#THE WAY THEY LOOK LIKE THEY’RE POSING FOR A FAMILY PORTRAIT

[grelleswife]

YOU CAN SEE OLDER PANELS IN THE BG OF THE NEW PAGE AAAA 🥺🥺🥺

YANA SAID, “I’M GONNA JUST CASUALLY DROP THE PHANTOMFAM PHOTO ALBUM FOR THE 200TH CHAPTER COVER, AND SHE WAS RIGHT! 👏👏👏 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

Although I couldn’t track down all of the past scenes shown here (gasp! Tumblr user grelleswife is a fake fan confirmed! 😱), I was able to match the following:

Chapter 39: A harried Mamma Michaelis tries to maintain order while chaos rages around him.

Chapter 44: During the murder mystery arc, after Sebastian’s presumed “death,” Finny reflects on how the servants owe their happy life at the manor to him and their young master (This is fine. I’m fine. I’m definitely not crying right now).

Chapter 84: O!Ciel returns from Weston College to find Old Man Sam’s wayward sheep causing mischief.

Chapter 85: The family that goes on shopping trips together stays together!

Edit: @fanfiction-snake reminded me that the image of Snake peeling potatoes is taken from this scene earlier in Chapter 85. Thanks again for the clarification! ☺️

If any eagle-eyed mutuals can identify the remaining panels from the cover, please feel free to reblog here!

[dreamwatch]

Exposure

Written for @corrodedcoffinfest

Day #24 - Prompt: Behind The Scenes | Word Count: 1000 | Rating: T | CW: scars, ableism, facial differences seen negatively by others (a photographer) | POV: Eddie | Pairing: Steddie | Tags: emotional hurt/comfort, photoshoots

It was inevitable, honestly.

Their first professional photoshoot, not just Matty’s brother, Brian, with the family Pentax, shooting in black and white because it’s ‘artistic.’ Usually they didn’t put photographs on the flyers, just their logo, but once they moved to Indy a couple of independent labels came for a sniff of the goods and they wanted photos. Thank you, Brian, your services to photography will be forever remembered.

Once they were signed though, the label wanted professional photographs, which was fair, because honestly Gareth’s garage didn’t make the sexiest back drop. So anyway, here they were in a studio in Indianapolis getting their photographs taken, with a real professional photographer.

He doesn’t know a lot about this kind of gig, but he knows guys on TV get their makeup done all the time on account of the lights making their faces shiny, so at first it’s like, whatever. But then they’ve got them all lined up, real Metal Hammer pose, cloudy blue and gray backdrop like some extreme high school portrait, and the photographer is eyeballing him. Like hard stares. And he’s not looking him in the eye. He’s looking at his cheek.

Then the guy’s in a huddle with the makeup artist, and she’s looking at him and the photographers looking at him, and now they’ve got the assistant there. 

“What the fuck is the hold up,” whispers Gareth, and the boys mutter but Eddie says nothing because he knows. He knows and he’s dying a little inside.

Then the huddle is broken, and they’re getting moved around and now Eddie’s facing a different direction (‘we can just flip the neg’) but that’s not working for them either, and the studio lights are getting dimmed on his side, and his heart is racing, and the makeup girl is in his face, “Sorry,” she says, and she’s being gentle, likes she’s trying to be respectful, but she’s painting this shit on his face, on his neck, and he can see the shock, the way her eyes go wide when she starts to move the collar of his shirt and she realises it goes further down and that’s it—

“Can you—“ he snaps, ducking backwards.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean…” she says all sheepish and apologetic, and she probably means it but he doesn’t care, he’s done, he wants out.

The photographer wraps it up, and he’s talking but Eddie’s not listening, he’s gone, out to the Jeff’s car waiting by the door, but they’re up in the studio playing rockstars, like they’re not driving to gigs in shitty vans, and he’s had it actually, fuck this.

He walks for an hour and then stops at Molly’s and has a few beers. And it feels stupid, at this point, like he’s over reacting, it’s a scar, and they’re in the image industry, and of course they’ll try to hide it. So what? So fucking what?

It’s dark when he finally comes up for air and heads back to their dank little apartment. The guys do that thing where they’re being casual but watching him out of the corner of their eye, but he shoos them away, he’s fine, thanks, nothing to worry about. Gets himself a sandwich and then goes to his room to sleep the day off.

He’s half asleep when he hears his door click, the dip of the bed as someone sits down. He opens his eyes, checks his watch, it’s a little after two in the morning, and when he flips over in the bed Steve Harrington is sitting next to him.

“Heard you had a day.”

“Who called you?” he asks.

Steve kicks his shoes off and slides up the bed, back against the headboard. 

“Gareth. He told me what happened. It fucking sucks.”

Eddie sits up, pulls himself next to Steve. “You drove all the way here to commiserate with me on my sucky day?”

“I drove all the way here to make sure you were okay,” Steve says, like it’s nothing, like Eddie can’t feel his heart squeezing tight at the words.

He doesn’t say anything for a while, needs to process it, what to say.

“I just wasn’t expecting it you know? Which is fucking stupid, and all, but you know, when have I ever been known for my smarts?” he jokes, half assed, because none of this is funny. “It’s just… like, it was so… they looked at me like, how do we fix this? How do we make this go away? Like I was ruining the shoot with my…” he gestures to his cheek, to the jagged red scar that runs all the way down his neck.

Steve listens, because he’s good at that, doesn’t butt in even when you know he’s trying to think of ways of fixing everything.

“And like the thing is, if we make it, it’s gonna be a thing you know? It won’t be the last time.”

Eventually Steve chips in. “I know mine are easier to hide, so I don’t like, know how it is, exactly, but… but people see them and then they’ll forget about them. People look out of curiosity, you can’t stop that, but then they just, they’re not bothered, you know? Like, your fans—“

“Fans?’ Eddie scoffs.

“Yeah, fans! They’re not gonna give a fuck, man. I know that doesn’t really help, not right now, but…  I think it’ll get easier.”

“It doesn’t feel like it,” Eddie says under his breath. He rolls his head to the side, making eye contact for the first time.

Steve kicks his jeans off and they climb under the covers, Steve’s back against his.

“You know when you’re rich and famous, first thing you need to do is get a bigger bed. This is ridiculous.”

Eddie can’t help himself, lets the giggles take him, feels Steve’s arm wrap around his waist and pull him close. He finds himself being infinitely grateful to his friends for knowing what he needed, and infinitely grateful for Steve Harrington.

[kinardsevan]

snapshot.

(finally fulfilling that prompt @30somethingautisticteacher sent me about Tommy dropping facts at an art museum / aka, me abusing my art degree.)

They stroll into the museum and Evan is all but bouncing on his heels as they wait to get through admission. Ever since Tommy mentioned going for a day date, he’s been on a deep dive on the Rembrandt collection currently on display. He has so many fun facts he’s excited to share with Tommy that he couldn’t even keep them all to himself  until they made it into the exhibit. 

“Did you know he painted over 300 paintings in his life,” he’d told Tommy on the drive over. And Tommy had responded the same way he always did, always invested in his deep dives. 

“Really, babe? What else?”

He’d launched into half a dozen facts about the artist while they were still on the 10 before remembering that he wanted to save the best for when they actually got to the museum.

So he’s a little thrown when, after getting past admission, Tommy leads him down into the basement instead of up towards the third floor where he knows the collection is stored. 

“Where are we going,” he asks, being pulled along by Tommy’s fingers interlaced with his. He’s not upset, but he’s definitely curious by this change in plans. 

They make into the basement and around a corner, through an open doorway.

“Photo department is always in the basement,” Tommy murmurs as they start walking into the room. “Why they keep them hidden away from the light is beyond me, but…” 

Evan follows after him, watching with rapt attention as Tommy leads him forward, towards the first set of photographs. They’re black and white prints; portraits. A man at a desk with books stacked in front of him. Another man at a kitchen table from the 60s, metal lunch pale in front of him. A bed with a stuffed animal on it. 

“Chauncey Hare,” Tommy states softly, not wanting to interrupt other people’s study of the photographs in the room. “He started out at Standard Oil Company and ended up shooting all this work on the bullshit that goes on in the work place. Got a degree in psychology and abandoned it all to work with his second wife on working against workplace abuse.” 

Evan looks up at Tommy then, a little baffled. Tommy tugs his hand gently, pulling him further along to see more of the pictures. There’s one of a girl sitting in who Evan assumes in her father’s lap, facing the camera. Two other men also facing the camera but not in focus are also in the image. A blonde girl holding a cigarette in the next. A child without a shirt on, laying in someone’s lap. 

“Sally Mann,” Tommy tells him as he continues to stare at the picture of the little girl holding the cigarette. “She shoots a lot of stuff, but her bread and butter are her family, even now. There’s been a lot of controversy over her work because of the state of nudity, but-...” 

“It’s amazing,” Evan murmurs, almost a whisper. He can’t stop looking at the picture of the daughter with the cigarette. 

Tommy keeps pulling him along, showing him pictures, talking about the artists, moving through decades of images, until they’re standing in front of newer work. Color photos. 

Children standing in a doorway. A boy at a table, looking at the camera as an adult holds a baby in the background. Sisters—a blonde and a ginger—next to each other. Three boys on the floor in front of empty chairs. A woman laying in bed holding a small blonde child of maybe one or two, bathed in sunlight. 

“Jessica Todd Harper,” Tommy says as Evan reads the label next to the image. “She shoots her family too. Some posed, some not. Always trying to tell a story about family interactions and complex relationships.” 

Evan stares at him, utterly enamored as they walk out of the area, head back towards the stairs.

“We can still go see the paintings,” Tommy tells him. “I just… I like the photography.” 

Evan stops walking, pulls Tommy back when he keeps moving. His boyfriend looks back at him, gives a small smirk. 

“Did I steal your thunder,” he asks, a little bit sheepishly so. 

Evan shakes his head, stepping into Tommy’s space, resting his hand on his chest. 

“I like it when you let me in like this,” he murmurs. “When you share.” 

Tommy’s smile widens a bit more, even as his cheeks flush. 

“I just think…most people don’t think a lot about what’s happening in an image. Is it real? Or is it just a concept of what you think is real? Is it telling an actual story, or just the version of a story you’ve decided on?And what makes one more important than the other? Is digital better than film? Some people think nothing will ever top painting, others think digital photography is a hack and doesn’t have the same connotations as film photography because there’s less effort in the process,” he states. He pauses for a moment, somehow getting pinker in the cheeks. “That’s what I nerd out about.” 

Evan grins at him and then leans forward pecking him on the lips. 

