Category: feature

Posted on

From Oura Ring Updates to Google Meet and More | Tech News

When the week winds down, it is time to wind back up with the latest in tech and media news. From Oura Ring Updates to Google Meet and more, we have you covered in this week’s headlines. Read on for our round-up of tech news to know.

Sharing Sleep Scores with Friends: New Feature for Oura Ring Users

Oura, the company behind the smart sleep tracking ring, is launching a new community feature named “Circles”. This allows users to form private groups where they can share their sleep, activity, and readiness scores from the previous two weeks. Alongside this, Oura is also rolling out its new sleep staging algorithm for iOS and Android, bringing it out of beta. Within these Circles, users have control over what data they share and can decide if other members see their daily scores or just weekly averages, thus customizing their privacy and engagement with the community.

The Latest Update of Google Meet Enhances the Functionality of Picture-in-Picture Mode

Google has unveiled an update for its Meet video conferencing software aimed at enhancing its picture-in-picture mode’s functionality. The update will allow users to utilize crucial Meet controls like raising a hand, contributing to text chat, and managing captions, all from the picture-in-picture view. The window can now be resized more flexibly and will sit above other desktop windows, enabling multitasking. The new features, which significantly improve upon the existing options, will roll out over the next couple of weeks via the Chrome browser.

Adobe Makes Its Firefly Generative AI Model Available to Businesses

Adobe has announced the introduction of a new platform, Adobe Firefly for Enterprise, during the Adobe Summit event. This platform enables all employees within a business, regardless of creative ability, to generate images or copy from text-based descriptions for various purposes, such as marketing campaigns and corporate presentations. Users can access Firefly through different Adobe applications or integrate it into their own business ecosystems by training the AI with their branded assets. According to David Wadhwani, president of the digital media business at Adobe, this offering addresses the growing content demands and helps users swiftly convert ideas into content while ensuring brand consistency.

Apple’s Vision Pro Represents the Retina Display Breakthrough for Headsets

Apple’s groundbreaking headset, the Vision Pro, was recently unveiled at its Cupertino headquarters. The headset features dual MicroOLED panels, offering a superior 4K display for each eye, far surpassing the competition. In collaboration with Zeiss, Apple has designed prescription inserts for vision correction, ensuring user comfort. The personalized setup process involves a face and ear scan with an iPhone, ensuring optimal fit and comfort.

Enhanced iPad Support and Shortcuts Integration Arrive on iOS for ChatGPT

OpenAI is enhancing its ChatGPT app for iPad. The new update allows the application to utilize the tablet’s screen fully. This update introduces full-screen support, replacing the previous iPhone-sized app display when used on an iPad. In addition to the improved interface, the update brings drag-and-drop functionality. The update also enables messages to be moved from the chat interface into other applications. Furthermore, OpenAI has integrated Siri support and Apple’s Shortcuts feature, allowing users to initiate a new chat via a Shortcuts query and integrate it into Apple’s automation system.

Posted on

Weekend Events | June 9 – June 11

The weekend has arrived, and so has our weekly round-up of fun! Check out what’s happening locally from June 9 through June 11 in your neighborhood. Read on below for this week’s top events from around town.

Los Angeles Weekend Events | June 9 – June 11 

LA Pride

When: June 11 

Where: Various locations

What: L.A. Pride, a renowned pride event, draws large crowds to its festive atmosphere, featuring a parade in Hollywood and a music festival near Chinatown, with vibrant performances by divas, drag queens, and DJs. The event’s recent relocation has expanded its reach and continues to offer a lively celebration of diversity and LGBTQ+ pride.

Wayfinding

When: Until September 10

Where: Miracle Mile

What: The third biennial, focused on how artists are expanding the limits of clay art, is presented by L.A.’s unique public exhibition space dedicated to contemporary craft and community-oriented folk art. The exhibition showcases the work of 14 artists who innovatively connect the intrinsic qualities of clay to elements of land and water.

Melrose Rooftop Theatre

When: Until June 30 

Where: E.P. & L.P.

