preface: swearing.
because anger.

So. I'm trying to use Material Design with Material UI. The components and UI look *great*.

It's from google, though, which really pisses me off. but I like what I can do with the UI.

HOWEVER.
I really want a grid system for responsiveness. because obviously. besides, i really hate doing all the responsive shit myself. it sucks and i hate it.

Material Design does not include a grid system. okay, it includes a grid component, but it's not for site layout. it's for making a grid of images. or something.

What it does include is a lot of very lengthy documentation on what you should do, complete with fancy graphics saying "THIS IS HOW YOU MUST DO IT OR YOU'RE DOING IT ALL WRONG" -- but they don't actually support it! you must do it all yourself.

Why oh why would they tell you how you must do things if they don't provide the tools to make it possible? fucking google.

You might decide it's a grand idea to interject at this moment and say: "there are plenty of tools out there that allow you to do this!" And sure, you'd be right. however -- and i think this might just barely might be worth mentioning -- THEY REALLY FUCKING SUCK. Hey, let's look at some of the classes! So clear and semantic! This one was nice and simple: "xs4" -- but wtf does that mean? okay, it apparently means 4 columns as they'd appear on an extra-small layout. How does that work on a large layout? Who knows. Now, how about "c12"? okay, maybe 12 columns? but how does that display on a phone with a layout small enough to only have 4 columns? i don't know! they don't know! nobody knows!

oh oh oh oh. and my particular favorite: "mdc-layout-grid__cell mdc-layout-grid__cell--align-bottom" WHAT. THE. FUCK. I'm not writing a goddamn novel! and that one claims to be from google itself. either they've gone insane or someone's totally lying. either way, fuck them.

SO. TERRIBLENESS ASIDE.

Instead of using Material Design v0.fuckoff that lacks any semblance of a grid layout, I figure I'll try v1.0 alpha that actually has one supported natively. It's new and supports everything I need. There's no way this can't be a good idea.

The problem is, while it's out and basically usable, none of the React component libraries fucking work with it. Redux-Form doesn't work with it either because it doesn't understand nested compound controls, and hacking it to work at least triples the boilerplate. So, instead, I have to use some other person's "hey, it's shitty but it works for me" alpha version of someone else's project that works as a wrapper on top of Redux-Form that makes all of this work. yeah, you totally followed that. Kind of like a second-cousin-twice-removed sort of project adding in the necessary features and support all the way down. and ofc it doesn't quite work. because why would things ever be easy?

like seriously, come on.
What i'm trying to do isn't even that bloody hard.

Do I really have to use bootstrap instead?
fuck that.

then again, fuck this significantly more.

UGH.

Client wants to use a specific font.
Client can't find the font.
Google can't find the font.

We Are Doomed

Today on forgotten games – Ballance.

The game is absolutely outstanding. Graphics is absolutely amazing even though the game was developed in 2004. The sound effects are perfect, I can literally feel the wooden ball rolling on steel rails. The background music is also amazing, we're talking Alexander Brandon level here.

The game is about rolling the ball through the levels trying not to fall off. There are three balls: the stone one, the wooden one and the paper one, different in weight, velocity and momentum.

I admire the clever level design. It uses in-game map features in multi-purpose way, for example some levels use ball transformers (the things that transform the ball from one kind to another) as a trap for your ball to lose momentum. It even seems like that levels were designed by some crazy modders for advanced players, but they weren't, and traveling through them feels like you're a pro gamer playing custom levels.

Even though levels seem simple at first glance, they allow non-linear gameplay and different gaming styles.

The gameplay itself is pure meditation. But even though the concept seem straightforward – just follow the level and don't fall – it's not. You have to use all three ball types: there are air vents to fly above upon, which only paper ball can do, there are obstacles to push, which only stone ball can do, and so on.

For additional sonic satisfaction the levels even feature some metal domes that serve no purpose but to be bumped into just for making amazing gong sound.

I like it that when you get cocky and think like that's easy, I got this, the game quickly puts you into place. It basically says nigga you ain't shit, you got nothing on me.

Overall it's basically a mesmerizing travel through cleverly designed levels surrounded by relaxing music and outstanding graphics.

Definitely a must-have for mechanical keyboard gamers, it's a pure satisfaction playing this game with a great level of precision and control mechanical keyboard allows.

Search for "ballance widescreen fix" for modern displays support.

*senior designer*

Last year I had a meeting with the newly hired Senior Graphics Designer.

She was presenting the new design of the company's website with all the features she wants.

After a few minutes, I asked her, did you design it as a responsive website?

"What is that?" She said. I said that the website should display or have atleast a design for mobile view and desktop view.

And she replied, "is that a requirement?"

Talks to myself: how the hell we hire designers like this?

PS, she earns 4x my salary

Fun fact I make graphics a lot

Job posts that look for experience in everything! Experience in large scale enterprise kubernetes bullshit! What the fuck is kubernetes, a Greek god?? 4 plus years experience in aws! 5 years experience in cloud infrastructure scaling! 5 years experience in working with stakeholders and collaborating UX design! 5 years experience in React Native! 5 years experience in noSQL! 5 years experience in firebase! 5 years experience in graphics design! 5 years experience in node CSS! And every javascript known to mankind! I would love to meet this legendary developer that every company seems to want! Sick of these ads that ask for god level experience in every development role or tech. It’s like they’re hiring one developer to write their entire system from scratch which would obviously require godly expertise in front back and every fucking end there is to fucking build