“Well we’re just gonna have to go see more photo exhibitions then,” he says when he pulls away. “Can’t have you holding out on me now.” 

Tommy rolls his eyes, shaking his head. He tilts his head towards the stairwell again. “Come on. Tell me all you researched about Rembrandt.” 

(I posted all of these pictures on my feed if you want to see them!!!!)

[lulu2992]

From the Inquisitor to the Baptist: The Evolution of John Seed

In addition to concept art and behind-the-scenes content, early visuals and deleted dialog can still be found in the game itself, notably in its files, and reveal more information about how John and his personality have changed during the development of Far Cry 5.

All the sources and references indicated by the superscript numbers will be given in the last post.

Part 4: Personality and morals (Far Cry 5)

First, let’s have a look at this screenshot of the performance capture footage of the game’s first mission, “The Warrant”, that was officially posted in August 2018⁴¹.

While the Father, the Marshal, and the Sheriff are all played by their original actors, the Heralds are not. That said, they don’t say a word in this scene and are just standing in the background, so it wasn’t necessary for Mark Pellegrino (Jacob), Jenessa Grant (Faith), and Seamus Dever to be on set that day, and their characters could be played by other people. I don’t know how old the footage is, but the number “170803” in the title of the sequence could be a date: August 3, 2017. There are two other numbers in the video, “170616” and “170615”, which could mean other parts of the intro were shot on June 15 and 16 (but this is just a hypothesis).

Behind Greg Bryk, the actor on the left in the screenshot seems to be Jacob, as the eldest Seed brother stands in a similar position, with his arms crossed, in the finished scene. The woman on the floor is surely Faith, and her posture is quite different from what we see in the game (but, interestingly, reminiscent of the way she poses in the family portrait found in the Holmes Residence³¹). The attitude of the third actor, who must be John, isn’t identical to the Baptist’s in the finalized sequence, either.

Instead of standing with his arms behind his back, he has one foot on the platform and, judging by the way his left hand is positioned, it looks like it’s possibly either in the pocket of his coat (maybe just the thumb) or resting on a gun. While, in Far Cry 5, John is simply observing the scene, attentively but calmly, and the “tough” brother seems to be Jacob instead, in this early version of the intro, his attitude is defiant and draws more attention to him, like he wants to make it very clear that you shouldn’t try to attack him or his family.

This is consistent with what we’ve seen in the first promotional images, concept art, Inside Eden’s Gate, the TV spot, and what is described in Far Cry Absolution: John used to appear more threatening and confident. In the game, this was toned down a bit and he, on the contrary, seems to want to look more “polite” than overtly menacing. This might be due to the fact that, as evidence suggests, his methods, although still violent, aren’t as extreme as they used to be.

In the final version of Far Cry 5, John gives tattoos that represent people’s sins and then cuts them out to make them Atone. This is brutal, yes, but from his point of view, this isn’t gratuitously brutal. He genuinely believes he’s helping and saving people, and that suffering is indispensable. The day his parents “threw [him] on the ground” and made him experience unbearable amounts of pain, he says he reached a point where “all [he] could say was yes” because he felt “clear” and “free”. Whether they’re right or not (since it seems the Voice Joseph hears is real), the members of the Seed family have conditioned themselves into believing that their trauma was a divine “test”, that it gave them purpose, and that people needed to experience the same thing to serve the Project, survive the Collapse, and be worthy of passing the Gates of Eden. John, because of what he went through, now believes pain has purifying properties, and he hurts others so they too can experience the epiphany he had while he was being tortured as a child. He can also get zealous and doesn’t hesitate to threaten or harm people who resist him, mostly because he can’t do his job properly and impress the Father if they don’t comply (and ironically, it’s precisely when he gets angry and carried away that Joseph is disappointed), but he doesn’t torture people just because he enjoys it. On the surface, it may look like pure sadism, but it’s more complicated; there’s reason for his actions. What gives him satisfaction is more the result of the pain he inflicts (look how exhilarated he is when he’s finally made Nick Atone) than the simple act of inflicting pain. He sees “torture” as a means to an end: Salvation.

In the game’s files, though, deleted content reveals that, earlier in development, John was more violent, would mostly hurt for his own enjoyment, and was, in general, a more hypocritical and narcissistic person, and it appears a few needless acts of brutality were removed from the game.

For example, this is what the transcript of John’s radio call to the Deputy for their Atonement looks like in the “oasisstrings” file⁴², which contains all the in-game text:

Your actions have consequences, Deputy. I've gathered all your friends here in Fall's End to Atone for your sins. You're welcome to join us. After all, if it weren't for you they wouldn't be in this predicament... This is your last chance to say Yes, Deputy. Don't be late.[SFX of an electric saw and someone screaming]

As you probably know, the “SFX of an electric saw and someone screaming” isn’t part of the call at all in the game, and it’s not in the audio files either. The sound effect would have made it seem like John was busy gruesomely torturing someone when he decided to call the Deputy, and that he casually resumed hurting them as soon as he was done talking. I think it’s interesting that the developers considered including this but eventually decided against it. Without it, the call sounds “normal”. Threatening, but normal. The scream and the electric saw would have made John look like someone who gratuitously tortures without any empathy… but this simply isn’t who he is anymore, so the SFX had to be cut.

In the Prima Games guide, a screenshot reveals what the Confession room in John’s Gate used to look like:

The room isn’t grey just because the lighting is different; plastic tarps are covering the floor and walls. The Confession room used to look more like a torture/kill chamber in which a lot of blood was expected to be shed. The wrapped dead bodies were more visible… and also seemed more consistent with who John apparently was at the time: basically a (somewhat caricatural) serial killer. Although he knew how to look refined, it seems neither he nor his methods particularly were.

When you explore the Holland Valley, you can stumble upon an excerpt of Deputy Joey Hudson’s Confession. In the broadcast, clearly recorded and made public by John in an attempt to make the Junior Deputy worry about their partner’s safety and lure them into his bunker, here is what we hear:

John: It was the Father who said to me, “Take them, John. Take them even if they resist, for those who deny the Project are the ones most in need of its salvation. Though their sins are great, their souls are not beyond saving. All they must do… is Confess.” Are you ready, Deputy Hudson? Hudson: Go fuck yourself. John: Hmm… I know. Opening yourself, exposing your darkest secrets can be… challenging. It can be scary, but… this is a safe space, there is no judgment here. Do you wish for me to hear your Confession? Hudson: Go. Fuck. Yourself. John: That’s... not the magic word. John: Do you wish for me to hear your confession? John: *sighs* You just have to say "Yes." Hudson: Go. Fuck. Yours- *screams* John: Do you wish to Confess? Hudson: *still in pain* Oh, fuck you! Fuck you! John: Embrace it. John: Embrace the Power of Yes! Hudson: *crying* Please, stop. Please, stop! Please, stop... Please... John: Do you wish to Confess? Hudson: Yes... John: There. That wasn’t so hard, was it?

Hudson’s screams make the broadcast hard to listen to, but it turns out it used to be even worse.

There are 16 sound files in this “sermon”, but there were 9 more (so 25 in total) in the “complete”, previous version, which sounded like this:

John: It was the Father who said to me, “Take them, John. Take them even if they resist, for those who deny the Project are the ones most in need of its salvation. Though their sins are great, their souls are not beyond saving. All they must do… is Confess.” Are you ready, Deputy Hudson? Hudson: Go fuck yourself! John: Hmm… I know. Opening yourself, exposing your darkest secrets can be… challenging. It can be scary, but… this is a safe space, there is no judgment here. Do you wish for me to hear your Confession? Hudson: Go fuck yourself!! John: That’s... not the magic word. Hudson: Go fuck yourself. John: Do you wish for me to hear your confession? Hudson: Go. Fuck. Yourself. John: *sighs* You just have to say "Yes." Hudson: Go. Fuck. Yours- *screams* John: Do you wish to Confess? Hudson: *screams* John: Shhh… It’s okay. This happens all the time. Hudson: *still in pain* Oh, fuck you! Fuck you! John: You just have to open yourself. Hudson: *screams* John: Embrace it. Hudson: *screams* John: Embrace the Power of Yes! Hudson: *screams* Hudson: *crying* Please, stop. Please, stop! Please, stop... Please... Hudson: No... *screams* John: Do you wish to Confess? Hudson: Yes... John: There. That wasn’t so hard, was it?

While the in-game version is painful to listen to, it seems a bit less violent in comparison, like John is only hurting Joey (who used to be more confrontational too) when he believes it’s required, just enough to make her say “yes” so he can finally do his job. He’s also a bit less mocking in the final broadcast, and unlike in the long version, when she asks him to stop, he does. To me, shortening this audio to only keep what’s “necessary” (from John’s point of view, of course; it’s still harsh) makes him seem less pointlessly sadistic, and I see this as another proof that his violent tendencies were deliberately toned down.

In deleted radio calls⁴³, John was also more taunting and insulting towards the Deputy, calling them “a wayward, filthy sinner” he could easily find if he followed “the stench of sin”. He also used to tell them it was their fault if he hurt people, for example in this one, supposed to be triggered sometime after the mission “The Confession”:

Wrath... all that anger you carry inside of you is a disease. It spreads out... infects others. It's even infected me. It's making me do something I don't want to do. You see, after you fled your Confession this... rage started boiling up inside me. I'm afraid your friend, your... Deputy Hudson... will have to bear the brunt of this rage you've given me. She's going to be the one who pays for what you've done. And you only have yourself to blame.

In Far Cry 5, he still taunts the Deputy and threatens to harm their allies if they keep hurting the Project, but not as much, and it appears he doesn’t always plan on carrying out his threats; he mostly wants to scare them so they “behave” and let him do his job (but it doesn’t work very well). In the deleted call, I think he seemed to be a less sincere and more manipulative person, and this John would likely have kept torturing people even if the Deputy hadn’t done anything, simply because he enjoyed it, but he prefers to guilt trip them and tell them that they should feel bad for his actions.

In the game, when Hudson is finally out of John’s Gate, she says something I think is very interesting⁴⁴:

When you escaped the bunker... John didn't say it... but you could see it in his face. Failure. Things got worse from there... Like he was trying to make up for something. Prove to his brother he could... I never thought I'd make it out of there.

I like that the radio call in which John says the Deputy’s Wrath has “infected” him and is “making [him] do something [he doesn’t] want to do” was cut. Again, it didn’t sound genuine; he clearly wanted to make their friends suffer and was just blaming them for his behavior. In Far Cry 5, I love that John doesn’t talk about his feelings at all and doesn’t admit he was angry when the Deputy ran away from his bunker. On the contrary, while they’re fleeing the Gate, John encourages them to leave. To me, it sounds like he’s actually very upset about the situation, probably even more than “early John” would have been, but because he doesn’t want to lose face, he pretends he’s not and that them leaving was his plan all along anyway.