What: E.P. & L.P., a trendy restaurant and rooftop bar in West Hollywood, offers more than just modern American cuisine and artisanal cocktails. The venue also accommodates the Melrose Rooftop Theatre, an outdoor film series that operates for most of the year. These screenings take place on the rooftop area connected to its al fresco bar, L.P.

 

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | June 9 – June 11 

Dawoud Bey & Carrie Mae Weems: In Dialogue

When: Until July 9

Where: The Getty Center | Westside 

What: This traveling photography exhibit showcases four decades of creative collaboration between Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems. Having first crossed paths in Harlem during the 1970s, the duo has maintained a strong friendship while exploring common themes of race, power, and representation in their work, centered around the Black community.

Off the 405

When: Until August 26 

Where: Westside

What: Experience stunning hilltop sunsets and live music at the Getty’s free Saturday shows, starting with SPELLING. Arrive after 3 pm for lower parking fees, early exhibit visits, and beating the dinner rush!

Outdoor Movies at the Skirball

When: June 9 – July 7 

Where: The Getty Center | Westside 

What: Enjoy open-air movie screenings in the courtyard of the Skirball Cultural Center, featuring a showing of “Roman Holiday” on Friday, which complements the museum’s exhibition on the Hollywood Red Scare and the Blacklist era. Immerse yourself in the magic of cinema while exploring the historical context of this captivating period in Hollywood history.

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | June 9 – June 11 

Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo

When: June 10

Where: Woodland Hills

What: The 2023 Golden Future 50+ Expo –San Fernando Valley Edition is taking place on Saturday, June 10th, from 9 am – 1:30 pm at the Hilton Woodland Hills Hotel (located at 6360 Canoga Avenue, Woodland Hills, CA 91367). It will display the most exciting and comprehensive range of products and services related to aging, retirement, and improved lifestyle.

Ali Wong

When: Until June 16

Where: Thousand Oaks

What: Experience the verbal fury and fearless humor of Ali Wong, known for her breakout 2016 Netflix special ‘Baby Cobra’, in this upcoming comedy show!

Grand Views: The Immersive World of Panoramas

When: Glendale

Where: Until September 10 

What: Experience the enchanting union of L.A.’s unique Velaslavasay Panorama and Glendale’s Forest Lawn Museum as they present an exhibition of striking large-scale paintings. This immersive display is categorized into three sections: the early history of panoramas, crucifixion panoramas, and panoramas representing Hollywood and Los Angeles.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | June 9 – June 11

Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Fest – Oakbrook Park

When: June 9 

Where: Thousand Oaks

What: The festival this year will feature ten free events over five weekends from June 2- July 1, 2023. In partnership with local arts organizations, the festival will include local and regional artistic talent, in addition to nationally recognized performing artists. Events are free and open to all.

Summerfest BBQ at The Commons at Calabasas

When: June 10 

Where: The Commons at Calabasas

What: The Commons at Calabasas kicks off its silver anniversary celebration with a Summerfest BBQ on Saturday. Community members are invited to enjoy a live performance by country music artist Sophia Dion and savory bites. The ticketed event will include a beer and wine garden for adults and face painting, balloon artists, photo moments, a fire truck, and more!

Cancer Support Community Hope Walk

When: June 10 

Where: 60 W Olsen Rd, Thousand Oaks

What: The 5K Hope Walk is a family-friendly community event that promotes awareness and education about cancer while raising critical funds in support of CSCVVSB’s mission to ensure that all people are impacted by cancer are empowered by knowledge, strengthened by action, and sustained by the community. Music, a booth, food trucks, and kids’ activity tables will also be on-site.

Posted on

Kid-Friendly Activities and Attractions | Out & About

Los Angeles is not just a city for adults; it’s a playground for kids too! LA offers an abundance of kid-friendly activities and attractions that are sure to create lasting memories for both children and adults. In this blog, we’ll delve into the exciting world of kid-friendly fun in Los Angeles, uncovering a variety of activities and destinations that cater to the interests and imaginations of the youngest members of your family.

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios:

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Explore iconic locations such as Hogwarts Castle and Diagon Alley, experience thrilling rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and sample Butterbeer at the Three Broomsticks. With its attention to detail and immersive experiences, this enchanting attraction will delight Potterheads of all ages.