Fuck this day!
Like really fuck it!
I have one of the most terrible crunch-time i ever experienced.
I’v been working 12+ hours every day with an ever-changing project timeline.
It started simple, we made a timeline, it was risky even then but it was realistic, we started working immideatly, everything looked good then a few days in BOOM! Actually our project management completely forgot client B’s projects soo we need to do that too with the same fucking deadline!!! (About 10x more work in waay less time)
Then this morning i got an email from the graphics team that we need to document our design process RIGHT FUCKING NOW! Because management wants documentations, in the middle of a fucking crunch-time.
Today it almost got physical with my project manager, i told him that he is not a programmer, i dont fucking care about his shit, just fuck off and let me work because we won’t be ready based on his unrealistic bs.
I feel like completely fucked over, like we were told 2 days before deadline that the whole company and people’s jobs depends on us now because if we wont finish this clients won’t pay.
WE ARE TWO PROGRAMMERS for studio of 10-12 people!!!
Soo i’w been thinking about getting the fuck out of here ASAP, i got an offer from a pretty big international gamedev company just what i needed, i already did their test before all of this, i passed A+.
We scheduled a skype interview for today. I had completely no time to prepare or chill off, just got out of the office, got into a starbucks and i’m interviewing. No time to even check my mic or internet, the call was so shit i could not hear anything, they neither because the plaza was loud af. Meanwhile im nervous about work, about the interview, about can they hear me at all because of the noise. I fucked it up. BIG time! I was so done i could not reverse a fucking string in c++ or explain what is a signed int!!!
Needless to say they said no.
Need time to think about it or realize what happened? Nice dreams. Back to the office and continue working.
I can’t do this anymore. My girlfriend came for me and took me home at 10pm but all i could do was stare at the floor on the subway. I don’t want people to lose their jobs but i just phisically can’t do this anymore.
Meanwhile any time i talk to my project manager about being tired he says like “hshshsbsb i have 60 hours in the last 4 days i got the worst part, i would be grateful in your place..” like fuck off dude, i dont give fuck about how you feel about this. This is not okay for me, you did this to the project, your fucking job is to manage it! I have one day off before going back to this, i have completely no idea what to do now...

[ps: this is not Nemesys. They did not let me work on my own stuff because i would be a competitor, so i left.]

! rant
Create graphics and web pages that jam! This it! All one needs to be a successful front end developer. :D

First year: intro to programming, basic data structures and algos, parallel programming, databases and a project to finish it. Homework should be kept track of via some version control. Should also be some calculus and linear algebra.

Second year:
Introduce more complex subjects such as programming paradigms, compilers and language theory, low level programming + logic design + basic processor design, logic for system verification, statistics and graph theory. Should also be a project with a company.

Year three:
Advanced algos, datastructures and algorithm analysis. Intro to Computer and data security. Optional courses in graphics programming, machine learning, compilers and automata, embedded systems etc. ends with a big project that goes in depth into a CS subject, not a regular software project in java basically.

The fact that I have to convert a 90s-ish design into a WordPress theme despite the boss trying to convince our client that WP's shit and we should do it in something else doesn't tilt me as much as it should.

But what DOES tilt me and piss me off is the fact that the shitheads told us to 'make the design better', and so I tried; I made one of their graphics responsive by only designing it with CSS (and for once, I even made it work right) because they wanted a mobile-friendly version but failed to supply a mobile-version PSD so I had to improvise and they had the balls to tell my boss that they're 'disappointed that we failed to follow the guidelines'.

Did you bitchsicles even bother to hire a proper fucking designer who would know how to fucking design a PSD to convert into HTML? There's no fucking grid, the design's all over the fucking place like your mother after a Viagra-fueled Friday night bukakke party at an old home and the colors are an eyesore like your own fucking selves if you ever bothered looking in the fucking mirror. Fuck you all to hell.

Why does the girl in the Google Meet permission dialog have anal beads for hair?

So im a programming student at university, tasked with a small group project to make a simple 3d platformer in ue4.
End up with 3 games design students where I'm doing all of the technical stuff while they do sound, graphics and design.
So I make a simpe all purpose ai that can do everything they need and hand it over. The next day I get a call saying it doesn't work. Takes me an hour to realise they don't have a navmesh. Now, that wasn't too unreasonable mistake as they didn't know what one was but a few hours later they call me again saying it doesn't deal any damage.

I'm going through the blueprints and can't find out what isn't working until an idea pops into my head.

Me "Click the damage variable for me"
Them "What's a variable?"
Me "That thing on the bottom left that says damage. Then the world value should pop up on the right with a number, tell me that number."
Them "0"

So apparently they fucked with the variable and set damage dealt to 0. Dunno why, they didn't even know what it was nor what it did.

This is my life at the moment. I hope a real job ain't this bad :(

4 years ago I made a personal goal/plan to be a full stack developer. Meaning a good understanding of any development between os level code and web/front end user experience.

Over the years this term 'full stack' has been abused greatly and now basically means 'a javascript developer that generally knows what they are talking about'.

So now, devRant collective I ask you. What do you call a developer with good skills in:

- os level code (c, c++ and os apis)
- database level tech (advanced querying and db aglo/modeling)
- software architecture
- application level (workflow and business logic)
- transport level (protocol design and usage)
- front end tech (graphics programming and event driven paradigm)
- user experience

This is a guide for technology noobies who wants to buy a laptop but have no idea what the SPECS are meaning.

1. Brand
If you like Apple, and love their !sleek design, go to the nearest Apple store and tell them "I want to buy one. Recommendations?"
If you don't like Apple, well, buy anything that fits you. Read more below.

2. Size
There are 11~15 inches, weight is 850g ~ 2+kg. Very many options. Buy whatever you like.

//Fun part coming

3. CPU
This is the power of the brain.
For example,
Pentium is Elementary Schoolers
i3 is Middle Schoolers
i5 is High Schoolers
i7 is University People

Dual-core is 2 people
Quad-core is 4 people

Quiz! What is i5 Dual-core?
A) 2 High Schoolers.

Easy peasy, right?

Now if you have a smartphone and ONLY use Messaging, Phone, and Whatsapp (lol), you can buy Pentium laptops.
If not, I recommend at least i3

Also, there are numbers behind those CPU, like i3-6100
6 means 6th generaton.
If the numbers are bigger, it is the most recent generation.

Think of 6xxx as Stone age people
7xxx as Bronze age people
8xxx as Iron age people
and so one.

4. RAM
This is the size of the desk.
There are 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, and so one.
Think of 4GB as small desk to only put one book on it.
8GB as a desk to put a laptop with a keyboard and a mouse.
16GB as a normal sized desk to put some books, laptop, and food.
32GB as a boss sized desk.
And so one.

When you do multitasking, and the desk is too small...
You don't feel comfortable right?
It is good when there are spacious space.
Same with RAM.

