Around the Web August 17

PHOTOGRAPHY

From PicturePerfect: “How to Get Stunning Colors in Your Sunset Photography”, “How to Photograph Meteor Showers”, “Close-Up and Macro Photography Tips”, “More Tips on How to Take Sharp Photos”, “A Beginning Photographer’s Guide to Light”, & “What Makes a Great Photograph?”.

From PetaPixel: “Preying Eyes: Wildlife Photography as a Form of Paparazzi Intrusion”

From ShutterMuse: “Monopod vs Tripod – How to Choose and When to Use”

PHOTOSHOP

From CreativeNerds: “How to Create a Futuristic Blur Text Effect in PS”

From PSDvault: “Expert Tips on PS Magic Wand Tool”

From WebDesignDev: “20 Outstanding Free PS Text Effects”, “18 Best PS Add-Ons for Designers”

LIGHTROOM

From fstoppers: “5 Helpful Tips for Editing Portraits in LR”

FREEBIES

From PhotoshopTutorials & SparkleStock: “8 Free Summer LR Presets & LUTs”, “8 Free Fiery Nights LR Presets & LUTs”

SALE ENDS TONIGHT!

“Working with Crop Shapes, Borders & Brushes”

YouTube gave me some issues on Wednesday and did not upload properly! I re-uploaded the video and it has a new link (not the one you received if you were signed up for the webinar).

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE VIDEO RECORDING

Notes for this special webinar will NOT be available for purchase! If you previously purchased one of the following sets: Crop Shapes 1, Crop Shapes 2, Crop Shapes 3, Swash Shapes, Brush Borders 1, Grunge Borders or Grunge Overlays, send me an email and I will send you the notes for FREE!

Going forward, the notes are included with the purchase of any of the above products.
I will also be making the video “private” after the end of August. The link will then also be included in these 7 products as well as future products of that type.

I will also be emailing the private link to those who have purchased these products, so you have it for future reference.

These seven sets are ON SALE AT 50% OFF
ONLY until TONIGHT, 8/17/21 (midnight EDT).

Click the pictures below to go directly to a product
or CLICK HERE to go to the Peacock Studio

CROP SHAPES 3
CROP SHAPES 2
CROP SHAPES 1
SWASH SHAPES
BRUSHES BORDERS 1
GRUNGE BORDERS
GRUNGE OVERLAYS

NEXT WEBINAR

My next regular monthly webinar will be
“Working with Layer Styles & Type”

Join me Tuesday, August 31st
at 4:00 pm (Eastern Time)

I had some great suggestions from my last survey on what you would like to see more of from me as well as topics for upcoming webinars and tutorials.

This was requested by more than a few people, so here you go! I’ll show you how to add Type to your images and then make it “pop” with Layer Styles. I’ll also demonstrate other uses for Layer Styles.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP!

REMINDER!
JUNE CONFERENCE RECORDINGS

Just a reminder…the recordings of the June Virtual Creative Photography Conference are available for just over two more weeks. On September 1st the recordings come down, so don’t miss out on catching all the sessions and re-watching your favorites!

Also, the Survey I sent out a few weeks ago will also be open until August 31st. We, along with our speakers, truly appreciate your time to give us your feedback. It only takes a few minutes and is gratefully appreciated!

CLICK HERE to go to the Survey

CAMERA CLUB SEMINARS

NOW SCHEDULING CAMERA CLUB SEMINARS FOR 2021-22 SEASON!

Is your camera club, conference or organization looking for programming that is instructional, informative
and fun? All seminars can be tailored to your group’s specific knowledge levels, and can be done via Zoom or in-person at a conference.

I have already scheduled eighteen clubs for the new season (most clubs meet Sept.-June). I am adding two new seminars – “Discover Luminar AI” and “Get Creative with the Nik Collection”. Other sessions include “Creativity with Your Smartphone”, “Working with Textures & Overlays”, “Creativity with Textures & Composites”, “Alternative Visual Artistry – Creative Post-Processing”, “Unleash Your Creativity with Topaz”, “HDR Imaging – the Natural Look”, and either Photoshop CC or Photoshop Elements for Beginners, Intermediate or Advanced levels. My list has descriptions of each session – email me for a copy!

And, I am running an early-bird booking special if a session is scheduled by August 31st. Have your program coordinator email me ASAP at Hazel@MeredithImages.com to get on my calendar!

IN-PERSON CONFERENCE!

Join us in Tennessee October 23-24, 2021
at the beautiful MeadowView Hotel & Conference Center
in Kingsport, TN

Our in-person Conferences keep you busy for 2 full days of seminars and hands-on photo-ops. Registration includes: Lunch both days; coffee “and”; all seminars; speaker’s notes on a flash drive; goodie bag; and a chance to mingle with other attendees and speakers.
Max 100 attendees.

