Fascinated about high-dynamic images? You can do that too with HDR effects using Photoshop.

What is the HDR effect? 

High Dynamic Range or HDR is a photo-editing technique that involves 2 or more images merged to bring vibrancy to a photo with very vivid colors.

How to make HDR effects in Photoshop?

Creating HDR effects on photos may sound easy to do, but it is not. The truth is, there are a lot of steps to follow. Nonetheless, if you can work on a few of them, you’ll get to familiarize how it is done, making it a lot easier for the next Photoshop project with HDR effects.

Both Photoshop online and PC-installed Photoshop software have a similar process when creating HDR effects. If you are new to photo-editing using Photoshop, here are easy steps in creating HDR effects using Photoshop.

Step #1: Upload the image you want to edit to Photoshop.

Step #2: Create a duplicate layer of the image. To do this, click the ‘Layer’ option found in the Photoshop taskbar. Select the ‘Duplicate Layer’.

Step #3: Convert the duplicate layer image into a smart object by clicking ‘Convert to Smart Object’. Converting the image to ‘Smart Object’ will allow fine-tuning of the image.

Step #4: Go to ‘Image’ on the taskbar. And then, click the ‘Adjustments’. Finally, choose ‘Shadow/Highlights’ to adjust the settings to brighten up the shadows in the photo. Here is the Standard Setting for Shadows, but you can tweak it, according to your preference:

• Amount (Shadows) is at 60 percent.
• Tonal Width is at 55 percent.
• Radius is at 100 px.

Step #5: Unsharp the mask by clicking the ‘Filter’ option in the Photoshop taskbar. And then choose ‘Sharpen’ and select ‘Unsharp Mask’. To set it up, you may follow the settings:

• Amount (Unsharp Mask) is at 85 percent.
• Radius is at 5.0.
• The threshold is at 0.

This photo-editing step will help a portion of the subject image to stand out nicely. And if it is a picture of you, it’ll nicely stand out your eyes

Step #6: Add depth to your photo. First, click the ‘Image’ option in the taskbar. And then, select the Brightness/Contrast option. You may leave the Brightness as it is but set the Contrast at 40.

Step #7: Have the Merged layer ‘Active’ and set it to ‘Overlay’ to blend the original photo with the edited one. And then, make some adjustments if needed.

And the newly edited photo is set to go.

Final Thoughts

The steps provided are one of the easiest steps out there in making HDR effects by using Photoshop. You may use the settings provided or you may edit the settings according to your preferences. However, it is recommended that you try out other techniques in making HDR effects to get the result that you find more appealing and perfect.

Also, try working on various photos to expand your photoshopping skills in terms of creating HDR effects. See tutorials for a better understanding of making HDR effects. Lastly, if you are using an online Photoshop tool, make sure to use one from a well-versed website with several Photoshop features to offer.

Did you recently move to your first home with a garden, and you are thrilled about it? Are you ready to do work around the house and see how things change after you touch them? If you have a garden, then you will also have a lot of work to do with the lawn. If you want it to look healthy and green all the time, you need to take good care of it, and this involves watering and trimming regularly. If you don’t want to waste too much time mowing the lawn, then you need to buy the right lawnmower. For those who haven’t used a lawnmower before, selecting one can be a daunting task, but this is what we are here for. We know a lot about the wide selection of lawnmowers available on the market, and we are happy to help you make the right choice.

For example, we know how to guide you towards a top-rated electric lawn mower if you decide that this is the type of device you need. Here are the things you need to know to evaluate and choose an electric lawn mower that suits your needs and preferences.

1. Electric lawnmowers are an environmentally friendly option, at least when compared to traditional, gas-powered models. It is easy to start an electric lawnmower, with the flip of a switch, and what people love about them is that they run quietly. However, they require an electrical power source, which creates limitations for these mowers. It is why it is important to make sure that they represent the best option for your own needs.

