Friday, January 31, 2014

Don't Panic! They're only Vogons


Left click to view full size image.  Right Click to save 600x600 pixel image.
I just love The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy!  I was just listening to the audio books last week.  Its a wonderful series of books that are funny, alive and a roller coaster ride of a story.  Now I know this is a bit early, but on May 25th, it's International Towel Day!  To help commemorate Douglas Adams and his books, make sure you grab your towel and wave it proudly! 

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Seamless Texture - After Image

Right Click to save original 600x600 pixel image.
Remember those optical illusions as a kid?  The ones where you stared at an image for 20 second, looked at the wall and saw the negative image projected in your vision.  Those were a blast for me.  I would poor over as many as I could and look at them all.  I probably killed a few brain cells in the process, but hey it was fun! 

I've created a seamless texture of a B&W image for your enjoyment.  No real hidden image, but still fun to look at... for a few seconds at least.

This Seamless Tileable Texture (Wallpaper) is made by Patrick Hoesly and is released under a Creative Commons Attribution License. 
If you like this image, please leave a comment.  Thanks!
  
How did you make it?
This texture was made using software specially designed to aid in seamless texture creation.  Some of the tools I use are Photoshop, Illustrator, Filter Forge, Genetica,  Image Synth, Alien Skin, Topaz Labs, Allegorithmic and even good old fashion hand drawing/editing.

What is a Seamless Texture / Pattern?
A seamless texture is an special image, where one side of a image exactly matches the opposite side, so that the edges blend into each other when repeated.   Seamless textures are used for desktop wallpaper, webpage backgrounds, video games, Photoshop fills and in 3D rendering programs.

More optical after effects can be found HERE

Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Reddit Hiking and Backpacking

If you enjoy hiking, like I do, or just some weekend walking then you should check out Reddit's Hiking Sub.  Lots of wonderful photos and advice on places to hike and gear to take with you.   It's also a friendly place where you can ask a questions regarding hiking and gear. 

If you are into more serious hiking, take a look at the Backpacking forum.