Technology means “science of craft”, and it is what this category is all about. Here you will find articles covering technological advances, innovations, and solutions based on science, computers and systems, engineering, etc…
As a platform, the web caters to creators. It’s a place to publish and share whatever we want. We’ve used it to fuel the rise of everything from blogs to influencer videos.
The results are impressive. Think of all the careers kickstarted by online publishing. I am living proof. Writing and web design have provided me with income and a platform. I’m forever grateful.
However, the rules of content ownership seem to be changing before our eyes. And it’s not the familiar trope of a spammer copying your text and images.
These days, large companies are trying to stake a claim. Social media has been doing this for years. And now artificial intelligence (AI) is putting the practice into overdrive.
Not everyone wants to own our content outright. Various platforms are looking to profit from what we create, though. Let’s take a look at what’s happening and what it means.
A Misunderstanding That Made Creators Think
Imagine a tool that helps you create compelling content. It then takes your content and profits from it. A recent change to Adobe’s Terms of Use seemed like it might do just that.
“4.2 Licenses to Your Content. Solely for the purposes of operating or improving the Services and Software, you grant us a non-exclusive, worldwide, royalty-free sublicensable, license, to use, reproduce, publicly display, distribute, modify, create derivative works based on, publicly perform, and translate the Content. For example, we may sublicense our right to the Content to our service providers or to other users to allow the Services and Software to operate as intended, such as enabling you to share photos with others. Separately, section 4.6 (Feedback) below covers any Feedback that you provide to us.”
I’m no lawyer or legal expert. But it sounds like the company is permitting itself to use your content. Theoretically, Adobe could use content created in Photoshop to feed its AI model.
Adobe has since clarified that this is not the case. The changes relate to allowing their cloud-based AI tools to modify your content – at your request. Furthermore, the language is there to facilitate the sharing of files via Adobe apps.
Perhaps it was all an honest misunderstanding. But can you blame anyone for being suspicious of the change?
Content Isn’t Just for User Consumption
The relentless pace of AI is making some people uncomfortable. Tools are scraping our websites to feed their models. Opting out isn’t straightforward.
It’s also different from social media. The workaround there has been to create content on a platform you control (a website) and promote that content on social media. We’re merely funneling traffic from a proprietary platform—not allowing it to own our creations.
AI has changed the game. The platforms are meeting us where we are. They’re indexing what we’ve published to improve their product.
All of this happens in the background. It may not be a big deal to some. If you can’t see it happening, what’s the harm?
We may not immediately see the effects. But the long-term ramifications could be significant.
What happens when a company chooses AI instead of a copywriter? Or let ChatGPT generate all of its custom code? Or replace a graphic artist with a text-to-image tool?
These things are already happening. Maybe they haven’t impacted you just yet. But pessimists will see this as feeding the machine that will take your place.
Rethinking the Role of Apps in Content Creation
I can’t say that I ever considered the role apps play in what I create. For example, I’ve used Photoshop since the 1990s. It was a great tool that helped me accomplish my goals. It still is.
The misunderstanding surrounding its Terms of Use has me wondering. How far will an app go to serve us and itself?
It’s no longer paranoia to think a software company would use our content for profit. And governing bodies can’t act swiftly enough to stop it. It’s the wild west out there. Companies will experiment and go as far as they can.
So, perhaps it’s no longer about using the most powerful tool for the job. Now, it’s about using tools that respect users.
App developers should be clear about their intentions. And, if they are feeding content to AI models, they should allow users to opt out. The process for doing so should be simple.
There’s a market for apps with a privacy-first focus. We see this with web browsers like Firefox and DuckDuckGo. That’s a roadmap for creative apps and publishing platforms to follow.
The New Reality of Content Creation
There’s always been some risk when publishing online. Anyone could copy your work and call it their own. Or they could redistribute your work in an unapproved manner. It’s frustrating, for sure. But we’ve learned to live with it.
These days, the concern is how and where we create. Do we own our content – or are we expected to share ownership? What rights do we have? What does all of the legalese in the Terms of Service mean?
The answers may deter some of us from publishing. That’s a shame because the internet is the perfect medium for sharing ideas.
In reality, we should think twice before using a tool or platform. As creators, we need to know what we’re getting into.
The situation also underscores the importance of free, open-source software (FOSS). Platforms like WordPress ensure content ownership and portability. Integration with AI is optional – even if blocking content scrapers isn’t automatic.
The bottom line is to do your homework. Find tools that respect your privacy and rights to ownership, and avoid the ones that go too far.
We can’t control everything in this industry, but we can make informed choices. For now, it’s our best option.
There’s more to website ownership than meets the eye. However, our clients may not realize this. They might think that the work ends when the site launches.
An experienced web designer knows better. A site launch is just the beginning. Content management systems (CMS) like WordPress are a case in point. A steady stream of updates keeps us on our toes.
It’s one reason why I believe a professional should manage WordPress sites. Even the tiniest of websites have significant maintenance needs.
Still, clients don’t always understand the stakes or the costs involved. Until something goes wrong, that is. But let’s not go that far.
The key to avoiding problems starts with education. Teaching clients the hows and whys of WordPress maintenance can do the trick. With that, here are some points worth driving home in your discussions.
Website Maintenance Is an Investment
There are two types of website investments. The first is the cost of the initial design and build. It covers everything from the idea phase to the site launch. That’s the big, expensive part.
The second comes after the site goes out into the world. It ensures both content and software are current. Clients can get tripped up by this one.
What clients may not understand is that websites require care – regardless of whether the content changes. They’re viewing the phrase “website updates” through a different lens.
How do we change their perspective? You could compare website maintenance to that of a car.
