Take EASY Pro KittyCatS Photos For FREE on Second Life

You're probably wondering how KittyCatS Breeders take photos of their KittyCatS Boxes & Lives so well when selling on the Marketplace or showcasing their most important kitties in world. But you don't have any money to spend on fancy photo studios, programs like photo shop and you don't have much time either. 

This blog post is going to be dedicated on how to take semi pro photos of your KittyCatS Boxes & Lives using FREE in world tools, websites & SUPER EASY computer software that I myself use all the time! There are many different ways to take photos of your kitties and the method of your choosing is totally up to you. I have even created some of these in world tools so you can use them absolutely free.

Today I will show you 2 ways on how to take photos of your KittyCatS for Free and still look semi professional to wow your customers!

DISCLAIMER: I am not associated with KittyCatS Brand or staff, nor am I being sponsored by any of these programs or tools mentioned in this blog. I am not being paid whatsoever to write this blog and I am sharing this with you for education/DIY purposes only.

Method 1: "Box Shots"

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

In World Tools Used: FREE Full Perm Portable Photo Studio

Computer Software Used: PhotoScape (optional)

ABOUT PHOTOSCAPE: 

PhotoScape is one of the most easiest free photo editing softwares on the internet today! You can do many things in seconds such as create cool instagram like effects, visually enhance photo quality like you see above, put cool frames around your photos, easily crop & resize photos, and much more! Available in many different languages such as English, Portuguese, Spanish, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, and a few others!

This Method also works taking photos of live kitties as long as you put them in a pose of your choosing.

Step 1: Rez out your Portable Photo Studio, and set your sun position to "Midday" 

NOTE: You may need to adjust the glow on your photo studio down a little bit to at least 0.08 or 0.05 depending on the lighting on your land/home so the lighting on your cat isn't to bright or too dark

Step 2: Rez out your kitty or box and position it correctly centered on the photo studio and towards the back of it so none of your floor is showing, we only want to see white surrounding your kitty!

Step 3: It's time to start testing out your positioning of the kitty before taking photos using your camera controls. Use your magnifier tool to center in on your kitty box, zoom in and make sure your camera is centered in on your kitty. 

Make sure your kitty isn't tilted awkwardly or stuck in the ground, if taking a photo of a box, make sure the whole box is visible, that your kitty/box is rezzed in before taking its photo. Make sure your kitty box and camera position is centered & zoomed in clearly and correctly so when you crop it, you can cleanly crop the kitty box in a rectangular shape so people can see the box clearly.

Step 4: Take the photo using Second Life's Camera Button and Save it to disk! 

Step 5: If you are using PhotoScape, make sure it is downloaded and open it up 

Step 6: When it loads up, select "Editor" 

Step 7: Select your photo that you just took and saved from Second Life that you will now begin editing

Step 8: We will now crop the photo. Select the Crop Tab

Step 9: Click, Hold & Drag over the parts you want to crop, making the cut as rectangular as possible, then select the crop button at the bottom once you are happy.

Step 10 (OPTIONAL): To create a nice visual effect, select the home tab at the bottom left hand corner

Step 11: Select the bloom button. DO NOT TOUCH THE ARROW. 

Step 12: Selecting Bloom on Normal mode gives them a nice soft glow for a nice little enhancement to your photos so they don't look so dull when selling your KittyCatS on the marketplace. This is completely optional, but not necessary. If you like the way this looks, select "OK"

Step 13: Once you are satisfied, click save and you are done editing your photo and it's ready to go on the marketplace or to share with friends!

Finishing Product

Now we are onto Method #2 which only works with boxes. This may not help you with your live kitties, but it is 10x easier than the last method we showed you and doesn't require in world purchases or photo taking!

Method 2: "Build-A-Cat Screen Capping"

Difficulty Level: Easy

Website Used: Build-a-Cat

Computer Software Used: PhotoScape & Gyazo

About Gyazo:

Gyazo is an easy screen capturing software used as an alternative to Alt-PrtSc or Alt - Print Screen keyboard shortcuts. You can use any screen capturing methods that you choose but for this tutorial we are using Gyazo. 