Griffith Observatory:

Ignite your child’s curiosity about the universe at the Griffith Observatory. Explore interactive exhibits, observe celestial objects through telescopes, and attend fascinating planetarium shows. Kids can learn about space, astronomy, and the wonders of our universe while enjoying breathtaking views of the city. Don’t forget to take a hike in Griffith Park’s trails for some outdoor adventure.

Kidspace Children’s Museum:

Engage your little ones in hands-on learning and play at the Kidspace Children’s Museum. This interactive museum in Pasadena offers a range of exhibits and activities designed to spark creativity, curiosity, and exploration. Kids can climb, build, splash, and engage in imaginative play while discovering the wonders of science, nature, and art.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County:

Embark on a prehistoric adventure at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Encounter dinosaur fossils, explore the Nature Gardens, and marvel at the diverse exhibits that showcase the natural wonders of our planet. The museum also offers special programs and interactive displays tailored for children, making it a perfect educational and entertaining destination for the whole family.

Griffith Park and the Los Angeles Zoo:

Spend a day in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, and make a stop at the Los Angeles Zoo. Discover a wide variety of animals from around the world, engage in animal feedings and presentations, and explore the zoo’s extensive grounds. With picnic areas, playgrounds, and hiking trails, Griffith Park offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun and family bonding.

The California Science Center:

Fuel your child’s passion for science at the California Science Center, located in Exposition Park. Featuring interactive exhibits and immersive displays, this museum offers a hands-on exploration of scientific concepts. The Discovery Rooms and special demonstrations provide engaging activities that will captivate young minds.

Santa Monica Pier:

Head to the Santa Monica Pier for a classic day of family fun. Enjoy thrilling rides at Pacific Park, indulge in sweet treats, play carnival games, and take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. Santa Monica Pier offers a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for the whole family.

 

Los Angeles is a city that knows how to entertain families, providing a wide range of kid-friendly activities and attractions. LA offers endless opportunities for family fun. So, gather your loved ones and embark on new adventures via the kid-friendly landscape of Los Angeles.

Posted on

The Best Mediterranean Restaurants Around Town | LA Eats

If you can’t make it to the Mediterranean this summer season, you can at least dine like you are. Los Angeles has no shortage of great restaurants, so this week we are all about the best Mediterranean restaurants around town. Take your tastebuds to Mykonos and beyond in this week’s blog!

Avra

When it comes to Mediterranean cuisine in Beverly Hills, Avra remains the go-to choice. Focused more on sea fare, the food is light and delicious. We recommend the Wild Branzino, a whitefish with a lean, mild, sweet flavor. Accompany your dish with a cocktail like the Sweet Cyprus and finish off with Avra’s famed Olive Oil Cake.

Santolina

From the team that brought you The Nice Guy and Delilah, Santolina sits atop The Beverly Hilton. This popular Mediterranean dining destination is an ideal spot to enjoy stunning views and great cuisine. Enjoy dishes like the Lamb Shank or Daring Kabob for a tasty meal.

Saffy’s

If you love Bavel and Bestia, you’ll definitely enjoy Saffy’s. The multi-regional Middle Eastern restaurant in East Hollywood, by Chefs Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis, is an absolute must. With dishes like Tumeric Mussels and Red Snapper Tagine, your taste buds will be pleased with Saffy’s.

Ammatoli

If you find yourself in Long Beach, make your way to Ammatoli for excellent Mediterranean cuisine. Ammatoli highlights Levantine cuisine in a way that makes it both accessible and enticing.

Furn Saj Bakery

Serving traditional homemade Lebanese food since 2013, Furn Saj Bakery and Restaurant offers delicious meals and baked goods. Using the finest and freshest natural ingredients, it is easy to see why they’re considered one of the top-rated Mediterranean restaurants in the valley. Above all, whether you’re in search of a quick bite or something more filling, you’ll find no shortage of options to eat at Fun Saj.

Santuari

Located in the Toluca Lake Tennis Club, Santuari is a great place to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine in an unexpected location. This scratch kitchen serves modern, Mediterranean-style cuisine with options like Pan-Seared Ora King Salmon and Roasted Lamb rack.