Cars need regular care to keep things running smoothly. Doing so prevents problems down the road. It’s an investment in safety and stability.
Websites need the same kind of investment. The goal is to keep it in tip-top shape – and avoid common pitfalls.
WordPress sees frequent updates to plugins, themes, and the core software. Together, they improve the overall security and performance of a website. It’s too important to ignore.
Standards and Best Practices Change
The web’s standards and best practices are subject to change. So, that shiny website from a few years ago is now behind the times.
We’ll see this in several areas of a typical WordPress site. Accessibility is a big one. An older WordPress theme may not be up to the current standard. Old or abandoned plugins might also lack accessible features.
Server technology also marches on. A website may run on an outdated version of PHP, for instance. That means you’re missing out on better performance and security.
These issues go beyond a website’s aesthetics. They are fundamental to things like usability and legal compliance. The more you fall behind, the greater the risk.
Resolving these issues requires time and money. We’ll need to review the website and determine what needs to be changed or fixed. From there, it’s time to perform the necessary tasks.
Clients may have a hard time grasping this concept. They can’t always see the need for such changes. Nor can they always measure the results.
However, it’s one of the costs of website ownership. Think of it this way: Brick-and-mortar locations must keep up with building codes. Websites need to do the same.
Vigilance Is an Important Part of the Plan
Website maintenance is not a once-per-year type of task. It’s an ongoing commitment. WordPress releases a new major version every few months. Plugin and theme updates can drop at any time.
Each update opens the door to potential change. For example, a plugin update might require a new version of PHP. You might also need to update any custom code.
Security is also a key factor. New vulnerabilities pop up frequently. They require us to act quickly. Otherwise, we increase the risk of a compromised site.
Vigilance is important. It comes at a cost, though. Web designers need to keep a watchful eye. That means a combination of manual intervention and automated tools.
These acts won’t guarantee a problem-free experience. But they can prevent a small problem from becoming a major one.
That peace of mind is worth the price – particularly for clients who depend on their website for sales. A broken or hacked eCommerce site could spell disaster.
A Well-Maintained Website Benefits All
In a nutshell, everyone benefits from a well-maintained website. Web designers can use it as a vehicle for recurring revenue. Users are less likely to encounter problems. And that should make website owners happy!
The other side effect is taking advantage of new features. WordPress is continually refining its core. The same goes for its theme and plugin ecosystem.
It’s an opportunity to do more online. Features that enhance performance, accessibility, or ease of use can mean more sales. That’s one way to increase the chances of customer loyalty.
Make an effort to discuss WordPress maintenance with your clients. Help guide them on the importance of staying on the cutting edge.
They’ll be more likely to commit once they learn the hows and whys. And they’ll be better prepared to adapt to the web’s ever-changing landscape.
WordPress’s immense popularity stems from its robust ecosystem of tools, ease of use, and flexibility. Themes and plugins are central to its versatility. Plugins, in particular, allow users to extend the functionality of their WordPress sites effectively.
Plugins are, in fact, indispensable for adding complex features to a site, eliminating the need for extensive coding or high development costs.
If the term plugin is new to you, you can think of it as an app or add-on for your website. The WordPress library, with over 50,000 plugins, offers extensive design capabilities, allowing you to unlock the full potential of WordPress itself.
A general understanding of what WordPress plugins can do and how they can leverage a website’s value and operational efficiency is key to successful website design and development.
In this collection, you’ll examine seven top WordPress plugins, each excelling in its specific area of functionality.
What You Need to Consider When Selecting a WordPress Plugin
Purpose & Requirements: Clearly define what you are looking for, e.g., SEO, social media integration, eCommerce capabilities, etc.
Plugin Ratings & Reviews: Make it a point to find out what other users experienced, e.g., excellent results, problems encountered, and the level of support received.
Compatibility: Make certain the plugin is compatible with the version of WordPress you are using and also compatible with themes or other plugins your website is using.
Update Frequency: Plugins should have been updated frequently enough to incorporate improvements, fix bugs, and remain compatible with WordPress.
Support & Documentation: Good documentation can help you troubleshoot issues and make the most of the plugin’s features. Robust customer support is also important.
Security: Choose plugins from developers that deliver high-quality, secure code.
Performance Impact Poorly coded plugins or those overloaded with extra features could slow down your site (and add to your design workflow).
Cost: Free is great if you are certain that that option meets your needs. It’s always a good idea to see if the extras a premium version offers will work to your advantage.
The Best WordPress Plugins in 2024 for Your Website Projects
TL;DR: Amelia is the best choice for service-oriented businesses needing to automate and streamline their appointment booking operations.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
Spas, fitness centers, photographic studios, and other service-oriented businesses can save time and money by installing Amelia’s capabilities while at the same time profiting from increased customer or client satisfaction. With Amelia, event and appointment booking can be managed at multiple locations from a single website platform.
Veterinarian services including dog-walking, vacation care, and other special services can also make excellent use of Amelia, Petcare template.
User Experience: “Amelia is a great booking tool that has a nice look and feel right out of the box. It is a bit overwhelming at first because of the many settings you have but the customer service support is great. I can’t recommend this plugin enough.”
Client Avgerage Grade: 4.8 on Capterra.
Types of Support Material: Discord Group, documentation, and YouTube videos.
TL;DR: wpDataTables’ ease of use and powerful data management features allow users to quickly create editable and responsive tables and charts.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
The wpDataTables plugin has long been known for allowing users to work with massive amounts of complex data. Its new Multiple Database Connections functionality goes a step further by enabling users to simultaneously connect to diverse servers.
