Wondershare unveiled VirtuLook on Aug. 30, 2023, a cutting-edge AI product that promises to radically reshape how small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and e-commerce entrepreneurs design product images.
Why It Matters to Small Businesses
For many SMBs and e-commerce startups, the visual representation of products is indispensable in their marketing strategy. High-quality, compelling product images can be the difference between a potential customer clicking “buy” or navigating away. As brick-and-mortar stores face stiff competition from online platforms, the need for standout virtual display images has never been greater.
Enter VirtuLook.
This AI tool presents an effortless, efficient, and high-grade solution for all product image demands. Using advanced artificial intelligence, it not only supports the creation of real-life model images but also seamlessly blends products with attractive backgrounds. The outcome? Picturesque images that not only appeal to customers but also potentially boost conversion rates.
What Sets VirtuLook Apart
Real-Life Model Imaging: Users can virtually dress models with their clothing items, providing a realistic visualization of how the apparel looks in different scenarios — from cozy living rooms to bustling streets.
Still-Life Product Creation: Apart from model images, brands can generate pure product photographs against backgrounds tailored to the product’s theme, showcasing its unique features.
Simplified E-commerce Image Generation: Through its intuitive interface, users can produce a multitude of professional-grade images in just four uncomplicated steps. A significant advantage, especially for those with minimal technical skills.
A Milestone in AI Imaging
The introduction of VirtuLook signifies a pivotal moment in AI-assisted image creation. It offers SMBs and e-commerce entrepreneurs a groundbreaking tool to vividly present their products, enhance sales, and gain a competitive advantage in a saturated market.
In the words of Nicole Yu, VirtuLook’s Product Director, “VirtuLook delivers eCommerce professionals a straightforward, efficient, and top-notch AI product image generation service. With VirtuLook, businesses can now craft captivating visuals that resonate with their target audience and bolster revenue growth.”
Compatibility and Pricing
Affordability and Compatibility
Now available for both individual and business use, VirtuLook’s pricing starts at a reasonable $39.99 monthly and $399.99 annually for solo users. Teams and businesses can benefit from competitive yearly plans starting at $499.99. For a deep dive into its capabilities or to start generating AI-enhanced images, interested parties can visit their official site.
With its reputation as an AI-centric software giant, Wondershare consistently delivers innovative solutions for both personal and professional needs. Their accolades from distinguished organizations like CNN, G2, and The Shorty Awards attest to their commitment to quality. With an extensive user base spanning 150 nations, Wondershare’s diverse software lineup includes video editing, data recovery, and more offerings. Through VirtuLook and their other products, Wondershare continues to set the gold standard for the future of AI software development.
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If someone in your life is a photographer or photography enthusiast, you may have found yourself searching for a gift for them. Finding a gift for the photographer in your life can be tricky, but we’re here to help. We have scoured Amazon and Etsy looking for ideas for the best gifts for photographers. Check out our finds below:
Great Gift Ideas For the Photographer In Your Life
Gift Type
Pros
Cons
Wall Art
– Personal and decorative.
– Needs space on the wall.
– Can inspire the photographer.
– Style or subject may not always match the recipient’s taste.
– Makes for a great conversation starter.
Apparel/Accessories
– Functional and can be used daily.
– Size and style preferences can vary.
– Can showcase their passion for photography.
– Some may find certain designs too flashy or not to their liking.
Camera Accessories (Straps, Bags, etc)
– Practical for everyday shooting.
– Compatibility with existing equipment.
– Can enhance the photographer’s experience or add style.
– May already own or prefer a specific type.
– Provides protection for their gear.
Memory Cards
– Always in demand for photographers.
– Need to know specific type and speed preferences.
– Increases storage for photos and videos.
– Some photographers may have moved to larger storage solutions.
– A practical and useful gift.
Business Cards/Card Holders
– Helps professionals share their contact and portfolio.
– Design and information are personal; may be better to provide a voucher.
– Can make a professional statement.
– Some may already have a preferred design or supplier.
