summer activities for kids and families

5 Fun Family Activities You Can Do This Summer

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On July 7, 2020

In Home & Interiors

Summer is in full swing! It’s the season of afternoons by the pool, lazy days spent reading a fun book, and, if you have kids, a couple of weeks spent running around bored, restless tots.

Here’s the thing: spending the summer with your kids need not be a stressful ordeal. Here are some fun activities you can do with the little ones, all guaranteed to keep boredom at bay.

1. Bake some cookies

It’s never too early to get your kids to be at home in the kitchen. Get them excited by making something the whole family will enjoy munching on, like chocolate chip cookies. Try a few recipes to discover your family’s favorite version, and encourage the little ones to experiment in the kitchen by identifying the differences among the recipes and the finished products.

2. Grow a garden

Get your hands dirty! Set aside a patch in your yard to plant herbs and tomatoes, or plant a citrus sapling to grow along with your kids. Teach the tots responsibility by giving them different assignments, such as watering and weeding,  to keep the garden in top shape.

3. Have a photo shoot

Preserve your family’s summer memories with a photoshoot! The sunny weather and the enforced social distancing measures should make it easier to find a beautiful secluded spot where you and your family can take pictures. Strike a mix of candid moments and posed shots so you’ll have options to choose from.

Don’t forget to display the pictures on your Nixplay Frame! We’re having an exclusive Summer Sale on our UK and Germany sites, where you can enjoy up to 30% off selected frames. Shop now!

4. Get crafty

No classes mean more time to experiment with art projects! You can hone their creativity by making handprint paintings, creating collages from old magazines, and tie-dyeing old shirts. Older kids, meanwhile, can try writing and illustrating their own comics strips–It’s a great way to improve their storytelling and communication skills.

5. Have a backyard picnic

Take advantage of the beautiful weather and set up a picnic in your yard. Prepare picnic staples like sandwiches, chips, sliced fruit, and other finger food, and place them in a cooler for easy transport to your yard. You can eat on a patio table, or you can spread out a blanket on the grass for a proper picnic. Make the most of your picnic by leaving your gadgets inside the house for an unplugged afternoon.

Photo by Liana Mikah on Unsplash

july 6 dessert ideas

Quick and Easy Dessert Ideas You Should Try This Summer

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On July 6, 2020

In Lifestyle

Sometimes, you just want to cap off your meal with a sweet treat. Sadly, most desserts require elaborate recipes that take forever to make. So we rounded up four quick and satisfying recipes you can make at home any time you want. Enjoy! 

If you have 5 minutes: Microwaved Cereal Crispies

Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • ½ cup cereal of your choice
  • 4 large marshmallows

Directions:
Place the marshmallows and the butter in a microwave-safe bowl or mug. Microwave it for around 20 to 30 seconds, or until the butter has melted and the marshmallows have puffed up. Stir the marshmallows, slowly adding in the cereal. 

If you have 10 minutes: Chocolate-Covered Oreos

Ingredients:

  • 1 Pack of Oreos
  • 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips, melted
  • 2 teaspoons coconut oil
  • ¼ cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional)

Directions:
Stir together the melted semisweet chocolate and the coconut oil (which serves to thin the chocolate and makes it easier to dip the chocolate). Dip each Oreo in the melted chocolate, then place the dipped chocolates on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Place the baking sheet in the fridge to set the chocolate. If you have a little more time, you can take out the Oreos after 10 minutes and drizzle melted white chocolate on top. Return it to the refrigerator.

If you have 15 minutes: Nutella Pops

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup Nutella
  • ½ cup milk
  • 1 cup whipped cream

Directions:
Whisk together the Nutella, milk, and whipped cream, then pour the mixture into paper cups. Cover each cup with foil and slice a small slit in the middle, then insert a wooden popsicle stick in the slit. Place the pops in the freezer to set.