Users have the ability to create a virtually unlimited variety of tables and charts. This pricing table template, for example, features nine different formats ranging from simplistic to more complex. wpDataTables’ conditional formatting and other customization options provide a powerful means for highlighting critical data.
User Experience: “The support team helped resolve the compatibility issues with my theme. Really helpful and willing to go the extra way to ensure that the plugin works well in any environment.”
Client Avgerage Grade: 4.83/5.
Types of Support Material: Documentation and YouTube videos.
TL;DR: The Classic Editor plugin restores the long-time favorite WordPress editor and “Edit Post” screen.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
Classic Editor will continue to be supported for as long as it is needed. The plugin allows users to manage default editors or give users the ability to make changes on their own.
User Experience: “Thank you for this plugin. I deactivated it a few months ago, trying to get used to the block editor. A nightmare. No more! I have wasted enough time already in frustration, trying to figure out how to put it to use. Back to classic!”
TL;DR: The Slider Revolution plugin is an excellent choice for anyone interested in creating animated sliders that range from engaging to jaw-dropping.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
Slider Revolution’s top feature isn’t a single tool or function, it’s the many different ways it can be used to create sliders and web page content that will absolutely “wow” its visitors.
Designers or developers can upgrade a run-of-the-mill website to something special in minutes. Think of the last time you saw an advertisement for a Horsemanship training center: still images of happy-looking people on horseback. Now see what Slider Revolution can do with this Professional Training slider template.
Needless to say, Slider Revolution is ideal for one-page websites and portfolio websites.
User Experience: “Great plugin with some impressive features! Support reps are top notch all around and Abid was especially helpful.”
Client Avgerage Grade: 4.2/5 on Trustpilot.
Types of Support Material: Support manual and YouTube videos.
TL;DR: LayerSlider is the best WordPress plugin for making creative sliders, slideshows, and popups.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
LayerSlider enables its users to create a live connection between a site’s content and its visitors, whether the animated content is in a slider, a page section, a popup, or a banner for marketing purposes. Its highly customizable interface and advanced features were designed to make beginners and experts alike feel right at home.
The features and templates of LayerSlider provide a universal multi-purpose solution for all kinds of websites. “Fragrance Fantasy” for example, is a template tailored for salons and lifestyle blogs where perfume comes to life in a symphony of colors and scents. This and other templates can be easily customized by adding your own content.
Client Insight:“Super easy to use and the animations are just wow.”
Types of Support Material: Support manual, built-in help in LayerSlider’s Project Editor, direct email, and ticket system.
TL;DR: Essential Grid is an easy to work with WordPress Gallery Plugin for businesses and creatives looking for a way to create breathtaking galleries.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
If you envision any gallery layout, you can create it with Essential Grid. If you can’t envision one, Essential Grid will also be able to help you.
All the tools you need are at your fingertips, plus you can use any of 50+ customizable templates designed to help you create an impressive gallery at a lightning-fast speed. Check out Essential Grids’ Dark Portfolio template with its impressive hover effects.
You can create as many skin variations as you want, choose masonry, cobbles, or any other type of layout, and mix and match the grids until you’re satisfied.
User Experience: “The tool is powerful and very well designed. The support team is incredibly fast, friendly and efficient! All the best to you!”
Client Avgerage Grade: 4.8/5 on Trustpilot.
Types of Support Material: YouTube videos and Support manual.
TL;DR: The expertly crafted Brizy WordPress website builder is great for those new to website building, but powerful enough for tech-savvy users as well.
Click the video to see this plugin in action.
Brizy is well suited for small businesses, freelancers, and agencies looking to launch a small to medium-sized website. Distinct PRO features for marketers include 3rd party tool integrations, popups, and membership features.
The design kit includes a collection of 500+ blocks designed to make it possible to create a website in minutes.
Brizy’s SAAS landing page template shows how easy website creation can be, especially when you have the needed content at your fingertips.
User Experience: “I’ve been using Brizy for a while now, and their support team is outstanding. Quick, knowledgeable, and always ready to help. They’ve made our website design experience a breeze. Highly recommend Brizy for their exceptional support and user-friendly platform.”
Client Avgerage Grade: 4.4/5 on Trustpilot/
Types of Support Material: Academy with Video Courses, Written DocumentationSupport Manual, Ticket Help-desk, YouTube videos & Facebook Group.
Choosing the right WordPress plugins for your website is crucial for maximizing its potential in terms of functionality and overall performance. Knowing upfront what you need in a plugin, checking its compatibility, and assessing user reviews are crucial to making the right acquisition. The plugins featured here offer robust solutions for various website requirements and represent the best in their respective niches.
Whether you choose Amelia’s all-inclusive booking system or wpDataTables’ powerful data management system or elect to take advantage of the WordPress Classic Editor, the Revolution Slider or LayerSlider dynamic content tools, or what Essential Grid and Brizy offer, you can appreciably improve your website’s functionality, user experience, or visual appeal.
Editing photos can be time-consuming, but Photoshop actions can streamline your workflow and produce stunning, professional results quickly.
To help you find the best options, we’ve curated a collection of art-inspired Photoshop actions to transform your photos. Whether you’re a digital designer, illustrator, or photographer, these actions will add creativity and style to your work.
Our selection includes effects to suit every taste. There’s something for everyone, from pencil sketches and watercolors to modern and pop art. These actions turn your photos into works of art, reflecting traditional painting and drawing techniques.
With just a few clicks, you can convert ordinary photos and graphics into oil paintings or create the nostalgic feel of vintage film. With these actions, you can have the artistic results you’ve always wanted!
The Top Art Effect Photoshop Actions for Creatives
This Photoshop action styles photos into fun, colorful metal pins. With three metal colors to choose from, you have plenty of options here. This action works with text layers, vector shapes, and much more.