Photography Books
– Provides inspiration and education.
– Recipient might already own it.
– Can serve as a reference or coffee table piece.
– Genre or style might not match the photographer’s interest.
Vintage Camera Wall Art
Your photographer friend will love this decorative metal wall art. It can be mounted easily and will make a unique and cool conversation piece they’ll love.
For the photographer who has everything – the GoDonut Plus is a portable device stand that is also a charging station. Small enough to carry around but large enough to hold most cellphones and tablets, this is a practical and sure to be well-received gift.
Hex makes gear for “creators,” and this small form factor crossbody carrier is perfect for the photographer on the go. It’s waterproof and has several pockets and zippers for storage.
Sock It To Me Men’s Say Cheese Retro Camera Photographer Crew Socks
Everyone needs socks – treat your favorite photographer to these fun photography themed crew socks. They’re one size fits all, and feature retro-style cameras and bright colors.
If your photog friend also loves plants, this is the perfect gift. Choose from an assortment of colors and 3 different sizes. The camera-shaped pots have a front wall for shallow rooting plants and a larger, taller back wall for deeper rooting plants.
Your favorite photographer’s new favorite mug. This campfire coffee mug holds 11 fl.oz. and can be customized with a name or brand, using a selection of colors and designs.
Any photographer would appreciate this handy cleaning kit for their DSLR camera. The kit includes a double sided lens cleaning tool, several microfiber cloths, and air blower and more.
This Nikon camera strap comes in a variety of sturdy materials, including canvas, denim, and knit fabric. There is also the option to personalize the strap with a name and/or logo, with 32 different fonts and designs.
Ornaments make great gifts – treat the photographer in your life to this themed stainless steel ornament. They can hang it on their Christmas tree, or somewhere else and enjoy it all year long.
Any photographer will get a kick out of this witty t-shirt, featuring different camera lenses and the phrase “choose your weapon.” The shirt is available in 6 different colors and sizes small through 2XL.
Selecting the Perfect Gift for Photographers: Helpful Tips
Here’s a more detailed guide to help you navigate the maze of options when it comes to presents for photography enthusiasts:
Budget Considerations
Set a Clear Limit: Before diving into your shopping, decide on a maximum amount you’re willing to spend. With the multitude of photography gear and accessories out there, it’s easy to get carried away.
Look for Sales and Discounts: The photography world often has deals, especially during the holidays. Keep an eye out for promotions on favorite brands or accessories.
Understanding Their Personality
Quirky vs. Practical: Some photographers love quirky items like vintage camera necklaces or camera lens mugs. Others prefer practical gifts such as lens cleaning kits or memory card holders.
Current Gear Assessment: Check out what they already have. You wouldn’t want to gift something they’ve already got in their collection.
Be Mindful of the Clock
Shipping Delays: Especially if you’re opting for customized gifts, like personalized camera straps or engraved photo frames, be prepared for longer shipping times. Order well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Gift Cards as a Last-Minute Option: If you’re running short on time, a gift card to their favorite photography store can be a life-saver. It offers them the freedom to choose what they really want.
Extra Tips for a Thoughtful Touch
Gift a Photography Book: Inspire them with a bestselling photography book, showcasing the works of renowned photographers.
Photography Workshops or Classes: Elevate their skills by gifting a workshop or online course tailored to their interests.
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Qualify for discounts, special offers and more with a Business Prime account from Amazon. You can create a FREE account to get started today.
Small business grants can help entrepreneurs from various communities access resources and launch projects that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. They can also help communities improve economic vitality and even make neighborhoods safer. Read on for a list of current opportunities for businesses, including small business grants for women and pandemic recovery grants.
StartHER TWU Grants
StartHER, the annual grant program run by Texas Woman’s University’s Center for Women Entrepreneurs, is launching its fifth funding round to support women entrepreneurs. The program will award 25 grants of $5,000 each. Women business owners can use funds for various business costs like purchasing new equipment or improving their commercial space. Since the program launched, it has awarded $450,000 in funds to 90 women-owned businesses. In addition to funding, the program also includes a meeting with a business advisor and a virtual business training course. The program will begin accepting applications for its latest round of grants on September 22. Applications are due by October 22.