Speakers/Seminars

Ken Sklute (AZ) – “Be Ready for the Unexpected” and “An Introduction to B&W Infrared Photography”

Lori Lankford (VA) – “In-Camera Creativity” and “The Beauty of Texture Photography”

Cheryl Tarrant (TN) – iPhoneography with DistressedFX and other apps

Kate Silvia (SC) – “Get Creative with Nik Software” and “Introduction to Photoshop Layers”

Loretta Paul-Goldin (CT) – “Creating Your Own Textures with Alcohol Inks” (a hands-on session)

Hazel Meredith (TN) – “Creativity with Plug-Ins” and “Using Textures, Brushes & Crop Shapes”

Dave Meredith (TN) – “Fun Compositing with Photos and Digital Art

* * * * * * * *

We will also have “add-on” Friday pre-conference sessions –
two in the afternoon – and one Friday evening

Friday 1:00-4:30 pm – Hazel Meredith – “Creating Your Own Textures in Photoshop and Elements”

Friday 1:00-4:30 pm – Lori Lankford – “Creative Flower Photography & Editing”

Friday evening (time TBD) – Ken Sklute – “A Night Under the Stars Photo Workshop” (both classroom and field time)

Click HERE to go to the Conference Web Page
for more info and to register!
* * * * *
AUGUST SPECIAL – REGISTER BY 8/31
AND USE THE CODE SPEAKER25 TO SAVE $25!

BARNS & BACK ROADS WORKSHOPS

2022 SPRING & FALL DATES NOW AVAILABLE!

Come visit us and share the beauty of East TN! Join me for a workshop – limit 3 attendees per session (exception is 10/25-28, 2021). Travel the back roads of TN with me and photograph our great finds including old barns, houses, churches, cars, and beautiful scenery. Possibly throw in some cows and antiques too!

FALL 2021 SPACES AVAILABLE:
If you are interested in a Fall date, please book soon before they fill!!

Sept. 30-Oct. 3 (FULL) – PART 2 (different itineraries than our Spring Workshop)
Oct. 3-10 (1 spot open)
Oct. 13-16 (FULL)
Oct. 25-28 (2 spots open) – this is the only workshop with 6 people max – after our Conference
Oct. 31-Nov. 3 (FULL)
Nov. 5-8 (2 spots open)

SPRING 2022 DATES (all have 3 spots open at this time)
April 22-25, 2022
April 28-May 1, 2022
May 4-7, 2022
May 11-14, 2022
May 18-21, 2022

FALL 2022 DATES (all but one have 3 spots open at this time)
Sept. 21-24, 2022
Sept. 28-Oct. 1, 2022
Oct. 12-15, 2022
Oct. 19-22, 2022 (FULL)
Oct. 26-29, 2022

We also have 2 guest rooms so there is an option to stay here if you wish.
There are also 2 hotels within 5 miles of our house and an Air BnB.

Take a look at our website for info HERE, and sign up HERE or through the link on the workshop page.
Feel free to email me with any questions at Hazel@MeredithImages.com.


IF YOU HAVE A GROUP OF 3 AND WOULD LIKE TO DO A WORKSHOP ON DATES NOT LISTED, CONTACT ME AND WE’LL SEE IF WE CAN SET IT UP!

WINTER VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Yep, we’re planning ahead! Mark your calendars so you don’t miss our 3rd Virtual Creative Photography Conference on Feb. 26 & 27, 2022! I promise we’ll have another great line-up of speakers for more creative learning! Conference price will be $39 before Jan. 31, 2022 and $49 afterwards.

I’m also looking at hosting the event on Vimeo instead of Zoom to see if I can make the registration process simpler. Stay tuned for details!!

ONGOING COUPON CODES

I have coupon codes for textures and eBooks not already on sale:
Spend $25 in one order and save 10% with code PEACOCK10
Spend $50 in one order and save 20% with code PEACOCK20
Spend $100 in one order and save 30% with code PEACOCK30

See screenshot below (arrow) for the box to add coupon code in the cart. You MUST hit the APPLY COUPON BUTTON for the coupon to calculate! You will see the discount in the Cart Total column on the right. Coupon codes must be entered before payment – I cannot process after order is placed. Thanks.

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Sunday Sampler August 15

Today’s Sunday Sampler is some computer-created bokeh in 3 colors. Remember, you can always use a gaussian blur filter to add even more softness, and change colors with a Hue/Saturation adjustment. Enjoy!

WEBINAR RECORDING

“Working with Crop Shapes, Borders & Brushes”

YouTube gave me some issues on Wednesday and did not upload properly! I re-uploaded the video and it has a new link (not the one you received if you were signed up for the webinar).

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE VIDEO RECORDING

Notes for this special webinar will NOT be available for purchase! If you previously purchased one of the following sets: Crop Shapes 1, Crop Shapes 2, Crop Shapes 3, Swash Shapes, Brush Borders 1, Grunge Borders or Grunge Overlays, send me an email and I will send you the notes for FREE!

Going forward, the notes are included with the purchase of any of the above products.
I will also be making the video “private” after the end of August. The link will then also be included in these 7 products as well as future products of that type.

I will also be emailing the private link to those who have purchased these products, so you have it for future reference.

These seven sets are ON SALE AT 50% OFF
ONLY until 8/17/21 (midnight EDT).

Click the pictures below to go directly to a product
or CLICK HERE to go to the Peacock Studio

CROP SHAPES 3
CROP SHAPES 2
CROP SHAPES 1
SWASH SHAPES
BRUSHES BORDERS 1
GRUNGE BORDERS
GRUNGE OVERLAYS

NEXT WEBINAR

My next regular monthly webinar will be
“Working with Layer Styles & Type”

Join me Tuesday, August 31st
at 4:00 pm (Eastern Time)

I had some great suggestions from my last survey on what you would like to see more of from me as well as topics for upcoming webinars and tutorials.