A cartoon action like this transforms everyday photos into fantastic artwork, adding a stylish aesthetic to your favorite shots. It works best with 2000x4000px dimension photos, delivering maximum style. It’s quick and easy to use, requiring no artistic talent!
Pencil sketches are a creative way to illustrate. This Photoshop action set lets you quickly add a sketching style to your photos. The set also includes brushes and patterns for added effects.
Are you looking for a funky, contemporary feel in your photography? GlowArt is the Photoshop action for you. With a single click, it will add a vibrant glow to any photo.
Vintage effects add a timeless aesthetic to your favorite photos. They never go out of style and work well with portraits and landscapes. By applying this action, you will see your photos transform before your eyes.
These Photoshop actions will style your images and graphics to look like video game covers. They’re especially useful for gamers sharing their artwork on social media. The pack also includes pattern sets.
For an abstract effect, the Creative Art Photoshop action is hard to beat. It is well-suited for action and sports photos. With a few clicks, you’ll create stunning effects that almost seem as if they are in motion.
Movie posters have a unique style. With these Photoshop actions, you can bring that style to your favorite photos. Prepare to see colors pop and contrasts sharpen when you apply these effects.
The Cyborg Photoshop actions offer a sci-fi effect for portrait photos. With two actions included, you can choose your preferred character design. The pack also includes Photoshop brushes and various color options.
Are you searching for spooky effects for your favorite Halloween photos? This is a purpose-built action pack for scary photos. Choose from various resolution options while editing. It features HDR effects that boost colors and contrast, and you can apply it with just a single click.
Designed for sports posters, these Photoshop actions add a starry red backdrop. It works best for subjects that are in motion. The modern styling applies instantly, with geometric elements dropping into place. It’s a futuristic design for all your sports photos.
The Art Work Photoshop action pack helps the subjects of images stand out. With this pack, you’ll see backgrounds disappear, replaced with an abstract 3D concrete layout.
With this Photoshop action pack, you can create elegant poster designs. With a single click, any portrait photo can be transformed into a stunning, posterized graphic.
The effect these Photoshop actions produce will turn any portrait into a decolorized, hand-drawn work of art. Brush and action files are included in the download pack. This action works best with portrait-style photos.
Old newspapers have an unmistakable look and feel, from the typesetting to the slightly blurry photos. With this Photoshop action pack, you can bring this aesthetic to your photos. For maximum impact, wider photos are recommended.
Watercolor artwork is a popular style, especially for landscape photos. With these actions, you can apply watercolor styling to any photo with a single click. Though designed for portraits, these actions will work on any image.
The Plastic Wrapped Overlay Photoshop action pack is ideal for portrait subjects with a neutral yet stylish backdrop. This pack focuses on color contrasts. With a single click, you can apply a solid 3D background to the portrait photo of your choice.
These actions will add a cracked stone effect to your photos and graphics. They work with portraits and landscapes alike. It’s not a style you’ll likely use every day, but it’s handy to have in your editing toolbox. Multiple files are included, with documentation available. Single-click editing makes the process a breeze from start to finish.
Mirror effects are powerful edits that work well with many types of photos. With these actions, you’ll see mirrored rings around your portrait subjects. It’s a sure way to help your photos get a second look from casual viewers.
Think of the portraits you’ve seen on printed money. Remember the iconic green stripes and portrait effects? You can add the effect to your photos with these custom actions. Use them to create fun designs for posters, blog posts, social media, and more.
Aquarelle is an artistic option for adding abstract watercolor effects to your images. With these color presets, you can easily tailor a photo’s palette to fit your style.
Sketch paintings are a great way to be creative. Apply their aesthetic to the photos of your choice by using this Photoshop action pack. They work with just a single click and are well-suited to editors of all skill levels. You can create spectacular artwork in moments.
Pixel effects give the illusion of motion in still images. The Pixel Sorting Photoshop action pack allows you to add this effect to your top shots. This effect works best when applied to an action photo.
Have you ever wanted to create blueprint designs for your photo collection? It’s a terrific way to create modern, geometric designs. Now you can, with these Photoshop actions. Blueprint images are artsy and add a dose of contemporary cool to any wall or workspace.
Code Art is an excellent choice for adding coding effects to your photographs. It works with portraits and full-body photos and includes ten color effects. Apply the action, and your image file will be layered and organized accordingly. This one’s a real time-saver.
This action pack replicates the look of a pencil drawing in your photographs. Once the action generates the graphical elements, you can adjust them to suit your needs. It is non-destructive and includes six paper textures, eight color corrections, 28 brushes, and 14 patterns.
Another great option is the Mixed Art action pack. This Photoshop action can be applied with just one click, resulting in a look that replicates a watercolor painting.
If you want to add a retro aesthetic to your photos, you’ll want to add the Retro Art Photoshop action kit to your toolbox. It adds an exciting artistic effect to your photos.
The Chroma Art Photoshop Action makes it easy to transform your photos into pieces of art that look like mixed-media artwork. It also comes with ten color presets that can be applied with a single click.
The Drawing Art Animation Photoshop action adds a cool effect to your photographs. It is a time-saver that makes it easy to give your images the look of a hand-drawn piece of art.
This Grunge Art Photoshop action adds a dark and gritty look to your photographs. With a few clicks, you can give your images a real moody look with minimal effort. While this action works as expected, the results can be different each time to create a truly unique effect.
The Piratum Map Art Photoshop action offers a highly unique effect. When applied to your photos, it turns the image into a vintage-looking graphic, like a hand-drawn map. The result is an old-style graphic with tons of geographical details.
