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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

A Texas pipeline company’s lawsuit accusing Greenpeace of defamation, disruptions, and attacks during protests against the Dakota Access Pipeline goes to trial in North Dakota on Monday, in a case the environmental advocacy organization says threatens free speech rights and its very future. The lawsuit stems from the protests in 2016 and 2017 over the oil pipeline’s planned Missouri River crossing, upstream from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s reservation. The tribe has long argued that the pipeline threatens its water supply. Of the thousands of people who protested the project, hundreds were arrested. Energy Transfer and its subsidiary Dakota Access allege trespass, nuisance, defamation and other offenses by Netherlands-based Greenpeace International and its American branch, Greenpeace USA. The lawsuit also names the group’s funding arm, Greenpeace Fund Inc. The jury trial in state court in Mandan, North Dakota, is scheduled to last five weeks. What are details of the case? Dallas-based Energy Transfer alleges Greenpeace tried to delay construction of the pipeline, defamed the companies behind it, and coordinated trespassing, vandalism and violence by pipeline protesters. The lawsuit seeks millions of dollars in damages. The Dakota Access Pipeline was completed and has been transporting oil since June 2017. Greenpeace International said it shouldn’t be named in the lawsuit because it is distinct from the two U.S.-based Greenpeace entities, operates outside the U.S., and its employees were never in North Dakota or involved with the protests. Greenpeace USA said the plaintiffs have failed to back up their claims in the years since the protests. Earlier in February, a judge denied motions by Greenpeace to throw out or limit parts of the case. What is Greenpeace’s position? Representatives of the environmental organization founded over 50 years ago said the company just wants to silence oil industry critics. “This trial is a critical test of the future of the First Amendment, both freedom of speech and peaceful protest, under the Trump administration and beyond,” Greenpeace USA Interim Executive Director Sushma Raman told reporters. “A bad ruling in this case could put our rights and freedoms in jeopardy for all of us, whether we are journalists, protesters or anyone who wants to engage in public debate.” Greenpeace USA helped support “nonviolent, direct-action training” on safety and de-escalation at the protests, Senior Legal Adviser Deepa Padmanabha said. Energy Transfer is arguing that “anyone engaged in a training at a protest should be held responsible for the actions of every person at that protest,” Padmanabha said. “So it’s pretty easy to see how, if successful, this kind of tactic could have a serious chilling effect on anyone who might consider participating in a protest.” Earlier in February, Greenpeace International filed an anti-intimidation suit in the District Court of Amsterdam against Energy Transfer, saying the company acted wrongfully and should pay costs and damages resulting from its “meritless” litigation. What does Energy Transfer say? An Energy Transfer spokesperson said the lawsuit is about Greenpeace not following the law. “It is not about free speech as they are trying to claim. We support the rights of all Americans to express their opinions and lawfully protest. However, when it is not done in accordance with our laws, we have a legal system to deal with that,” Energy Transfer spokeswoman Vicki Granado said in a statement. The company filed a similar case in federal court in 2017, which a judge dismissed in 2019. Soon after, Energy Transfer filed the state court lawsuit now headed to trial. Energy Transfer launched in 1996 with 20 employees and 200 miles (320 kilometers) of natural gas pipelines. Today the 11,000-employee company owns and operates over 125,000 miles (200,000 kilometers) of pipelines and related facilities. —Jack Dura, Associated Press View 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

X launched two new features to help advertisers automate ad creation and analyze real-time ad campaign performance. The new features – Prefill with Grok and Analyze Campaign with Grok – are (as the names imply) powered by Grok, X’s AI assistant. Prefill with Grok. Enter your website URL and Grok will generate ad copy, imagery, and a call-to-action headline. You can tweak as needed. Here’s what it looks like: Analyze Campaign with Grok. Grok will analyze campaign data and offer insights and recommendations to optimize targeting and creative strategy. What’s next. The rollout, which began Feb. 21, will continue in phases to advertisers. Why we care. This move aims to streamline the ad creation process and make data-driven optimizations faster, cutting down on manual effort and potentially boosting campaign performance. The announcement. Grok for Advertisers: Introducing New AI Tools for Brands. 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