When Hudson reveals that John was visibly vexed after the Deputy’s escape but “didn’t say anything”, I think it’s more compelling than him then calling the Deputy to tauntingly and hypocritically put the blame on them. And when “things got worse from there”, Hudson (rightly, I think) concludes it was because John wanted to “prove to his brother he could” make up for that failure he painfully knew was his, not because he simply felt like hurting people and used the Deputy as an excuse.

What this deleted radio call reveals, to me, is that in earlier versions of the story, John was too conceited to take responsibility for anything, and he wasn’t ashamed because others were always the problem. The final version of John doesn’t have such a high opinion of himself anymore, as much as he wants to give the impression that he does and that nothing can affect him. After the Deputy’s escape, he silently withstands that blow to his ego and then works his hardest to fix his mistake. Unfortunately, it doesn’t change the fact that people then have to suffer, but my point is that the motivation behind his actions is different.

There are more proofs of “early John”’s hypocrisy and narcissism, such as this piece of concept art for his home, Seed Ranch⁴⁵:

In the picture, we see flower beds, colorful garden furniture, a fountain, and a golden (maybe even gold) statue of the “old” Eden’s Gate logo, the one with an eagle, which indicates the artwork was made rather early in development. And they aren’t visible in the artwork, but in the sound files, Nick and Sharky also mention tennis courts⁴⁶!

When people join Eden’s Gate, they are expected to give up their worldly possessions, not to give them to the cult (although it’s always an option since they need supplies for the Collapse), but because Joseph preaches about how Greed, consumerism, and selfishness have perverted humanity, so it’s better to live a simple life. It seems awfully hypocritical, then, for one of his Heralds to own such a luxurious property...

But in the game, although it’s still big, it looks like there are fewer rooms in the ranch, and its exterior isn’t as fancy anymore⁴⁷. No fountain, no gold statue, no colorful garden… and no tennis court.

More cut content suggests that Seed Ranch wasn’t just where John lived. In the deleted in-game encyclopedia (still available in “oasisstrings”), the description of the ranch said:

The power of yes gave John Seed this dream ranch overlooking the Holland Valley. it has commanding views, a private air strip, and secluded soundproofed rooms for his most invigorating religious pursuits.

In the files, it’s also possible to find this kind of NPC dialog:

The cultists were talking about taking me to John's ranch. People who go there... they don't come back. Or they come back wrong.

And a deleted mission objective said to “rescue Mary May from John Seed’s Ranch”, so she would be taken there at some point. In Far Cry 5, converts go to John’s Gate after their Cleansing so he can hear their Confession and tattoo them... as well as make them suffer because, as a cultist explains in the mission “The Cleansing” to people who’ve just been baptized:

Confession without pain isn't Confession. You'll scream out your sin, then you'll wear it on your flesh before John peels it off of you. It's a beautiful thing.

Clearly, “early John” would also torture people in his ranch. And did he really believe it was for “religious” reasons, like it seems he does in the game, or was that, once again, at least partially an excuse? Given what we’ve seen so far, my guess is it was the latter.

A mysterious “sex room” located in the ranch is also mentioned in the files, but it was cut from the game and not much is known about it⁴⁸. If it was a literal “sex room”, it would either be yet another proof that John used to be hypocritical and to not always practice what he preached, or confirm that the “no fornication” rule originally didn’t exist. “Sex room” could also simply be a joke name used by the developers to refer to a torture chamber. But if we want to trust what one of the survivors says in Far Cry New Dawn⁴⁹…

This place used to be a ranch owned by a cultist named John Seed. I always heard rumors that he had some kind of pervert basement and was real disappointed to find out that it wasn't true.

…there apparently is no such room in John’s house.

Given how luxurious the ranch looks, you would expect him to want to spend as much time as possible in it, but it turns out he doesn’t. In fact, one of the cultists guarding the property comments⁵⁰:

Haven't seen John here in a long time. He's super busy.

And in a letter found in his bunker⁵¹, John wrote:

Everyone's human, and that's why I don't want to put myself on a pedestal. I don't ever want to get back up there again. I'd rather be here with all of you and the new souls in this bunker.

At some point during the development of Far Cry 5, John would expect his followers to live a simple life, serve the Project, and rigorously follow its rules while he would do the opposite. In the final version of the game, his faith in his mission and his devotion to the Project seem sincere, and he would rather work tirelessly and live in his Gate among his “brothers and sisters” than lounge in his ranch. Said ranch is also not as much of a display of wealth as it used to be, and nobody gets tortured there anymore. A bag of “oregano” can still be found in the living room, but since no one says anything about it and it really doesn’t seem to me that John would break the cult’s rules and smoke drugs, I consider it to be a relic from the past, a vestige of the time he seemed to only care about himself.

John is involved in three more abandoned storylines in the files, and they all demonstrate he used to be more hypocritical and violent. The first one is revealed by a mission objective that said to “find John and Mary May’s secrets”⁵², and it seemed it was related to the mission in which we would go rescue her from the ranch. Unfortunately, it’s unknown what the secrets were about, but it’s very likely John didn’t want them to be exposed because everyone would have seen his true, ugly colors and how dishonest he was.

The second one is revealed by Hurk Jr. who has this line in the files⁵³:

Good thing for us John and Jacob haven't sorted out their brotherly nonsense. I mean if we're lucky, they'll just take each other down. If not, well, I'm going to keep some grenades around with John's name on 'em, eh? It's comin' to a head man.

In the game, they aren’t in conflict. On the contrary, Jacob seems rather protective of his family, and John strives to impress his brothers.

As for the third one, we know about it thanks to one of Kim’s deleted lines⁵⁴:

John Seed's a piece of shit. When news spread that I was expecting, that scumbag spread rumors that HE was the biological father of my baby. I don't know if he was trying to create a wedge between me and Nick or if he was just doing it to laugh at us. It was stressful and all for nothing. I can tell you, we don't need to go on a talk show and have a DNA test. Nick is the father.

Again, in the game we know, it seems absurd that John would want people to believe that he had an affair with Kim, with whom he isn’t married, considering what the Project’s rules are and that a letter found on the Ryes’ porch, titled “John Seed’s plea”, proves he’s already amiably tried to talk them into joining the Family:

Nick, The Collapse I talked to you about has started. I know you want to protect YOUR FAMILY. The only way to do this is by joining OUR FAMILY. Our bunkers have everything Kim & Baby Rye will need to survive. There are dozens of expecting mothers and children here already with us. This is my final plea to you. Say YES. John Seed

Spreading distasteful rumors about them seems counterproductive, but again, John the Inquisitor probably wouldn’t have cared as long as he could have fun at the expense of other people.

In Far Cry 5, John the Baptist simply isn’t this man anymore.

To be continued…

[cloudcountry]

You should share your irl Van Gogh lore fr

(Only if you want to, of course. I'm just curious about him and his life ^^)