Kismet

Sara Kramer and Sarah Hymanson’s neighborhood restaurant is full of delightful Mediterranean dishes to choose from. The restaurant has two locations and has been a popular choice among locals since opening its flagship restaurant.

Posted on

Creative Outdoor Summer Gatherings | Home Tips

As the days lengthen and the weather warms, we’re drawn outdoors to enjoy the beauty of summer. With the arrival of this vibrant season, opportunities to gather with family and friends in the open air abound. But if you’re looking to make your outdoor festivities more than just a typical BBQ party, we’ve got some innovative outdoor entertainment ideas for your summer get-togethers.

1. Summer Outdoor Movie Night

Transform your backyard into a personal theater by hosting an outdoor movie night. All you need is a portable projector, a white sheet or a portable screen, comfortable seating, and your favorite films. Don’t forget the popcorn and a selection of your favorite summer beverages!

2. Garden Tour and Plant Swap

If you’re a gardening enthusiast, why not show off your flourishing summer garden? Organize a garden tour for your friends and encourage them to bring their homegrown produce or plants. Finish the tour with a plant swap to share the fruits of your gardening labor.

3. Summer DIY Pizza Party

Set up a DIY pizza-making station with various toppings for your guests to customize their pizzas. Preheat your grill or an outdoor pizza oven, and you’ve got yourself an interactive and delicious party idea. Pair this with some summer salads and cool drinks, and your guests will be raving about the food for days.

4. Backyard Games Tournament

Whether it’s lawn bowling, cornhole, or a mini-golf course you set up, a backyard games tournament can bring a fun and competitive edge to your party. It’s an excellent way for guests to interact, laugh, and create unforgettable memories.

5. DIY Cocktail and Mocktail Bar

Set up a DIY cocktail and mocktail bar complete with a variety of spirits, mixers, fresh fruits, and garnishes. It’s a fun and interactive way for guests to create their perfect summer drink. You could even hold a mini-mixologist competition to see who comes up with the most delicious concoction.

6. Outdoor Art Party

Set up easels and provide paints, brushes, and canvases for an outdoor art party. Guests can express their creativity, and it also gives them a wonderful keepsake to take home at the end of the party. To take it up a notch, hire a local artist to give a short workshop.

7. Summer Star Gazing Party

Take advantage of clear summer nights by hosting a stargazing party. Set out some blankets and pillows, provide some star maps, and serve midnight snacks. You can even set up a telescope if you have one.

8. Water Balloon Dodgeball

For a hot summer day, nothing beats a water balloon dodgeball game. It’s a fun and refreshing way to keep cool. Just ensure you have a space where guests can dry off and plenty of towels on hand.

9. DIY S’mores Station

A s’mores station is a sweet way to end any summer party. Provide different types of marshmallows, chocolate, and graham crackers. You can either use a fire pit or set up a mini tabletop s’mores station for each guest.

10. Summer Outdoor Karaoke

With a portable karaoke machine, your backyard can transform into a stage. An outdoor karaoke session brings laughter, entertainment, and plenty of memorable performances.

These innovative ideas will make your summer get-togethers the talk of the season. Remember, the primary goal is to enjoy each other’s company, have fun, and make the most of the glorious summer weather. Happy entertaining!

Posted on

From the Meta Quest 3 to EA’s Nike Collab and More! | Tech News

There is a lot of buzz in the world of tech, so it’s important to stay connected. Rather than search the world wide web, we have you covered with our weekly tech news wrap-up. Read on for the latest in tech from the Meta Quest 3 to Ea’s Nike Collab and More! 

Polestar’s Newest Software Update Brings YouTube and Enhanced Apple CarPlay 

Polestar’s recent software update, P2.9, brings enhanced in-car entertainment to Polestar 2 owners with the introduction of YouTube, allowing for streaming videos while the vehicle charges. This marks a significant step as YouTube wasn’t previously included in the native Android OS used by automakers like Polestar. Additionally, the update expands Apple CarPlay functionality, including a notable feature to project Apple Maps onto the instrument cluster, hinting at Apple’s future CarPlay version with multi-display support. This update, Polestar’s 15th over-the-air (OTA) upgrade since 2020, underlines the growing trend of automakers relying on OTA updates to enrich infotainment controls in the era of connected cars.