This was requested by more than a few people, so here you go! I’ll show you how to add Type to your images and then make it “pop” with Layer Styles. I’ll also demonstrate other uses for Layer Styles.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP!

CAMERA CLUB SEMINARS

NOW SCHEDULING CAMERA CLUB SEMINARS FOR 2021-22 SEASON!

Is your camera club, conference or organization looking for programming that is instructional, informative
and fun? All seminars can be tailored to your group’s specific knowledge levels, and can be done via Zoom or in-person at a conference.

I have already scheduled eighteen clubs for the new season (most clubs meet Sept.-June). I am adding two new seminars – “Discover Luminar AI” and “Get Creative with the Nik Collection”. Other sessions include “Creativity with Your Smartphone”, “Working with Textures & Overlays”, “Creativity with Textures & Composites”, “Alternative Visual Artistry – Creative Post-Processing”, “Unleash Your Creativity with Topaz”, “HDR Imaging – the Natural Look”, and either Photoshop CC or Photoshop Elements for Beginners, Intermediate or Advanced levels. My list has descriptions of each session – email me for a copy!

And, I am running an early-bird booking special if a session is scheduled by August 31st. Have your program coordinator email me ASAP at Hazel@MeredithImages.com to get on my calendar!

IN-PERSON CONFERENCE!

Join us in Tennessee October 23-24, 2021
at the beautiful MeadowView Hotel & Conference Center
in Kingsport, TN

Our in-person Conferences keep you busy for 2 full days of seminars and hands-on photo-ops. Registration includes: Lunch both days; coffee “and”; all seminars; speaker’s notes on a flash drive; goodie bag; and a chance to mingle with other attendees and speakers.
Max 100 attendees.

Speakers/Seminars

Ken Sklute (AZ) – “Be Ready for the Unexpected” and “An Introduction to B&W Infrared Photography”

Lori Lankford (VA) – “In-Camera Creativity” and “The Beauty of Texture Photography”

Cheryl Tarrant (TN) – iPhoneography with DistressedFX and other apps

Kate Silvia (SC) – “Get Creative with Nik Software” and “Introduction to Photoshop Layers”

Loretta Paul-Goldin (CT) – “Creating Your Own Textures with Alcohol Inks” (a hands-on session)

Hazel Meredith (TN) – “Creativity with Plug-Ins” and “Using Textures, Brushes & Crop Shapes”

Dave Meredith (TN) – “Fun Compositing with Photos and Digital Art

* * * * * * * *

We will also have “add-on” Friday pre-conference sessions –
two in the afternoon – and one Friday evening

Friday 1:00-4:30 pm – Hazel Meredith – “Creating Your Own Textures in Photoshop and Elements”

Friday 1:00-4:30 pm – Lori Lankford – “Creative Flower Photography & Editing”

Friday evening (time TBD) – Ken Sklute – “A Night Under the Stars Photo Workshop” (both classroom and field time)

Click HERE to go to the Conference Web Page
for more info and to register!
* * * * *
AUGUST SPECIAL – REGISTER BY 8/31
AND USE THE CODE SPEAKER25 TO SAVE $25!

BARNS & BACK ROADS WORKSHOPS

2022 SPRING & FALL DATES NOW AVAILABLE!

Come visit us and share the beauty of East TN! Join me for a workshop – limit 3 attendees per session (exception is 10/25-28, 2021). Travel the back roads of TN with me and photograph our great finds including old barns, houses, churches, cars, and beautiful scenery. Possibly throw in some cows and antiques too!

FALL 2021 SPACES AVAILABLE:
If you are interested in a Fall date, please book soon before they fill!!

Sept. 30-Oct. 3 (FULL) – PART 2 (different itineraries than our Spring Workshop)
Oct. 3-10 (1 spot open)
Oct. 13-16 (FULL)
Oct. 25-28 (2 spots open) – this is the only workshop with 6 people max – after our Conference
Oct. 31-Nov. 3 (FULL)
Nov. 5-8 (2 spots open)

SPRING 2022 DATES (all have 3 spots open at this time)
April 22-25, 2022
April 28-May 1, 2022
May 4-7, 2022
May 11-14, 2022
May 18-21, 2022

FALL 2022 DATES (all but one have 3 spots open at this time)
Sept. 21-24, 2022
Sept. 28-Oct. 1, 2022
Oct. 12-15, 2022
Oct. 19-22, 2022 (FULL)
Oct. 26-29, 2022

We also have 2 guest rooms so there is an option to stay here if you wish.
There are also 2 hotels within 5 miles of our house and an Air BnB.

Take a look at our website for info HERE, and sign up HERE or through the link on the workshop page.
Feel free to email me with any questions at Hazel@MeredithImages.com.


IF YOU HAVE A GROUP OF 3 AND WOULD LIKE TO DO A WORKSHOP ON DATES NOT LISTED, CONTACT ME AND WE’LL SEE IF WE CAN SET IT UP!

WINTER VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Yep, we’re planning ahead! Mark your calendars so you don’t miss our 3rd Virtual Creative Photography Conference on Feb. 26 & 27, 2022! I promise we’ll have another great line-up of speakers for more creative learning! Conference price will be $39 before Jan. 31, 2022 and $49 afterwards.