This post was written by Alison Green and published on Ask a Manager. A reader writes: We work in a completely open plan office, and are a PR/ creative services agency. There are separate meeting rooms, and two banks of unused desks round the side of the kitchen which feel slightly separate from the main seating area and are often used for hot desking or ad hoc meetings. We are mandated in the office three days a week. The guidelines are for everyone to be in Monday and Wednesday (these are our anchor days), and for teams to make an effort to choose the same third day to maximize the chances for in-person working on office days. We’re a small staff of around 25, so on some days the office can feel incredibly quiet. For the last six months or so, on and off, we’ve been playing the radio from a small Alexa speaker, which is controlled by whoever has taken the initiative to turn it on, and plays local radio stations or old school pop playlists. The speaker/radio was introduced following widespread feedback to the Employee Council after returning to the office that the environment was dead, with a specific request for music to played in the background. Despite majority support, there are a few people in the office who dislike having music in the office (understandably, can’t please everyone!), one of whom is my direct report, Julie. Whenever the radio is turned on, she visibly/audibly is annoyed and often abruptly packs up her desk and moves to the co-working area for the rest of the day, without saying anything to the team. The manner in which she does it could be read as passive-aggressive, and her working away from the team then makes the point of coming together in the office slightly null. Julie has previously formally complained to me about the music (in writing), and I handled it by speaking to her in person to explain that while I understood her frustrations, the music is not on all the time (about 10% of the time I’d say, since it’s often forgotten about) and that as an office, we want to be creating a “buzzy” atmosphere and the music is part of that and a specific request from the majority of the office. I also told her she’s welcome to leverage the co-working space when it feels too much, and that she can always speak to me if she feels the volume is too loud (personally, the HR manager and I don’t feel it is), so I can ask the person in control that day to turn it down. However, her huffy response each time the music comes on is starting to become really obvious to everyone in the office, and I worry it’s setting the wrong expectation of how we should interact with each other to her new employee, who only joined our team a few months ago. I think what jars the most is the lack of communication when she heads over to the other desk and the way it sets the tone from her for the rest of the day. Is there a better way for me to handle the situation? For what it’s worth, Julie listens to music in her headphones most days as standard throughout the day, and has previously vocalized that she’s unhappy working from the office due to her commute and would prefer to work from home. It’s not okay to be repeatedly huffy at work … but it’s impossible to tackle this without acknowledging that a lot of people would have trouble working with music on! It’s not unreasonable if Julie finds it tough to do that. And the fact that she listens to her own music through headphones doesn’t change that; people often have a certain type of background music that they can work easily with, while having a harder time focusing with something different. (One easily understood example would be someone who finds classical music helps them focus, but music with words breaks their concentration. The same can be true of music you know well — which might fade into a sort of pleasant background buzz — but less familiar music intrudes on your focus differently.) If you’re someone who can’t focus with certain types of music on but is told you have to be in the office “to be more productive” … well, that’s going to grate. And if you raise it to your manager and are told, essentially, “too bad because everyone else likes it” and “we want a buzzy atmosphere” … it’s going to feel pretty bad, like your ability to focus and do your job is less important than other people’s desire for “buzz.” (That’s why typically music in an office is one of those things where a veto from any one person should be decisive — especially when other people can use headphones to listen to what they want.) All that said, you’re in office that sometimes plays music and it doesn’t sound like that’s going to change — and Julie does have a space she can move to where it’s quieter. You’ve heard her out, you’ve told her the music is there to stay, and you allow her to move when she needs to. It’s reasonable to expect her to do that without obvious huffiness. To be clear, I’m sympathetic to Julie’s frustration. I’d find it hard as hell to write in the conditions you describe. But being obviously huffy about it every time she moves isn’t okay either. If she’s that upset, she needs to either revisit it with you or conclude the conditions of this job aren’t ones she can work with. That said … how huffy are we talking about? If she’s rolling her eyes and sighing heavily and storming off, that’s not okay and you should tell her she can’t do that. (Be prepared for her to be frustrated that you’re telling her to stop disrupting others but not stopping them from disrupting her … but if that happens, you can point out that injecting anger into a shared work environment is not the same thing as playing music.) But if it’s more that she’s quietly picking up her things and moving without saying anything … that doesn’t seem like such a problem. What real benefit is there to her announcing she’s moving every time? (If anything, it might be more disruptive if she declares it every time.) Again, obvious huffiness/frustration is not okay. If that’s what’s happening, I would say it this way: “I’m sympathetic to it being harder for you to work when music is playing, and I fully support you moving to a quieter area when you need to. I also understand why you’re frustrated. But when you roll your eyes and slam your things down, you’re making the work environment uncomfortable for others in a very different way. Again, it’s fine to move to a different space if you need to. I just need you to do it without the visible display of frustration.” But you should also recognize that you’ve put her in a situation where she’s required to work from an environment that would be tough for a lot of people to focus in. 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