Step 1: Visit the Build-a-Cat website

Step 2: Enter in your cats Pedigree information, I will be entering in a random cats information for this example

Step 3: A photo replica of your kitty will appear to the right of your screen, you can now use your screen capturing software such as gyazo to take a screenshot of the kitty

Step 4: I am now going to open up PhotoScape because I need to resize it so the marketplace will not reject its small size perimeters. It needs to be at least 512 in width or in height. I can also make visual adjustments such as adding bloom to it just like in the last tutorial. 

Final Product

Congratulations! You've just learned some new, free and easy ways to take photos & showcase your KittyCatS! I hope this was helpful to you and I hope you can share this blog with your friends!

Don't forget to check out my KittyCatS Shop in world where I always have kitties under $100L in stock and a whole wall of Freebies for you to choose from, as well as tons of Kitty Beds & Accessories and $1L Raffles! 

You can visit P&S PrettyKitties in world here or copy and paste this sLURL into your viewer:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wendersley/219/31/28

Thank you and have fun! 

What I've Learned About Owning A Store On SL W/ Tips & Advice

WARNING: This post contains strong language and topics not suitable for immature audiences

It's been so long since I've made a post and I've been meaning to make one, but my real life has had me by the bottom. So I'm going to make another one! This one is not about my children this time, but it's about everything I've learned over the last couple of years of owning a store both on the marketplace and in world.

Let me start off by saying, I had absolutely no idea what I was doing when I opened my store. No one helped me or guided me, no one gave me any advice or taught me how to do anything for that matter. I had to learn all of these things, fail and get stolen from on my own. And because some of these things have bit me in the ass over the years, I want to pass this on to you, especially if you're a newbie owner or just a shopper planning on opening a store. A lot of this stuff is vital believe it or not, and the topics I am covering will make or break your career and will greatly affect the entire marketplace and in world community.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me in world with a notecard, I will try my absolute best to answer them, and just keep in mind I may not be able to answer all of them! (DJxPurity Resident)

Topic 1: Reviews Will Make or Break the Marketplace

This topic is for both shoppers and sellers. Reviews are incredibly important believe it or not. A smart shopper will always buy based on the review quality of a product. If something doesn't have any reviews, they more than likely wont buy it. I know that if a seller has a weak product description, poor product photo and no reviews, I'm not going to buy it. But it is also VERY IMPORTANT for buyers to leave as many reviews as they can, this is what improves the marketplace community. This helps everyone, including you steer clear of getting scammed, as well as find quality items for multiple different purposes. If you want people leaving reviews on your products, just think of how other sellers feel.

What sellers can do: Offer promotions for people who leave great product reviews. This can range from free gifts, gift cards, discount cards & raffle tickets. I personally offer both gift cards in Linden dollar values depending on the product they buy, as well as discount cards. They seem to always be very thankful anytime they get a gift card for leaving a review.

This also goes to say that people often abuse the review system. Unfortunately, some people are jerks, they buy things without reading product descriptions at all and they just look at the photo, they also don't read instructions and the first thing they do is go on your product page and leave a nasty review, and they don't even contact you at all about the problem, and it makes people think that you're a scammer. Sometimes, there are even people who are NEVER HAPPY even if the product is perfectly fine! Some people just suck, and it makes it really tough for serious business owners who want nothing but to make people happy. This actually happens to every business owner and it's nearly impossible to avoid, and what makes it worse is that there is no way to automatically reverse the changes made to the product review page if someone decides to leave a false review, and it doesn't violate the community standards, even if you have proof.

Your options when someone leaves a false review:

• Contact the buyer and try to work out the issues they have with the product. If you can resolve the issue, try and convince them to revise their review. Give them a peace offering if they do such as a small gift or store credit. (This has worked great for me in the past at times.)
• Get a hold of other people who have purchased the same product, ask them nicely to leave honest reviews for a gift in exchange to try to bring your product rating back up. Most people are more than willing to do this for you for gifts in exchange.
• If you absolutely can not negotiate with this customer and they turn to harassment, block and ban the buyer, report to linden labs for harassment if necessary, and although this is NOT suggested, delete the product page and start over again, try making the product description clearer and try taking new photos. 
• Always be 100% honest. 

More information for buyers:

The review system is a very serious system and it is very important that if you have an issue with a product that you contact the seller before leaving a negative review. If the seller does not want to negotiate with you or help you, the review system is set in place where you can alert other buyers of your negative experience with both the product and the seller. If the product is great on the other hand, let everyone know! You may even get a freebie from doing so! I've gotten over $800 in freebies for leaving a review on a product before :) 

Topic 2: If You Think People Wont Buy It, They More Than Likely WILL Buy It.