The Sketch Art Photoshop Action transforms your photo into a realistic painting while keeping the underlying sketch visible. It automatically creates all the necessary layers, which can be adjusted manually. The download includes ten brushes, five textures, and a quick start guide.
The Spray Paint Photoshop action is a set of 10 different effects you can apply to your photos immediately. Each effect creates the look of spray paint art. The result mimics edgy street art.
The Pixel Art Photoshop Action is another fantastic choice for your creative projects. It adds a retro, pixelated appearance to any image you apply it to. The result is a photo that looks like it came from the 1980s or 90s. Once used, you can adjust individual layers and gradient masks to refine the look further.
The Blood Art Photoshop Action will turn any photo you choose into a moody and distinct artwork. Once applied, it adds a sort of cloudy blood effect. It comes with ten color effects.
Another option is the Pixel Art Photoshop Action. This action turns your photo into a retro-looking image that looks like it came from a vintage video game. It comes with 21 actions, 32 tones, various color palettes, and more.
The Ink Art Photoshop Action turns your photos into something that looks like it’s been hand-drawn. The result mimics Sumi-e-styled ink wash artwork. After you apply the effect, you can tweak various settings to customize the outcome.
You might also want to consider the Street Art Photoshop Action. As its name would suggest, this action transforms your images into street art. It works best with portraits and inanimate objects, and the result makes it appear as though a graffiti artist had drawn parts of the photo.
Another option is this Modern Art Photoshop action pack. This action combines the look of real photography with watercolor and acrylic paint effects, creating a truly unique look. To use it, all you need to do is fill the subject of your photo with a color and then click play on the action.
As its name suggests, the Mix Art Photoshop Action pack makes it easy to turn ordinary photos into pieces of mixed-media art. It comes with ten color presets, is easy to use, and allows for extra customization once applied.
Give your images the appearance of newspaper print with the Newspaper Art Photoshop Action. It will turn your image into an abstract piece of art by adding letters and tidbits of newspaper graphics into geometric patterns that make up the subject of your photo.
What an excellent effect this action creates! The Digital Art Photoshop Action turns your photographs into images that look as though they’ve been hand-painted. The result is highly realistic, with all the textures expected from an oil or acrylic painting. It works best on portraits and inanimate objects and can be customized to suit your needs.
Instead of endlessly adjusting settings, use the Oil Paint Animation Photoshop action set to give your photographs the appearance of being manually painted.
This Photoshop action set combines splashes, brushes, and colors to create an artistic vintage look. It’s easy to apply and creates a professional look with minimal effort.
Here’s another action that brings the look of street art to your photographs. It includes 11 graffiti tags, five rugged wall styles, and ten color effects to create many different looks.
The Concept Mix Art Photoshop Action would be an excellent addition to your collection. It turns your photos into mixed media pieces with the look of watercolor splashes and pen marks. Use it on portraits, figures, and inanimate objects.
Last in our collection is the Watercolor Splash Art Photoshop Action. This set gives your photo a watercolor look with plenty of splatter effects. Use it on any image, and customize the final layers the action creates to match your style.
How to Install Photoshop Actions
Download and unzip the action file.
Launch Photoshop.
Go to Window > Actions.
Select Load Actions from the menu and go to the folder where you saved the unzipped action file to select it.
The Action will now be installed.
To use the newly installed action, locate it in the Action panel.
Click the triangle to the left of the action name to see the list of available actions.
Click the action you want to play and press the play button at the bottom of the Actions panel.
Art Effect Photoshop Action FAQs
What are art effects Photoshop actions?
Art effects actions are pre-set edits for Photoshop that add various artistic styles to your photos.
Are these actions compatible with all versions of Photoshop?
Most actions are designed to work with a wide range of Photoshop versions, but checking their compatibility with your specific version is advisable.
Can I apply these actions to different types of image files, such as RAW or JPEG?
These actions can be used with various image file types, including RAW and JPEG. However, the level of adjustment may vary based on the file format.
Are these actions suitable for both digital and traditional art styles?
These art effect actions can improve photos in ways that suit both digital and traditional artistic styles, offering versatility to artists.
Can I customize or combine multiple actions to create unique effects?
Certainly! You can adjust the opacity and layer blending modes and even combine multiple actions to achieve customized and distinctive artistic results.
Conclusion
These Photoshop actions offer a wide range of artistic possibilities, from turning a photo into a watercolor painting to giving it the appearance of an oil canvas.
These actions control elements like color, texture, and style but leave plenty of room for your own creative touches. Enjoy!
For years, freelance web designers have been encouraged to book new projects. It’s how I built my business. I’m betting that many more have done the same.
There’s great appeal in building a new website. It’s a chance for a fresh start. You can use the best tools for the job. The experience is even better if you are unencumbered with technical debt.
It can also be a lucrative business – but there are challenges. You’ll need to book clients with a sizeable budget. You’ll also need to find a way to stand out among competitors. That’s one path to success.
There are other ways to make money, though. The growing complexity of the web creates a different opportunity for web designers.
Think of all the websites out there. Consider how many of them are “broken” or poorly maintained. An enterprising freelancer could train their focus on these clients.
Let’s examine the pros and cons of fixing websites.
An Opportunity Years in the Making
There is no shortage of virtual fixer-uppers. You don’t have to look far to see outdated and neglected websites. But why?
I believe much of it stems from content management systems (CMS). Tools like WordPress offer plenty of possibilities for a great website. However, they also require education and commitment.
Sometimes, an entrepreneur may attempt to build it themselves. But, they will soon find that they’re in over their head. Or they don’t know the ingredients of a stable and performant site.