2. Consider the size of the lawn. If you have a big lawn and opt for a corded electric lawnmower, you need to plug it into an electrical socket. A corded electric lawn mower is not a wise solution for a big lawn. A cordless electric lawnmower runs on a battery that lasts approximately one hour. It is a good solution for a medium-sized lawn but not a good option for a big lawn. If the lawn requires a couple of hours to be mowed, then a cordless electric lawnmower might turn this into a 3 to 4 hours’ job because the battery needs recharging.

3. Consider the grass type that you have. If the grass is very thick, then an electric lawnmower is not a wise choice, and it is best to turn your attention to a gas-powered device.

There are dozens of options available on the market, and you need to consider personal preferences and the lawn’s type and size if you want to make a choice that you will not later regret. If you feel the need to discuss different models now on the market, there are plenty of websites that provide detailed reviews and comparisons. Use the information available on these sites to make the choice that best suits your needs, as well as your preferences.

Maybe you are reaching an age at which heart disease comes with greater risk, or you are diagnosed with hypertension, and your doctor wants you to monitor your blood pressure at home. Regardless of what your reason for buying a home blood pressure monitor is, one thing is clear: the offer is diverse and you might become a bit confused. This is why we would like to share these six things that you need to know before you spend your money on such a tool.

1. Size is important. The most important feature to check when you select a home blood pressure monitor is the cuff size. The size of the cuff relates directly to the circumference of the upper arm. If you select a cuff that doesn’t fit, the risk of inaccurate readings is high. Measure your upper arm and verify the cuff size before you make a choice.

2. Arm cuffs are recommended to the detriment of wrist cuffs. There are plenty of models that use wrist cuffs. However, we don’t recommend those because they aren’t as accurate as the models that use upper arm cuffs.

3. Don’t overpay. Don’t worry about spending a small fortune on a home blood pressure monitor because they are not that expensive. Yes, some models brag about their functions, but you need something simple that shows your blood pressure. Just that and nothing else. It is why you should avoid the complex models that claim to show you all sorts of other body measurements.

4. Smart apps are not that smart. Any app store is packed with apps that claim to show you the blood pressure. They have been tested, and they don’t work. They are not accurate, which is why you should avoid them.

5. Check for accuracy. Once you find a home blood pressure that suits your needs and preferences, take it to your doctor’s office and check it against the office monitor. It will show you how accurate the tool is. In case it is not accurate enough, you can have it sent back to the seller and get your money back.

6. Take three measurements. If you want to be sure that you are getting the correct heart blood pressure, take three different measurements. Wait for 30 to 60 seconds after the first measurement and another 30 to 60 seconds after the second one.

If you are ready to buy a home blood pressure monitor and checked the offer available but you feel a bit confused, read more here about how to select the right tool. There are a few monitors that stand out compared to others, and we know everything about them. We are happy to share the information with you, so access the link above for a quick and easy guide on how to select a home blood pressure monitor that you will be happy about. There are plenty of good options. You just have to find them.

There are a lot of advantages of growing plants, especially when you have a well-spaced yard. But how about people who live in an apartment? Can they grow two or more plants too? Yes, they can. Check this post to find out how.

One of the common reasons why people who live in an apartment or condominium or in cities where concrete homes are predominant can’t grow plants is due to lack of quality space. However, that should not stop you from growing herbs or some simple houseplants.

How?

Here are some useful tips that will guarantee you a successful apartment gardening:

#1: Choose the right plant

One of the common reasons why it is challenging to grow plants in apartment areas is due to the wrong choice of plants to grow. You can grow plants inside your apartment homes, but not all types of plants can grow healthily.

Here are some of the top plants that you can grow inside your apartment:

• Several herbs can grow well in containers; these include mint, chives, lavender, parsley, thyme, basil, and more. Check Fig & Spruce and find out how to grow herbs well using small containers.
• Tomatoes, although they can get heavy, these plants grow well too in pots. However, you need a container at least 30 inches in diameter.
• Salad greens can also be grown in your apartment; these include lettuce, spinach, and more.
• Meyer lemons are the easiest citrus to grow. Since it does not grow big, this dwarf citrus tree is conducive for indoor setup. However, the plant requires 6 – 8 hours of sun per day; so, place the small tree at your balcony or the window to receive nutrients from the sun.
• Strawberry plants can also be grown in your apartment, even in a small-sized container. However, it requires at least 6 hours of sun per day; so, it should be placed at your window or balcony. Also, it requires constant watering to make the soil moist, but not soggy.