You'd be surprised how many products I've created that I was just absolutely not happy with whatsoever. Also sitting there thinking "No one is going to buy this crap, it's useless." But because I had spent so much time and Lindens into the product, I put it up for sale anyway. Almost 80% of the time, someone actually will buy it. A lot of the things that I have created and became unhappy with have become some of my biggest sellers.

On the other hand, some of the products I've made that I've absolutely loved and put my heart and soul into, didn't sell a single unit. It really sucks, but it legitimately happens to every business owner. Some things that have costed you hundreds to make may eventually have to become dollarbies if they're not getting any attention whatsoever, it hurts at first, but really, it's not that bad, you're still racking in customers and most of the time if you have one freebie, they suspect you have more and they browse your store, and you may make a few extra lindens because of that! You are going to have a huge love hate relationship with most things about your business. But just don't give up! 

More Tips for Sellers

• Even if you don't like it or don't think it will sell, still put it up! If you were right all along, make it a promo item such as a dollarbie, group gift or a freebie. 
• Create small things from time to time just to sell strictly as freebies or dollarbies. The more freebies you have, the more people will want to browse your store for more, and they will more than likely buy bigger things while they browse. 
• Don't be discouraged about a product you worked really hard on not selling well. Create something else and just lower the price little by little, boost advertising or add a promo such as a free gift with their purchase of the product. 
• If the item that you hated sells really well, create something similar and sell that! (Supply and Demand)

Topic 3: Sex Sells, But Seriously, Pick Something Else to Sell.

As you already know, Second Life is a very heavily sexualized game. You can't go anywhere without seing genitals. It doesn't matter where you are, either someone is naked or someone is selling a sex toy or HUD. There are just far too many things related to sex in Second Life that it just gets repulsive and boring. I meet other business owners and I really do like to engage in conversation with them and take interest in what they do, and when I ask what they specialize in, the response I dread is "Oh I own a sex shop/strip club!" Yes, yes of course you do, just like everyone else... 

But seriously, there are literally tons of other things people are looking for in this game that doesn't involve sex or nudity. Breedables being one, babies being another, furniture, houses and other buildings, all in demand and very admirable. If you're going to be just another one of those people that sells dildos and sex animations or you own a brothel, at least make them unique and something we've never seen before!

Topic 4: Social Media is Your Best Friend (For Once)

Most people are surprised that the people of Second Life create facebook pages for their avatars, but this is actually a great way for business owners to do their networking. This has actually helped me boost business a lot since I've opened my store, and the friendly business owners on there are willing to help you out if you need friendly advice or even a helping hand. There are also people on facebook from Second Life that work to Promote your business just like in real life! Another great thing about facebook is that people have created many facebook groups dedicated to Second Life such as buy/sell groups, SL Photography, General Advertising, Breedable Communities, Freebie Communities and so fourth! If you are apart of facebook already (you do not have to have an avatar facebook) you can check out the group I run strictly for Dollarbies and Freebies of Second Life! If you are a business owner, a bargain hunter, event planner, or just love freebies, head on over and join us! 

Other Great Facebook Networking Groups

These are some great facebook groups that I am actively involved in. Everyone is very friendly and both shoppers and sellers have great success in all of these groups! You can also meet very nice people.

Second Life Advertising

SL Bloggers/Designers

Spam,MM,Freebies in Second Life

The BEST SecondLife Designers

Second Life Gifts, Hunts, Frees, Freebie and Dollarbie

Second Life Styling

SL Fashion For All!