Even those who hire a web professional can run into problems. That web designer may have done a terrific job. However, they may not have communicated the importance of maintenance.
Continued care is required to keep things running smoothly. Outdated themes, plugins, and core software will turn any site into a bucket of bolts.
Website owners aren’t likely to call for help until something is wrong. It appears to be a common issue these days.
I’m Not a Hero – Just a Web Designer
Longtime freelancers know the drill. You receive an email from a panicked website owner. They’re not a client. However, their site has crashed, been hacked – or maybe both. They need to get it fixed right away.
How do you respond? It’s easier to say “no” if you’re busy. Perhaps you have enough clients. But if not?
There’s an opportunity to play the part of hero. It’s also a chance to make money and establish a relationship.
Fixing this person’s site could lead to bigger things. Since you have their attention, you can use that time to make recommendations.
For example, their site may have other issues that need fixing. Things like accessibility and security could be lacking. Maybe they need a complete overhaul.
Helping a client in a difficult situation can create trust. It may be just the motivation they need to level up. You have a chance to guide them in the right direction.
What’s Lurking Inside That Website?
Website rehabilitation is not without risk. What you see on the surface is one thing. What lies beneath is another.
It’s among the downsides of inheriting a website. You’re stepping into uncharted territory. That often leads you down the proverbial rabbit hole.
Maybe the site was built using unfamiliar tools. Or it’s so riddled with malware that you can’t find the root cause. These issues aren’t for the faint of heart.
There are also questions about the client. How did their website get into this state? Did they have a poor relationship with their last designer? Did they pay their bills on time?
Sure, people can change. But you’ll want to find out why their site is in disrepair. You may find some red flags that scream, “Stay away!”
Perhaps this is the biggest hurdle for freelancers. The willingness to accept risk and dive in headfirst are musts. Not everyone will have the stomach for it.
Pricing is also a concern. Estimating the cost of a fix isn’t easy. So, develop a formula that protects you from taking a loss on a messy site.
Is This the Right Path for You?
Website maintenance services are popping up all over the place. They often consist of teams of developers ready to get to work. There’s a good reason for it. The market needs experts who can turn online garbage into gold.
It’s not as simple a path for freelancers, though. You’ll have to weigh the potential benefits against the drawbacks.
Signing up for these types of projects may take away from other opportunities. But they could be a steady source of revenue. You might also turn them into yearly maintenance clients. And you’ll also be in line to handle the inevitable redesign.
Still, looking at broken websites all day isn’t for everyone. The remediation process can be stressful. Meanwhile, clients are waiting with bated breath for a solution.
There’s plenty of business for those interested in this type of work. It’s unlikely to go away any time soon, as the way we build modern websites almost guarantees it.
Intel Corporation has reached a revolutionary milestone in integrated photonics technology, Integrated photonics technology involves the integration of photonic devices, such as lasers, modulators, and detectors, onto a single microchip using semiconductor fabrication techniques similar to those used for electronic integrated circuits. This technology allows for…
Retrieving data from a WordPress site can be a nightmare. Site data could reside in several places. Pulling from these various sources isn’t easy.
Websites that feature eCommerce or memberships are prime examples. Each plugin may store data in a different spot. Some create separate database tables. Others use the default WordPress locales.
Export plugins exist that help in some – but not all – circumstances. For example, you might be able to export customer orders. However, grabbing additional data not directly related to those orders may not be possible.
Writing a custom query is another option. But you’ll need to know your way around PHP and MySQL. Not everyone has the expertise to do so.
Artificial intelligence (AI) can help. As I discovered, tools like ChatGPT can do the dirty work. It simplified the process and saved me loads of time. Perhaps it saved my sanity as well.
Here’s how to use AI to get what you need from the WordPress database.
Before We Get Started
There are a few items we should mention before starting:
Back up Your Site’s Database or Create a Local Copy of Your Site None of what we’re doing here should hurt your database. However, create a fresh backup – just in case.
You can also create a local copy of your site for experimenting. That enables you to work without the risk of harming your production website.
Have Access to a ChatGPT Account We’re using ChatGPT for this demo. Therefore, you’ll want to have access to a free account. You can follow along and experiment.
Other AI tools, such as Google Gemini, may also work. The point is to use an AI tool that will generate code.
Also, a warning: Use caution when generating code. AI tools can make mistakes! Review the code before using it.
What Are You Doing with the Data? There are a couple of things you can do with the data you retrieve:
Display the data on the front end of your site;
Download a CSV file that contains the data;
You’ll want to determine this beforehand. The process is a bit different depending on your choice.
Oh, and you’ll also need access to your site’s database. Access to your theme is required for displaying data on the front end.
Retrieving User Data from Different Plugins
Now, onto our experiment. Let’s take a common sticking point and try to make sense of it.
Our fictional website has two purposes. We sell various products with WooCommerce. Customers come to our site, create accounts, and order from us.
On the other side of the coin, we also sell memberships. Our members pay for access to exclusive content. We use the Restrict Content Pro plugin to power this feature.
Both WooCommerce and Restrict Content Pro have reporting features. For example, we can find out how many members we have. Or the number of WooCommerce customers.
But what if we want to combine this data? There’s no straightforward way to do this. So, let’s see if AI can help.
Step 1: Find the Data You Want
The first step is to determine what data you want to retrieve. Then, you’ll need to find the data inside the WordPress database.
Our goal is to create a CSV export file that includes users who are:
A customer in our WooCommerce shop AND…
Have an active membership via Restrict Content Pro;
Data isn’t always easy to locate. In some cases, you may need to reference plugin documentation. Or contact their technical support. A thorough database search can help if all else fails.