German election winner says he will hold talks with other parties to adopt constitutional change in next 30 daysView the full article

Nathan Gill made comments and wrote media articles on Ukraine while an MEP, court hears View the full article

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

Israeli prime minister’s office describes Friedrich Merz’s gesture as ‘overt defiance’ of international courtView 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

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

Engaging staff in proactive fraud detection can be critical in spotting issues early. Quick Tech Talk With Steve Yoss CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Stephen Yoss. View the full article

Engaging staff in proactive fraud detection can be critical in spotting issues early. Quick Tech Talk With Steve Yoss CPE Today Go PRO for members-only access to more Stephen Yoss. 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

Measuring marketing effectiveness is essential for any business investing in multiple channels. Two popular approaches – multi-touch attribution and marketing mix modeling – help marketers understand which strategies drive results. This article tackles the key differences between each attribution method to help you determine which one best fits your business needs. The growing need for smarter marketing attribution With Google’s recent update to its open-source marketing mix model, Meridian, interest in marketing mix analysis and channel modeling has surged. While enterprise brands have long benefited from these insights, smaller businesses running multi-channel marketing can also gain value. Two leading methodologies have emerged to tackle this challenge: Multi-touch attribution (MTA). Marketing mix modeling (MMM). Both aim to measure marketing effectiveness but differ significantly in methodology, scope, and application. Every business investing in marketing needs to assess whether its efforts are paying off. SEO, email campaigns, search ads, and social media all demand time and budget. But without the right measurement approach, it’s difficult to know which channels truly drive results. Many marketers rely on in-platform data, but this only provides a partial view due to differing attribution models and settings. Third-party attribution tools attempt to bridge the gap, but they often favor specific marketing channels and impose predefined attribution rules, which may not align with long-term business goals. For businesses serious about optimizing their marketing, a customized approach is essential – one that fully leverages their own data while integrating additional insights. This is where MTA and MMM shine. Dig deeper: 7 must-know marketing attribution definitions to avoid getting gamed Understanding the basics Multi-touch attribution Multi-touch attribution is a digital-first methodology that tracks individual customer interactions across various touchpoints in their journey to purchase. It assigns credit to each marketing touchpoint based on its contribution to the final conversion. Operating at a granular, user-level scale, MTA collects data from cookies, device IDs, and other digital identifiers to create a detailed picture of the customer journey. MTA is commonly supported by marketing channels like Google Ads, which offer different attribution settings – data-driven being the most recommended. However, first and last touch models are not considered part of MTA, as they only account for a single touchpoint. Beyond in-platform attribution, most analytics tools also support multi-touch attribution. For SMBs with strong tracking and high data quality, these tools can be sufficient. However, taking attribution to the next level requires a customized MTA by: Using a tool that allows customization. Or building custom attribution reports, often in combination with a data warehouse. A tailored MTA ensures attribution is aligned with your business and customer journey, leading to more accurate insights. The need for a customized MTA becomes clear with the following example: Imagine a user encounters two social touchpoints – an Instagram ad and a TikTok ad – before converting through a Google Search ad. A standard MTA might allocate 20% credit to each social channel for awareness and 60% to Google Search, assuming search played the most crucial role due to its intent-driven nature. Instagram ad: 20% TikTok ad: 20% Google Search: 60% You might conclude that increasing your Google Ads budget and investing more in search is the right move. While this could work, it could also backfire – without a customized MTA, your decision-making may be flawed. Let’s take a closer look at the user journey to see what might be wrong: Instagram ad – Cold awareness: 50% TikTok ad – Remarketing: 40% Google Search – Branded search: 10% Instead of Google Search being the primary driver, it could be that: Instagram is generating initial awareness. TikTok is handling remarketing. Google is simply capturing conversions from users already familiar with your brand. In this case, increasing Google Ads spend wouldn’t necessarily drive more sales. It would just reinforce the final step while neglecting the earlier, more influential touchpoints. With this in mind, MTA weightings can look completely different. Investing more in cold traffic and remarketing while minimizing