But when the desk becomes larger, it gets expensive, so buy the one with the affordable price.

If you watch some YouTube videos in Chrome and do some document words with Office, buy at least 8GB. 16GB is recommended.

5. HDD/SSD
You take out the stuffs such as books and laptop from the basket (HDD/SSD), and put in your desk (RAM).

There are two kinds of baskets.
The super big ones, but because it is so big, it is bulky and hard to get stuffs out of the basket. But it is cheap. (HDD)
There are a bit smaller ones but expensive compared to the HDD, it is called SSD. This basket is right next to you, and it is super easy to get stuffs out of this basket. The opening time is faster as well.

SSDs were expensive, but as times go, it gets bigger as well, and cheaper. So most laptops are SSD these days.
There are 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, and 1024GB(=1TB), and so one. You can buy what you want. Recommend 256GB for normal use.
Game guy? At least 512GB.

6. Graphics
It is the eyesight.
Most computers doesn't have dedicated graphics card, it comes with the CPU. Intel CPUs has CPU + graphics, but the graphics powered by Intel isn't that good.
But NVIDIA graphics cards are great. Recommended for gamers. But it is a bit more expensive.

So TL;DR

Buying a laptop is
- Pick the person and the person's clothes (brand and design)
- Pick the space for the person to stay (RAM, SSD/HDD)
- Pick how smart they are (CPU)
- Pick how many (Core)
- Pick the generation (6xxx, 7xxx ....)
- Pick their eyesight (graphics)

And that's pretty much it.
Super easy to buy a laptop right?

If you have suggestions or questions, make sure to leave a comment, upvote this rant, and share to your friends!

This year I could join the "Game Graphics" for my elective classes. After seeing that we are split almost exactly in half (graphics design and programmers) our tutor (graphic with 20+ exp in the field, worked on few Call of Duty titles and more) decided that instead of forcing everyone to draw something, we will be making games in groups.

So me, and my friend were grouped with two girls from graphic. I have to say, working close with them was an eyes-opening experience. They don't think like me, they don't see like me and they interpret everything different.

Anyway, as most experienced Unity dev (... Yeaaaah, one game self made and published) I was chosen to get rest of the programmers up to speed. Luckily no one objected and they did what I wanted them to do, so it wasn't bad.

Today was supposedly the last day to present finished prototype. After three weeks staying up till 1 am, working on this project, two other, and nornal job, it was supposed to end. But, no one was really ready. So tutor decided that we will only do this project, an 2D platformer, instead of two, this and 3D game.

While walking around and checking the progress he stayed with us at least two times, watching what we were doing. Since last two weeks were really hectic, we were finishing up animations, adding some polish and such. When he came to us for the second time, he played our prototype. He's a bit older guy, somewhere around his 60, and one could see he wasn't prepared for hard gameplay I presented him with my first level design ever.

He told us his feedback, about how hard it is and not really intuitive, but in the end, he was satisfied. We have made really great progress and brought him something he could play and finish. Which was more than most of other groups had at today. And, as a cherry on the top, he complimented me as a group chief. I don't remember the last time someone complimented my work. The feeling was... Incredible. Touching even.

So, yeah. My hard work wasn't in vain, even though we now have time till the end of the semester. Everyone in my team has given their all and now we can rest for a bit, while others are catching up. Right now I only have to polish some mechanics, rework a bit of level design and add tutorial, while girls from graphic design will be working on better background and sprites.

All in all, it was a pretty good day.

Any other IT company is like:

* Task -> Designer -> Markup coder -> Backend -> Finish

Our IT company:

Act I: "Art of setting up contact with idiots".
------
Items:
*Cave scripts (aka "typical task")

Designer: -- "DAFUQ?"
Customer: *gives another interpretation*
Designer: -- "Erm... really? White text on white background?"
Customer: -- "Make a decision by yourself. I was expecting much more independence from you. You are an expert after all."
Designer: -- "Well. I'm making decision by myself. The text will be placed *here* and will be gray-colored, because *bla-bla-bla*"
Customer: -- "I disagree."
Designer: *1 hour of silence later* -- "Well...k."

Act II: "Design meets ar(u)tist"
----

Items:
*Something, that was drawn by dumb kid while smashing his own head against desk. (PSD layout)
* Salt (to pour it on open wounds)

Designer: -- "I'm seeing this task *this way*"
Markup: -- "And how do u think i should get this done? Have you even seen what you made?? This is bullshit!"
Designer: -- "It's not bullshit! It's a sci-fi themed layout!"
Markup: -- "With gameplay elements and graphics from Alien Shooter??"
Designer: -- "Well, I don't care." *brings new edits and changes*
Markup: -- "????"
Designer: *smug face* -- "!!!"

Act III (7 days later, 9 hours till deadline): "Short story about boy, who was trying to hang himself, but instead fell out from window."
----

Items:
*Markup, smelling like it went through hell and back (x1)
* Markup coder with fried butt (x1)

Backend: -- "What. Is. THAT?"
Markup: -- "It's a work we should complete in 9 hours."
Backend: -- "WE?? I know u mean me, but that's a nightmare. What the f*ck were you doing all this time?"
Markup: -- "Well..." *finds out that he was only watching films and sleeping* "I was making this thing up..."
Backend: -- "You mean "f*cking" *this* thing "up"?"
Markup: -- "Not without it"

(*3 hours of edits and changes of color from white to white later*)
Backend: -- "Well, let's do this."
*Picks PHP and tries to bundle it up with MongoDB. After some time tries to rewrite everything to JS and starts shouting something like "F***CK" and looking for window to walk through. Figures out that he is on first floor. And that he is too lazy to go upstairs*

Act IV (3 days after deadline): "Pain and misery":
-----

Items:
*Something covered with insul(t)ating tape. (Final product)

Customer: -- "Really?"
Team: -- "Kinda."
Customer: -- "Well, thanks for your work anyway. It feels like it's going to disassemble right in my hands but it just works. Oh, also, you didnt made this in time, so your payment will be over9000 times lower. That's all"
Backend, on fluids: -- "Well...yeah..."
Markup: -- "Don't look at me like that. I really was doing my job."
Designer, with twitching eye: -- "Huh, I see. You worked so hard that we have nothing to eat now. Thanks for that."
Backend: ...