In our case, WooCommerce and Restrict Content Pro create custom database tables. That will make our job a bit easier.
WooCommerce table names use the ‘wp_wc‘ prefix.
Restrict Content Pro table names use the ‘wp_rcp‘ prefix.
We’ll also want to bring in data from the ‘wp_users‘ and ‘wp_usermeta‘ tables. That allows us to tie customer and membership data to specific users.
With that in mind, we’ll look for the following information:
Data Type
Database Table
Column
User ID
wp_users
ID
First Name
wp_usermeta
Meta Key: first_name
Last Name
wp_usermeta
Meta Key: last_name
Customer ID
wp_wc_customer_lookup
customer_id
Membership Status
wp_rcp_memberships
status
Membership Level ID
wp_rcp_memberships
object_id
Step 2: Ask ChatGPT to Create a Database Query
Next, we’ll ask ChatGPT for some help. We’ll want to provide a clear explanation of the task.
Here’s the prompt I used:
I'd like to create a MySQL database query for a WordPress website. I only want to retrieve users who have both a WooCommerce Customer ID and a membership via Restrict Content Pro.
Here is the data I'd like to retrieve:
From the wp_users database table:
ID
From the wp_usermeta database table:
Meta Key: first_name
Meta Key: last_name
From the wp_wc_customer_lookup database table:
customer_id
From the wp_rcp_memberships database table:
status
object_id
Step 3: Get the Response
ChatGPT’s response included a code snippet and a detailed explanation of it (view the full response). The snippet joins multiple database tables together to produce a single report.
So, how do we see if it works? We can run the query in a tool that connects to the site’s database. I’m using a local website that includes AdminerEvo.
You could also use phpMyAdmin, MySQL Workbench, or similar apps. ChatGPT can even provide instructions for whatever app you’re using.
I’ve pasted the query into the SQL Command screen inside AdminerEvo.
Step 4: Study the Results
The results are in! Our fictional website has 198 users. 15 of them have a paid membership. There are also 200 product orders.
So, how many are WooCommerce customers and Restrict Content Pro members? A grand total of seven.
The query results returned the columns we requested. From here, we can tweak things further or export the data.
Going Further with AI
Our example query may seem simple. However, bringing together data from multiple plugins is challenging. A custom solution is often the only solution.
I’m no coding expert. Thus, figuring out how to get data became frustrating. Thankfully, AI has proven to be a terrific tool for the job.
It’s one of the areas where this technology shines. Many of us struggle to write this sort of code on our own. Writing a prompt describing what we want isn’t so bad, however.
There are also opportunities to take things further. We could change our prompt to display data on a WordPress page. Or return data relevant to the currently logged-in user.
A working knowledge of PHP and MySQL can take you a long way. So, experiment and see what you can accomplish. And be sure to add up all the time you save in the process!
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The great thing about being a freelancer is that you’re in charge. That can also work against you, though.
You make all the decisions. So, who’s to blame when something goes wrong? Just take a look in the mirror.
That’s OK. None of us are perfect. And I’m right there with you. I’ve made plenty of mistakes in my quarter-century as a freelance web designer.
Mistakes are learning opportunities. But it’s better to learn from someone who’s already made them. They can save you from repeating history.
That’s why I’m here! With that, here are the biggest mistakes freelance web designers typically make. I’ve been there and done them all. Read on to learn how you can avoid them.
Working without Contracts and Other Legal Protections
We may want to believe that everyone is honest. We hope our clients will behave rationally. That’s not always the case.
A bad experience with a client can be frustrating. It might also be devastating – depending on the severity. Make sure the law has you covered.
First, always work with a contract in place. Spell out the terms of each project. Both parties will know their responsibilities and the agreed-upon compensation.
That way, there’ll be no excuses if a client fails to hold up their end of the bargain. You’ll be protected against non-payment or other shenanigans.
It’s also important to consider your business structure. Yes, even solo freelancers need to think about this. Some configurations can reduce your risk.
For example, an LLC (limited liability company) can separate your business and personal assets. That’s a big deal if you get sued.
Oh, and we can’t forget about business insurance. It protects against all manner of issues – including cybercrime.
Be proactive when it comes to your business. You might save yourself from a nightmare or two.
Trusting the Wrong Products and Services
Every product and service we use requires a leap of faith. We have to trust that they’ll work as advertised. And that they’ll increase efficiency – rather than hinder it.
Experimenting with products is fun and educational. It may lead us to improve our skills and earning potential.
But freelancers too often do so with their client work. For example, using an unproven content management system (CMS). Or a web host you don’t know much about.
The potential rewards aren’t worth the risks. What happens if the experiment doesn’t work? Your client relationships could be strained – or worse. Plus, you’ll be left to clean up a mess.
For some clients, this approach makes sense. They may need a feature that no one else offers. However, that is the exception to the rule.
Use trusted tools for client work. Your reputation (and theirs) are on the line, after all.
Booking Clients Despite Their Red Flags
Not all clients are worthy of your time. Some turn out to be troublesome – and there are usually warning signs.
There are a multitude of red flags to look for. Clients that are rude or dismissive are unlikely to be satisfied. They don’t respect your effort or talent.
Then you have people who mention the other designers they’ve worked with. Ask yourself why those relationships crumbled. There must be a reason.
Worse still are the penny-pinchers that question every dollar. You often find that they’re also the most demanding. They expect Amazon-type features on a shoestring budget.
Perhaps the worst are those with anger issues. They may not snap at you, specifically. But you’ll hear it when the conversation shifts to their last designer. Or a former employee. Or the barista at the coffee shop you’re meeting in. Let there be no doubt that you’ll be a target if you stick around.