Meta Unveils Quest 3 VR Headset Priced at $499.99

Meta has officially introduced its Quest 3 VR headset, set to be released this fall. The 128GB model, priced at $499.99, boasts a lighter design and superior graphics performance due to a new Snapdragon chip. Furthermore, the headset is compatible with games from the previous model, Quest 2. Interestingly, Meta also announced a price reduction for Quest 2, making it more affordable. The tech giant additionally revealed an impending software update to enhance CPU and GPU performance and enable Dynamic Resolution Scaling for the Quest 2 and the Quest Pro. This announcement comes as we anticipate Apple’s mixed reality headset reveal and a showcase for Meta’s VR platform games.

Your Web Browser is on the Verge of an AI Revolution

AI assistants are rapidly becoming a revolutionary addition to web browsers, potentially reshaping how users interact with web content. SigmaOS, a company focused on productivity, is among the trailblazers with its newly launched AI assistant, Airis. Integrated across the browser, Airis allows users to query webpages by highlighting a term or phrase and seeking explanations within the page’s context. This new tool could fundamentally transform browsing experiences, enabling webpages to be more interactive and tailored to individual needs.

EA Sports Collaborates with Nike on NFT Sneaker Initiative

EA and Nike have announced a collaboration to incorporate .Swoosh, Nike’s Web3 marketplace, into future EA Sports titles, bringing virtual apparel and footwear to the gaming world. This aligns with Nike’s earlier suggestion that its digital apparel could be integrated into video games and other immersive experiences. Despite recent slow sales and the declining NFT market, Nike’s latest .Swoosh NFT drop fetched over $1 million. Interestingly, both Nike and EA have avoided using the term ‘NFT’, despite EA CEO Andrew Wilson’s belief that NFTs could play a significant role in the industry’s future.

Custom Cards and State IDs are to be added to Google Wallet This Month

Google Wallet is set to introduce the addition of state ID or driver’s licenses. This change will start with Maryland and extend to Arizona, Colorado, and Georgia in the coming months. Google Wallet’s product management director confirmed their intent to partner with all states ready for this feature. The update also allows the creation of digital versions of any card or pass with a barcode or QR code. Google has not yet confirmed the release date for these new features.

Posted on

Weekend Events | June 2 – June 4

The summer months have arrived and with it comes a bounty of fun happening this first week of June. From art exhibits to local festivals and more, we have you covered with events going on from June 2 through June 4. 

Los Angeles Weekend Events | June 2 – June 4 

Keith Haring: Art is for Everybody

When: May 27 – October 8

Where: DTLA

What: Discover the vibrant world of Keith Haring, a celebrated pop artist known for his iconic barking dogs and radiant baby motifs, at The Broad. This curated exhibition showcases over 120 distinctive pieces and archival material, exploring Haring’s unique legacy in pop art over the past four decades.

Wayfinding

When: Until September 10

Where: Miracle Mile

What: The third biennial, focused on how artists are expanding the limits of clay art, is presented by L.A.’s unique public exhibition space dedicated to contemporary craft and community-oriented folk art. The exhibition showcases the work of 14 artists who innovatively connect the intrinsic qualities of clay to elements of land and water.

Melrose Rooftop Theatre

When: Until June 30 

Where: E.P. & L.P.

What: E.P. & L.P., a trendy restaurant and rooftop bar in West Hollywood, offers more than just modern American cuisine and artisanal cocktails. The venue also accommodates the Melrose Rooftop Theatre, an outdoor film series that operates for most of the year. These screenings take place on the rooftop area connected to its al fresco bar, L.P.