If you have 30 minutes: Slow Cooker Cheesecake

Ingredients:

  • 3 tablespoons melted butter
  • ¾ cup graham cracker crumbs
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ cup of sugar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 8-oz. blocks cream cheese, softened
  • ⅓ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Directions:
Grease a 6” springform pan and wrap it tightly with foil. Pour an inch of water into a 6-quart slow cooker, then place a coil of foil in the water. The coil will serve as a rack for the pan. To make the crust, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, butter, 1 tablespoon sugar, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Press the mixture into the greased pan. To make the filling, beat the cream cheese using a mixer, slowly adding ½ cup sugar until fluffy. Add in the eggs, sour cream, flour, vanilla, and remaining ¼ salt. Pour the filling over the crust, then place the pan on top of the foil coil in the slow cooker. Place 3-4 paper towel sheets on the opening of the slow cooker to absorb the moisture, then put on the lid. Cook the cheesecake on high heat for 2 hours, then turn off the heat and let it stand for 1 hour. After cooking, remove the cheesecake from the slow cooker and place it in the refrigerator until chilled.

how to start a photography blog

How to Start a Photography Blog

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On July 3, 2020

In Photography

Every creative professional has probably been asked the same question at one point in their career: “Why don’t you start a blog?

If you’re looking to build an online presence, starting a blog is the perfect way to add a little personality to your portfolio. As a photographer, your voice, passion, and identity are revealed in your approach to the art. With a photography blog, you can showcase your favorite snapshots in a public space where you can also discuss your techniques, the gear you use, and the projects you will undertake.

The thought may seem a little daunting at first, as you begin to wonder how to approach it. But don’t worry. We’ve pulled together some top tips on how to start a photography blog to help you exhibit your talent. Find out how to start your own photography blog, how to make money with a photography blog, and more below.

How To Start A Photo Blog

We’ve outlined the most important steps on how to blog photography on your own website to help get you started.

The Build
First things first, you need to build your blog from scratch. Here is a brief overview of the steps you need to take when setting up a photography blog:

  1. Register a domain name – this is the “address” to your new “home” on the internet.
  2. Set up website hosting
  3. Install the software/CMS from your chosen blog site, e.g. WordPress
  4. Choose a theme

If you can afford it, we recommend that you host your own blog. This means that you pay for your web server and website domain (it typically costs $10-$15 a month), and though you might pay a bit more, you can rest easy knowing that you own your own content and blog website.

The Design

Before choosing a theme for your blog, think about your content. Make sure it will naturally suit your chosen theme while reflecting your personality. Opting for a customizable theme is always preferable so you can make any necessary changes.

When choosing the design of your blog, also consider sticking to one column. This view typically offers the best reader experience and makes it “mobile optimized”, so your audience can read on their phones, whenever and wherever. This is important, as most web surfers are now accessing the internet from their phones and tablets. Also, try to keep your menu bar streamlined with as little options as possible to make it easier for the user to navigate.

The Content

When you start your first photography blog, it’s important to upload regular content to keep up with demand. So on the days that you can’t make it out for a special trip, ensure you’re still using your camera around your local area. And even if you may specialize in landscape or architectural photography, make sure you also include the odd portrait or a shot of something personal so that you can humanize your blog and give your readers a glimpse of the person behind the camera.

If you want to avoid posting your personal memories online but still want a way to showcase them and share them with loved ones, a Nixplay frame is your best bet. Simply display your snaps in your own home and share them with family and friends.

But a photography blog isn’t just about achieving the perfect shot. Add value by providing top tips on lighting, effects, or your favorite equipment. You could also take a more journalistic approach by expressing your opinions on a topic, or telling a story about what you saw through the viewfinder. Find the style that works best for you.

Your photography blog offers a place for you to curate and display your favorite shots, where readers can learn more about you and your work. But you don’t just have to post your own work on your blog. Why not share some insights with your readers, and make a post about your favorite artists? Just remember to give credit where credit is due, and acknowledge the other person behind the camera.

Before creating and posting content, you should consider your audience. Who are you targeting? What message do you want to send to your readers? Nailing down your target audience is a crucial part of setting up a photography blog that is destined for success.