!rant, need advice

I have no idea where to start with freelancing.

My girlfriend's been wanting to get some stuff but due to some issues hasn't been able to and has been extremely hesitant about bringing the topic up.

So to surprise her, I decided it'd be nice if I could freelance on the side and rake up some money so she can get the things she wants and I can spoil her (she's been through things and honestly deserves it).

So if you guys have any suggestions on where to start freelancing, that'd be great. I can do graphics and web design and just set up an anonymous Fiverr account but never had any luck with it.

For me it was not do much a choice.

I started out using basic and simple text display (graphics existed but was quite difficult).

For a long time I was the sole or part of a pair of devs so specializing was not possible and once we grew to such a size I already was quite proficient in all areas from hardware to customer support and education.

But from that time onto today I have gravitated towards a more backend role mainly because I lack a good sense or visual design.

I know it something looks good, but doing it my self results in more boring or plain designs where more thought goes into UX than nice looking design.

That said, if we do web applications I can still keep up since it usually is more ux heavy ;)

But when it comes to adding background images, nice color sets and such I gladly defer that to colleagues with a better design sense.

Man I love playing with gradients in Android...

I've had enough. I can't handle those bad designs layouts anymore. It is getting on my nerves to receive designs from "professionals" that don't think about responsive layouts, correct alignments, grid, vector shapes, use 6 different font families, and have graphics placed in the most wrong places.

Oh, and let's not forget that such design should be coded in 15h. Sure dear client. Keep dreaming, idiot.

So I've received a link to Figma for the new mobile app from our designer. It looks great and all but...

Each fucking piece of text is styled independently. Half of the cards in the layout are simple rounded rectangles, the other half are some components with a gradient. Icons are a mix of vector graphics and line elements. Even buttons aren't components. Consistence anyone? Please?

And now comes the best part. How am I even supposed to reach half of the screens? There are four variants of a screen with very similar functionality, but only a single button in the main screen which would at least remotely correspond to one of them. The guy who invented the wirescreens just kept adding things which would be nice to have in the final app, without revising it and making clear use case flows out of it?

After a few days of implementing this clusterfuck of a design, I have finally settled on a consistent set of font and element themes. Just please use components in Figma. You are paid to work in this tool which can make it super easy for the developer AND for you as well to make the design come to life, so why don't you learn to use it?

At least the designer is a nice guy, but god, could he learn to use his single tool?

Some time ago I had a brief period of time when I had no tasks.

In order to stay productive, while having a lot of free time on my hands, I had decided to create a documentation of a feature in our game that has slightly different implementations depending on the platform on which the game is running.

Once I was done w/ the documentation, I shared it w/ the lead.

His feedback was along the lines of:
'It's OK, but the color palette that you used could've been better.'

/* What I used was basic colors: feature is available = green; !available = gray; partial availability = yellow, etc. Simple, easily readable. */

So instead of 'Thanks for documenting this.' I hear 'You have poor design skills - you should've used company's theme'.

/* I'm guessing since the company's logo uses some fancy colors, in lead's mind, those colors should've been used in documentation. */

Well, duh - I'm !a graphics artist / designer, so no shit.
There will definitely be no graphical fireworks in my documentation.

I fucking love working w/ people who have their priorities straight - '_fuck_ usefulness && correctness of data; It must be pretty too!'.

Like age 8?
As a kid I really liked flash games and animations and wanted to get into it. I couldn't do flash, it looked too complicated but I found a little software by the name od KoolMoves that was just a simpler flash animation tool.

I did a bunch of shitty stick figure animations in it (hello to everyone from stick figure death theatre) but eventually I realized that I can make it do things (interactive menus, choose your story kinda things, move the player around, shoot...!)

I fell in love with AS1 and later AS2.0 and made bunch of demos and proof of concepts for systems and games. Most are lost to time and datarot by now)

Age 12
Eventually I found out I can make the entire Windows machine do what I want using first Batch files and later Visual Basic script (made a skype bot!) At this point I was also really into graphics and logo/web design

Age 15 - 20 or so
Then it was pretty natural to move to actual Visual Basic, then C# and finally I to C++. And I had the C family in my heart forever. I managed to get a but into 3D graphics too and got a part-time in archviz

Even by this point I never believed I could be a programmer as a profession. I thought of it just as something I love, but have no chance getting into compared to some of the names out there. I half expected to be either doing graphics (cause I found it simple at the time) or some shitty random job in an office.

20+
Finally I decided to go to uni and study software development, see if I can touch the future I always dreamed of! And... Well... I found out more than 80% of the people there never touch a language up until now and most people are just as retarded as I thought..

For a while I also worked as a game designer (still not being comfortable calling myself a programmer, so I chose a non programming position) but I ended up going into the code and improving and fixing game designer tools (it was unity and C#)

After seeing actual programmers at work in a company, and talking to a bunch of them I realized I already have everything I need to do this seriously and with that experience out of the way I breezed through uni, learned to love Linux and landed a proper job :)

I kinda hope my experience with long lasting self doubt will be useful for someone

Some interesting keyboard shortcuts that are lesser-known but can be quite useful:

1.Windows Key + . (Period): In Windows 10 and later versions, this shortcut opens the emoji panel, allowing you to quickly insert emojis into your text.

2.Ctrl + Shift + T: This shortcut reopens the last closed tab in most web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge). It's handy if you accidentally close a tab and want to retrieve it quickly.

3.Ctrl + Backtick (`): In some text editors and IDEs (like Visual Studio Code), this shortcut toggles the integrated terminal window, allowing you to quickly switch between editing and running commands.

4.Ctrl + Shift + Esc: This directly opens the Task Manager in Windows, skipping the intermediary step of opening Ctrl + Alt + Delete and selecting Task Manager.

5.Alt + Drag: In many graphics and design applications (like Photoshop), holding down the Alt key while dragging an object duplicates it. This can save time compared to copying and pasting.

6.Ctrl + Alt + D: This shortcut shows the desktop on Windows, minimizing all open windows to quickly access icons and shortcuts on your desktop.