I’m also looking at hosting the event on Vimeo instead of Zoom to see if I can make the registration process simpler. Stay tuned for details!!

ONGOING COUPON CODES

I have coupon codes for textures and eBooks not already on sale:
Spend $25 in one order and save 10% with code PEACOCK10
Spend $50 in one order and save 20% with code PEACOCK20
Spend $100 in one order and save 30% with code PEACOCK30

See screenshot below (arrow) for the box to add coupon code in the cart. You MUST hit the APPLY COUPON BUTTON for the coupon to calculate! You will see the discount in the Cart Total column on the right. Coupon codes must be entered before payment – I cannot process after order is placed. Thanks.

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Tutorial Thursday Jan. 21

I found this on VideoTutorials411.com and thought it would be helpful.

If you have the older .lrtemplate Lightroom presets, you may have encountered problems getting them imported in the correct folder in the latest Creative Cloud version of Lightroom Classic. This video shows you how:

WEBINAR REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

JOIN ME FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST

“New Year, New Inspiration – Ignite Your Creativity”

New year, new projects, new ideas! Join me for all-new projects and some different ways to edit your images!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER!

YouTube Channel

Just a reminder – you can watch my previous webinars over on my Meredith Images YouTube Channel HERE. I’m over 500 subscribers!! Thanks to those of you who have already subscribed – and if you haven’t yet, please do!! Thanks!

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE!

Since Covid-19 forced us to postpone last year’s in-person Creative Photography Conference to Oct. 2021, we are holding a VIRTUAL version of our event on Feb. 27-28, 2021. We will have 13 hours of creative seminars including topics such as: Texture Basics; Topaz; Compositing; 360 Photography; Creative iPhoneography; Creative Landscapes, and more! I am finalizing speakers and topics and will have details by next week.

You can register HERE!
Registration is just $39!

I’ve completed our speaker lineup (added two new people this week).

Ken Sklute (AZ) – Creative Landscapes including storm chasing,
hot air ballooning, night skies and more!
https://serendipityvisuals.com/
Cheryl Parris (GA) – Composite artist
https://www.cherylparris.com/
Roni Chastain (NY) – Photoshop Tips & 360° Photography
https://ronichas.zenfolio.com/
Loretta Paul-Goldin (CT) – Creating your own textures
with alcohol inks and other scrapbooking supplies
Jerry Hug (IL) – Creative iPhoneography and Apps
https://jerryhug.com/
Debbie Lefever (CA) – Creative floral photography
https://www.debbielefever.com/
Dave Meredith (TN) – Creative Digital Art with Scrapbooking Kits
https://www.facebook.com/dave.meredith.7
– and me, Hazel Meredith (TN) – Working with Textures;
Editing with Topaz/Luminar/Nik

You can read details on our speakers HERE (see the drop-down menu for each person’s page).
Sessions will be recorded and you will have access for 60 days from the close of the event; you’ll receive a “virtual goodie bag” with discounts and freebies; and I’m working on some door prizes too!

BARNS & BACK ROADS WORKSHOPS

I just created a short 1 minute preview video of some of the barns, buildings and such that you will photograph on our Spring and Fall Barns & Back Roads Workshops here in beautiful Northeast TN. Check it out:

Join us for 3+ days of photography and post-processing. Maximum 3 people per workshop (exception is Oct. 25-28 with 6 person max.) We continue to scout new locations and we have found some great spots – and we’ve met several property owners who will let us wander their properties for up-close shots!

CLICK HERE to visit the web store and sign up!

As of today, these are the dates and open spaces:

SPRING:
April 15-18 (3 spots)
April 22-25 (2 spots)
April 29-May 2 (2 spots)
May 4-7 (1 spot)
May 10-13 (2 spots)
May 15-18 (3 spots)
May 21-24 (3 spots)
June 3-6 (1 spot)

FALL:
Sept. 17-20 (3 spots)
Sept. 23-26 (3 spots)
Sept. 30-Oct. 3 (3 spots)
Oct. 7-10 (1 spot)
Oct. 13-16 (3 spots
Oct. 25-28 (2 spots)
Oct. 31-Nov. 3 (FULL)
Nov. 5-8 (3 spots)

We also have two guest rooms available if you wish to stay with us, or there are 2 hotels within 5 miles of our house.

ONGOING COUPON CODES

While the sale ended Sunday on my latest texture sets,
I implemented ongoing discount codes to save you $$$!

These coupon codes for textures and eBooks not already on sale:
Spend $25 in one order and save 10% with code PEACOCK10
Spend $50 in one order and save 20% with code PEACOCK20
Spend $100 in one order and save 30% with code PEACOCK30

See screenshot below (arrow) for the box to add coupon code in the cart. You MUST hit the APPLY COUPON BUTTON for the coupon to calculate! You will see the discount in the Cart Total column on the right. Coupon codes must be entered before payment – I cannot process after order is placed. Thanks.

COMING SOON!

I have MANY new projects in the works for 2021 based on feedback from my last survey.

You asked for more Watercolor Textures – I have some new sets I’ll be releasing in the next few days!

Coming up in the 1st quarter of 2021 – A new mini course on “Creating Your Own Textures with Brushes in Photoshop” (will also apply to Elements, On1, Affinity, etc.).