spend on Google Search might be the smarter approach, as search doesn’t generate demand but rather supports the last step and defends your brand against competitors. This example highlights why a customized MTA is essential. It allows you to tailor attribution to your specific strategy, funnel, and customer journey. However, if data quality is poor or customization is lacking, it can lead to inaccurate insights, poor decisions, and short-term thinking. Marketing mix modeling Marketing mix modeling, on the other hand, takes a top-down, aggregate approach. It analyzes historical marketing spend across channels along with external factors to assess their impact on business outcomes. Using advanced statistical techniques, MMM identifies correlations between marketing investments and results. An effective marketing mix model incorporates both historical and current data, making it resilient to outliers and short-term fluctuations. Depending on the model, it also allows for the inclusion of seasonal trends, industry benchmarks, growth rates, and marketing volume. Additionally, MMM can account for brand awareness and loyalty in base sales, as well as measure incremental sales. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. MTA vs. MMM: Key differences MTA is a valuable tool for digital marketing teams that need immediate insights and real-time tracking to optimize campaigns quickly. Its granular data helps marketers refine conversion paths and personalize customer interactions. However, increasing privacy restrictions and the phase-out of third-party cookies make MTA more challenging to implement effectively. Additionally, its digital-first nature means it struggles to account for offline marketing efforts and may lead businesses to prioritize short-term conversions over long-term brand growth. MMM, by contrast, provides a broader, privacy-friendly approach that captures both digital and offline marketing performance. It is particularly useful for long-term budget planning, helping businesses allocate resources effectively across multiple channels. However, its reliance on historical data and aggregate trends makes it less suited for rapid campaign adjustments. Companies that operate across both digital and traditional marketing channels may benefit from combining MTA’s real-time insights with MMM’s strategic guidance for a more balanced approach. Dig deeper: How to evolve your PPC measurement strategy for a privacy-first future Open-source marketing mix models Open-source marketing mix models are widely used for several reasons. They are free, making them an attractive alternative to expensive enterprise tools. Another key advantage is transparency. Since these models can be reviewed, businesses are not reliant on “black box” solutions. Some of the most notable open-source models include: Meridian. Robyn (from Meta). PyMC Marketing. To determine which model best suits your needs, it’s helpful to experiment by uploading test datasets and exploring their functionalities. While these models share a common approach, they differ in customization depth and fine-tuning capabilities. In my experience, Meridian is the most advanced, offering deep integration with first-party, organic, and third-party data. However, its complexity may require a steeper learning curve. For a quicker setup, Robyn from Meta is a solid starting point. Hybrid approach As marketing measurement evolves, organizations increasingly adopt hybrid approaches that combine the strengths of both MTA and MMM. This unified framework aims to: Leverage MTA’s granular digital insights for tactical optimization. Use MMM for strategic planning and budget allocation. Cross-validate findings between both methodologies. Provide a more complete view of marketing effectiveness. For digital-first companies, MTA is often the preferred starting point, offering real-time insights for rapid campaign adjustments. In contrast, businesses investing heavily in traditional marketing tend to benefit more from MMM, as it: Aligns with privacy regulations. Accounts for external factors. Delivers a holistic view of marketing performance. A hybrid approach provides the best of both worlds – combining MTA’s agility with MMM’s long-term perspective. While managing both requires additional resources, businesses implementing this strategy gain precise, channel-specific insights and a broader strategic understanding. This dual approach is particularly valuable for organizations balancing short-term performance optimization with sustainable, long-term growth. Boost your marketing performance with the right attribution model Both MTA and MMM offer valuable insights into marketing effectiveness, but they serve different purposes and have distinct advantages. As the marketing landscape becomes more complex and privacy-focused, it’s essential to assess your measurement needs and capabilities to determine the best approach – or a combination of both. The future of marketing measurement likely lies in hybrid solutions that blend MTA’s granular insights with MMM’s strategic perspective while adapting to evolving privacy regulations and technological changes. By integrating these methodologies, you’ll be better equipped to optimize marketing investments and drive long-term business growth. View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today...View the full article