The potential to make a few dollars isn’t worth the risk. Working with these sorts of clients will eventually come back to haunt you. It can take years to recover from the experience.
Pay attention to the warning signs. Follow your gut and not your desire for a paycheck. You’ll be better off without them!
Allowing Their Skills to Stagnate
The web is constantly changing. Your portfolio serves as proof. Look at a website you built five years ago and compare it to today. You might be surprised at the differences in design and tech.
More than ever, clients are aware of these shifts. They’re asking for modern looks and features. They’re more in tune with what a website should do.
Web designers must change along with the times. That’s not to say you should abandon tried and true methods. However, you may have to apply them in different ways.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is the elephant in the room. It’s already impacting the way we do our job. Therefore, it’s worth experimenting with these tools now to prepare.
There have also been changes in CSS, JavaScript, performance, and accessibility. Plus, all of the challenges presented by web security.
AI may be an asset in these areas. But it makes sense to keep learning the “old-fashioned” way. That will keep your skills relevant for now and in the future.
Continuing to Offer Low-Profit Services
The business decisions you make today have a lasting impact. You’ll see it in the projects you book and the services you offer.
Sometimes that impact is negative. A poor client may be easy to separate from. However, an unprofitable service is more difficult to get past.
Let’s say you want to offer a new service to clients: email list management. You think it will provide some extra revenue with minimal effort. Sounds like a winner, right?
Perhaps things go well early on. A few clients sign up for the service. You’re not making much profit, but things aren’t out of hand.
Now, fast-forward to five years from now. You have a mountain of web projects to complete. And these email lists are taking up too much of your time. You’re stuck working on a low-profit venture while ignoring the real money maker.
Untangling from this mess could take a while. You might have clients under long-term contracts. And an affiliate deal with a provider. You may also need to refer clients to a new list manager.
The point is to be careful about the services you offer. What sounds like a good idea today could become a mess tomorrow.
Mistakes Are Part of Freelancing. Learn from Them.
The longer you’re a freelancer, the more mistakes you’ll make. It’s all part of the journey.
The key is to learn from them. That will teach you to think more carefully about future decisions. I can attest to that part. I’m more deliberate about how I approach my business these days.
Yes, I still make the occasional wrong choice. But I’ve made a lot of progress. And I’ve gotten better at identifying mistakes before they become too big.
You can do the same! Think about your experiences. Read about what others have done. Apply those lessons to create a better future for your business.
WordPress has been around for over 20 years. Part of its continuing popularity stems from how extensible it is. A skilled developer can make the content management system (CMS) do just about anything.
Its plugin architecture powers shopping carts, forms, and photo galleries. That’s just the tip of the iceberg, though. Niche functionality abounds, so it’s no wonder it leads the pack in market share.
But let’s take a step back. The ability to use plugins came about in WordPress 1.2. It was a new concept in those days. The project needed to educate developers on how things work. To encourage them to build and experiment. But how?
Well, hello, Dolly! Or, if you prefer more formality, Hello Dolly.
It’s one of two default plugins that come with each installation of WordPress. Maybe you delete it. Perhaps you leave it deactivated in your plugins folder. But do you know about its roots as a teaching tool?
In case you didn’t know: “Hello Dolly” is also a song made famous by Louis Armstrong. The jazz legend was a perfect fit for this project. WordPress releases are named for famous musicians. So, “Satchmo” gets some glory here. The plugin shows a random line from the song’s lyrics in the WordPress dashboard.
Love it or not, Hello Dolly (the plugin) has a purpose and is here to stay. I spoke to someone who knows a thing or two about the subject.
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Why Matt Mullenweg Is Still Jazzed Up
WordPress co-founder Matt Mullenweg is a big fan of jazz. He also developed Hello Dolly. Matt was kind enough to take a quick trip down memory lane with me.
Besides sharing a classic song, what was the inspiration for creating Hello Dolly?
Matt Mullenweg: We wanted to riff on the “Hello World” that sits at the inception of many people’s introduction to programming. We felt like actions and hooks were a really nice paradigm alternative to purely object-based extending of applications.
Why has it continued to be a part of every new WordPress install?
MM: Because it’s nice to have a plugin with every install, and it’s funny and weird.
The plugin’s inclusion has resulted in some 1-star reviews. Does that keep you up at night?
Matt Mullenweg: Not at all.
Do you foresee a time when the plugin might evolve? For example, a Hello Dolly block might be a nice introduction to block development.
Matt Mullenweg: I think it would be cool if Hello Dolly could connect people to live jazz happening near them.
According to its development log, Hello Dolly has been around for 16 years and has over 700k active installs. Does that make you think about how far WordPress has come?
Matt Mullenweg: It shows that even though Hello Dolly is silly and simple, a pretty significant number of people appreciate the little bit of joy and randomness it introduces into their day.
” This is not just a plugin, it symbolizes the hope and enthusiasm of an entire generation summed up in two words sung most famously by Louis Armstrong: Hello, Dolly.” – Hello Dolly plugin description from WordPress.org
A Living Connection to the Early Days of WordPress
Hello Dolly is a bit silly on the surface. However, it also represents something bigger.
Consider the importance of plugins to the WordPress ecosystem. Where would the CMS be without the likes of WooCommerce or Yoast SEO? What about the tens of thousands of plugins at our fingertips?
Every developer has to start somewhere. Some may have used Hello Dolly to take that first plunge into development. And people interested in building plugins can still use its code as a resource.
The plugin has played a role, however small, in the growth of WordPress. We owe it some thanks. Having said that…
Dolly, never go away, promise, you’ll never go away!
Thanks to Matt Mullenweg for chatting with me! Find more from Matt on his blog.