Top Tips For Setting Up A Photography Blog

Discover our top tips on how to start a photography blog successfully:

  • Choose the right equipment for the job. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s a photography kit out there for you.
  • Think of a catchy domain name or handle. Think of one that users will remember and relate to.
  • If you’re starting out with a free blog like Wix or WordPress, you may want to consider upgrading to a professional account once your blog has gained some traction.
  • Never take your blog too seriously. Your photography blog is your personal playground, a place for you to share your photos, ideas, links, and inspiration. With technology, there are no limits.
  • Don’t get too hung up on stats like page views. These figures may fluctuate often, so checking them every day may make you feel unmotivated.

Just getting your skills started? Discover our top tips on how to get started in photography, from choosing the right equipment to taking the perfect shot.

How To Make Money With A Photography Blog

Professional photography is a competitive field, but there are several ways to monetize your blog so you can earn some dollars on the side. You can run display ads or sell your artwork, and there are photography sites available that will help you connect with potential buyers.

Then, once you’ve built up your audience, consider running photography workshops. You can engage with your readers, share your skills, and gain some extra cash. These might be online workshops or they might take place in your studio.

How To Start A Photography Instagram

If you’re wondering how to start a photography business on Instagram, you should approach it in a way similar to approaching a photography blog. However, followers often expect an Instagram feed to maintain a cohesive style or subject matter. Users typically decide whether to follow an account based on their latest nine images, so make sure that the top of your feed represents you and your style. Also use plenty of relevant, popular hashtags, follow similar accounts, and link out to your blog from your profile bio to gain more traffic.

And that’s how to start a photography blog! Hopefully, we’ve encouraged you to get started on setting up a photography blog to showcase your favorite snaps. If you’re looking for the best place to store your photos off the internet, perhaps you have some more private, personal photos that you don’t wish to share online, a digital frame is your best bet. For a completely personal solution, Nixplay digital photo frames come with ample storage, so you can share your favorite private memories with those who are closest to you, making it the perfect device for a professional photographer. Browse the collection online today.

social distancing fourth of july activities

Fun Fourth of July Activities You Can Do At Home

By

On July 2, 2020

In Holidays

While this year’s Fourth of July celebrations will be different, it certainly doesn’t mean that it’ll be a dull holiday. Large gatherings are not advisable at the moment, but you can still have fun with your closest loved ones. Here are some ways to have a special Fourth of July while staying safe and healthy:

1. Watch Fourth of July shows

Can’t go out to watch fireworks? The internet might just be your savior: Several sites will be streaming fireworks shows, as well as concerts, plays, and other entertainment. We’ll be tuned in to PBS’ streaming of A Capitol Fourth! (watch it via this link), as well as the filmed-for-cinema version of the hit Broadway show Hamilton (watch it on Display Plus).

2. Decorate your home

You don’t get a lot of occasions to go all out with the stars and stripes-themed decor, so take advantage of the holiday! Dress up your home with Fourth of July-themed balloons and streamers, put up American flags, and fill vases with red and white blooms. You can get the kids to join in the fun by holding arts and crafts contests–they’ll have a blast decorating everything red, white, and blue.  

3. Have a patriotic movie marathon

A movie marathon is a brilliant way to while away an afternoon. Set up your most comfortable cushions in front of your TV, prepare bowls of popcorn, chips, and other snacks, and get set for a few hours of Netflix (or Hulu, or Disney Plus) and Chill. Some of our picks: Glory, Top Gun, Forrest Gump, Air Force One, and Captain America: The Frist Avenger.

4. Have a barbecue in your lawn

It’s not a proper Fourth of July celebration without a barbecue! While we don’t recommend inviting your neighbors over, you can still celebrate by setting out your own grills on your respective lawns, where you can see each other and socialize from a safe distance. It’ll probably be a bit chaotic, sure, but it’s going to be a lot of fun!

nixplay secret sale

Don’t forget to take pictures of your Fourth of July festivities! Share your photos directly with your friends and family using your Nixplay Frames. We have a Secret Sale going on until July 12–now’s your chance to score our bestselling digital photo frames at prices you can’t resist. Shop now!

Photo by Bermix Studio on Unsplash

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