7.Ctrl + Shift + N: In most web browsers, this shortcut opens a new incognito or private browsing window, useful for browsing without saving history or cookies.

8.Alt + Enter: In Excel, this shortcut opens the Format Cells dialog box for the selected cell or range, allowing quick formatting changes without navigating through menus.

9.Shift + F10: This shortcut performs a right-click action on the selected item or text, useful when you can't or don't want to use the mouse.

10.Ctrl + Shift + V: In many applications, including Google Chrome and Microsoft Word, this shortcut pastes text without formatting (paste as plain text). It's useful when copying text from websites or other documents.

++ if you like this

Do u think game design is really a field one can study?
No offence, it just seems to me like a pseudo science.
I know there are some kinds of study programmes and stuff.
I just think it is way better for people to be experienced in coding, do graphics as a hobby and study psychology (or something related) instead.

I watched a few reviews for the new nvidia RTX 4070 Ti graphics card. One question on my mind is: why is it so huge?

⏺️4090 is huge -> ok I get it, 450W power is a lot of W
⏺️4080 is huge -> ok I guess, 320 W of power is a still a lot of W; although it should be considerably smaller than 4090 (but it is not? why)
⏺️4070 Ti is huge -> 3 slots size for this graphics card? What the actual hell? This card is rated just 285 W. It makes no sense

I do not get it. The only explanation I can find is that the manufacturer got so lazy they cannot be bothered to design 3 different cooling systems, so they reuse the same cooling system on all graphics cards. RIP

Looking for potential clients on Upwork is like finding a holy grail these days.

Cheap clients with laughable budgets and high expectations on the right.

"Devs" and "Designers" with questionable skills who will work for the lowest rate possible on the left.

And don't forget the ever growing service fees and absurd measures like turning your profile private if you don't make any income in 30 days. Suuure, that's totally going to help anyone who isn't willing to work with low rates.

I am getting done with Upwork. Back on Elance I managed to get a couple of really good clients for long term projects and good commissions. Here it's impossible, even with lower rates.

You're competing against people whose portfolio involves changing a few colors for a envato template or logos made of stock graphics, and they are still more likely to be hired over you because they are willing to work on a t-shirt design for $4!

Networking is where is at. Getting contacts, talking to people, force yourself to introduce to companies as a potential asset.

That's how you get the good projects, right?

... Right, folks?

Why expect spec work from a graphic designer when you don’t expect the same from a dentist?

Design in Motion: Real-Time Rendering's Impact on Architecture

Architecture, a discipline that once relied heavily on blueprints, models, and lengthy render times, has undergone a revolutionary transformation in recent years. The advent of real-time rendering technology has fundamentally altered the way architects visualize, present, and interact with their designs. This paradigm shift has not only enhanced the creative process but has also empowered architects to make more informed decisions and create immersive experiences for clients and stakeholders.

Real-time rendering, a technological marvel that harnesses the power of high-performance graphics hardware and advanced software algorithms, allows architects to generate photorealistic visualizations of their designs in a matter of milliseconds. Gone are the days of waiting hours or even days for a single rendering to complete. This acceleration in rendering time has not only expedited the design process but has also encouraged architects to explore multiple design iterations rapidly.

One of the most significant impacts of real-time rendering on architecture is the ability to visualize a design in various lighting conditions and environmental settings. Architects can now instantly switch between daytime and nighttime lighting scenarios, experiment with different materials, and observe how their designs respond to different seasons or weather conditions. This level of dynamic visualization offers insights into how a building's appearance and functionality evolve throughout the day, contributing to more holistic and thoughtful design solutions.

Moreover, real-time rendering has transformed client presentations. Architectural concepts can now be communicated with unprecedented clarity and realism. Clients can virtually walk through spaces, observing intricate details, exploring different angles, and even experiencing the play of light and shadow in real-time. This immersive experience fosters a deeper understanding of the design intent, enabling clients to provide more targeted feedback and make informed decisions.

The impact of real-time rendering on collaboration within architectural teams cannot be overstated. Traditionally, architects and designers would need to wait for a rendering to complete before discussing design changes or improvements. With real-time rendering, team members can make adjustments on the fly, observing the immediate effects of their decisions. This seamless collaboration not only enhances efficiency but also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration as architects, engineers, and other stakeholders can work together in real-time to refine designs.

The integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) into the architectural workflow is another transformative aspect of real-time rendering. Architects can now create VR environments that allow clients to step inside their designs and explore every nook and cranny. This not only enhances client engagement but also enables architects to identify potential design flaws or spatial issues that might not be apparent in 2D drawings. AR, on the other hand, overlays digital information onto the physical world, facilitating on-site decision-making and construction supervision.

Real-time rendering's impact extends beyond the design phase. It has proven to be a valuable tool for public engagement and community involvement in architectural projects. By creating virtual walkthroughs of proposed structures, architects can offer the public an opportunity to experience the design before construction begins. This transparency fosters a sense of ownership and allows for constructive feedback, contributing to the development of designs that resonate with the community's needs and aspirations.

The environmental implications of real-time rendering are also noteworthy. The ability to visualize designs in various environmental contexts contributes to more sustainable architecture. Architects can assess how natural light interacts with interior spaces, optimizing energy efficiency and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

In conclusion, real-time rendering has ushered in a new era of architectural design, propelling the industry into a realm of dynamic visualization, immersive experiences, and enhanced collaboration. The ability to witness designs in motion, explore different lighting conditions, and interact with virtual environments has redefined how architects approach their craft. From facilitating client presentations to fostering sustainable design solutions, real-time rendering's impact on architecture is profound and multifaceted. As the technology continues to evolve, architects have an unprecedented opportunity to push the boundaries of creativity, efficiency, and sustainability in the built environment.

Sophomore year starting soon so I'm looking for new project (s) to complete in parallel with the studies.
Some are more design-y and some more backend-y but I recently started getting better at designing so :)

1) Learn some fragment shader stuff. I've always been messing around with graphics and have a game on steam, so I think that's a good idea to be paired with signal processing.