OK I WILL GIVE U. A SMALL POSTER TOUR and give u some facts from what i learned from my research these past four days hehe

~~~

As a result of van Gogh being stuck in a creative rut after his time in Saint-Remy, he took artistic motivation from outside sources, like prints. Two posters I own are based off Jean Millet’s prints, First Steps and Sleeping Peasants.

The irises van Gogh painted were originally purple. The red pigments in the oil paint faded over time, as they’re sensitive to light. This left the irises blue instead.

The Almond Blossoms painting was precious to the whole van Gogh family, as it was painted in honor of van Gogh’s nephew, Vincent, being born. The flowering blossoms symbolize new life and hope.

Van Gogh’s paintings of sunflowers were meant to communicate gratitude to the people in his life. He painted five different sunflowers paintings.

Easily his most popular and most well-known painting, The Starry Night was considered a failure by van Gogh. The cypress tree in the forefront of the painting that, although rooted in the Earth, reaches for the heavens, represents immortality. Death is just another journey. (i LOVE analyzing this one OURGH it makes me cry)

What struck me about Irises is how chaotically the flowers are arranged. The painting portrays exactly how they grew, it doesn’t try to make them look more aesthetic. Van Gogh painted them as he saw them, clumsy and twisting and growing, but beautiful.

Van Gogh often used himself as a model to practice painting figures. Under some of his self-portraits, there’s another painting underneath, indicating that he reused canvases.

Bedroom in Arles has a flatter display to mimic the Japanese prints van Gogh appreciated so much. The walls and doors were previously violet, but because of the red pigment fading, are now blue.

I always loved how the light in Starry Night Over the Rhône shows life, and that even though it’s so far away, the reflections in the water still reach the viewer. To me, this painting says that no matter how dark it is or how far away you are, the light will still reach you.

His Shoes painting is very homey and domestic to me. It’s another one that displays beauty in simplistic, everyday things and I love that. Shoes were a common motif in van Gogh’s paintings, and this pair in particular is theorized to have belonged to Patience Escalier, who had previously posed for van Gogh.

Cafe Terrace at Night was a painting van Gogh described as a night painting without black. He was enraptured by the yellows, blues, and greens of the scene, and went right to painting even though it was nighttime.

In van Gogh’s letters to Theo about The Church at Auvers, he referenced Shakespeare’s representation of a church in Henry IV, which symbolized preaching that was lacking in spiritual understanding. “Their God is like the God of Shakespeare's drunken Falstaff, 'the inside of a church.’”

In Wheat Field with Cypresses, the most notable thing in this painting is the sky to me. I love how he painted the clouds as if they were moving within a still image. It’s like you can see the wind itself, not only against the sky but also in the plants.

In Green Wheat Field with Cypress, the way the plant life is painted reminds me of a river. It’s flowing in a horizontal direction without any clear path, growing clumsily and overlapping each other. It reminds me of Irises in a way, because it portrays nature exactly how it is without attempting to make it uniform.

[jgroffdaily]

A great interview with Jonathan and Ben Aldridge at Them, including Jonathan talking about being in contract negotiations for Merrily We Roll Along during the Cabin shoot:

I love that despite how clearly in sync Eric and Andrew are with each other, they still feel distinct. It’s fascinating to watch how they differ in their responses to the situation at hand, especially because they always seem to find their way back to each other. How did you two establish that rapport between your characters?

JG: The dichotomy and differences were very clear in the writing. The uptight one and the more laidback one; the one that’s quicker to believe and the one that’s more of a critical thinker — that was all embedded in the book and in the script. But Night, during shooting, would often say, “I don’t want to ever see the two of you with the same expression on your face. I want to see your perspective and I want to see your perspective. You’re in the same scenario, but you both have two different points of view.”

The other thing that he kept saying to us, which he would yell from behind the camera sometimes before a take, would be, “Play the love! Don’t forget the love!” Obviously, because it’s a family and they’re on vacation, I assumed, I guess maybe subconsciously, that this was a loving marriage. And yet, it wasn’t until we were in the scenes actually doing it that I started understanding how important and integral and essential it was to play love throughout. Especially because the perspectives are so different.

Ben and I, from the day we met, had a very easy chemistry. There was a vibe happening between us that we used in the movie. Then, when we added Kristen [Cui], who plays Wen, into that mix, getting to take care of her on- and off-screen, we sort of became this family unit. We actually took her to see Wicked on Broadway last night. It was a combination of natural chemistry and the circumstances of the movie bringing us together. We didn’t even talk about, like, “How are we going to have chemistry?” It just sort of happened.

Again, you two spend much of the film tied up to a chair, which I imagine posed some unique acting difficulties since you primarily had to rely on your face to communicate any emotion. Especially considering what Jonathan said about Night’s insistence that you two always looked different, what was it like only acting through your upper body?

BA: [laughs as he rubs his own shoulders] I wanted to have the best shoulders I’ve ever had! So I was giving you shoulders in the gym.

JG: [also laughing] And it worked. It totally worked.

BA: I don’t have them anymore, but I did have them for that short period while filming. But for the serious part of your question, remind me again?

What was it like to only be able to act from the shoulders up?

JG: Well, that’s my favorite place. [uses his hands to form a portrait around his face] I mean, just put the camera here and let me go!

BA: She loves herself.

JG: But really now. For me, at least at first, it felt like I was going to get a little claustrophobic not being able to move my body. I had to do some nose breathing [imitates meditative deep breaths] every time they would start to tie our feet and arms to the chairs. But at the same time, there is something freeing, funnily enough, about not having to move around and only expressing yourself from the shoulders up. You can just feel it. You don’t have to worry about what your hands are doing, or walking around, or anything.

I mean, it’s very evocative. You get tied to the chair and you’re immediately in the scenario: You can’t pick up that cute little girl. She has to grab you from behind. [Ben and I] can only look at each other and not touch each other, which also creates a great deal of tension. So the circumstances really added to the acting in a major way.

Jonathan, this was filmed last spring, which I’d imagine was right before you went into rehearsals for Merrily We Roll Along at the New York Theatre Workshop. How did it feel to go from a film as intense as this straight into musical-theater mode?

JG: Oh my god, Michael, first all, thank you for that question. A man after my own heart. Actually, on the first day of shooting Knock at the Cabin, I went down the elevator to the treadmill and listened to Merrily We Roll Along. I was in negotiations to do Merrily the entire time that we were filming in Philly, and that [contract] didn’t close until we were wrapped on Knock at the Cabin. There was one weekend, after we took Night’s wife’s Zumba class, where I was, like, driving to New York [from Philadelphia] to meet with Maria Friedman, the director. I was very passionate about doing Merrily.

It felt amazing. After being tied up to a chair for a month or so and giving you “movie” [forms a portrait around his face using his hands again], to then get to dance around and sing was great. I just wanted to put my pants back on at the end of every day and go back out on the stage and do it again.

[girlfriendsofthegalaxy]

Omg I MUST hear about "Portrait of an unknown woman in repose, nude (Bryo-Chrome Photo Company, Free Economic Zone of New Vegas, 2282, gelatin silver print, 2” x 3”)"

"failed" yeehawgust prompt for "lucky strike", failed in the sense it was very much not posted august 2022 (or at all). the whole schtick for this series was going to be museum catalog style names, like the completed piece Columbia-AtomiCo Glass Works Division (a Fully Owned Subsidiary of H&H Tools Co.) Dealers Catalog, 2077 which is a riff off the pyrex dealers catalog on my bookshelf

the original idea was "someone sitting at someone else's feet, accepting occasional drags off a cigarette, while they listen to a sleipnir race taking place somewhere in the NCR" but i decided i didn't want to write a horse race, so it grew into "sexiest and most atmospheric act to do while smoking a cigarette? people developing photographs and sharing the same cigarette", and THEN my sister sent me a bunch of tiktoks about boudoir photography photos, and THEN i remembered a museum exhibit of civil war photograph that was half doctors going YOOO LOOK HOW NICE I DID THIS AMPUTATION and half like. proof-of-life battle scar portraits sent home to families? and we were off to the races. this photographer wants to do portraits of the courier So Fucking Bad.

anyway you know my eternal quest to give every woman in new vegas more of a backstory! just outside the city there's a brothel with a couple different sex workers, one of whomst is Sweetie. the photographer Minerva Eastman is ex-Legion but I haven't figured out a good way to work that in there yet

She let one knee fall open on the back of the chaise. Ah, that got her attention. Minnie had helped her oil up her inner thighs just so for the nude shots this morning without a flicker of emotion but an inviting crook got her now. Might be just as flustered as Sweetie was. 

About two hours into the shoot, she’d stopped doing things carefully crafted for widest possible appeal, and started doing things carefully crafted for Minnie. Two hours and fifteen minutes in, Minnie had stopped correcting her and started furiously chain-smoking.  (TK better distinction that they’re the same poses just with tiny changes to appeal specifically to Minnie).

“Come stand in front of the fridge, you’re all sweaty again.” Minnie threw the switch for the fans that were supposed to suck all the hot air up and out but mostly replaced it with different hot air from outside. 

Sweetie got up in the sort of sinuous, show-offy motion that was vital if you wanted to get peppered in caps on the stage at Gomorrah. Or tease your photographer. 

[jordancullenphoto]

Mackay Wedding Photographer: Capturing Your Unforgettable Day

Your wedding day is a celebration of love, commitment, and the beginning of a lifelong journey. It’s a story that deserves to be beautifully captured so you can cherish it forever. At Jordan Cullen Photography, we specialize in creating breathtaking, timeless images that reflect the essence of your unique love story. Choosing the right wedding photographer ensures your memories are preserved in the most meaningful way.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to select the perfect photographer for your Mackay wedding, plan your dream photoshoot, and make the most of your wedding photography experience.

Why Professional Wedding Photography Matters

Your wedding photos are more than just pictures—they’re a gateway to reliving the most special day of your life. Professional photographers like Jordan Cullen go beyond snapping pictures. They capture fleeting moments, raw emotions, and the intricate details that make your day truly unforgettable.

Key Reasons to Invest in Professional Wedding Photography

Unmatched Expertise: A professional photographer understands lighting, angles, and timing, ensuring every shot is picture-perfect.

Seamless Execution: From managing timelines to dealing with unexpected weather, experienced photographers handle it all with ease.

Storytelling at its Best: Every couple has a unique story, and professional photography captures yours with emotion and artistry.

Finding the Right Photographer for Your Mackay Wedding

Choosing the right photographer isn’t just about skill; it’s about finding someone who resonates with your style and understands your vision. Here’s how you can find the perfect match.

Explore Styles That Speak to You

Photography styles vary, and understanding what resonates with you is the first step.

Classic Photography: Perfect for couples seeking timeless, elegant images with a focus on traditional poses.

Modern Photography: Creative, trend-driven images that play with light, angles, and unconventional perspectives.

Candid Photography: Spontaneous moments filled with raw emotions and natural interactions.

Research, Reviews, and Chemistry

Check Portfolios: Browse through online galleries on Jordan Cullen Photography’s website to get a sense of style and consistency.

Read Reviews: Hearing about other couples’ experiences helps you gauge reliability and professionalism.

Meet in Person: A consultation is crucial to ensure you’re comfortable with your photographer. Chemistry matters—after all, you’ll spend a significant part of your wedding day together!

Budgeting for Your Wedding Photography

Wedding photography is an investment in your memories, and it’s important to plan your budget wisely.