Suffolk County JumpSmart Grant Small Business Grant Program
Suffolk County, New York is offering grants to support businesses, downtown areas, and nonprofits throughout the county. The JumpSmart Grant Small Business Grant Program includes $25 million in funding through the American Rescue Plan Act to support large projects throughout the community. Businesses and organizations planning large-scale projects to improve their communities may request a minimum of $100,000. The application is available online now through September 29.
Orange County BOOST Grants
Orange County, Florida, has announced a deadline for its Business Opportunities in Orange County for Support and Transformation (BOOST) grants grants program. Small businesses, home-based businesses, and gig workers can apply for funds through the program. Small businesses may apply for up to $10,000, home-based businesses can qualify for up to $3,000, and gig workers may get up to $1,400. September 15 is the deadline for completed applications.
Laredo College Skills for Small Business Grant
Laredo College in Texas is providing two opportunities for small business owners looking to provide free training for their employees. The Skills for Small Business Grant offers free training courses for employees of businesses with less than 100 employees. The grant covers up to $1,800 for new employees and $900 for existing employees, covering professional development and training programs through the college. The second opportunity is the Skills Development Fund, which offers customized training that employers can apply for.
Canton CARES Small Business Grant Program
Canton, New York, is currently accepting applications for its Canton CARES Small Business Grant Program. The program is open to small businesses with less than 25 employees who have faced hardships due to the pandemic. To qualify, businesses must be for-profit and must commit to demonstrating job retention or creation, especially for low- to moderate-income individuals. Interested businesses can learn more and apply by contacting the village’s Office of Economic Development, which will screen applicants for eligibility and then provide the necessary materials to submit their proposals. The village plans to accept applications on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated.
South Bend Small Business Crime Prevention Grants
South Bend, Indiana, is launching a new grant program to support small businesses and make the community safer. Eligible businesses can apply for up to $5,000 to cover various security upgrades, including cameras, cloud storage, and lighting. Businesses that opt-in to a city program where their security cameras are tied to the city’s Real Time Crime Center will be given priority. The city is offering free crime assessments to interested businesses. The deadline to apply is September 29.
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More and more people are becoming entrepreneurs and starting their own businesses. It may be a brick-and-mortar store or an online business; it may be their full-time passion or a side job – whatever the case, lots of people are taking the plunge and becoming small business owners.
Chances are you already know someone who is a small business owner. When you find yourself needing a gift for them, whether it’s a holiday, the anniversary of their opening, or just to say thank you, you may find yourself stuck for ideas. Would they want something useful and practical, or more lighthearted? What about something personalized? There are a lot of things to consider when looking for a gift for a small business owner.
We have curated a list of the best gifts for small business owners we could find. These gifts range from functional to fun (or both!) and are available on Amazon and Etsy.
Tile Mate
They will never lose their keys again with the Mate by Tile. It uses Bluetooth technology to locate whatever it’s attached to keys, backpacks, purses, or anything else that they need to keep track of. And at under $25, this is a useful and well-thought gift.
Everyone knows your best thoughts often happen when you’re away from your desk. They’ll never lose a great idea in the shower again with the AquaNote – a waterproof notepad and pen that attaches to any smooth surface. The notepad is 5.25” x 3.5” with 40 sheets of paper that are perforated for easy removal.
This desk organizer has a magnetic bottom and 6 adjustable compartments for easy rearranging and customization. It also has rubber feet to prevent it from sliding.
Help them get started setting up their finances with a template packet for budgets and other financials. This packet is downloadable and features templates for budgets, earning projections, and lots more.
The business owner who loves coffee may find their favorite new flavor in this sampler box. The World of Coffee sampler box includes 4, 1.8-ounce bags of specialty coffee from 4 different countries, as well as tasting notes and facts about the countries. It is available in ground or whole beans.