SECONDLIFE SPAM GROUP

Topic 5: Having Your Own Solo Land For Your Business Can Be Important

Do not take this the wrong way! Every business owners experience is different. Also, if you rent from an outlet mall in a very high traffic area, chances are you will get business. However, this is simply not good for your finances most of the time if your sales aren't matching up to the rent you're having to pay at a high traffic outlet strip. Other times, these outlet malls are VERY SMALL, you have limited prim space, the potential of rude/greedy business neighbors, greifers, perverts, as well as awful sim owners who give passes to terrible people. You also have absolutely no authority over who comes in and out of your store without having to take it up with sim management. It's just a big cluster-cuck. And yes, all first time business owners must start off small. They have no choice. I had to, that's for sure. Heck I started off with a 25 prim shop at first! But, once your product line begins to expand, then you want to start planning to move to your very own land where you can build your own building, have your own security, have employees if you want to, and not have to worry about sharing prims. I am not saying go and buy a private island for $1,000 or go to a land auction, what I am saying is find someone who is renting out commercial land at a decent price, will let you have administrative rights to that land and give you a good deal on size and prim usage. You'd be surprised how many great deals you can find on commercial land. I rent both Residental and Commercial land from a lady named Robin Ivory. I have 900+ Prims on a 4x protected sim. I believe it's a 1/4 sim large and I only pay about $726L a week. Best deal you'll probably find! 

But the craziest thing is, people take your business more seriously if you're on your own land. I felt like I didn't get any business before moving to my own land just recently. And since then people are dropping in like flies. I think it's because they feel safer, more contained, know where everything is and don't feel obligated to keep moving because there is so much more to look at. This is another important reason why moving to your own land when you're ready is vital.

Topic 6: Theft and Copy Botters Can Be Stunned

There are a lot of different ways that copy botters and people who steal your items can be virtually preventable. However, depending on your products, this isn't always true and you can't always avoid it. But depending on the item, there are ways that you can save your certain products from theft. I on the other hand have caught red handed an idiotic woman in my shop one day who decided it was a fantastic idea, RIGHT IN FRONT OF ME to leave her shutter sound on while scrolling through my Wall Decal vendor one page after the other and take photos of them (she only got through about 2) until I immediately ejected and banned her dumb ass. On top of that, when I confronted her about it, she said "Sorry" So I knew she was doing it! I reported her to linden labs immediately and she is no longer welcome back to my store, I also sent out a public warning about this woman and I have also blocked her. On top of that, I IMMEDIATELY put a watermark on all of the Decal samples, so that was partially my fault! I learned the hard way and it bit me in my ass hard! Another thing people need to take in consideration is their in world demonstrations and displays. There are great ways to protect your in world displays and I have a video tutorial on how to protect copy botters from coming into your store and stealing your product, you can view that by clicking here or checking out the embedded video below!

More Tips on Preventing Theft

• Always lock down your scripts. Make them no mod and no transfer if at all possible, especially if you have custom created them or had someone customize them for you. Most people make a huge mistake on forgetting to lock down the perms on their scripts, so when the copy botter copies the prims, they can easily open up those scripts and copy and paste the code into a whole new script and BOOM, they just stole your hard work and you're out hundreds of lindens. 
• Be very careful when buying full perm kits, make sure the permissions on those are also locked down! You don't want to be giving away a full perm kit by accident for much cheaper than what you purchased it for. 
• When displaying clothing in world either on displays or manequins, please put invisi-prims over them to protect both the clothing as well as your texture (please see video above on how to properly do this)
• When creating scripted items with animations and other contents that must be left mod or transfer, it's best to try and avoid putting all of the scripts and contents in the root prim where the buyer can easily see all of the scripts and contents. 