2) Reactive web services. Preferably with spring-boot or vert.x but

3) I would also like to dive into golang (and make some reactive thing with it)

4) WebAssembly seems nice... But I got some concerns

5) exercise making wireframes -> CSS (with some js)

6) I've never really done any real backed work with nodejs, except serving and aot compiling js, or doing gulp tasks

7) Implementing a whole project, or a fraction of it as serverless on aws

* I'm definitely going to use a couple very simple services to make a docker swarm with load balancing, etc, just because I know how everything works but got no practical knowledge

8) Design an esports jersey for the university department I'm in (shouldn't take long)

So what do you guys think? Recommendations are welcome :)

P.S. last year in review:
> A webapp running on a raspberry pi powering a reflex testing game on gpio (java/spring-boot , codename: buttonmasher)
> small Elastic search cluster to monitor some random university servers through kibana dashboards
> laser tracking on wall of *any* colour and variable light conditions via a webcam (opencv) , controlling the mouse pointer, whether you run it against a projector or any wall
> jstrain.herokuapp.com => a small JavaScript powered tool with a DSL to help you train more efficiently without a coach
> Various random Photoshop stuff

Green Laptops: Your Destination for Refurbished Gaming Laptops and Professional Laptop Upgrades

At Green Laptops, we are dedicated to providing top-tier gaming laptops refurbished to deliver the best performance at an affordable price. Located at 7 Woodley Headland, Peartree Bridge, Milton Keynes MK6 3PA, United Kingdom, we offer a wide range of refurbished laptops, ensuring that you get premium technology that’s not only high-performing but also eco-friendly. Whether you're a gamer looking for the perfect device or a professional in need of a laptop upgrade, we’ve got you covered.

Gaming Laptops Refurbished: High Performance Without the High Price

When it comes to gaming, having the right equipment is key. Gaming laptops refurbished at Green Laptops provide gamers with the perfect blend of power, portability, and performance—without the hefty price tag of new devices. Our refurbished gaming laptops come from top brands like Asus, MSI, Dell, and HP, each tested and restored to ensure optimal performance.

We understand that gamers demand laptops with fast processors, high-end graphics, and superior display capabilities. That’s why we specialize in offering gaming laptops refurbished to meet these needs, all while offering unbeatable value. Whether you’re playing the latest AAA titles or engaging in competitive esports, our refurbished gaming laptops deliver the performance you need to stay ahead in the game.

Opting for refurbished gaming laptops not only saves you money but also reduces the environmental impact of purchasing new electronics. By choosing a refurbished gaming laptop, you contribute to a more sustainable future while enjoying an outstanding gaming experience.

Professional Laptop Upgrades: Boost Your Productivity and Performance

At Green Laptops, we also understand that professionals need reliable, high-performance laptops for their work. That’s why we specialize in professional laptop upgrades, ensuring that your device is equipped with the best technology to handle demanding tasks, whether you’re working from home, managing a business, or handling intricate design and development projects.

Our professional laptop upgrades can enhance everything from your laptop’s storage and RAM to its graphics card, ensuring it’s capable of handling complex software, multitasking, and high-performance applications. If you already have a laptop but feel it’s falling short, our upgrade services are a cost-effective way to breathe new life into your device and extend its lifespan.

By choosing professional laptop upgrades from Green Laptops, you avoid the high cost of purchasing a brand-new device while getting the performance you need for your professional and personal tasks. Plus, with our environmentally-conscious approach, you help reduce e-waste and make a positive impact on the planet.

Why Choose Green Laptops?

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable: Our gaming laptops refurbished and professional laptop upgrades provide an eco-friendly alternative to buying new devices. You’re not only saving money but also supporting a sustainable future.

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Expert Testing and Quality Assurance: All of our refurbished laptops and upgrade services go through a rigorous testing process to ensure you receive a product that works like new. Our gaming laptops refurbished and professional upgrades come with the assurance of quality.

Wide Selection: We offer a diverse selection of gaming laptops refurbished and professional laptop upgrades, ensuring you find exactly what you need to match your preferences and requirements.

Visit Us Today

Ready to take your gaming or work experience to the next level? Visit Green Laptops at 7 Woodley Headland, Peartree Bridge, Milton Keynes MK6 3PA, or give us a call at +44 7539 442547 to explore our range of gaming laptops refurbished and professional laptop upgrades. Our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect solution for your needs.

At Green Laptops, we provide refurbished gaming laptops and professional laptop upgrades that combine affordability, sustainability, and performance. Make a smart choice for both your tech needs and the environment today!

Green Laptops – The Eco-Friendly Choice for High-Performance Technology.

ustomized Cereal Boxes If you're interested in creating unique cereal boxes, the first step to making your own is to choose which design type you'd like to use. Corn cereal boxes with different images on them are some of the most popular designs on the market today.

Making your Own Cereal Box isn’t Difficult

To really get the idea across, consider having a cereal image on one side of the box and a common face on the other. This is the best option for making customized cereal boxes because it uses your most prominent feature to get attention.

Fun Boxes and Bags With cereals being so popular these days, companies have jumped on the bandwagon to create fun cereal packaging for kids. In fact, cereal bags and boxes have become some of the most popular gifts for children. There are fun ways to personalize the bags and boxes to make them even more special.
There are cute characters for babies and colorful ones for older children. Personalizing your cereal boxes with a child's name, a favorite character, or a cartoon character is a great way to encourage children to eat their cereals on a daily basis.

High-quality Boxes of Cereals The highest quality boxes of cereal available are from across the world. Cereal boxes are usually made of rice paper, a thick but flexible material. They're covered in cellophane to prevent moisture from leaking out and are sealed using a special chemical coating. It's no surprise that rice paper boxes are some of the most expensive cereal brands available on the market.

Printing Your Own Labels Most kitchen stores will sell generic printing labels that are used for almost every product. Why not add some personal touches to your own labels? You can purchase blank labels in any printing shop and print your own graphics or text.

Or you can also purchase pre-printed custom labels that come with everything you need to be printed on them. Either way, custom printed boxes, and packaging boxes are an excellent idea for any business.

Custom Cereal Packaging Is Trendy!

Customized packaging When it comes to making custom boxes of cereal, there are so many different types of customization options available to you. Cereal boxes can be customized with your company logo or company slogan or even just a photo of your company headquarters. You can have custom boxes printed with many different types of material. Glass, metal, leather, and even paper are all popular options for customization.