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

Vivek Ramaswamy, the Cincinnati-born biotech entrepreneur who departed the Department of Government Efficiency initiative on President Donald Trump’s first day, was expected to launch his bid for Ohio governor Monday. Ramaswamy, 39, is set to kick off his campaign in Cincinnati, joining the 2026 Republican primary just a month after presumed frontrunner and then-Lt. Gov. Jon Husted left the running to take a U.S. Senate appointment. Ramaswamy sought the GOP nomination for president in 2024 before dropping out to back Trump, who later tapped him to co-chair the efficiency initiative with billionaire Elon Musk. A near-billionaire himself, Ramaswamy has promoted his ties to Trump as he lines up key endorsements and donors in the governor’s race, but the president has made no formal endorsement yet. Ramaswamy joins a competitive GOP primary field to succeed Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, 78, a veteran center-right politician who is term-limited. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost announced a bid for the seat in January and Heather Hill, a Black entrepreneur from Appalachia, also is running. Dr. Amy Acton, the former state health director who helped lead Ohio through the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, is running as a Democrat. They will compete in a former bellwether state that has tacked reliably red in recent years, having voted for Trump three times by more than 8 percentage points. Republicans also hold every statewide executive office, a majority on the Ohio Supreme Court and supermajorities in both legislative chambers. Ramaswamy, who is Hindu, outlined the 10 core beliefs featured in his presidential campaign — led by “God is real” followed by “there are two genders” — in the 2024 book, “Truths: The Future of America First.” He first rose to political prominence with his 2021 book, “Woke Inc: Inside Corporate America’s Social Justice Scam,” a scorching critique of corporations that he said use social justice causes as a smokescreen for self-interested policies. He seeks to buck the traditional route to Ohio’s governorship, which runs through extensive government service often stretching decades, and instead mount a Trump-style ascent into the job directly from the business world. The formula has worked for Vice President JD Vance and U.S. Sen. Bernie Moreno, two political newcomers who won Senate seats with the help of Trump’s endorsement in 2022 and 2024, respectively. But Ramaswamy will test it in a state government-level race for the first time in recent memory. DeWine passed Ramaswamy over to appoint Husted to the Senate seat vacated by Vance, citing Husted’s decades of elective experience. The gubernatorial bid by Husted, a former Ohio House speaker and secretary of state, had locked down many key endorsements and wealthy donors, who are now largely free agents. Yost joined the race as rumors circulated that Ramaswamy was planning a run. Since then, however, Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague and Republican Secretary of State Frank LaRose have endorsed Ramaswamy. —Julie Carr Smyth, Associated Press View 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