What Influences Photography Costs?

Experience and Expertise: Seasoned photographers often charge higher rates, but the quality is worth it.

Package Inclusions: Understand what’s included—hours of coverage, albums, prints, or digital galleries.

Travel and Extras: If your photographer needs to travel or if you’re requesting extras like drone shots, factor these into your budget.

Tips for Budgeting Smartly

Opt for weekday or off-season weddings for potential discounts.

Choose a package that focuses on key moments, such as the ceremony and reception.

Discuss payment plans if needed—many photographers, including Jordan Cullen, offer flexible options.

Planning Your Wedding Photography Timeline

To ensure no moment is missed, work closely with your photographer to create a detailed photography timeline.

Must-Have Shots for Your Big Day

The bridal party is getting ready.

The first look (if you’re having one).

The ceremony, including vows and the first kiss.

Group portraits with family and friends.

Candid moments during speeches, dances, and celebrations.

Collaborating with Vendors

Coordinate with your wedding planner, florist, and venue to align schedules. Share your shot list with your photographer so everyone is on the same page.

Making the Most of Your Wedding Photoshoot

Preparation and trust go a long way in creating beautiful wedding photos.

Prepare for the Day

Hair, Makeup, and Dress Prep: Schedule ample time for getting ready to avoid feeling rushed.

Location Scouting: Work with your photographer to pick ideal spots for couple portraits. Consider lighting and weather conditions.

Relax and Be Present: Genuine emotions make for the best photos. Trust your photographer to guide you and capture moments naturally.

After the Wedding: Reliving the Magic

Once your big day is over, the excitement doesn’t end. Receiving your wedding photos is a moment to relive the joy.

Reviewing and Preserving Your Photos

Digital Delivery: Jordan Cullen Photography provides a beautifully curated online gallery for easy viewing and sharing.

Printed Albums: Consider investing in a high-quality album to preserve your memories in a tangible, timeless format.

Gifts and Prints: Share your love with family and friends through personalized prints or framed portraits.

Why Choose Jordan Cullen Photography?

At Jordan Cullen Photography, we go beyond capturing moments—we craft stories that reflect your love, laughter, and joy. With years of experience in Mackay and surrounding areas, we specialize in creating personalized experiences tailored to each couple.

What Sets Us Apart?

A passion for storytelling that brings your love story to life.

A seamless blend of classic elegance and modern creativity.

An unwavering commitment to making you feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated.

Conclusion: Your Forever Memories Start Here

Your wedding day deserves to be remembered in all its beauty and emotion. With Jordan Cullen Photography, you’ll have more than just photos—you’ll have a collection of timeless memories to treasure for a lifetime.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?Let’s capture your love story together. Visit Jordan Cullen Photography to explore our portfolio and book your consultation today.

[avnnetwork]

Make Your Holiday Party Shine with a Santa Hire: Here’s Why It’s Worth It

The holiday season is a time for joy, laughter, and making unforgettable memories with family and friends. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand holiday celebration, one thing is certain: you want to make it memorable. What better way to add an extra touch of magic to your event than by hiring Santa Claus? Yes, that’s right—Santa for hire can bring an unparalleled festive charm to your party, making it the talk of the season!

In this article, we’ll explore why a Santa hire can elevate your holiday party, from spreading joy to creating picture-perfect moments. Let’s dive into the many reasons why you should consider inviting Santa to your next holiday celebration!

1. Create Magical Moments for Kids (and Adults!)

A visit from Santa is more than just a tradition—it’s an experience that brings joy to all ages. For children, it’s the highlight of the season, a chance to meet the man in the red suit who they’ve heard so much about. But it’s not just about the kids; adults, too, are drawn into the magic. When Santa enters the room, it’s like the entire atmosphere shifts, and everyone—young and old alike—feels the warmth of holiday cheer.

Why Santa is a Game-Changer:

Excitement for Kids: Imagine the look on your child’s face when they see Santa walk into the room. They’ll be thrilled to meet the jolly man in person, and you’ll capture moments that will be cherished for years to come.

Nostalgia for Adults: For adults, having Santa around brings back fond memories of their own childhood. It’s a chance to relive the joy and wonder of the holiday season through a fresh lens.

Unmatched Holiday Spirit: No matter how you decorate or plan your event, there’s nothing quite like having Santa at the center of the festivities. His presence instantly sets the mood and fills the room with contagious holiday spirit.

2. The Perfect Photo Opportunity

A Santa for hire isn’t just about the visit—it’s also about the photos! Having Santa at your party creates the perfect opportunity for family photos that you can treasure forever. Whether you snap a candid picture of your child sharing their Christmas wish or a fun family portrait with Santa, these are the moments that will be cherished for years to come.

What You’ll Get:

Picture-Perfect Memories: Professional Santas are great with kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone feels comfortable for photos. These memories will last a lifetime, whether they’re hanging on your wall or saved in a family album.

Fun and Festive Backdrops: Santa’s presence enhances your decorations and brings a festive backdrop to your photos. Whether you’ve decked out your home with Christmas trees, lights, or a cozy winter scene, Santa makes the perfect addition to any festive setting.

Instant Holiday Keepsakes: The photos you take with Santa are more than just mementos—they are keepsakes that can be framed, printed on holiday cards, or shared as festive social media posts to spread the holiday cheer.

3. A Tailored Experience for Your Party

Every holiday party is unique, so it’s important to have a Santa who can adapt to your theme and vibe. Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated gathering for adults or a lively children’s party, a Santa for hire can tailor his performance to match the mood. Professional Santa performers often have experience working with all types of events and can adjust their approach to ensure everyone feels included and engaged.

How Santa Makes Your Party Special:

Customizable Interactions: A good Santa knows how to interact with kids, listen to their Christmas wishes, and even lead them in holiday songs or games. He’ll also know how to mix in some adult humor to keep everyone entertained.

Flexible Timeframe: Whether you need Santa for 30 minutes or several hours, he can adjust his visit to fit the flow of your party. Santa can visit during dinner, pose for photos, or even hand out gifts, making sure your celebration runs smoothly.

Add a Personal Touch: Some Santa performers are happy to include personal details in their visit. For example, they may know which child is excited about a particular gift or have a special message from “the North Pole.” These little touches make the experience even more magical.

4. The Joy of Gift Giving

Nothing screams holiday cheer like gift-giving, and Santa is the perfect figure to help distribute presents. Having Santa hand out gifts adds an extra layer of excitement to the occasion. Whether he’s delivering presents under the tree or surprising kids with small tokens throughout the party, it’s sure to create moments of wonder.

Santa as the Ultimate Gift-Giver:

Themed Gifts from Santa: Santa can hand out presents in a way that feels personal and thoughtful. You can even have him deliver gifts based on the child’s interests, creating a special moment they won’t forget.

Santa’s Elves: If your party has a larger group, you can even hire additional elves to assist Santa. These helpers can help organize gifts, entertain guests, or assist with party activities, ensuring the whole event runs seamlessly.

Memorable Gifting Tradition: By including Santa in your gift exchange, you create a new holiday tradition. Whether it’s an annual Santa visit or a one-time treat, you’ll be setting the stage for future memories and traditions.

5. Santa Brings the Holiday Spirit to Life

The magic of Christmas can sometimes get lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. Between shopping, decorating, and cooking, it can be easy to forget what the holidays are truly about. However, with Santa at your party, the true spirit of Christmas shines through. He represents the joy, love, and generosity that are at the heart of the season. His presence brings out the best in everyone, reminding them to appreciate the magic that surrounds us.

How Santa Keeps the Magic Alive:

Fostering Kindness: Santa is all about spreading kindness, generosity, and good cheer. His visit inspires people to be more mindful of others and embrace the holiday spirit with open hearts.

Spreading Cheer: Santa’s infectious joy and laughter help elevate the mood of your entire gathering. He reminds everyone to slow down and enjoy the little moments, making your holiday party feel truly special.

Rekindling Tradition: Santa’s visit is often part of cherished family traditions, and it’s a way to pass on the holiday magic to younger generations. It helps families reconnect with the roots of Christmas and share stories that transcend time.

A Santa hire can elevate your holiday party, and with https://thepartycharacters.com/rent-santa-for-hire/, you’ll get a professional Santa who will keep guests of all ages delighted and full of holiday cheer.

6. Professionalism and Expertise in Entertaining

Hiring a Santa for hire means you're getting more than just a man in a red suit—you're getting an experienced entertainer who knows how to work a crowd. Professional Santa performers are trained to create an atmosphere that’s both magical and fun, ensuring that your guests are entertained from start to finish. From keeping kids engaged to making sure the adults feel involved, a professional Santa knows how to read the room and adjust accordingly.

The Expertise of a Professional Santa:

Engaging the Kids: Professional Santas are skilled at talking to kids, making them feel at ease, and creating a comfortable environment for photos and interactions. They know how to make children laugh, listen to their Christmas wishes, and respond in a way that is both entertaining and heartwarming.

Adapting to the Crowd: Whether you have a room full of excited children or a group of curious adults, a professional Santa knows how to keep the energy flowing. They can adjust their approach based on the tone of the event—whether it’s a lively gathering or a calm, intimate celebration.

Avoiding Awkward Moments: A professional Santa knows how to avoid awkward or uncomfortable situations that might arise when interacting with children or guests. They are trained to be respectful and inclusive, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and included in the fun.

7. Santa Can Help Set the Tone for Your Party Theme

If you’ve carefully curated a holiday party theme, Santa can help bring that theme to life. Whether you’re hosting a winter wonderland bash, a cozy Christmas gathering, or a festive costume party, Santa can fit seamlessly into your vision. A Santa for hire is often flexible with his costume and appearance, allowing you to choose a Santa that best fits your party's tone.

How Santa Complements Your Theme:

Winter Wonderland or Classic Santa: Depending on your style, you can have a traditional Santa in a classic red suit or a more modern take on the jolly figure. Santa can also fit into themes like vintage Christmas or a snowy winter theme with ease.

Santas in Costume: If you have a specific theme, Santa can be tailored to fit. For instance, if you're hosting a “Glam Christmas” party, your hired Santa can sport a more upscale look. Or, if it’s a family pajama night, Santa can join in the fun by wearing cozy loungewear to match the vibe.

Holiday Spirit in Every Detail: From coordinating his arrival to pairing with other holiday entertainment (like carolers or performers), Santa can seamlessly integrate with your theme to enhance the entire experience.

8. Keeps the Kids Entertained with Holiday Games and Activities

Santa isn’t just about posing for photos and handing out gifts—he can also entertain kids with fun holiday activities! Many professional Santas come prepared with games, songs, and activities to keep kids engaged and excited throughout the visit. This helps create a festive and interactive environment, especially when your guests are looking for more than just a typical meet-and-greet.

Fun Activities Santa Can Bring to Your Party:

Holiday Sing-Alongs: Santa can lead a lively sing-along with classic Christmas songs. Kids and adults alike will enjoy joining in on festive tunes that get everyone into the holiday spirit.

Santa’s Workshop Activities: For children, you can arrange for Santa to host a “mini workshop” where kids can make crafts, write letters to Santa, or even participate in fun games.

Interactive Storytelling: Santa can tell magical stories, engaging kids with tales of his adventures at the North Pole. His storytelling can help maintain attention and spark their imagination as they listen to his captivating holiday tales.

9. Santa Brings a Sense of Wonder and Excitement