 

Westside & Beach Communities Weekend Events | June 2 – June 4 

Blacklist: The Hollywood Red Scare

When: May 4 – September 3

Where: Skirball Cultural Center

What: Today’s claims of censorship may seem dramatic, but years ago, the government truly enforced blacklisting in the entertainment industry due to perceived beliefs. This Skirball exhibit examines the 1947 House Un-American Activities Committee hearings, Hollywood’s response, and the blacklist’s impact, particularly on Jewish creatives and executives

Off the 405

When: May 20 – August 26 

Where: Westside

What: Experience stunning hilltop sunsets and live music at the Getty’s free Saturday shows, starting with SPELLING. Arrive after 3 pm for lower parking fees, early exhibit visits, and beating the dinner rush!

Dawoud Bey & Carrie Mae Weems: In Dialogue

When: Until July 9

Where: The Getty Center | Westside 

What: This traveling photography exhibit showcases four decades of creative collaboration between Dawoud Bey and Carrie Mae Weems. Having first crossed paths in Harlem during the 1970s, the duo has maintained a strong friendship while exploring common themes of race, power, and representation in their work, centered around the Black community.

 

San Fernando Valley Weekend Events | June 2 – June 4 

Movies at the Park- Moana

When: June 3

Where: Studio City Recreation Center

What: Catch the Disney animated hit ‘Moana’ this Saturday! This is bound to be a family-friendly evening of fun with hula dancers, food, shaved ice, and more.

Ali Wong

When: May 19 – June 16

Where: Thousand Oaks

What: Experience the verbal fury and fearless humor of Ali Wong, known for her breakout 2016 Netflix special ‘Baby Cobra’, in this upcoming comedy show!

Grand Views: The Immersive World of Panoramas

When: Glendale

Where: Until September 10 

What: Experience the enchanting union of L.A.’s unique Velaslavasay Panorama and Glendale’s Forest Lawn Museum, as they present an exhibition of striking large-scale paintings. This immersive display is categorized into three sections: the early history of panoramas, crucifixion panoramas, and panoramas representing Hollywood and Los Angeles.

 

Conejo Valley Weekend Events | June 2 – June 4 

Conejo Orchid Society Annual Show and Sale in Thousand Oaks

When: June 2 

Where: Thousand Oaks Library

What: See an exhibit of members’ orchids in full bloom. A wide variety of orchids (nursery plants and members’ plants) will be available for sale along with orchid planting mix and fertilizer. Other garden plants will also be available.

Thousand Oaks Pop-Up Arts & Music Fest

When: June 2 

Where: Stagecoach Inn Museum

What: The festival features “pop-up” public performances at various locations throughout Thousand Oaks. The goal of the festival is to provide residents with an opportunity to actively participate in and enjoy the arts without having to come to the theatre. People are encouraged to bring their own chair/blanket, food, and drink and come enjoy great entertainment on a summer evening.

Wine Brew & K9 Crew Event Hosted by Ventura Sheriff’s K9 Foundation 

When: June 3, 1pm – 5pm

Where: 3370 Sunset Valley Rd, Moorpark

What: The Ventura Sheriff’s K9 Foundation invites you to the “Wine, Brew & K9 Crew” event on Saturday, June 3, 2023. This fundraising event will include your favorite food from AIR Pizza, beverages from local breweries, family entertainment, and K9 demonstrations…not to mention raffle prizes and access to Underwood Family Farms. 

 

Posted on

Instagram Worthy Local Spots | Out & About

Los Angeles, the city of dreams, is not only a hub for entertainment but also a paradise for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, iconic landmarks, and vibrant street scenes, LA offers endless opportunities to capture stunning photographs and create envy-inducing Instagram posts. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the most ‘Instagram Worthy’ spots in the city that will help you elevate your photography game and leave your followers in awe.

Griffith Observatory:

Perched atop the scenic Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Capture the magical sunset over Los Angeles or experiment with night photography to capture the city lights twinkling below. The observatory’s striking architecture and surrounding greenery also provide excellent photo backdrops.

The Arts District:

Located in downtown LA, the Arts District is a haven for street art enthusiasts and urban photographers. Wander through the neighborhood’s vibrant streets adorned with colorful murals and graffiti art. The juxtaposition of street art against the industrial backdrop creates a visually captivating scene that is perfect for edgy and artistic shots.