This is a unique take on the standard corkboard – 8 hexagon-shaped self-adhesive bulletin boards to configure any way they choose. They will stick to any wall and would be a cool and helpful addition to anyone’s office.
This triple-insulated stainless steel keeps drinks cold for 9 hours and hot for 3. It holds 16 oz of their favorite hot or cold drink and features an ergonomic design and non-slip bottom to prevent spilling.
The mini man wooden sculpture has magnets in his hands and legs for endless posing options. And he comes with a low-maintenance air plant (Tillandsia Ionantha) to bring a touch of nature inside. This desk décor/toy is a unique gift sure to provide relaxation and fun.
A roomy and sturdy tote bag is a must-have for the busy entrepreneur. This highly praised tote by BAGGU can fit all their essential items and is made from sustainable, durable canvas that is made to last. A variety of colors are available.
Michael Scott has some memorable quotes, but this one, in particular, is frankly underrated. When accused of “setting the bar low,” Michael explains his theory on that, which is a pretty good one. Everyone will get a chuckle out of this poster – especially the recipient.
They’ll look forward to their snack break even more with this variety of exciting snacks from Turkey. The Turkish Munchies gift box comes with 21 full-sized snacks of different varieties – sweet, salty, savory, and more. All snacks are free from high fructose corn syrup and GMOs and are Kosher and Halal.
– Modern & relevant – Can improve productivity – Wide range of choices
– Can be expensive – Might become outdated soon – Needs to match the owner’s tech preferences
Gift Baskets
– Versatile & customizable – A mix of different goodies – Can cater to personal tastes
– Some items might not be to the recipient’s liking – Perishable items have a short shelf life
Coffee
– Great for daily consumption – A variety of flavors & types – Can be part of a routine
– Personal preference matters – Some might not consume caffeine – Storage can be an issue
Desk Decor
– Personalizes workspace – Can be both functional & aesthetic
– Limited desk space – Personal taste varies – Might not suit the office theme
Plants
– Boosts mood & improves air quality – Wide variety of options – Low maintenance varieties available
– Some require care & attention – Space might be limited – Allergies or sensitivities to some plants
Drinkware
– Useful & practical – Can be personalized – Suitable for daily use
– They might already have many – Fragile items can break – Takes up space
Clothing
– Can be personalized – Suitable for various occasions – A range of options & styles
– Size & fit can be an issue – Personal taste matters – Care & washing instructions
Wall Art
– Personalizes & beautifies workspace – Inspirational pieces can boost morale – Range of styles & mediums
– Wall space might be limited – Personal taste varies – Installation required for some pieces
Toys/Games
– Great for relaxation & breaks – Can be a conversation starter – Suitable for group activities
– Might be considered unprofessional – Space might be an issue – Not everyone appreciates them
Things to Consider When Buying Gifts for Small Business Owners
Selecting the ideal gift for small business owners can be an intriguing task. Their hectic lives revolve around their businesses, which are extensions of themselves. The perfect gift, therefore, should provide value while also reflecting their personal and professional journey. Here are a few elements to ponder when you’re hunting for that special present:
Functionality: Small business owners are always on the move, dealing with a myriad of tasks daily. Gifts that can aid in streamlining their work process, like a planner, digital tools, or apps, could be immensely valuable.
Personal Touch: Personalizing gifts, such as a monogrammed notebook or a customized calendar featuring their brand logo, adds a layer of sentimentality. It not only makes the gift unique but also shows you care about their brand’s identity.
Relaxation: Entrepreneurs often neglect relaxation due to their tight schedules. Think about gifts that encourage them to take a break, such as:
Aromatherapy diffusers
Desk toys or puzzles
Subscription to a meditation app
Networking: Business networking tools or resources can be beneficial. Consider gifts like memberships to co-working spaces or tickets to industry conferences. This could provide them with valuable connections.