The presence of Santa at your holiday party isn’t just a novelty—it’s an experience that adds a profound sense of wonder and excitement. There's something universally magical about Santa that brings out the inner child in everyone, no matter their age. His visit can add an unexpected thrill, making your holiday gathering feel truly exceptional.

Why Santa Sparks Excitement:

Unpredictable Joy: You never know exactly how each child (or adult!) will react when Santa walks into the room. The element of surprise makes his appearance even more exciting, and everyone’s energy is lifted in that magical moment.

Feeling of Awe: Santa’s arrival often creates a sense of awe and wonder, something that’s hard to recreate through other forms of entertainment. Whether it's the jingling of bells or the twinkle in his eyes, Santa’s energy is contagious.

Building Anticipation: From the moment guests hear that Santa is coming to the party, a sense of anticipation builds. Everyone will be eagerly awaiting his arrival, which keeps the atmosphere exciting and engaging. The excitement that Santa brings to the table isn’t something you can easily replicate.

10. Santa Makes Your Party Stand Out

With so many events happening during the holiday season, it can be hard to make your party stand out. By hiring a Santa, you’re instantly creating an unforgettable experience that guests will be talking about long after the event is over. Whether it's the incredible photos, the personal interactions, or the festive atmosphere, your party will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression.

Why Santa Creates a Lasting Impression:

An Event to Remember: A visit from Santa is an experience that no one will forget. It creates memories that your guests will cherish, and they’ll be talking about your party for years to come. It’s the kind of magical moment that stays with people, and it’s likely to become a beloved tradition in your circle.

Unique Party Entertainment: Having Santa at your party is a distinctive feature that sets your event apart from others. It’s an unconventional but highly effective way to make your holiday party feel truly unique and extra special.

Guest Engagement: The interactive nature of Santa’s visit means that your guests are actively engaged. Whether it’s singing songs, playing games, or sharing laughs, Santa ensures that everyone is involved, creating a dynamic and exciting atmosphere.

11. Santa Creates a Welcoming, Inclusive Environment

A visit from Santa can help make your holiday gathering feel more inclusive and welcoming. Santa’s message is all about joy, goodwill, and generosity, and his presence can foster a positive and harmonious atmosphere among your guests. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or even colleagues, Santa has a way of bringing people together, creating a feeling of unity and shared celebration.

How Santa Promotes Inclusion and Togetherness:

Universal Appeal: Santa's universal message of kindness, joy, and togetherness resonates with people from all walks of life. His visit can help bring together guests who may not know each other well, creating a feeling of camaraderie.

Breaking the Ice: For larger gatherings or events where guests might not know each other, Santa can act as the perfect icebreaker. His fun and approachable demeanor helps make people feel comfortable and ready to participate in the festivities.

Spreading Cheer to All: Whether your guests are adults or children, Santa’s spirit lifts everyone’s mood. He encourages kindness and laughter, creating a festive environment that feels warm, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone.

12. Santa Brings a Sense of Tradition to Your Holiday Celebration

The holidays are steeped in tradition, and one of the most beloved traditions is the arrival of Santa Claus. By hiring a professional Santa, you’re not only enhancing your party, but you're also keeping this cherished holiday custom alive. For families, this may be a special tradition that has been passed down through generations, and for newcomers, it’s an opportunity to experience this tradition firsthand.

How Santa Upholds Holiday Traditions:

Reinforcing Cultural Practices: Santa’s visit is part of a broader cultural tradition that celebrates giving, joy, and togetherness. His presence reminds everyone of the timeless elements of the holiday season and invites guests to celebrate with those same values.

Personalizing Tradition: You can incorporate your own family traditions into the Santa visit, like leaving cookies and milk out for him or having Santa hand out the first gift of the evening. These small details can make the experience feel even more personal and meaningful.

Creating New Traditions: If this is the first year you hire a Santa for your holiday party, it could become a new tradition that your guests and family members look forward to every year. Traditions have a way of creating lasting memories that are treasured for generations.

13. Santa Enhances the Holiday Ambience

Nothing enhances the ambiance of a holiday gathering like the warm, welcoming presence of Santa Claus. When he arrives, it’s like a wave of festive energy washes over the room, and the party instantly feels more lively and filled with holiday cheer. Santa adds an element of wonder that makes your event truly feel like a holiday celebration, whether you’re having a formal dinner or a casual get-together.

Creating the Perfect Holiday Atmosphere with Santa:

Setting the Mood: Santa's entrance is enough to set the tone for your entire event. His cheerful demeanor, festive outfit, and charming personality inject energy and excitement into the room, making everyone feel ready to embrace the holiday spirit.

Complementing Holiday Decor: Santa perfectly complements any holiday décor, whether you're decorating with traditional red and green, silver and gold, or even a more modern color scheme. His presence ties everything together, bringing a sense of completeness to your event.

Creating a Sense of Magic: Santa doesn’t just bring physical gifts—he brings a sense of magic to your gathering. From his jingling bells to his boisterous "Ho, ho, ho!", Santa creates an atmosphere that evokes joy, surprise, and wonder.

14. Santa for Hire is More Affordable Than You Think

One common misconception about hiring Santa is that it’s an expensive luxury. In reality, the cost of hiring a Santa can be surprisingly affordable, especially when you consider the lasting impact it has on your event. When compared to other forms of entertainment or decorations, hiring a professional Santa can offer tremendous value for the festive magic he brings to your party.

Why Santa is a Smart Investment:

Affordable Entertainment Option: While costs can vary depending on location and duration, Santa hire is often less expensive than hiring a full band, magician, or other entertainers. For a fraction of the cost, you get an experience that can be shared by everyone in attendance.

Flexible Pricing: Many professional Santas offer packages to suit different budgets and needs. Whether you need Santa for an hour or a whole evening, you can often find a package that fits your budget and your party requirements.

Value for Money: Considering the excitement, joy, and lasting memories that Santa brings, the value of his appearance far outweighs the cost. For something that’s sure to make your holiday party a success, it’s an investment that pays off in spades.

15. Santa Makes Your Party Feel Like a True Holiday Celebration

The bottom line is that hiring a Santa Claus adds an undeniable element of joy, magic, and festivity to your holiday party. Whether you're hosting a large-scale family reunion or a small gathering with close friends, Santa’s visit will transform your event into a full-blown holiday celebration. His presence not only makes your party unforgettable, but it also ensures that everyone—regardless of age—feels the warmth and wonder of the holiday season.

How Santa Creates the Ultimate Holiday Party:

Unmatched Holiday Spirit: Santa’s arrival at your event creates an atmosphere that’s filled with holiday magic. From the twinkle in his eye to his festive laugh, he brings a contagious energy that gets everyone in the holiday spirit.

A Heartwarming Experience: Santa’s visit is a heartwarming moment for everyone. The joy he brings transcends age and background, reminding us all of what the season is truly about—love, kindness, and togetherness.

A Holiday Tradition You’ll Cherish: Once you’ve had a Santa at your holiday party, it’s likely to become a cherished tradition that your family and friends look forward to every year. It’s the kind of experience that creates memories, strengthens bonds, and leaves everyone feeling full of holiday cheer.

Conclusion

When it comes to creating an unforgettable holiday experience, hiring a Santa Claus is a decision you won’t regret. Whether you’re hosting a party for kids, adults, or a mix of both, Santa brings a magical touch that no other entertainer can match. His joyful presence, fun activities, and festive spirit transform your event into something extraordinary, making it a celebration everyone will remember for years to come.

From creating picture-perfect moments to fostering a sense of togetherness and tradition, Santa for hire is the perfect way to elevate your holiday gathering. Don’t miss out on the chance to make this year’s celebration shine brighter than ever—bring Santa to your party and let the magic unfold.

[williamsads]

Custom Bobbleheads Made From Your Photos – The Ultimate Personalized Gift!

Looking for a gift that’s truly unique and personal? Custom Bobbleheads Made From Your Photos are the perfect solution! Whether you’re looking to create a fun memento for a special occasion, a quirky gift for a loved one, or a one-of-a-kind collectible, our custom bobbleheads are made from your photos to capture the essence of your most cherished moments. Transform your favorite memories into playful keepsakes that will bring smiles and laughter for years to come.

Why Custom Bobbleheads Made From Your Photos?

Bring Your Memories to Life: Whether it’s a family portrait, a beloved pet, or a fun moment from your life, we turn your photos into custom bobbleheads that capture every special detail.

Easy and Fast Process: Upload your photo, make your customizations (outfits, accessories, hair, etc.), and leave the rest to us. Your bobblehead will be crafted and shipped quickly, ensuring you get your personalized gift without the wait.

Perfect for Every Occasion: Birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or corporate events – custom bobbleheads make an unforgettable gift for any celebration or milestone.

High-Quality Craftsmanship: Each bobblehead is meticulously crafted with premium materials and attention to detail to ensure it’s an accurate and long-lasting representation of your photo.

Totally Customizable: Add personal touches like hair color, facial expressions, clothing, accessories, and even props to make your bobblehead as unique as the photo you provide.

How It Works:

Upload Your Photo: Choose a clear, high-quality photo that best represents the person, pet, or moment you want to capture.

Customize the Design: Select from a wide range of customization options, including poses, outfits, accessories, and more. Want to add a special message? You can do that too!

Review Your Creation: Take a moment to review your bobblehead design. Make sure everything looks perfect before submitting your order.

Get It Delivered Fast: Once your custom bobblehead is created, we ship it directly to you, ensuring quick delivery so you can enjoy it in no time.

Perfect for:

Personalized Gift Ideas: Whether for a birthday, wedding, holiday, or any special occasion, a custom bobblehead made from a favorite photo is an unforgettable gift.

Corporate Gifts: Show your appreciation with a fun, personalized bobblehead for employees, clients, or partners. It’s a memorable and unique way to stand out.

Pet Lovers: Your pets deserve their own bobblehead too! Create a personalized bobblehead of your furry friends to immortalize their cuteness in a fun way.

Commemorative Gifts: Celebrate graduations, retirements, anniversaries, or family reunions with a custom bobblehead that captures the spirit of the moment.

Fun Collectibles: Whether you're creating a collection of custom figures or just want to display your family or friends in a fun way, our bobbleheads make a great addition to any collection.

Why Choose Our Custom Bobbleheads?

Fast Turnaround Time: No need to wait weeks for your custom bobblehead. We pride ourselves on creating and delivering your personalized gifts quickly.

Affordable Prices: Get a high-quality, personalized bobblehead at a price that won’t break the bank. We offer great value for a unique, one-of-a-kind gift.

Great Customer Support: Our friendly team is ready to assist you at any stage of the design process. Whether you need help with customization or have questions about shipping, we’ve got you covered.

Order Your Custom Bobblehead Today!

Ready to turn your favorite photo into a fun, personalized keepsake? Custom Bobbleheads Made From Your Photos are the perfect gift for any occasion, and they’re just a few clicks away. Start creating your own custom bobblehead today and experience the joy of giving a gift that’s as unique as the person receiving it!

[priyachhabraphotoshoot]

Newborn Photography Package | Maternity and Newborn Photographer.

Welcoming a newborn into your family is one of life’s most beautiful and transformative experiences. From the tiny hands and feet to the delicate expressions on their face, every moment feels precious. Newborn photography offers parents the chance to capture and preserve these fleeting memories forever. Whether it’s your baby’s first days at home or a more formal studio session, these professional photos will become cherished mementos for years to come. Alongside maternity photography, newborn photography packages have grown in popularity, offering a seamless way to document your family’s journey from pregnancy to those precious early days.