Other Extremely Important Tips I Wish I Would Have Know

• Take it slow when things get rough! It's okay to not produce more product when things are going really slow. This doesn't always have to do with you, it mainly has to do with the time of the year and the customers finances, such as after the holidays. When no one is buying anything weeks on end, don't run out of money and go all out producing new products. Instead, have a sale and put some good selling items on promo. Too many owners make the mistake of producing products when they're not making any money and they lose their house and absolutely everything they have, just take it slow and be smart!
• When listing items on the marketplace, don't be lazy! Seriously, write a detailed product description and provide a decent product photo. You don't need catchy sales pitches, just tell me what it does and what the package contains and its specs. That's all you need. We don't need any more pairs of shoes on the marketplace with a description like "This is a pair of shoes. They are cool." 
• Ask for advice and help! There will be pretentiousness in the business community, I deal with it every-freaking-day. I could name 5 businesses off the top of my head that have that shitty attitude, but with my level of professionalism, I wont, because I don't want them to lose money. This is why I'm here, I want to start the revolution of helping your business neighbor. But really, it's okay to ask for help. Screw the a-holes who turn their noses up at you. Don't give them any money or time. They don't care about you, they care about your wallet. 
• You don't need real life money to financially support yourself on Second Life. It's okay to take up part time SL jobs just to pay your rent and get by for a while. I worked 3 SL jobs and I was pregnant at one point. (I also had a really terrible RL Job) It's really not that bad!
• Set up email notifications anytime you get a message on Second Life. This helps a bunch when customers need your help and you're a space cadet like I am. You don't want any pissed off customers that think you're unreliable. Also, if your IM's get capped, make that very clear on your profile and your business page and have them send you a notecard. 
• Speaking of social networking, create a facebook page or a twitter for your business! This makes things fun for your fans and customers and gives them first glance at your newest products. I have one for all 4 businesses! You can see all of my links down below.
• Some people are just never happy no matter what. Please don't take this personally. They thrive off negativity and there isn't anything we can do about it. The only thing you can do to defeat it is not let it drag you down, because that's their intention. 
• Seriously, some people you just can't please. 
• When someone is exceptionally happy with your service, thank them profusely. Let them know that they are a valued customer, know them by name, and make them feel special as well as the guests they bring in. And always say hello and ask them how they've been any time the come back! (They really do love it)
• You're going to attract some very strange people in your store. But regardless of what you think of them, make them feel welcome and offer them the same support as your valued customer. 
• If you notice someone has bought a duplicate of a copiable item in your marketplace store, even if they don't contact you about it, CONTACT THEM. Let them know if there is any way if you can assist them! I always offer them back either half of what they paid for the second item, or I give them a gift card. This will make you an exceptional business owner. This will show that you actually care!
• The customer isn't necessarily always right (not in my store!) But you always want to find a solution regardless, and both of you must be happy with it. 
• It's okay to be wrong sometimes. Just apologize, offer a negotiation of doing business again, learn from the mistake, and do better next time.
• Sometimes you will have to meet the customer in person for technical support, because you will have loads of customers that absolutely do not know what they're doing. But be patient and take a deep breath. It's okay.
• When having employees, a lot of them will not take your work seriously. Don't take this personally. They see it as a game, and that's it. Others will stick by you through it all.
• Seriously though, be nice to those employees that stick by you and cherish the crap out of them! They're hard to come around!
• You will often times consider hiring security guards, but I don't advise it. It's just a waste of money and it's hard to trust people. 
• Last but not least, don't give up, go at your own pace and just know that you are not alone! Not everyone becomes and SL Millionare overnight! 

I spilled my absolute heart out in this post and I really hope you all enjoyed reading this and found it somewhat beneficial! Like I said, if you need anything from me, my door is always open. You can IM via Notecard @ DJxPurity Resident in world. You can also visit my stores and my links below. Good Luck :)

P&S Stores & DiaperBum Babies! In World Super Store Landing Point

(Here you can also find information on our Free Maternity Clinic, The Birth House Maternity Clinic & Services)

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wendersley/234/31/23

P&S Stores Marketplace

https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/165902

DiaperBum Babies! 

In World Store:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wendersley/222/31/23

Marketplace:

https://marketplace.secondlife.com/stores/169170

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/DiaperBum-Babies-Second-Life-727497204061676/

P&S PrettyKitties! (KittyCatS Breedable Boutique)

In World Store: 

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wendersley/219/31/28

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/psprettykitties/

Pure & Sexy (Adults Only)

In World Store

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wendersley/219/31/33

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Pure-Sexy-Second-Life-445603368956813/

The Birth House Maternity Clinic & Services (More Information in world @ P&S Stores, Clinic Not Accessible to Public due to Patient Privacy & By Appointment Only) 

In World Info Board:

http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Wendersley/234/31/23

Our Website:

http://djxpurity.wix.com/thebirthhouse

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TheBirthHouseSecondLife/

Reviews - Why You Should Write Them and Avoiding Scammers

As we all experience eventually in our Second Life, we often run into scammers and false advertisers. Unfortunately, many people become victims of a scam every day, and while Linden Labs doesn't always enforce these kinds of things from happening, it is up to us to stop a scam in its tracks. If for some reason you've stumbled upon this blog and don't know what Second Life is, this can also pertain to you in the real world.

Today, we start a movement for a safer, friendlier and satisfactory experience on Second Life, and part of it will be writing product and business reviews. Some of you may be scratching your heads in confusion, but in this blog post, I will be explaining how writing reviews work and why you should write them for every purchase you make and keep notes on the people you come in contact with!