#2: Choose the right spot

If you have figured out which plant to grow, you should look for the right location where it can live. Windows with less light (north-facing) or more light (south-facing)? Or are you growing a plant that requires enough space in your apartments such as at the balcony, patio, or roof access? Or are you planning to have some vertical or hanging gardens?

Before choosing a spot, you should understand how the plant grows. Does it require hours of sunlight or can it live without too much of it? Does it require enough ventilation or can it be placed inside the apartment? Know your plants before growing one.

#3: Know what container to use

One of the best things about growing the small plant indoors is how cheap you can go with the containers. But how big do you need your containers? Try to read about the plant and learn how it grows before deciding on what type of container will the plant live in.

Final Thoughts

Study about the plant that you want to grow in your apartment; including the following:

• Learn how and when to feed it with fertilizer and if it requires one.
• Learn when to water the plants.
• Learn when to harvest.
• Learn how to solve pest problems.

Though starting a dropshipping business is quite easy, this business venture is more complicated than you imagine. It has many risks and legal issues. Learn how to avoid these legal issues and ensure success in this business. 

Is it possible to sell products and earn money without inventory? Yes, it is possible in dropshipping.

Dropshipping is a retail fulfillment method where online stores do not need to touch the product inventories. The store purchases the product from a third-party supplier who then ships the products directly to customers. Thus, the seller has no hand in the processing and shipping of the products.

The concept of dropshipping is to help aspiring entrepreneurs start a business without the need for high capital. Unfortunately, this eCommerce scheme raises a lot of questions in terms of ethics from the customer’s perspective. Moreover, there are risks of legal issues concerning copyright, infringement, and trademark that you need to look out for.

As someone interested to venture this type of business, it is essential to do consistent research about dropshipping’s legalities. Learning the ins and outs of this business reduces the risks of legal issues. To ensure that you are operating your dropshipping business ethically and legally, here are some ways to avoid common dropshipping legal issues.

#1 Get a Business License

The first step in legalizing your dropshipping store is to obtain a business license. It limits your liability and reduces the chances of having legal issues in the future. Likewise, owning a business license boosts your store’s legitimacy in the eyes of customers and suppliers. Hence, more customers and suppliers will trust your store.

#2 Find a Good and Reliable Supplier

Some seller and customer issues in dropshipping sometimes stem from a fraudulent supplier. Thus, make sure to look for a legal supplier. You can look for recommendations online from trustworthy sources. Also, inspect the supplier’s terms and reputation. Communicate with the supplier and ask questions. If the supplier is unable to answer your questions and fails to clarify their terms, you should reconsider dealing with them.

#3 Practice Customer and Marketing Ethics 

The intense competition between sellers in dropshipping is undeniable.

As a result, many sellers increase product prices to gain more revenues. Increasing product prices is reasonable to an extent. However, inflating prices is unethical for customers. Do not manipulate the prices for the sake of gaining more profit.

Also, make sure to abide by ethical marketing. Follow the practices of good marketing to avoid legal, copyright, and trademark issues.

#4 Establish Clear Terms, Conditions, and Refund Policy

Having terms, conditions, and refund policy are significant in a business regardless of its nature. These policies protect both the rights of the seller and customers. Moreover, establishing these rules and regulations gives assurance on the part of the customers, as well as boosting their confidence and loyalty to your store.

#5 Stay Away from Prohibited Products

Focus only on appropriate products to sell. No matter how profitable a certain product is, make sure to stay away from it if it is illegal. For example, avoid selling trademarked products. Selling such products will put your store in jeopardy, if not now but in the future. Selling a product from a well-known brand with a trademark is illegal.