Venice Beach:

Known for its quirky and eclectic vibe, Venice Beach offers endless photo opportunities. Capture the vibrant boardwalk with its street performers, skateboarders, and beachgoers. Don’t miss the iconic Venice Canals, which provide a picturesque setting reminiscent of the Italian city. The bold and colorful Venice Beach murals also make for great Instagram-worthy shots.

Urban Light at LACMA:

One of the most recognizable landmarks in LA, Urban Light is an installation of street lamps located outside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). This artistic display of vintage street lamps creates a mesmerizing visual effect, especially during golden hour. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the enchanting atmosphere and create a memorable shot.

The Getty Center:

Nestled in the hills overlooking Los Angeles, The Getty Center is not only a world-renowned art museum but also a picturesque location for photography. The stunning architecture, meticulously landscaped gardens, and panoramic views of the city offer endless possibilities. Capture the intricate details of the Getty’s modern design, stroll through the serene Central Garden, and don’t forget to capture the breathtaking sunset views from the museum’s terrace.

The Last Bookstore:

For book lovers and photography enthusiasts alike, The Last Bookstore is a treasure trove of photo opportunities. This iconic bookstore in downtown LA features whimsical book displays, an Instagram-worthy book tunnel, and unique architectural elements. Get creative with your compositions and capture the bookstore’s charm while immersing yourself in a literary wonderland.

The Santa Monica Pier:

No visit to LA is complete without capturing the vibrant energy of the Santa Monica Pier. From the iconic Ferris wheel to the colorful carousel, the pier offers a nostalgic and lively backdrop for your photographs. Experiment with long exposures to capture the dynamic motion of the rides or snap candid shots of visitors enjoying the bustling atmosphere.

Conclusion: Los Angeles is a playground for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts, offering a plethora of visually captivating locations to explore. The city’s diverse landscapes and vibrant street scenes provide endless inspiration for creating stunning images. So grab your camera, charge your batteries, and embark on a photography adventure through the dynamic and photogenic streets of LA. Capture the moment and share your unique perspective with the world, one Instagram-worthy shot at a time.

Posted on

Summer Gardening: What to Plant in June

Gardening enthusiasts know that with each changing season, a new set of gardening duties is welcomed. As we transition into the summer months, particularly June, it’s time to reconsider our planting choices and look toward the thriving possibilities this sunny season brings. This ultimate guide to gardening provides you with essential knowledge about what to plant in June and how to take care of your garden during the hotter months. So, pull on your gardening gloves, and let’s dig in!

Fruits and Vegetables

June is a fantastic month to start planting heat-loving vegetables and fruits. Here are some top choices:

Tomatoes:

These are summer’s star fruit and thrive in the warmer months. Ensure they receive at least six hours of sunlight daily.

Cucumbers:

Perfect for salads and pickling, cucumbers are easy to grow and love the heat of summer.

Zucchini and Summer Squash:

These plants grow quickly and provide abundant produce throughout the summer.

Peppers:

Whether you love bell peppers or jalapenos, June is a great time to plant these heat-loving plants.

Beans:

Both pole beans and bush beans can be planted in June. They’re a great addition to the summer garden and quite prolific.

Melons:

If you have space, consider planting watermelons or cantaloupes. These fruits are summer staples and love the heat.

Herbs

Herbs add a lot to any garden, not just in terms of their culinary benefits but also their aesthetic and aromatic qualities. In June, consider planting:

Basil:

An absolute summer favorite, basil loves the heat and can be used in everything from pesto to salads.

Parsley:

This hardy herb can withstand a lot of summer heat and still maintain its vibrant flavor.

Cilantro:

If you’re a fan of this herb’s distinctive flavor, plant it in succession throughout the summer to ensure a constant supply.

Rosemary and Thyme:

These perennials love the summer heat and are excellent for seasoning a variety of dishes.

Flowers

 

Adding a splash of color to your summer garden, consider these vibrant beauties:

Marigolds:

These bright, cheerful flowers are easy to care for and do well in sunny conditions. Plus, they’re known to deter pests!

Zinnias:

These are a summer favorite and come in a variety of beautiful colors.

Sunflowers:

These towering beauties thrive in the sunny days of June and onwards.