The Marketplace

The most easiest way people scam someone is using the marketplace. Have you ever found something for sale on the MP and thought the price was too good to be true, but you really want it and are trying to figure out if you should or shouldn't do it? On top of that, the product page has NO REVIEWS! That doesn't help your situation at all! Since you can not physically see the item for sale, test the item, or really know what the item is with advertising, it is a very easy way to scam consumers. Eventually, someone takes the chance of getting ripped off for that amazing pair of Slink shoes for $5L and whether it is good, bad, or even a freebie, it is important to leave a product review no matter what, especially if there is no reviews left on the page! This lets future buyers know whether to steer or if they're in the clear!

What's great about writing reviews is that the seller CAN NOT delete reviews from their product page without removing the product from the Marketplace completely, and if they do remove it and renew it, they risk losing customers due to 0 reviews, so really it's a win win!

This does not go to say all reviews are 100% accurate, but the more reviews there are, the better the accuracy gets. This is why I intend to get as many people as possible on the bandwagon so we can work together on making the world of SL a better place.

If you think it's not your job to leave business reviews, just think about the next time you're suspicious about an item with poor advertising, a too good to be true price, or receive an item that is different from what was advertised. A good business review could have helped you out in that case! You don't even have to write a long description, but simply selecting 1-5 stars and submitting your star rating does just as good, it literally takes seconds!

I try to write as many reviews as I can, especially on items that have absolutely no star reviews. It's always hard to shop without customer feedback and I try to give back to the community by helping everyone shop with reviews. Plus, the more reviews you write, the more people are likely to review your own products! So sharing is definitely caring!

You don't even have to keep track of everything you've purchased! Second Life keeps a record of all of the items you have purchased in the past and it allows you to write reviews directly from the page. To view your marketplace purchase history, click here, or you can follow the instructions below on how to get to the page.

To view your purchase history and review product: 

• Open your browser and go to marketplace.secondlife.com and log in
• At the top of the page in the black bar, click the "My Marketplace" arrow and select "My Account"
• On the left hand side in the menu, select "Order History" which is located under "Account Overview"
• Locate the item in which you would like to review and select "Review Product". You will be brought to the review page of the item that you have purchased! 

Getting Scammed in The Marketplace

Writing bad reviews will not necessarily prevent scams from happening, but leaving a review while linden labs views the scam case will alert other buyers to steer clear until it is taken down. It is strongly advised to report scammers to linden labs and have as much information as possible to give them. Linden Labs is like pulling teeth to get a hold of so having a good amount of info will help rid scammers quicker!

In World Scammers & How to Spread Awareness

Let's take the Zooby's Babies shop for instance. It has been very well known to the prim baby community for a while that owning a Zooby baby harbors serious scammers. There are people who set up accounts with names similar to the staff members. These people claim that your Zooby baby needs an update, is broken or they would like to check your baby for what ever reason and asks if you can hand your baby over to them, so you hand over little Billy to the woman/lady and POOF, they disappear and they teleport over to an adoption agency where they put your baby up for sale and profit off of your gullibility... While this seems like common sense of what you shouldn't do, unfortunately this isn't common sense for a lot of people, and it got so bad that the Zooby store had to set up an automated system to warn customers of the scammers. 

Aside from the scammers that ask for inventory trades to steal your things, one of the things to be weary of is making personal sales. Below are some scenarios and what you can do to avoid being scammed. 

When a seller asks for the money up front or a down payment

This is just too risky. NEVER just hand the money over, because they could easily teleport away and there is no chasing them down! 

What you can do instead: Ask the seller to rez out the item and set it as "for sale". Make sure that you can see the contents of the item before you click buy so you're not buying a dud or a photocopied prim! If you feel that you have been scammed even after following the appropriate steps, notify Linden Labs immediately and let others know to steer clear of a specific user.

Buying from an in world store 

Buying from an in world store is typically safer than buying online or making a personal sale, but it is not always safe! When buying an item from a single panel, make sure to view all of its contents before selecting the buy button. That way you know you're paying for a non empty box. If for some reason you did not receive an item that you purchased, first contact the store owner. If they do not get back to you or exhibit threatening or aggressive behavior, contact Linden Labs immediately and post in the forums, and tell your friends about what store to steer clear of while Linden Labs reviews the case. Keep screen shots and conversation logs, order receipts and anything else that may assist in the investigation. 