With custom cereal boxes, you can choose the size, shape, and color of the box that you want. You can have it personalized with your own company name, telephone number and even have a short message printed on the box.

There are so many different design options to choose from. Depending on your budget and the time frame for your order, you may want to order your boxes from a custom box manufacturer like Packaging Bee to get a more economical quote and fast turnaround.

Conclusion

All of these options will depend on how quickly you need your products for your business, how much are your costs, and what type of boxes you are using for your packaging. Cereal packaging is an essential aspect of any business, and custom boxes of cereal are a great way to make your products stand out from the competition.

Cereal packaging can help keep your products fresh, and you will never be able to catch somebody off guard if they opened your product and saw it sitting on the shelf. Whether you are shipping boxes of cereal internationally or making them at home, consider making them according to the requirement of the customer.

VynyLyst: Your Go-To Source for Vinyl Wraps and Vinyl Signage in Phoenix, AZ

At VynyLyst, we specialize in providing high-quality vinyl wraps and vinyl signage in Phoenix, AZ, that help businesses and individuals make a bold statement. Whether you're looking to transform your vehicle with eye-catching vinyl wraps or enhance your storefront with custom vinyl signage, we have the expertise and products to bring your vision to life.

Vinyl Wraps in Phoenix: Transform Your Vehicle with Custom Designs
A vinyl wrap is one of the most effective ways to turn your vehicle into a mobile advertisement. At VynyLyst, we offer custom vinyl wraps in Phoenix that allow you to showcase your business logo, message, or artwork in a way that’s both professional and attention-grabbing. Whether it’s a full vehicle wrap or a partial design, our wraps are made with high-quality vinyl materials designed to withstand the elements and keep your vehicle looking sharp for years.

Why choose vinyl wraps for your vehicle?

Cost-Effective Advertising: A vinyl wrap is a highly effective way to advertise your business while on the move. Your vehicle will become a 24/7 billboard, attracting attention wherever you go.
Durability: Our vinyl wraps are made with durable materials that resist fading, cracking, and peeling. They are designed to hold up to both hot Phoenix summers and the wear of daily driving.
Customization: From color schemes to logos and custom designs, we create wraps that perfectly match your brand’s identity, making your vehicle a powerful marketing tool.
Vinyl Signage in Phoenix, AZ: Enhance Your Business Presence
Whether you're looking for a new storefront sign, a directional sign for your office, or custom window graphics, vinyl signage is the perfect way to make a lasting impression. At VynyLyst, we specialize in creating high-quality vinyl signage in Phoenix, AZ that enhances your brand’s visibility both indoors and outdoors.

Vinyl signage is versatile, durable, and offers endless possibilities. Our team works closely with you to design custom signage that aligns with your business needs. Whether it's a clean and professional logo sign for your office or a bold and vibrant display for your store, we create custom signs that are sure to attract attention.

Benefits of Vinyl Signage:

Durability: Our vinyl signs are made to last, designed to resist fading, peeling, and weather damage, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Flexibility: With vinyl signage, you can create everything from large banners to small, intricate details like lettering or logos. We provide fully customized solutions for all your signage needs.
Affordable and Professional: Vinyl signage is a cost-effective option that delivers a professional look without breaking the bank. It’s an ideal solution for businesses of all sizes, offering high-impact results at affordable prices.
Why Choose VynyLyst for Vinyl Wraps and Signage in Phoenix?
Expert Installation: At VynyLyst, we pride ourselves on providing flawless vinyl wraps and vinyl signage installations. Our experienced team ensures that each wrap and sign is applied with precision, leaving you with a professional, polished look.

Customization: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Whether it’s a vinyl wrap for your vehicle or a custom vinyl sign for your business, we work with you to bring your unique vision to life.

Durability: We use only the highest quality materials, ensuring that your vinyl wraps and vinyl signage are built to last, even under harsh weather conditions.

Affordable Pricing: High-quality vinyl wraps and vinyl signage shouldn’t break the bank. At VynyLyst, we offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality, so you can enhance your brand presence affordably.

Local Expertise: As a locally owned business in Phoenix, we have a deep understanding of the needs and preferences of our community. We take pride in providing tailored solutions that help local businesses succeed and stand out.

Get in Touch with VynyLyst for Custom Vinyl Wraps and Signage
Are you ready to take your business’s branding to the next level with custom vinyl wraps or vinyl signage? VynyLyst is here to help! We are located at 7336 W Cordes Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85043, and proudly serve clients throughout the Phoenix area.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, call us today at +1 (602) 502-9437. Let’s work together to create high-quality, custom vinyl solutions that will make your business or vehicle stand out in style!

Candle Packaging: The Ultimate Guide to Elevate Your Brand
Why Candle Packaging Matters

Candle packaging plays a crucial role in both protecting the product and enhancing its aesthetic appeal. In today’s competitive market, attractive and functional packaging is essential for capturing customer attention, ensuring product safety, and reinforcing brand identity.

Key Elements of High-Quality Candle Packaging
1. Material Selection

The material used in candle packaging is critical in maintaining product integrity, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Some of the most commonly used materials include:

Cardboard and Paperboard: Lightweight, eco-friendly, and customizable for different styles.

Glass Jars: Ideal for luxury candles, offering a sophisticated and protective housing.

Metal Tins: Travel-friendly and durable, suitable for compact packaging.

Plastic Containers: Cost-effective and versatile, though less eco-friendly.

2. Branding and Customization

Strong branding elements on packaging create a lasting impression. Effective branding strategies include:

Embossed or Foil Stamping: Adds a luxurious touch to your packaging.

Minimalist Designs: Clean and modern looks that appeal to high-end consumers.

Personalized Labels: Custom labels with unique typography and graphics enhance the visual appeal.

Window Cutouts: Allow customers to see the candle inside without opening the package.

3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options

With the increasing demand for sustainable packaging, brands should consider:

Biodegradable Materials: Such as kraft paper and recycled cardboard.

Reusable Packaging: Containers that customers can repurpose.

Soy-Based Inks: An eco-friendly printing option.