If you want to enjoy a good nights sleep, there are several factors to consider. A good nights sleep only comes with the right temperature, a top-quality mattress, no distracting noises, special light, and a good pillow. The pillow is considered a major player. It is important to opt for a comfortable, good-quality pillow if you want to avoid tossing and turning that can keep you awake.

Why does the pillow matter so much? The answer to this question is simple: it helps improve the sleeping posture, thus improving the quality of sleep. A good sleeping posture avoids the aches and pains that you probably experience in the morning regularly, so this is why you need to choose the right pillow. If you dont know how to do this, the professionals at restwithstyle.com are more than happy to help. Also, check out the tips and tricks below.

• Keep in mind that choosing the right pillow is largely based on personal preferences, although there are certain details to consider.
• If you are a back sleeper, the best choice is a pillow that supports your neck and head. However, make sure that you dont select one that keeps your head high in an unnatural position.
• Side sleepers should select a pillow that holds the head in a neutral position and aligned with the spine. When you sleep on your side, the shoulder takes most of the pressure off the body. It is why the best option would be a full, firm pillow that gives your neck much-needed support.
• If you sleep on your stomach, this is the most stressful position for your back and neck. Experts recommend training yourself to change the position, but we know how difficult it is to change an old habit. It is why you should select a pillow that is softer and less full. Such a pillow keeps the spine in a position as neutral as possible.

When it comes to replacing the pillow that you use, the general recommendation is to do this every 18 months. You should do this even if you take good care of it. If you are not willing to replace your pillow that often, you should opt for a memory foam pillow as this will last longer. The life span of memory foam pillows is of around three years. If you are not sure whether or not it is time to replace the pillow, check it for a few signs. Does it smell funny? Is it stained? Do you see any tears and holes? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, then you should begin shopping for a new pillow. Opt for something comfortable and supportive. If it has a beautiful design and a cozy cover, that is a plus. There are plenty of good options available on the market. All you have to do is to select the one that is right for you.

Are you looking for the best welding helmet for you? Check this post to learn more about your options.

A welding helmet is an essential personal protective equipment to have safe welding. As per ANSI standards, all welding helmets should be CSA compliant. But how do you choose the best welding helmet for you when there are a lot of options available? To narrow all the options down, here is a list of important factors when purchasing the best welding helmet.

#1: Viewing Area

Look for a welding helmet with a wider viewing area and quality optics that will allow you to easily see the weld and the welding area, especially the contours and edges. Also, a welding helmet with a clearer and wider view will help you accurately attach the electrodes.

#2: Helmet Weight

A heavy welding helmet will do no good to your neck and your back, especially when you’ll be welding for hours. If you are planning to review all the popular welding helmets to reduce the options, try to look for a helmet that is lightweight and designed with pivot-style bands that can shift and evenly distribute the helmet’s weight.

#3: Powerful Lens

Do you need a variable shade lens or a single-fixed? One of the critical factors to consider when choosing a welding helmet is the lens. And there are two most popular types of welding helmets according to the helmet – standard lens and auto-darkening lens.

The standard welding helmet is known as the passive welding helmet. It has a static infrared and UV filter, which is usually graded at #10 shades. Most of the standard helmets are less expensive, but it is not recommended to a restricted area or confined spaces because there is no room to flip the helmet up and down. Plus, since the standard welding helmet is not an ergonomic option, using it for hours may cause neck pain or discomfort.

A welding helmet with an auto-darkening lens is more advanced than the standard. Although it can be a bit expensive, you do not have to waste your time flipping your helmet up or down to see your work or do your work, respectively. Instead, the helmet’s lenses will automatically increase its shade when the welder strikes the arc but will automatically lower the shade when the welder stops welding to see the work. Sounds interesting? Get more details about welding helmets to understand more how this works.

#4: Personal Preference

Aside from the weight, lens, and viewing area, you should also consider looking for a welding helmet that is comfortable and easy to use, where you won’t feel any discomfort wearing the helmet even for an extended period.