Learning and Growth: Books related to their industry, online course subscriptions, or tickets to workshops can be inspiring gifts. They feed their passion for knowledge and help them stay updated in their domain.
Support Local: If the small business owner has a penchant for local products, gifts from local artisans or local experience vouchers can resonate deeply.
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Qualify for discounts, special offers and more with a Business Prime account from Amazon. You can create a FREE account to get started today.
Reuters Events: Customer Service And Experience East 2023 is a conference for customer service and experience (CX) professionals. It will be held in New York City on November 7-8, 2023.
The event will bring together senior leaders from the world’s most influential brands to discuss the latest trends and best practices in CX. Topics covered will include:
The future of CX in a digital world
How to use data and analytics to improve CX
How to create a customer-centric culture
The role of AI and automation in CX
How to measure and improve CX
The event will also feature keynote speakers from leading brands, such as Aflac, Amazon, Hilton, Nike, Salesforce, Verizon, Wells Fargo and many others.
If you are a CX professional, make sure to click on the red button and register for Reuters Events: Customer Service And Experience East 2023
Forty three beauty visionaries will share their expertise on the hottest trends and show stopping innovations to dominate online and in-store. Featuring the latest digital and tech, social media, influencer marketing and retailer insights — to stay irresistibly on trend.
This event brings together senior leaders from the world’s most influential brands to shape service & experience as disciplines across industry lines. Arm yourself with the insights, metrics & strategies you need to rally your organization around CX and deliver a unified, frictionless experience.
Small business owners across the U.S. and Canada might soon find it easier to secure much-needed working capital thanks to a new strategic collaboration between Uplinq Financial Technologies and Visa.
Uplinq, recognized as the first global credit decisioning support platform specifically for small business lenders, announced its alliance with the digital payment giant Visa. This union promises to present an innovative solution in SME lending by marrying Uplinq’s advanced credit decisioning technology with Visa’s expansive reach within financial institutions.
At the heart of this partnership is Uplinq’s breakthrough API technology. Designed to assist lenders in risk mitigation, it further aims to broaden the horizons of fair credit access to small businesses in both nations. The technology doesn’t just rely on traditional metrics. Instead, it offers a holistic business view by considering vast datasets encompassing market dynamics, community influences, and even environmental conditions. This comprehensive approach can potentially revolutionize assessing creditworthiness, especially for smaller enterprises.
Matt Baker, the Head of Small Business at Visa Commercial Solutions, stressed the importance of rapid access to working capital, particularly for small businesses that form the backbone of the global economy. “Through this strategic collaboration, we look forward to introducing Uplinq’s advanced credit decisioning technology to our financial institution clients across the U.S. and Canada to ultimately help more small businesses in both countries.”
Uplinq’s technology promises a more inclusive and precise lending decision by sidestepping the limitations of traditional credit scores and company financials. This is especially pertinent given that the platform has already underwritten loans amounting to over $1.4 trillion globally. Drawing data from more than 150 countries, Uplinq’s broad perspective could be the difference-maker for many SMEs, particularly those from minority and protected class segments, who often face systemic barriers in obtaining credit.
Ron Benegbi, CEO and founder of Uplinq, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “We are thrilled to be working with an industry leader like Visa as we advance our efforts to help more small businesses secure the financing they need to succeed in today’s challenging lending climate. This engagement is a testament to the promise of our technology in bridging the vast and persistent gaps that small businesses still grapple with when trying to access fair credit, especially as related to minority and all protected class segments.” ”
This recent partnership adds to a growing list of accomplishments for Uplinq this year. Notably, they’ve forged a relationship with the SME Finance Forum and earned accolades, including “Fintech Startup of the Year – Lending” at the 2023 Banking Tech Awards USA. Furthermore, they are currently in contention for the US FinTech Awards 2023 in the Banking Tech of the Year category.
This collaboration might signal a brighter future for small business owners in their quest for working capital. With the combined efforts of Uplinq and Visa, the pathway to financial assistance could be clearer, fairer, and more inclusive than ever before.