Coming by mid-year – eBook #3 – watch for a pre-sale offer soon!

Stay tuned for even more new goodies including a Membership Club!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Tutorial Thursday Jan. 14

Today I have two texture tutorials that I shared several years ago! These give you the steps to make a couple of textures – one is a light brown grunge with a vignette – the other is brushed metal with a reflection. Enjoy!

CLICK HERE for tutorial #1

CLICK HERE for tutorial #2

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE!

Since Covid-19 forced us to postpone last year’s in-person Creative Photography Conference to Oct. 2021, we are holding a VIRTUAL version of our event on Feb. 27-28, 2021. We will have 13 hours of creative seminars including topics such as: Texture Basics; Topaz; Compositing; 360 Photography; Creative iPhoneography; Creative Landscapes, and more! I am finalizing speakers and topics and will have details by next week.

You can register HERE!
Registration is just $39!

I’ve completed our speaker lineup (added two new people this week).

Ken Sklute (AZ) – Creative Landscapes including storm chasing,
hot air ballooning, night skies and more!
https://serendipityvisuals.com/
Cheryl Parris (GA) – Composite artist
https://www.cherylparris.com/
Roni Chastain (NY) – Photoshop Tips & 360° Photography
https://ronichas.zenfolio.com/
Loretta Paul-Goldin (CT) – Creating your own textures
with alcohol inks and other scrapbooking supplies
Jerry Hug (IL) – Creative iPhoneography and Apps
https://jerryhug.com/
Debbie Lefever (CA) – Creative floral photography
https://www.debbielefever.com/
Dave Meredith (TN) – Creative Digital Art with Scrapbooking Kits
https://www.facebook.com/dave.meredith.7
– and me, Hazel Meredith (TN) – Working with Textures;
Editing with Topaz/Luminar/Nik

You can read details on our speakers HERE (see the drop-down menu for each person’s page).
Sessions will be recorded and you will have access for 60 days from the close of the event; you’ll receive a “virtual goodie bag” with discounts and freebies; and I’m working on some door prizes too!

7 NEW TEXTURE SETS!

OK, I got carried away! I planned 5 new sets and just kept going (kinda like the Energizer Bunny!). Anyway, here are seven new texture sets – 3 created in Photoshop (Grunge sets); 3 created in Procreate on the iPad (Ruffled; Blue/Green/Grey; Autumn Glory); and Smoke 1, created with brushes in PS.

All 7 new sets are 40% off – just for one week! (Just $9 each)
So don’t miss out, grab them now in the Peacock Studio HERE!
(Sale prices expire 1/17/21 at midnight EST)

All 7 new sets are 40% off – just for one week! (Just $9 each)
So don’t miss out, grab them now in the Peacock Studio HERE!
(Sale prices expire 1/17/21 at midnight EST)

I also have new coupon codes for textures and eBooks not already on sale:
Spend $25 in one order and save 10% with code PEACOCK10
Spend $50 in one order and save 20% with code PEACOCK20
Spend $100 in one order and save 30% with code PEACOCK30

See screenshot below (arrow) for the box to add coupon code in the cart. You MUST hit the APPLY COUPON BUTTON for the coupon to calculate! You will see the discount in the Cart Total column on the right. Coupon codes must be entered before payment – I cannot process after order is placed. Thanks.

NEXT WEBINAR!
SAVE THE DATE!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST

I’m working on all new projects
to spark your creative juices!

YouTube Channel

Just a reminder – you can watch my previous webinars over on my Meredith Images YouTube Channel HERE. Last week I hit 500+ subscribers!! Thanks to those of you who have already subscribed – and if you haven’t yet, please do!! Thanks!

COMING SOON!

I have MANY new projects in the works for 2021 based on feedback from my last survey.

Coming up in the 1st quarter of 2021 – A new mini course on “Creating Your Own Textures with Brushes in Photoshop” (will also apply to Elements, On1, Affinity, etc.).

Coming by mid-year – eBook #3 – watch for a pre-sale offer soon!

Stay tuned for even more new goodies including a Membership Club!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Around the Web Jan. 12

Time is truly fleeting these days! Planned to do the blog yesterday afternoon, then a local student was having issues with Lightroom on her new laptop and a camera club seminar last night … so, blog not done on time again!

PHOTOGRAPHY

From PictureCorrect: “5 Tips to Improve Your Photography”, “Photography Basics”, “Timing in Photography Composition”, “Which Lens Should I Buy for my DSLR Camera?”, “How to Use a Diffuser to Enhance Your Food Photography”, “Wide-Angle Photography: Broaden Your Horizons”, “Aperture Priority vs Shutter Priority”.

PHOTOSHOP

From VideoTutorials411: “Don’t Overlook the Tone Curve”

From PSDVault: “Create Unique Snow & Frost Text Effect in PS”

FREEBIES

From TheDesignest: “35+ Pirate Fonts to Sail Your Design”

From SpoonGraphics: “Download My New Set of 10 Dirty Surface Textures for Free”

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE!

Since Covid-19 forced us to postpone last year’s in-person Creative Photography Conference to Oct. 2021, we are holding a VIRTUAL version of our event on Feb. 27-28, 2021. We will have 13 hours of creative seminars including topics such as: Texture Basics; Topaz; Compositing; 360 Photography; Creative iPhoneography; Creative Landscapes, and more! I am finalizing speakers and topics and will have details by next week.