Other tools in finding legit and reputable sellers 

Aside from hearing it by word, the community forums on Second Lifes main website is a good place to start! If you've had a bad experience with a store or seller, a great place to let everyone know is in the Merchants forum. Other people with similar experiences may comment on the thread or even post their own. The more people that are aware of a malicious seller, the chances of the business being shut down increases. Word of mouth is very powerful along side with reviewing products, and more people should get involved with the consumer community.

I hope that this blog has interested you into making the community a safer place to shop! 

Lyuboff Shopping List - Caring For Baby

DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT ASSOCIATED WITH THE LYUBOFF COMPANY OR STAFF IN ANY WAY. I AM NOT BEING PAID OR SPONSORED FOR WRITING THIS ARTICLE. ALL INFORMATION IS WRITTEN FOR INFORMATIONAL AND OPINIONATED PURPOSES ONLY.

Like all babies in real life and on SL, they have needs that comes with a cost. This blog covers all of the essentials and costs for Lyuboff babies, as well as things I have at home and in the diaper bag both for fun and essential. 

The cost of a Lyuboff Newborn Baby is minimal compared to a Lyuboff 8-36 month baby, since diapers and shampoo are already built into the Newborn Baby Furniture, and 5 free bottles a day are given out at the Lyuboff Clinic. Alternatively you can breast feed your baby for free! It is fun watching your baby grow and interact, as well as witness milestones, feeling good about caring for them, keeping them healthy and loved.

In fact, if you simply can't afford to care for your baby at some point, Lyuboff Playland provides all furniture and baby care items for FREE! If you need help caring for your baby, click here for a teleport! Lyuboff Playland hours are from 1PM to 4PM Monday through Thursday, and Friday through Sunday 7AM to 9AM SLT.

Clothing (From $99L to $149)

Your baby comes with a good set of clothing, so you really don't have to buy more if you don't want to. But if you wish for your baby to have something special such as a tux/dress, swim suit or a super cute outfit, you can find all of Lyuboff's baby clothes here. 

You can visit the Lyuboff Marketplace by clicking here

The Essentials

Potty Essentials (Diaper Stat)

You have a great selection of options to choose from. Keep in mind you DO NOT need all of these. Picking one option is just fine. I personally have the full furniture set with the changing table, the changing mat for travel, and the potty chair for home in which Addison uses primarily. 

The Diapers: 

Cost: $25L for 5 Diapers ($5L a Piece)

Permissions: None

Prim Count: 1

Use: 1 Use Per Change (1-2 Diaper Changes per day)

Where to buy: Here

Diaper Accessories

Changing Mat:

Cost: $139L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 3

Use: Unlimited Uses with Diapers

Where to buy: Here

Changing Table (stationary):

Cost: $599L For a Full Furniture Bedroom Set

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 14

Use: Unlimited Uses with Diapers

Where to buy: Here (Multiple different styles to choose from)

ADDITIONAL INFO: You cannot buy changing tables separately. 

Potty Chair:

Cost: $139L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 3

Use: Unlimited Uses with Diapers

Where to buy: Here

ADDITIONAL INFO: Your baby will eventually learn to use this on his/her own as long as diapers are rezzed. 

Hygiene Essentials (Bath Stat)

As mentioned before, you do not need to buy all of these. I have the bath from the bedroom set at home, and the baby pool for travel. Willie has the single bath tub for travel.

Baby Wash:

Cost: $25L for 5 Bottles ($5L a Piece)

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 13

Use: 1 Time Per Bath (1-2 Baths a day)

Where to buy: Here 

Baby Bathing Station (Stationary):

Cost: $599L For a Full Furniture Bedroom Set

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 13

Use: Unlimited Uses with Baby Wash

Where to buy: Here (Multiple different styles to choose from)

ADDITIONAL INFO: You cannot buy bathing stations separately. For alternatives, please read below.

Baby Pool (For Bathing, not to be confused with recreation):

Cost: $199L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 3

Use: Unlimited Uses with Baby Wash

Where to buy: Here

ADDITIONAL INFO: Your baby can play with specific toys while bathing to raise his/her fun stat such as this rubber ducky or a pool float.