Cosmos:

These lovely flowers are drought-resistant and love full sun exposure, making them perfect for the summer garden.

Coneflowers (Echinacea):

These sturdy and attractive flowers not only add beauty but also attract beneficial insects and birds to your garden.

Remember, gardening is not just about planting; it’s also about maintaining. Ensure your plants have enough water but avoid overwatering, which can be just as harmful. Mulch your plants to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Most importantly, monitor your garden for pests and diseases, treating issues early before they can harm your plants.

Happy gardening!

Posted on

From AI on TikTok to the Giphy Acquisition and More | Tech News

Another week has buzzed on by and it’s time for our weekly tech news recap. From AI on TikTok to the Giphy Acquisition and more, stay connected with our round-up of tech and media news.

TikTok is Experimenting with an AI Chatbot Named Tako

TikTok is currently experimenting with an AI chatbot named Tako, which aims to provide video recommendations based on user inquiries, as per screenshots shared with The Verge. Daniel Buchuk, from Watchful Technologies, suggests that this feature could dramatically alter the way users search and navigate within the app, should it be widely implemented. Tako, which resides above the user’s profile icon in the test interface, prompts a chat screen where it is designed to respond to a broad array of questions. It remains uncertain which AI model fuels Tako’s capabilities. According to Buchuk, Tako will provide relevant TikTok video suggestions based on user queries, whether it’s a request for a recipe after viewing food videos, or asking for recommended art exhibitions in Paris.

Google Begins to Grant User Access to its AI Search Experiment

Google has begun offering limited access to Search Labs, a platform for testing new search features. The key feature, known as the Search Generative Experience (SGE), provides AI-generated summaries at the top of search results. This significant change could alter user search behaviors, potentially impact the SEO industry, and possibly even transform the web’s business model. The Search Generative Experience (SGE) stands out as the most intriguing feature of Labs.

Discord Acquires Custom Stream Deck Hardware and Receives a Major Plug-in Update

Elgato is enhancing the Discord plug-in for its Stream Deck, offering new features such as Discord’s soundboard integration, message notifications, and improved volume control. Additionally, the company is rolling out custom Discord-branded hardware. The soundboard feature, similar to Voicemod’s function, allows users to assign sounds to buttons and search for preset sounds, although it is exclusive to Discord Nitro subscribers. Another new feature enables users to conveniently switch between audio inputs or outputs on their PC using a Stream Deck button. Additionally, Elgato has incorporated a notifications feature that displays the number of pending messages directly on a Stream Deck button.

Reportedly, Sony’s PlayStation Handheld is Set to Launch in November

Sony has officially acknowledged it’s new PlayStation handheld, expected to debut in November 2023. No specific release date or pricing has been revealed by Sony, but they have confirmed a launch within this year. The PlayStation handheld is designed to allow PS5 owners to stream games onto an 8-inch LCD screen. The controllers are similar to the DualSense PS5 controller on either side. This device won’t run games natively, requiring installed games on a PS5 and robust Wi-Fi connectivity for streaming. Sony’s move into handheld gaming seems to be in response to the increasing popularity of portable gaming devices like Nintendo’s Switch and Valve’s Steam Deck.

Netflix Password Sharing will now cost $7.99

Netflix has announced stricter regulations regarding account sharing. New plans allow subscribers to add extra members at an additional cost. Under the Netflix Standard plan ($15.49 per month), users can add an additional member outside their household for an extra $7.99 monthly fee. Premium subscribers can add up to two extra members at the same cost per member. However, subscribers on Netflix’s two cheapest plans won’t have this option. These additional users, called “extra members”, will have their own passwords and profile. The definition of a Netflix household is based on the location and IP address of a TV device.

Shutterstock Acquires Giphy for $53 Million

Shutterstock has announced the purchase of Giphy for $53 million, following the UK’s competition regulator’s block of Meta’s acquisition attempt. As part of the agreement, Meta will maintain access to Giphy’s library across its platforms. The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) obstructed Meta’s acquisition due to concerns of increased market power potentially harming competition. Despite challenging the ruling, Meta eventually consented to sell Giphy last year.

Proudly powered by WordPress