#5: Budget

How much are you willing to spend on a welding helmet? If you are looking for the best welding helmet that meets the safety standards and your welding needs, you should not compromise quality over its price.

There are several different welding helmets out there, but to get the best, you should consider using the pointers and read reliable posts and product reviews before reaching a decision.

Are you planning to get a mobility scooter for an elderly loved one or yourself? But got no idea which one to choose? You should continue reading this.

Mobility scooters are now getting a lot of recognition from a lot of elderlies who want to keep their independence. However, with a myriad of options in the market today, choosing the right mobility scooter is not an easy task. Fortunately, here is a list of tips on how to choose the right mobility scooter.

Tip #1: Choose between a 3-wheel or a 4-wheel scooter

There are two main types of scooters – 3 wheel and 4-wheel scooters. Which one should you choose?

• 3-wheel scooters: These scooters are easier to maneuver and steer than the 4-wheel scooters. These offer more legroom than the 4-wheel, which is great for taller individuals. However, since the scooter is a 3-wheeler one, riding it on uneven or rough terrain is not safe. Unless you know how to maneuver the scooter correctly.
• 4-wheel scooters: These scooters are more stable than 3-wheel scooters. It is ideal for rough and uneven terrains. Even though the 3-wheeler scooters offer more legroom than the 4-wheeler, you will find a lot of 4-wheeler scooters designed with lower wheel arches and longer chassis, which is perfect for taller individuals. On this website motorgearlab.com, there are well-reviewed 4-wheel and 3-wheel scooters that you can get additional details on which type of scooter is the best.

Tip #2: Choose the right scooter size

One of the crucial factors to consider when purchasing a mobility scooter is the scooter size. Choosing the right size allows you to maneuver the scooter smoothly and safely. Here is a list of the main sizes of mobility scooters that you can find in the market today:

• Portable scooters (small)

These scooters are ideal for individuals who are not over 180 cm and individuals who are over 100 kg. And because of their relatively small solid tires, these types of scooters are ideal for smooth and flat terrains. Additionally, portable scooters are easy to dismantle.

Portable scooters run 8km/h at a maximum range of 15-30 km per charge.

• Medium-sized scooters

These types of scooters are the most popular type of scooters, which are suitable for general outdoor transport use and indoor use. These are designed with adjustable seating, suspension, lights for night use, and pneumatic tires for safe and easy transport.

Medium-sized scooters run 12km/h at a maximum range of 25-35 km per charge.

• Large-sized scooters

These types of scooters are suitable for heavy-weight users up to 220 kg. Large-sized scooters offer a softer and deluxe-riding experience with extended legroom. Also, these scooters can handle steep hills, uneven terrain, and long-distance travel.

Large-sized scooters run 15 km/h at 40-50 km per charge.

Tip #3: Choose according to your budget

How much are you willing to pay for a mobility scooter? If you want to have a mobility scooter with better safety features, you should not hesitate to pay for more. On the contrary, you can always choose a less expensive mobility scooter, but make sure it is worth your money.

What are the tell-tale signs that you need to upgrade your headphones? Find out here when is the right time to replace your headphones to avoid wasting time and money. 

Use a cinema headphone and your movie experience will never be the same. The device makes you feel the sounds, thus allowing you to immerse yourself into the movie.

A cinema headphone lifespan depends on the quality of the device. Some could last for a few years. Meanwhile, others have shorter longevity. Likewise, take into account that cinema headphones are more expensive than conventional ones. If you don’t want to spend a lot of cash from always replacing your cinema headphone with a new one, check out these common earphone issues first.

How to tell when to replace your cinema headphones? 

There is no fixed time when to replace a headphone. However, you can observe these tell-tale signs to help you find out whether your cinema headphone requires replacement or not.

#1 The Cups are Falling Off

There is no more obvious sign than this. If your headphone’s cups are falling off, better change with a new one.