Confusion and chaos loom as hundreds of thousands of federal employees begin their workweek on Monday facing a deadline from President Donald Trump’s cost-cutting chief, Elon Musk, to explain their recent accomplishments or risk losing their jobs. Musk’s unusual demand has faced resistance from several key U.S. agencies led by the president’s loyalists—including the FBI, State Department, Homeland Security, and the Pentagon—which instructed their employees over the weekend not to comply. Lawmakers in both parties said that Musk’s mandate may be illegal, while unions are threatening to sue. Trump over the weekend called for Musk to be more aggressive in his cost-cutting crusade through the so-called Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE, and posted a meme on social media mocking federal employees who “cried about Trump and Elon.” Musk’s team sent an email to hundreds of thousands of federal employees on Saturday giving them roughly 48 hours to report five specific things they had accomplished last week. In a separate message on X, Musk said any employee who failed to respond by the deadline—set in the email as 11:59 p.m. EST Monday—would lose their job. Mass confusion followed on the eve of the deadline as some agencies resisted the order, others encouraged their workers to comply, and still others offered conflicting guidance. One message on Sunday morning from the Department of Health and Human Services, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., instructed its roughly 80,000 employees to comply. That was shortly after the acting general counsel, Sean Keveney, had instructed some not to. And by Sunday evening, agency leadership issued new instructions that employees should “pause activities” related to the request until noon on Monday. “I’ll be candid with you. Having put in over 70 hours of work last week advancing Administration’s priorities, I was personally insulted to receive the below email,” Keveney said in an email viewed by the Associated Press that acknowledged a broad sense of “uncertainty and stress” within the agency. Keveney laid out security concerns and pointed out some of the work done by the agency’s employees may be protected by attorney-client privilege: “I have received no assurances that there are appropriate protections in place to safeguard responses to this email.” Democrats and even some Republicans, including Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, were critical of Musk’s ultimatum. “If I could say one thing to Elon Musk, it’s like, please put a dose of compassion in this,” Curtis, whose state has 33,000 federal employees, said on CBS’ “Face the Nation.” “These are real people. These are real lives. These are mortgages. . . . It’s a false narrative to say we have to cut and you have to be cruel to do it as well.” Newly confirmed FBI Director Kash Patel, an outspoken Trump ally, instructed employees to ignore Musk’s request, at least for now. “The FBI, through the Office of the Director, is in charge of all of our review processes, and will conduct reviews in accordance with FBI procedures,” Patel wrote in an email confirmed by the AP. “When and if further information is required, we will coordinate the responses. For now, please pause any responses.” Ed Martin, interim U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia, sent his staff a message Sunday that may have caused more confusion. “Let me clarify: We will comply with this OPM request whether by replying or deciding not to reply,” Martin wrote in the email obtained by the AP, referring to the Office of Personnel Management. “Please make a good faith effort to reply and list your activities (or not, as you prefer), and I will, as I mentioned, have your back regarding any confusion,” Martin continued. “We can do this.” Officials at the Departments of State, Defense, and Homeland Security were more consistent. Tibor Nagy, acting undersecretary of state for management, told employees in an email that department leadership would respond on behalf of workers. “No employee is obligated to report their activities outside of their Department chain of command,” Nagy wrote in an email. Pentagon leadership instructed employees to “pause” any response to Musk’s team, according to an email from Jules Hurst, the deputy undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. The Homeland Security Department, meanwhile, told employees that “no reporting action from you is needed at this time” and that agency managers would respond, according to an email from R.D. Alles, deputy undersecretary for management. Thousands of government employees have already been forced out of the federal workforce—either by being fired or through a “deferred resignation” offer—during the first month of Trump’s second term. There is no official figure available for the total firings or layoffs so far, but the AP has tallied hundreds of thousands of workers who are being affected. Many work outside of Washington. Musk on Sunday called his latest request “a very basic pulse check.” “The reason this matters is that a significant number of people who are supposed to be working for the government are doing so little work that they are not checking their email at all!” Musk wrote on X. “In some cases, we believe non-existent people or the identities of dead people are being used to collect paychecks. In other words, there is outright fraud.” He has provided no evidence of such fraud. Separately, Musk and Trump have falsely claimed in recent days that tens of millions of dead people over 100 years old are receiving Social Security payments. Meanwhile, thousands of other employees are preparing to leave the federal workforce this coming week, including probationary civilian workers at the Pentagon and all but a fraction of U.S. Agency for International Development staffers through cuts or leave. Peoples reported from New York. Associated Press writers Byron Tau, Ellen Knickmeyer, Matthew Perrone and Tara Copp in Washington and Valerie Gonzalez in McAllen, Texas, contributed to this report. —Steve Peoples, Eric Tucker and Amanda Seitz, Associated Press View the full article