In this article, we’ll explore what newborn photography packages offer, why they’re essential, and how to choose the best maternity and newborn photographer for your family.

Why Opt for a Newborn Photography Package?

Babies change incredibly fast, especially in their first few weeks of life. It’s easy to forget just how tiny they were in those early days, as they grow and develop at an astounding rate. A newborn photography package gives you the chance to capture your child’s innocence, sweetness, and tiny features before they grow too quickly. Professional photographers have the skills and tools needed to create stunning, high-quality images that you can treasure forever.

Photographers specializing in newborn photography understand how to work with babies — ensuring they’re safe, comfortable, and calm throughout the session. A professional newborn photography package typically includes everything you need for a memorable experience: from props, lighting, and poses to family portraits that capture the deep love and connection between you and your child.

What’s Included in a Newborn Photography Package?

Newborn photography packages can vary depending on the photographer, but here’s what you can typically expect:

1. Pre-Session Consultation

Before the session, many photographers will offer a consultation to discuss your vision for the shoot. This is an opportunity to share any ideas you have for themes, colors, or poses. Whether you want a simple, minimalist look or something more creative with props and outfits, this pre-session consultation helps ensure the final images align with your expectations.

2. Extended Session Time

Newborn photography requires extra time and patience. Sessions usually last 2–4 hours, allowing for plenty of breaks for feeding, diaper changes, and soothing the baby. This relaxed pace ensures that the session remains stress-free for both parents and baby, while also allowing the photographer to capture a variety of setups and poses.

3. Studio or Home Sessions

You can often choose between a studio session or an in-home session. A studio environment typically offers professional lighting, controlled conditions, and access to a wide range of props and backdrops. On the other hand, in-home sessions capture your baby in their natural environment, offering a more personal and intimate feel to the photographs.

4. Poses, Props, and Creativity

Newborn photography is all about showcasing the baby’s pure beauty. Many photographers include a variety of poses — such as the classic curled-up poses or shots with the baby lying in baskets, cradles, or on soft blankets. Props like headbands, wraps, hats, and stuffed animals can also be used to enhance the look of the photos. The goal is to create a serene, magical atmosphere that highlights your baby’s tiny features.

5. Digital and Print Options

After the session, you’ll usually receive a set number of high-resolution, professionally edited digital images. Many newborn photography packages also offer printed photos, albums, or framed images as part of the deal. These prints can be beautifully displayed in your home or shared with family and friends as keepsakes.

Maternity and Newborn Photography Packages: Capturing the Complete Journey

Many families opt for combined maternity and newborn photography packages to document both the anticipation of pregnancy and the joy of welcoming their newborn. Maternity sessions typically take place between the 28th and 36th week of pregnancy, capturing the beauty of the baby bump and the excitement of the parents-to-be.

There are several benefits to booking a combined maternity and newborn package:

Consistency in Style: When you work with the same photographer for both sessions, you’ll have a cohesive set of images that flow together beautifully, creating a complete narrative of your family’s journey.

Personal Connection: Having the same photographer for both maternity and newborn sessions helps build trust and comfort. By the time your newborn session comes around, you’ll already feel at ease with the photographer, which can make the experience more enjoyable.

How to Choose the Right Maternity and Newborn Photographer

Finding the perfect maternity and newborn photographer can make all the difference when it comes to capturing these once-in-a-lifetime moments. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Review Their Portfolio

Look at the photographer’s portfolio to get a sense of their style and expertise. Every photographer has a unique aesthetic, whether it’s bright and airy or warm and moody. Make sure their previous work resonates with what you envision for your photos.

2. Check Their Experience

Newborn photography requires specific skills and experience, especially when it comes to handling newborns safely and comfortably. Make sure your photographer has ample experience working with babies and understands the importance of safety in every pose.

3. Read Testimonials and Reviews

Online reviews and testimonials from other parents can provide valuable insight into what it’s like to work with a specific photographer. Pay attention to how they interact with babies, how comfortable they made the session, and the overall quality of the final images.

4. Schedule a Consultation

Before committing, schedule a consultation with the photographer to get a feel for their personality and approach. You want someone who makes you feel comfortable and is willing to listen to your ideas.

Conclusion

A newborn photography package is more than just a collection of photos — it’s a way to forever capture the magic and beauty of your baby’s earliest days. Whether you choose a standalone newborn session or a combined maternity and newborn photography package, these images will serve as priceless memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. When choosing a photographer, look for experience, style, and a personal connection to ensure your family’s story is told in the most beautiful way possible.

[digitalvibesinfo]

Twinsies with a Twist: The Adorable Trend of Matching Family Pajamas

From Cozy Nights to Family Photos: Why BellaBubear’s Matching PJs Are a Must-Have

Calling all trendsetting families! Forget the boring old "family photo" pose. This season, it's all about creating memories and capturing picture-perfect moments with a fun new trend: matching family pajamas! But it's not just about sporting the same prints anymore. From quirky designs to personalized options, there's a world of adorableness waiting to be explored in the realm of matching family PJs.BellaBubear offers a delightful range of matching family pajamas that promise both comfort and style.

Why Matching Family Pajamas Are a Must-Have

Okay, let's be honest – matching PJs are just plain fun! They inject a dose of silliness and joy into seemingly mundane moments like movie nights or bedtime routines. But beyond the cute factor, there are some surprising benefits:

1. Strengthening Family Bonds

Matching family pajamas are more than just a trend—they’re a way to strengthen family bonds. Wearing matching outfits creates a sense of unity and togetherness. Whether it’s a holiday tradition, a weekend family movie night, or a special family photo shoot, matching PJs add an extra layer of fun and togetherness to any occasion.

2. Creating Cherished Memories

There’s something inherently joyful about coordinating outfits with your loved ones. The smiles, laughter, and moments of shared joy create lasting memories. Matching family pajamas make these moments even more special by adding a touch of coordinated charm to your family time.

3. Perfect for Photo Opportunities

Family photos become even more memorable with matching pajamas. The coordinated look adds a festive and polished touch to your family portraits. From holiday cards to social media posts, matching PJs ensure your family photos stand out and capture the essence of your family's unique style and personality.

4. Comfort Meets Style

BellaBubear’s matching family pajamas are designed with both comfort and style in mind. Made from high-quality materials like soft cotton and cozy flannel, these pajamas ensure that every member of the family stays warm and comfortable. With a variety of patterns and colors, you can find a style that perfectly matches your family’s personality.

How to Choose the Perfect Matching Family Pajamas

1. Consider the Season

When choosing matching family pajamas, consider the season. For colder months, opt for flannel or thermal pajamas that provide extra warmth. For warmer seasons, breathable cotton or lightweight materials are ideal. BellaBubear offers a range of options suitable for every season, ensuring that your family stays comfortable year-round.

2. Choose a Style That Reflects Your Family’s Personality

Matching pajamas come in various styles, from classic stripes and plaids to whimsical patterns and holiday-themed designs. Select a style that reflects your family’s personality. Whether you prefer a more traditional look or something playful and fun, BellaBubear’s collection has something for everyone.

3. Pay Attention to Sizes

Ensure that you choose the correct sizes for each family member. BellaBubear provides a range of sizes, from infants to adults, so you can find the perfect fit for everyone. Don’t forget to check the sizing chart to make sure everyone gets the right size for a comfortable fit.

4. Look for High-Quality Materials

Quality is key when it comes to pajamas. Opt for pajamas made from high-quality materials that are soft, durable, and easy to care for. BellaBubear’s pajamas are crafted from premium fabrics to ensure long-lasting comfort and wear.

How to Save on Matching Family Pajamas

1. Use the Best BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes

Saving on matching family pajamas is easy with the Best BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes available at Dealszo.com. By using these codes, you can enjoy significant discounts on your purchase. Whether you’re shopping for holiday pajamas or just a cozy set for a weekend family movie night, Dealszo.com helps you get the best deals on BellaBubear products.

2. Take Advantage of Special Promotions

BellaBubear frequently offers special promotions and discounts on their matching family pajamas. Keep an eye on their website and subscribe to their newsletter to stay updated on the latest offers. Combining these promotions with the Best BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes can lead to substantial savings on your purchase.

3. Shop During Sales Events

Sales events are a great opportunity to save on matching family pajamas. Look out for seasonal sales, holiday discounts, and special events where BellaBubear offers reduced prices on their pajamas. By shopping during these events, you can score great deals and make the most of your budget.

4. Explore Bundle Offers

Sometimes, BellaBubear offers bundle deals where you can purchase multiple sets of pajamas at a discounted price. These bundles are perfect for families looking to buy matching pajamas for everyone at once. Keep an eye out for these offers and use the Best BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes to maximize your savings.

How Dealszo Helps You Get Discounts

Dealszo is your go-to resource for finding the best deals and discounts on a wide range of products, including BellaBubear’s matching family pajamas. Here’s how Dealszo.com can help you save:

1. Access to Exclusive Coupons & Promo Codes

Dealszo.com provides access to exclusive BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes that you won’t find anywhere else. These codes offer discounts on your purchase and can be easily applied during checkout to reduce your total bill.

2. Regular Updates on Deals and Promotions

Dealszo keeps you updated on the latest deals, promotions, and sales events for BellaBubear. By regularly checking the website, you can stay informed about upcoming offers and ensure you never miss out on a chance to save.

3. Easy-to-Use Search Features

Finding the best deals is simple with Dealszo’s user-friendly search features. You can quickly locate BellaBubear’s matching family pajamas and apply the Best BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes with just a few clicks.

4. Helpful Reviews and Ratings

Dealszo also features reviews and ratings from other shoppers, helping you make informed decisions about your purchase. Read about other customers’ experiences with BellaBubear’s matching family pajamas and find the best options for your family.

In conclusion, matching family pajamas are a delightful way to enhance family moments and create cherished memories. BellaBubear offers a fantastic selection of matching PJs that combine comfort and style, making them perfect for any family occasion. By using the Best BellaBubear Coupons & Promo Codes from Dealszo, you can save on your purchase and enjoy matching pajamas . So why wait? Start shopping today and experience the joy of coordinating outfits with your loved ones!

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[blackpigcomics]

FAMILY PORTRAIT

When I was 8, I drew a very disturbing dog family, and this is a remake in my current style. I basically haven’t drawn in a year, and this was fun ^^

The house is based on the hut where my great-grandmother grew up with her many sisters and brothers. The father was a shoemaker and alcoholic, and most (if not all) kids moved to the city to work in the factories before they were even teenagers, if I remember correctly.

The original drawings, that I drew with crayons on the back of my mum’s bank statements in 1989, when I was 8 years old:

I drew them in that order, and tacked the pages together, so it’s kind of a funny little horror comic in the shape of a series of portraits of a family. A child psychologist would probably have had a field day with it. ^^;

Now that I redrew them as an adult, my brain wanted to make more sense of it than just “it’s funny/creepy”! The mother, who looks completely normal (for a dog-human/werewolf/furry or whatever), has a little pendant with a satanic cross around her neck. And maybe they’re involved with terrible, unspeakable demonic entities or forces that disfigure their bodies? Maybe the father is the unspeakable entity, and the children have inherited features from each parent to varying degrees?

I used my great-grandma’s hut as the backdrop, because in this type of historical family portraits of peasant and worker families in Finland, they usually posed in their Sunday clothes in front of their home, which may have been a tiny hut in the forest like this.

To me personally this family portrait is kind of the story about how abuse, addiction and pain runs in families, and how children inherit it and carry it on in different ways. Some become abusers in turn. Some turn the abuse against themselves. Some pretend to be ‘normal’, but still carry those demons inside, and avoid close relationships out of fear that they’ll emerge. Some become selfless saviours and helpers devoted to fight injustice. Some become artists and tell the story of their abuse and pain over and over. Some manage to truly overcome it and break the cycle. And of course the same individuals can go through all of these things throughout their lives. And here that story is told through the lens of lovecraftian horror, and within one single image ^^

[portraitmypet]

Getting Your Dog or Cat Ready For Their Portrait

Train Your Pet

If you're going to have your dog or cat professionally photographed, it's important that they feel comfortable and happy in front of the camera. The two most important things to do are:

Train Your Pet

Ask a Professional Pet Trainer for Advice

Tip 1: Get your pet active

To get your pet ready for their portrait, you should get them active. Exercise will help them be more relaxed and comfortable when being photographed.

Dogs: Dogs can be walked, played with in the backyard or taken to a dog park. Cats: Cats can be played with using toys such as feather wands or laser pointers.

Tip 2: Speak with a professional trainer

You may find that a professional trainer is the best place to start. Many dog and cat trainers also specialize in helping animals overcome their fear of the camera, so they are familiar with what it takes to get your pet comfortable enough with the process. You should ask them if they have experience working with dogs and cats specifically, as well as any breed-specific issues you should be aware of (for example, many dogs with short snouts are not comfortable wearing head halters). Additionally, these professionals will be able to provide advice on how best to prepare your pet for their portrait session. Be sure to also ask for references from satisfied customers!

Tip 3: Get comfortable with the camera

It’s important for your pet to be comfortable around the camera before the portrait session. It's a lot easier for them to get used to it if they're familiar with the camera before you bring it out on your photo shoot day.

A good way to get your pet used to the camera is by having them sit in front of it and look at it while you take some photos, then reward them afterward with a treat or something else they like. This will help train them not only that sitting still is fun, but also that looking at the camera won't hurt their eyes!

Cuteness Overload Tips

Cuteness overload is a real thing and can be detrimental to your pet's health, so make sure you're prepared for the moment by keeping treats close by.

Have fun with posing your pet in cute positions. You could ask them to look into the camera, but I prefer letting them express their personality in whatever way they choose.

If you're taking a photo of more than one dog or cat, make sure each animal is getting equal time in front of the camera!

Practice Makes Perfect!

Practice makes perfect! It's a cliché, but it's true. If you want your pet to look at home in front of the camera, you'll need to practice with them before the shoot. Practice is especially important if your pet has never been in front of a camera before.

Here are some tips for getting your dog or cat ready for their portrait:

Practice With Your Pet Before The Photo Shoot

Practice taking photos of your pets when they're relaxed and comfortable around you. Familiarize yourself with how well they hold a pose so that when it comes time for their portrait shoot, they'll be more likely to hold still throughout the session instead of being distracted by something outside or behind the camera lens.

Practice With A Friend Or Family Member

Next time someone visits who has an animal (or even better—a new baby), ask them if they'd mind posing with their pet while you snap away! This gives you lots of opportunities to work on various scenarios—from outdoorsy shots with grass and trees as backdrops, to more intimate portraits featuring only one subject peeking out from behind another person's shoulder as he looks off into space dreamily...you get the picture.* * * * *

Stay calm, train your pet and practice to get the best portrait.

Practice with a camera around your pet

The first step to getting the best portrait of your dog or cat is to get them comfortable with being in front of the camera. The more relaxed your pet, the better the shot will turn out! This can be done by using practice techniques that you can use at home. When taking photos of your pets, you should take many pictures so that you have some great ones to choose from when making a final selection. It’s important to find something special about each image and remember that all dogs are different, so there isn’t one ‘right way’ to photograph every dog out there!

[presidenthades]

For a while, I’ve been wanting to get a portrait with all the Targkids. I recently had some IRL excuses to treat myself. :3

First thing you might notice is the giant gold ribbon running across the screen! That is a variation of the red thread of fate, but gold because that’s the Targkids’ faction color. The gold thread connects all the Targkids because their destinies are intertwined.

Notice the specific places where the thread connects: Baela’s sword, Rhaena’s pen, Helaena’s needle, Jace’s crown, Aegon’s chain (AKA the weight of duty around his neck), Daeron’s flowers (chivalrous little Prince Charming), Joff’s candle, Luce’s abacus, Aemond’s shield. It’s supposed to symbolize how all the Targkids contribute to “the cause.” Elenar, being a baby, is the only one not directly connected to it yet. He’s also the only one able to “see” the thread, which is invisible to all the older Targs, so he’s the only one actually reaching out to it to try to play with it.

Everyone has gold incorporated somewhere in their outfits, because we love a good color-coordination.

Baela is standing a bit to the side because she’s the only one not paired up. 😕 (Cregan doesn’t deserve to be in the pic at the moment.) She’s taking her duties as Jace’s protector seriously, keeping watch for potential danger. She also borrowed Dark Sister from her dad to pose with for the pic.

Rhaena is wearing a gown that I imagine had strong Essosi influences. Her strengths lie in soft power around court, hence her writing letters (and maybe designing more gowns for Jace).

Helaena is HAPPY. We need more fanart with happy Helaena. She’s hanging out with her family, embroidering away (pattern chosen intentionally), and probably rambling about some visions while Rhaena listens.

Jace is decked out in the fanciest gown of all because future queen 👑. Sunfyre colors and little suns galore, obviously. She’s also wearing the gold tiara from her wedding.

Elenar is wearing baby Aegon’s outfit from S1E3. Barefoot because shoes are for chums. He is in the center of the picture because the world revolves around him and his cuteness, of course.

Aegon is in Targ colors because he is a Targaryen, not a Hightower, and the factional tensions are way down in this universe. No crown because he’s not going to be king and he’s happy about it. Stay-At-Home-Prince privileges only, please.

Daeron and Joff are their preteen selves because I imagine this pic to take place sometime around the end of The Golds. Like a little knight, he’s presenting a bouquet to his lady love (flower colors chosen to match all the Targ girls: gold, blue, black, green, red, pink).

Joff is wearing a gown inspired by one of young!Rhaenyra’s outfits. When she grows up, she wants to inherit all of Rhaenyra’s black and red gowns. She’s a little embarrassed looking away from Daeron, because EW feelings! And she’s hiding her glass candle behind her back because it’s not an artifact/power she wants to advertise to everyone.

Luce is in 1000% Velaryon colors and motifs. The goal was for her to dress up nice enough for her high station, but less fancy than Jace because Luce likes running around and getting messy. She’s carrying books because she likes learning even if she has trouble reading. I also imagine there’s a ledger in the stack, and the abacus is to help her balance accounts. I didn’t ask for the hip pouch but I LOVE it; it can hold some of her crafting supplies.

She and Aemond are exchanging a kinda sad look because they’re separated at the end of The Golds. Aemond is poised as if about to walk offscreen, since he’s leaving for the Stepstones. His shield depicts what I imagine his personal sigil to be: a blue dragon surrounded by seven stars. His sword is also supposed to be the Velaryon heirloom sword, Siren Song, that I teased in the Handbook Chapter 8.

And there you have it! The Gold family portrait!

Commission done for @presidenthades ✨

Here the link to her Fanfiction-> https://archiveofourown.org/series/3610021

This time a lovely family portrait 💕😍

[erinpilolla]

Local Artist Brings History and Art Together in the Most Unusual Way... 

February 3, 2023

By Erin Pilolla

Beaches with breathtaking views. Ornate shops as far as the eye can see. People everywhere… wooden ones, that is. Welcome to Anacortes, Washington!

Here in our historic town founded in 1879, we like to decorate a little differently. Throughout town on the sides of businesses, you can find colorful, detailed, wooden paintings of people in old-fashioned clothing. Sometimes they’re posed alone, in a group, or with a prop, but they all have a noticeably similar art style.

That’s because they were all painted by one man. Bill Mitchell, a local artist who was beloved by his community, thought up a plan to preserve the history of Anacortes and make the city look better too; by creating a series of murals based on prominent figures from the town who have passed away. The city founder, Amos Bowman, and his wife Annie Curtis are immortalized in these murals, as are Hollywood celebrities such as John Wayne and Marilyn Monroe. There are even a few fictional characters Mitchell created himself.

With the impact and expansiveness of this project, one may assume that it was government funded, but in fact, this project was funded almost exclusively by businesses and donations. In the 1980s when the project began, the future of Anacortes was up in the air. Businesses were struggling and tourists were dwindling.

Bill Mitchell and other passionate locals would hold meetings as part of a group named “The Anacortes Renaissance and Revival Confederation,” who would brainstorm ideas to bring the town to fame. Mitchell brought up his ideas for the murals, and soon the group helped him find a sponsor. Thus, the Anacortes Mural Project was born!

The first mural was put up on May 3, 1984, and there are now over 160. More were in the works before Mitchell passed away in March of 2019, over 30 years after he started working on the murals. Along with his dedication to the project over time, he also was able to do all this work without any ability to move his fingers.

A car crash early in life left him confined to a wheelchair and with other complications, but Bill was said to have been thankful for this event and he never let it stop him, as it eventually led him down a more creative path. His time studying at Western Washington University also helped inspire him to pursue art.

His positive experience in school may have been what influenced him to work closely with our local high school. Brooke Writer, who attended Anacortes High School, said her history class went on a school field trip to the artist Bill Mitchell’s home years ago. “He had a car, you could tell it was his because it was painted like a shark,” she said. He told them about his life living in Anacortes, and let them tour his house which she recalled was stuffed to the brim with old books, art, and maps.

Another Anacortes native, Susan Coburn, said she remembers Mitchell fondly, especially as she was growing up. “Everyone was always talking about him,” she said. Very often he would be talked about as if he was a celebrity living just down the street from her. She recalls talking with her family about the new murals as they were going up and each time there was a new one. She would overhear tidbits about his health and personal story, even though aside from his reputation he was a perfect stranger.

Mitchell immortalized town figures he didn’t personally know and gave them a prominent position in the town, paying respect to their place in all our pasts. The project began with history, and over time created its own history; a portrait of the town we call home today.

_______________________________________________________________

Photos of Mitchell’s work sourced from: 

https://anacortes.org/blog/anacortes-mural-project