Types of Candle Packaging
1. Luxury Candle Packaging

Premium candles require high-end packaging that reflects the exclusivity of the product. Features include:

Rigid boxes with magnetic closures for a sleek unboxing experience.

Velvet or satin lining for added elegance.

Gold or silver foil accents for a sophisticated appeal.

2. Gift Candle Packaging

Candle packaging designed for gifting should be visually appealing and ready for presentation. Common features include:

Decorative boxes with ribbons and bows.

Themed packaging for seasonal gifts (Christmas, weddings, birthdays).

Custom messages or engravings for personalization.

3. Wholesale and Bulk Candle Packaging

For businesses selling candles in bulk, efficiency and cost-effectiveness are key. Features include:

Stackable and compact designs for easy shipping.

Corrugated cardboard for added durability.

Minimalist branding to reduce production costs.

Candle Packaging Design Trends
1. Minimalist and Elegant Designs

Simplicity is the new luxury. Many brands opt for clean lines, neutral tones, and minimal text to create an elegant and modern look.

2. Sustainable and Eco-Conscious Packaging

More consumers are leaning towards zero-waste and biodegradable materials, making sustainable packaging a priority for many brands.

3. Interactive and Innovative Packaging

Unique and functional packaging elements, such as hidden compartments, scented boxes, and reusable containers, help brands stand out.

4. Personalization and Customization

Personalized packaging with handwritten notes, custom scents, or tailored designs enhances customer engagement and loyalty.

Best Practices for Candle Packaging

Ensure Proper Labeling: List essential information such as scent, burn time, safety warnings, and ingredients.

Protect Against Heat and Damage: Use heat-resistant materials and secure sealing to prevent wax melting.

Prioritize User Experience: Packaging should be easy to open, store, and recycle.

Focus on Aesthetic Appeal: Visually appealing packaging attracts impulse buyers and repeat customers.

Conclusion

Investing in well-designed candle packaging not only enhances product safety but also boosts brand recognition and customer appeal. Whether opting for luxurious, eco-friendly, or cost-effective packaging, brands should prioritize quality, innovation, and sustainability to stand out in the competitive market.

Introduction to Instagram Marketing
Instagram has grown into one of the most powerful social media platforms for businesses, influencers, and brands. With over 1 billion active users, it presents a vast opportunity for marketing, brand awareness, and customer engagement. However, succeeding on Instagram requires more than just posting images. This is where an Instagram marketing agency comes into play, offering professional strategies and services to enhance visibility, engagement, and conversion rates.
What an Instagram Marketing Agency Does
An Instagram marketing agency is a specialized firm that helps businesses, brands, and influencers optimize their presence on Instagram. Their primary role includes content creation, account management, audience engagement, paid advertising, and analytics tracking. These agencies have experienced social media marketers, content creators, and analysts who work together to ensure a brand stands out in a competitive digital landscape.
Key Functions of an Instagram Marketing Agency:
Content Strategy Development: Creating tailored content strategies to align with a brand’s goals.
Graphic Design and Visual Content Creation: Producing high-quality images, videos, reels, and stories.
Audience Engagement: responding to comments, messages, and engaging with the audience.
Hashtag Research & Implementation: Finding the best hashtags to maximize reach and engagement.
Influencer Collaborations: Connecting brands with relevant influencers to expand reach.
Advertising and Paid Promotions: Running targeted ad campaigns for better conversion rates.
Analytics and Performance Tracking: Monitoring engagement, reach, and other key performance metrics.
Instagram Account Management Services
Instagram account management is an essential service offered by agencies to handle every aspect of a brand’s Instagram presence. It includes daily posting, responding to followers, strategizing content, and ensuring brand consistency.
Core Instagram Account Management Services:
Content Planning and Scheduling: Preparing a consistent posting calendar to maintain engagement.
Profile Optimization: Enhancing bio, profile picture, and highlights for better brand appeal.
Community Management: Engaging with followers through comments, DMs, and interactive content.
Story and Reel Creation: Utilizing Instagram’s features to enhance engagement.
Crisis Management: Handling negative comments, PR issues, or brand-related concerns efficiently.
Best Instagram Marketing Strategies
The success of Instagram marketing depends on the implementation of effective strategies. The best agencies employ advanced techniques to optimize results.
Top Strategies Used by Instagram Marketing Agencies:
Consistent Branding: ensuring cohesive visuals, colors, and messaging.
Content Diversification: mixing images, videos, reels, carousels, and live videos.
User-Generated Content: encouraging followers to create content that features the brand.
Instagram Stories & Highlights: Engaging audiences with behind-the-scenes content, polls, and Q&As.
Collaborations & Partnerships: Partnering with influencers and other brands.
Shoppable Posts: Utilizing Instagram Shopping for direct sales.
SEO and Hashtag optimization: using relevant hashtags and keywords to improve discoverability.
A/B Testing for Ads: Running multiple ad variations to determine the most effective approach.
Benefits of Hiring an Instagram Marketing Agency
Businesses and influencers gain numerous advantages by outsourcing their Instagram marketing to professionals.
Key Benefits:
Expertise & Experience: Agencies have in-depth knowledge of Instagram’s algorithms and best practices.
Time-saving: Brands can focus on their core business while experts handle Instagram marketing.
Better Engagement & Growth: Professional strategies lead to higher engagement and follower growth.
Higher ROI on Ads: Paid campaigns are optimized for better conversions and lower costs.
Creative Content: Access to high-quality visuals, graphics, and videos.
Consistent Posting: Ensuring a steady stream of content for audience retention.
Choosing the Best Instagram Marketing Services
With so many agencies offering Instagram marketing services, it’s important to select the right one based on specific business needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Instagram Marketing Agency:
Portfolio & Past Work: Reviewing previous campaigns to assess expertise.
Client Reviews & Testimonials: Checking customer feedback and satisfaction levels.
Customization & Personalization: Finding an agency that tailors services to individual brand needs.
Pricing & Packages: Comparing different service plans to fit the budget.
Technology & Tools: Ensuring the agency uses advanced analytics and automation tools.
Customer Support & Communication: Looking for agencies that provide prompt and clear communication.