Best resources on the web
- Easily make basic photo adjustments (crop, rotate, contrast, etc.) with online tools. Nothing to install, simple to use. Online picture editors can be a little quirky at times, but they are useful if you don't have Photoshop or a similar image editor.
- Free downloadable graphics programs are typically better than online versions, with far more features and quicker operations. Paint.net is for Windows users. Gimp is for Windows, Mac, and Linux. These are capable substitutes if you don't have Photoshop.
- Aviary is a suite of online graphic design tools that can be used for free. You can alternately pay $25 a year for added functionality. If you can't afford the Adobe Creative Suite (which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) Aviary may be for you. If you are already familiar with Adobe software, Aviary may be a little strange to adjust to, but it has many advanced features.
- Search multiple stock photo archives simultaneously. Click "Launch PicFinder" to begin. Searches for free images while also showing similar images that are available for a dollar or two from quality stock image companies.
- Preview thousands of fonts with a word or phrase that you type in. Many are somewhat poor quality but still useful. Caution: fonts can occasionally cause problems for your computer. Preview lots of fonts, then download a few favorites.
- When you're trying to think of a domain name, this is the fastest, easiest way to find out which ones are already taken. Just type in your idea for a domain name. Results appear instantly with each keystroke. There are links to purchase your entry, but you should research registrars carefully before choosing one to register with.
- When you decide to register a domain name, be careful in your choice of registrar. Here's my favorite.
- Learn about all kinds of software by watching tutorial movies. Word, Photoshop, etc. The first few movies in most of the series are free to view. Each subject can be purchased, but a monthly subscription is a better option. These two companies are similar, and both have a good reputation for quality.
- Marketing through email is complicated and federal laws targeting spammers are strict. MailChimp is a complete system for generating your company email newsletter. Their do-it-yourself resources are abundant and they answer inquiries promptly. Try out MailChimp for free.
- SiteGrinder is an innovative web design tool that builds sites in Photoshop.
- If you're searching for a web host or information on web hosting, start at this central resource.
©2010 Eric Williams