You can register HERE!
Registration is just $39!

I’ve completed our speaker lineup (added two new people this week).

Ken Sklute (AZ) – Creative Landscapes including storm chasing,
hot air ballooning, night skies and more!
https://serendipityvisuals.com/
Cheryl Parris (GA) – Composite artist
https://www.cherylparris.com/
Roni Chastain (NY) – Photoshop Tips & 360° Photography
https://ronichas.zenfolio.com/
Loretta Paul-Goldin (CT) – Creating your own textures
with alcohol inks and other scrapbooking supplies
Jerry Hug (IL) – Creative iPhoneography and Apps
https://jerryhug.com/
Debbie Lefever (CA) – Creative floral photography
https://www.debbielefever.com/
Dave Meredith (TN) – Creative Digital Art with Scrapbooking Kits
https://www.facebook.com/dave.meredith.7
– and me, Hazel Meredith (TN) – Working with Textures;
Editing with Topaz/Luminar/Nik

You can read details on our speakers HERE (see the drop-down menu for each person’s page).
Sessions will be recorded and you will have access for 60 days from the close of the event; you’ll receive a “virtual goodie bag” with discounts and freebies; and I’m working on some door prizes too!

7 NEW TEXTURE SETS!

OK, I got carried away! I planned 5 new sets and just kept going (kinda like the Energizer Bunny!). Anyway, here are seven new texture sets – 3 created in Photoshop (Grunge sets); 3 created in Procreate on the iPad (Ruffled; Blue/Green/Grey; Autumn Glory); and Smoke 1, created with brushes in PS.

All 7 new sets are 40% off – just for one week! (Just $9 each)
So don’t miss out, grab them now in the Peacock Studio HERE!
(Sale prices expire 1/17/21 at midnight EST)

All 7 new sets are 40% off – just for one week! (Just $9 each)
So don’t miss out, grab them now in the Peacock Studio HERE!
(Sale prices expire 1/17/21 at midnight EST)

NEXT WEBINAR!
SAVE THE DATE!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST

I’m working on all new projects
to spark your creative juices!

YouTube Channel

Just a reminder – you can watch my previous webinars over on my Meredith Images YouTube Channel HERE. Last week I hit 500+ subscribers!! Thanks to those of you who have already subscribed – and if you haven’t yet, please do!! Thanks!

COMING SOON!

I have MANY new projects in the works for 2021 based on feedback from my last survey.

Coming up in the 1st quarter of 2021 – A new mini course on “Creating Your Own Textures with Brushes in Photoshop” (will also apply to Elements, On1, Affinity, etc.).

Coming by mid-year – eBook #3 – watch for a pre-sale offer soon!

Stay tuned for even more new goodies including a Membership Club!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Tutorial Thursday Jan. 7

For today’s Tutorial Thursday, I took an image that I had previously processed, and re-processed from the beginning using Photomatix and Luminar.

This was an HDR comprised of 5 images:

First I opened Photomatix and imported these five images. I used the preset Detailed and made some adjustments:
Strength = 90; Tone Compression = 2.1; Detail Contrast = 2.1; Lighting Adjustment = -3.5; Smooth Highlights = 60; Saturation = 1.0; Brightness = .2

This is the HDR image that I then brought in to Photoshop and cropped a little from the right, top and bottom:

I duplicated the background layer and opened LuminarAI (Filter > Skylum > LuminarAI). I began with a template in the Urban Category > New York. I lowered the opacity of the template to about 75%.

Next I went to the Edit > Essentials, where I made a few adjustments:
Enhance AI = 59; Structure = 40; Details = Small 57, Medium 50, Large 47, Sharpness 16

Then over to the Creative tab > Sunrays
Place the Sun Center at the very top left of the image with most of it above the image.
Amount = 52; Overall Look = 57; Sunrays Length = 91; Penetration = 49
# of Sunrays = 53; Sunrays Warmth = 54

Next was Mystical = 15 and Glow > Orton Effect = 10

Hit APPLY to return to Photoshop. I then cloned the bit of pipe showing in the lower right and was done! Here’s the finished image:

Some people may not like the “orbs” of light refraction, but I thought they fit the feel of the image.

NEXT WEBINAR!
SAVE THE DATE!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST

I’m working on all new projects
to spark your creative juices!

YouTube Channel

Just a reminder – you can watch my previous webinars over on my Meredith Images YouTube Channel HERE. Last week I hit 500+ subscribers!! Thanks to those of you who have already subscribed – and if you haven’t yet, please do!! Thanks!

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE!

Since Covid-19 forced us to postpone last year’s in-person Creative Photography Conference to Oct. 2021, we are holding a VIRTUAL version of our event on Feb. 27-28, 2021. We will have 14 hours of creative seminars including topics such as: Texture Basics; Topaz; Compositing; 360 Photography; Creative iPhoneography; Creative Landscapes, and more! I am finalizing speakers and topics and will have details by next week.

You can register HERE – registration is just $39! And you can read details on our speakers HERE.
Sessions will be recorded and you will have access for 60 days from the close of the event; you’ll receive a “virtual goodie bag” with discounts and freebies; and more!

