Weekend Widget: Genetica 3.0

Ever since I first start using Genetica, I've been a huge fan. So what exactly does it do? It allows you to create, modify and render all different types of textures. The resulting textures can be used in many different programs, including CorelDRAW and Corel PHOTO-PAINT as bitmap pattern fills.

You'll see that I mentioned v3.0 in the title. It isn't released yet, but that is a good thing for you! The new version is currently in open beta so you can give it a good test drive. If you decide to buy it, there is an early bird discount that can save you significantly over the prices after the new version is released.

Genetica 3.0 will come in three different versions: Basic, Pro and Studio. Basic has the fewest number of features and a the lowest price. For those who want the best for static textures, Pro is what you want. New to v3.0 is the ability to have animated textures and that is only available in the Studio version. Go ahead and check out the feature list. Download the beta and give it a try. I've found the beta to be very stable and it is the best way for you to make a decision on whether Genetica is for you and what features you need. If you decide you want it, make sure to buy it soon and take advantage of the Early Bird pricing. Once it is released, the prices go up. You can buy the Basic version for $99 (goes up to $149), the Pro version for $299 (goes up to $399) or the Studio version for $699 (goes up to $899).

Share

Hump Day Hardware: Portable Lighting Studio

Do you have to take pictures of products for use in marketing materials or a Web site? How much time do you spend masking out the product after you take the picture?

In order to save your self time and trouble in masking out the product, you have to take a well-lit photo against a contrasting background. For this, you might want to get yourself a portable lighting studio as they can easily be found for under $100 and sometimes much less.

These studios include a lightbox into which you place your product. Typically you get at least two different backgrounds (light and dark colors), two lights and some sort of tripod for your camera. At right is Digital Concepts PS-101 Portable Lighting Studio and it is currently selling for $35.58 at Amazon.com.

It certainly isn't the only choice in this size and price range. Another option is American Recorder SIB-101CS Classic Photo Studio-in-a-Box which is selling for $59.71. Yet another is Portable Mini Studio-in-a-box which is selling for $72.78.

Maybe you are one of those people who would prefer to make your own. The Strobist blog has instructions for making your own for less than $10. You'll also find instructions for constructing a box on Wikihow. Yes, I agree that using a cardboard box as your base studio is less expensive, but the look and lack of portability would sway me towards paying for a better looking, more portable solution like the products listed above. Not to mention the time involved in rounding up the parts and putting it all together.

No matter which solution you choose, I hope this will help all of you get better pictures of your products that are easier to manipulate in your favorite image editor.

Share

Design Studio Packages Loaded with Apparel Templates

There are many CorelDRAW users creating graphics for apparel. Two new packages have been released that are loaded with high-quality graphics to be used for apparel. Design Studio packages can be bought individually or get both volumes for a discounted price. They are loaded with graphics, templates, fonts, distress overlays and a full color book loaded with examples.

This is a great collection for anyone doing screen printer, garment printing, embroidery and more. And for those using Decostudio, it gives you the multi-decoration artwork that will really show off the capabilities of Decostudio.

Check out the sample images from this collection and you'll find that it can bring even more creativity to the products you are creating.

Share

New Camtasia Studio Unveiled

The folks at TechSmith just unveiled a new version of Camtasia Studio. If you aren't already familiar with Camtasia, it allows you to record activity from your screen along with a voiceover to produce a screen movie. If you are creating promotional or training material, you definitely have a use for Camtasia. The first time I used the product, I had mastered it within minutes. This new versions gives me additional options for recording movies for my CorelDRAW Unleashed books.

Jeff Harrison even created a 9+ minute movie on using "multiple ups" in CorelDRAW using the latest version of Camtasia. For those who are unsure, you can download a 30-day trial version.

Share