "Amialivecore." Fitzpatrick posits that young people are subconsciously unsure if they are actually living human beings. I think he's onto something. My interpretation of the meaning of amialivecore: Since they were babies, young people's experiences are almost entirely unreal. Everything is mediated. They have "experiences" in video games. They see the world through the vertical window of TikTok videos. They only see their friends in online posts. They build personal philosophies from memes. Meanwhile, the companies and algorithms behind the social media platforms and video games have gotten really good at dehumanization. They've identified, commodified, and shaped their dreams, desires, thoughts, and feelings so thoroughly, it's impossible for young people to know how to live authentically. So they play-act and create content in place of living. For evidence, go to see a band kids like, and compare how many people have their phones out to shoot video and how many are dancing. According to Fitzpatrick, seemingly unrelated things like the TikTok trend of dropping objects on your feet and rating how much they hurt, wearing visible tape on your face in public, and spending your time consciously trying to find a personal style illustrate young people attempting to "problem solve the question of if you are alive and if your body works and if you are indeed present in the present." Maybe eating butterflies and suddenly becoming goth are expressions of amialivecore, too. Are teens injecting butterflies as part of an online challenge?No. I can't find any evidence of an "online challenge" involving injecting yourself with a butterfly, but that's what some sources claim inspired a Brazilian 14-year-old to crush a butterfly, mix it with water, and inject it into his leg. Things ended horribly for Davi Nunes Moreira: After a week suffering agonizing symptoms, he died in a hospital in Planalto, Brazil. Medical professionals aren't certain what caused the teen's death specifically: It could have been an allergic reaction, an infection, an embolism, or the butterfly itself might have been toxic. Point is, it's a bad idea to inject yourself with butterflies, but it's also a bad idea to report on "online challenges" that almost definitely don't exist. People have been killing themselves in stupid ways since people first came out. What is the "accidentally became important at work" meme? I'm fascinated by the meme-making generations getting older, confronting adult situations for the first time, and warning/informing each other through memes. That's the vibe behind the "becoming important at work" memes that are flooding social media this week. The idea is to attach the phrase "accidentally became important at work" to an image expressing the realization of what happens when you're "noticed" at work. Here are some examples: This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. What does “aura farming" mean?In slang, the word "aura" describes a person who is mysterious and cool. It's a positive thing. "Aura farming" on the other hand, is ambiguous. Depending on the context, it can refer to a person who does something cool without trying or someone who is trying too hard to appear cool. It's all about context. (For more slang definition to keep your vocab on fleek, check out my guide to Gen Z and Gen A slang.) Goth is back (not that it ever really went anywhere)Like the vampires that inspire it, goth never really dies; it just sleeps in its coffin until it's time to claims new victims. Judging from TikTok, the dark aesthetic and gloomy vibe of the subculture is gaining ground with young people; maybe it's based on the recent reboot of Nosferatu or maybe it's just because goth fits the times. While some goth markers that are perennial—black clothes, Joy Division, too much eyeliner—this generation's expression of the vibe is different in key ways from their grandparents' interpretation of it back in the early 1980s. Maybe it's because I'm thinking about amIalivecore, but nu-goths seems like more of a pose than a lifestyle. The look bends more toward the theatrical and gaudy than past generations. Today's goth feels more intentional and self-conscious, like the kids bought the clothes, watched some makeup tutorials, then said, "now I'm a goth!" Old goths tended to be pale, suicidal junkies that let other people call them "goth." Viral video of the week: baby at BenihanaDo you remember the first time you went to Benihana? The baby in this week's viral video is too young to form lasting memories of his first trip to the Japanese chain with the theatrical food presentation, but it makes a huge impression anyway. View the full article