COMING SOON!

I have MANY new projects in the works for 2021 based on feedback from my last survey.

Coming later this week – at least five new texture sets.

Coming up in the 1st quarter of 2021 – A new mini course on “Creating Your Own Textures with Brushes in Photoshop” (will also apply to Elements, On1, Affinity, etc.).

Coming by mid-year – eBook #3 – watch for a pre-sale offer soon!

Stay tuned for even more new goodies including a Membership Club!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Around the Web Jan. 5(6)

Oops! I got so busy working on new textures yesterday I forgot it was Tuesday!! Last night I did a presentation for a camera club in California – meaning I didn’t start until 9:30 p.m. my time! (No, I did not fall asleep!)

PHOTOGRAPHY

From PictureCorrect: “New Year’s Resolutions for Photographers”. Practice your photo skills at home this Winter with “Still Life: Photography Activity”, “5 Tips for Photographing Winter Landscapes”, “Camera Modes Explained”, “A Photographer’s 5-Point Plan to Survive Lockdown”, “Too Cold Outside for Photography? Think Again”

LIGHTROOM

From PhotoTraces: “Lightroom Portrait Editing in 10 Minutes or Less”

LUMINAR

From PictureCorrect: “Photo Editing a Portrait Subject’s Eyes in Luminar AI”

FREEBIES

From PhotoshopTutorials: “8 New Year Lightroom Presets and LUT’s” (LUT=look up tables). Lookup tables are a type of “preset” that can be used with some software. Luminar AI utilizes look up tables, so these could be imported there.

From WebDesignDev: “20+ Free High Quality Photoshop Brush Packs”

From CreativeNerds: “5 Free Soft Watercolor PS Brushes”

NEXT WEBINAR!
SAVE THE DATE!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST

I’m working on all new projects
to spark your creative juices!

YouTube Channel

Just a reminder – you can watch my previous webinars over on my Meredith Images YouTube Channel HERE. Last week I hit 500+ subscribers!! Thanks to those of you who have already subscribed – and if you haven’t yet, please do!! Thanks!

VIRTUAL CONFERENCE!

Since Covid-19 forced us to postpone last year’s in-person Creative Photography Conference to Oct. 2021, we are holding a VIRTUAL version of our event on Feb. 27-28, 2021. We will have 14 hours of creative seminars including topics such as: Texture Basics; Topaz; Compositing; 360 Photography; Creative iPhoneography; Creative Landscapes, and more! I am finalizing speakers and topics and will have details by next week.

You can register HERE – registration is just $39! And you can read details on our speakers HERE.
Sessions will be recorded and you will have access for 60 days from the close of the event; you’ll receive a “virtual goodie bag” with discounts and freebies; and more!

COMING SOON!

I have MANY new projects in the works for 2021 based on feedback from my last survey.

Coming later this week – at least five new texture sets.

Coming up in the 1st quarter of 2021 – A new mini course on “Creating Your Own Textures with Brushes in Photoshop” (will also apply to Elements, On1, Affinity, etc.).

Coming by mid-year – eBook #3 – watch for a pre-sale offer soon!

Stay tuned for even more new goodies including a Membership Club!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Sunday Sampler Jan. 3

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Now that we’ve kicked 2020 to the curb, here’s hoping 2021 is a better year for everyone.
Wishing you peace, health and happiness!

New Year – New Look!

I’m in the process of revamping the website and I’ve redone the blog headers to coordinate with my new logo I designed last year and tie things together (notice the peacock feather!).

Today’s Sunday Sampler is a reflection of trees in a local stream (near an historic old mill). I’ve created two other versions as well.

Remember…you can always further modify these (or any) texture images by blurring with a Gaussian Blur filter, change to B&W to get the texture without the color, or apply other creative filters in PS, Elements, Topaz, etc. Enjoy!

Sunday Sampler Group #9

As I mentioned last week, once there are 12 months of Sunday Samplers completed, I take the oldest 6 months and package them for the Peacock Studio Store. I’ve now posted Group #9, which consists of 88 textures from Jan.-June 2020. If you are new to the blog or missed downloading them, CLICK HERE to check it out in the store!

And if you need to grab older groups as well, I have 3 bundle options for you!
You can get all 9 bundles HERE (save $40 off the price of individual bundles) containing 738 textures
Bundles 1-5 HERE (save $15 off the price of 5 individual sets) containing 380 textures
Bundles 6-9 HERE (save $10 off the price of 4 individual sets) containing 358 textures

Next Webinar

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR!
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th
4:00 pm EST
More details and registration link soon!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Tutorial Thursday Dec. 31

Wow! What a year it’s been!! Definitely not what any of us expected on Jan. 1, 2020 for sure! I’m trying to look at the positive side – Dave & I both recovered from Covid; my business, while different, was able to thrive with online webinars and camera club presentations; last week I hit 504 YouTube followers; I have many friends far and wide across the globe thanks to photography; and last, but most certainly not least, I have a wonderful husband who loves me and supports me in all I do. I hope you can also find some good in this past year, and I wish you all the best for 2021! Thank you for being a part of my community.

For today’s Tutorial Thursday, I am re-sharing a couple of tutorial articles I’ve done.