Also, inspect if the cushions are worn out. A thin cushion feels hurts the ears. The discomfort becomes unbearable, especially when using the headphone for a longer duration. Listening to music or watching movies should be your escape from stress, not to make you feel soreness and fatigue instead.

#2 Audio Controls are Not Working

Sometimes the problem is not on the durability of the headphone but its system. If your headphone no longer produces sounds, revisit the device’s menu settings, for you might have accidentally tweaked on its program. If there is no issue with the device’s settings, then the problem could be on the audio controls itself.

The signs of a faulty audio control are when you can adjust the volume of the headphone. Additionally, the device can’t perform its functions such as repeating tracks, play, pause, or skip.

#3 Distorts High Volumes

A headphone in good condition sounds well at low and high levels. However, a defective one distorts high volumes and gets increasingly worse when turned up higher.

 

#4 The Wires are Damaged

If you are using a wired cinema headphone, check the device’s cable for damages. Tears and breaks on the wire are enough indicators that your headphone needs replacement.

A damaged wire is a common issue on this type of headphone. If you don’t want the inconveniences of cables, see some great choices here of high-quality wireless cinema headphones.

#5 Static Connection

Although wireless headphones are more convenient and hassle-free, it does not mean they have no downsides.

Over time, wireless headphones have become obsolete. Take note that Bluetooth upgrades now and then. Thus, if you are using an older Bluetooth version, chances are your headphone has a static or spotty connection. Likewise, there is the issue of compatibility.

The next time you buy a wireless cinema headphone, consider the Bluetooth feature of the device. Make sure to buy one with the latest features.

If your cinema headphones have these issues, now is the right time to replace them. You can always seek assistance from reliable sources on how to find the best cinema headphones this year.

Hammocks are not exclusively for outdoor use; you can hang them indoors too. But how sturdy your hammock can get when hanged inside your home?

Hanging the hammock inside the house is not as easy a task as hanging it outside. Fortunately, there are ways on how to hang the hammock inside your home without overlooking efficiency and safety. Below is a list of how you should do it:

#1: Choose between three hanging options

There are several ways to hang a hammock indoors, but these three are the most popular – using a hammock stand, using ropes and cords, or using chains.

• A hammock stand is one of the efficient and easiest ways to hang your hammock inside your house; with a hammock stand, you can easily hook or unhook your hammock from the stand without having a hard time securing a rope or cord to a beam. Plus, you can easily move the stand and the hammock anywhere inside your home.
• Using ropes and cords is a traditional way to hang a hammock. You need to drill two hooks into the wall beam or ceiling, attach the rope, and link it to each of the hammock’s eyes in a safe, secure, and tight knot.
• If you are not confident with knot-tying, you should consider buying chains to hang your hammock inside your home. Chains are secure and heavy-duty suspension materials that you can easily adjust by using s-hooks; still, similar to using ropes and cords, you have to drill two hooks into the wall beam or ceiling to hang the hammock.

If you want to hang a hammock indoors without drilling, you should check these tips on how to hang a hammock indoors with ease.

#2: Take measurements

If you have decided not to use a hammock stand, you need to configure how to use up space where you plan to hang your hammock without compromising the room’s and the hammock’s accessibility and safety. You have to consider the following:

• Measure the ridgeline. It is to measure the distance between the two ends of the hammock.
• Measure the distance between the two sides where you plan to drill the hooks.
• The height of the attachment points is based on the hammock’s size, the room size or functionality, the safe height, and the length of the rope or chains.
• Measure the height of your hammock from the ground. Make sure that your hammock is not too high and not too low – just right enough to make you feel safe and comfortable.

#3: Do a test

After drilling the hooks and installing the hammock, you need to determine how secure it is by checking the tension weight. Give the ropes or the chains a firm tug and test it yourself. Is it safe and comfortable? Make sure it is comfortable enough to use but not compromising your safety. Try to read other reliable guides on how to hang a hammock indoors to ensure that you are hanging your hammock the right way.

Final Thoughts

There are several ways to hang a hammock inside your home, but the essential part is hanging your hammock without compromising your safety.