(1) Adding a Vignette to an Image

(2) Adding a Stroke Border to an Image

(3) Unzipping a “zipped” file in Windows 10 (PC)

(4) Unzipping a “zipped” file on a Mac

ALL OF THE SALES LISTED BELOW END AT MIDNIGHT TONIGHT!!

LAST DAY!
Meredith Images/Peacock Studio
End of Year BLOWOUT!

We’re saying BYE to 2020 with 40% off ALL TEXTURE & BRUSH SETS!

CLICK HERE to go to the Peacock Studio store,
then use the code BYE2020 at checkout to save 40%!

These are the best prices there will be on texture and brush sets –
prices will be increasing in 2021!
So grab all those sets you’ve had your eye on for the best deal!

NEXT WEBINAR!
SAVE THE DATE!

The replay of last week’s webinar is on the Meredith Images You Tube Channel HERE!
“My Best Tips & Tricks of 2020 &
New Techniques for a New Year!”

And don’t forget to grab your copy of the
Notes/Images/Textures + Bonus Textures

for just $5 HERE!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST
Details soon!

Luminar AI – New Year’s Flash Sale!

Sale started today through January 1st!

The Fairy Lights Festive Bundle includes:
LuminarAI (1 seat)
The Winter Wonderland Templates Pack
Aurora HDR
Special Price $119

The Fireworks Bundle includes:
LuminarAI (2 seats)
Luminar X Membership (1 year subscription)
Special Price $158

CLICK HERE to
Grab these special deals – only available till Friday!

Topaz Year-End Sale!

Topaz has a year-end sale that runs through Dec. 31st Midnight (CST).

Save 30% off all products, bundles and upgrades sitewide!

Use my affiliate link HERE and then use my code
MeredithImages at checkout to SAVE AN ADDITIONAL 15%!

Holiday Collection 2020
My Gift to You!

I truly appreciate your support throughout the year as well as your emails, comments and questions. I’m happy that I can be a part of your photographic journey and hopefully inspire you to find your own style and “voice” in your work.

This year’s Holiday Collection Freebie contains 12 textures in shades of red, green, gold and silver. However, these will come in handy anytime throughout the year and are great for backgrounds, bokeh and such.

Enjoy with my thanks and gratitude.
Wishing everyone a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2021!

CLICK HERE
TO GET YOUR COPY OF
MY FREE HOLIDAY 2020
TEXTURE COLLECTION!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!

Around the Web Dec. 29

PHOTOGRAPHY

From PictureCorrect: “How to Use Lens Aperture to Demonstrate Importance and Tell a Story”, “Rain Photography Tips”, and “Power of the Leading Line in Composition”.

PHOTOSHOP

From GraphicDesignJunction: “50 Best Photoshop Tutorials of 2020”

FREEBIES

From CreativeNerd: “Colorful Free Vibrant Smoke Texture Set”

From SpoonGraphics: “Free Photoshop Action to Turn Anything into Gold”

From DesignBlog: “50 Best Photoshop Actions”

From WebDesignDev: “20+ Free High Quality PS Brush Packs”

LAST FEW DAYS!
Meredith Images/Peacock Studio
End of Year BLOWOUT!

We’re saying BYE to 2020 with 40% off ALL TEXTURE & BRUSH SETS!

CLICK HERE to go to the Peacock Studio store,
then use the code BYE2020 at checkout to save 40%!

These are the best prices there will be on texture and brush sets –
prices will be increasing in 2021!
So grab all those sets you’ve had your eye on for the best deal!

NEXT WEBINAR!
SAVE THE DATE!

The replay of last week’s webinar is on the Meredith Images You Tube Channel HERE!
“My Best Tips & Tricks of 2020 &
New Techniques for a New Year!”

And don’t forget to grab your copy of the
Notes/Images/Textures + Bonus Textures

for just $5 HERE!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR MY NEXT WEBINAR
TUESDAY, JANUARY 26th at 4:00 pm EST
Details soon!

Luminar AI – New Year’s Flash Sale!

Sale started today through January 1st!

The Fairy Lights Festive Bundle includes:
LuminarAI (1 seat)
The Winter Wonderland Templates Pack
Aurora HDR
Special Price $119

The Fireworks Bundle includes:
LuminarAI (2 seats)
Luminar X Membership (1 year subscription)
Special Price $158

CLICK HERE to
Grab these special deals – only available till Friday!

Topaz Year-End Sale!

Topaz has a year-end sale that runs through Dec. 31st Midnight (CST).

Save 30% off all products, bundles and upgrades sitewide!

Use my affiliate link HERE and then use my code
MeredithImages at checkout to SAVE AN ADDITIONAL 15%!

Holiday Collection 2020
My Gift to You!

I truly appreciate your support throughout the year as well as your emails, comments and questions. I’m happy that I can be a part of your photographic journey and hopefully inspire you to find your own style and “voice” in your work.

This year’s Holiday Collection Freebie contains 12 textures in shades of red, green, gold and silver. However, these will come in handy anytime throughout the year and are great for backgrounds, bokeh and such.

Enjoy with my thanks and gratitude.
Wishing everyone a happy holiday season and a prosperous 2021!

CLICK HERE
TO GET YOUR COPY OF
MY FREE HOLIDAY 2020
TEXTURE COLLECTION!

This post may contain affiliate links and I will be compensated
if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Thanks!