Baby Bathing Tub (For Travel or alternative):

Cost: $159L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 5

Use: Unlimited Uses with Baby Wash

Where to buy: Here

Bedtime and Nap Time Essentials (Rest Stat)

Many more options and you can choose which ever is best. I own a crib, sleeping mat and playpen. The crib stays at home while the playpen stays at the Motorcycle club for him to nap on, and the sleeping mat is for travel and being babysat. Your baby will need to rest once or twice a day using any of these options.

Baby Crib (stationary)

Cost: $599L For a Full Furniture Bedroom Set

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 17

Use: Unlimited

Where to buy: Here (Multiple different styles to choose from)

ADDITIONAL INFO: You cannot buy cribs separately. For alternatives, please read below.

Rocking Crib (stationary alternative to crib):

Cost: $299L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 14

Use: Unlimited

Where to buy: Here

Sleeping Mat (good for travel)

Cost: $199L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 2

Use: Unlimited

Where to buy: Color options come in Green and Purple

Playpen (good for travel)

Cost: $199L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 11

Use: Unlimited

Where to buy: Here

OTHER ALTERNATIVES: You can buy a toddler bed for bigger babies (only available separately for baby girls), or bedroom sets specially built for toddlers. Please click Here to browse the selection.

Feeding Essentials (Food Stat)

Unfortunately, unlike the newborn babies, you cannot pick up your 5 free bottles a day or breast feed. But there are many different feeding options such as finger food that you rezz next to your baby and he/she will pick it up to eat, formula bottles and high chair food. It really does not matter which method you choose to feed your baby, but I do a bit of all of them except for the toddler table. Addison usually gets a bottle in the morning, some finger food as a snack and some high chair food for dinner.

Food:

Regular food (finger food):

General Cost: $5L Per Food Item in various different quantities

Permissions: Varies

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: Varies

Use: Once per feeding (1-2 times a day)

Common Examples of what to buy: Jars of Baby Food ($30 for 6) Baby Yogurts ($25 for 5)

ADDITIONAL INFO: Some food items come with spoons such as the yogurt and baby food jars. Your baby will learn to feed him/herself with a spoon when they become the appropriate stage. The spoons are no perms.

High Chair Food:

General Cost: $5L Per Food Item in various different quantities

Permissions: Varies

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: Varies

Use: Once per feeding (1-2 times a day)

Common Examples of what to buy: Variety of High Chair Meals ($30L for 6) Pancakes ($20L for 4)

ADDITIONAL INFO: Compatible with High Chairs and Toddler Tables ONLY. Some food items come with spoons such as Borsch and Variety High Chair Meals. 

Formula Bottles:

Cost: $50L for 10 Bottles ($5L per bottle)

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: Unknown

Use: Once per feeding (1-2 times a day)

Where to buy: Here

ADDITIONAL INFO: Compatible with Parent Armchair ONLY (Please continue reading for more info on the Parent Armchair)

Feeding Accessories:

High Chair:

Cost: $189L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 9

Use: Unlimited uses with High Chair food

Where to buy: Here

Parent Arm Chair:

Cost: $149L Individually, or $599L with Furniture set

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: 7

Use: Unlimited uses with bottles (or books that raise babies love stat)

Where to buy: Individually Here, with bedroom set of different styles Here

Toddler Table:

Cost: $189L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: Best Used When Baby is Bigger and in Toddler Age

Prim Count: 7

Use: Unlimited uses with High Chair Food

Where to buy: Here

ADDITIONAL INFO: Compatible with High Chair Food ONLY

Happiness Essentials (Love Stat)

There are a couple of different ways to raise your babies love stat. Giving them tasty treats and reading them books on the Parent Armchair. There is a large variety of treats including seasonal ones for Halloween and valentines day both for high chair/toddler table use and finger food that you rezz out next to your baby. There is also a good selection of books that teach animals and colors. There are also seasonal such as "T'was the night before Christmas." Addison loves books, but lord knows he loves candy more. 

Regular Baby Treats (finger food):

General Cost: $5L Per Treat Item In Various Quantities

Permissions: Varies

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: Varies

Use: Once per treating (1-2 times a day)

Common Examples of what to buy: Doughnuts (12 for $60L) Bunny Icecream Cones (4 for $20L)

High Chair Treats:

General Cost: $5L Per Treat Item In Various Quantities

Permissions: Varies

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: Varies

Use: Once per treating (1-2 times a day)

Common Examples of what to buy: Desserts (3 for $15L) Holiday Pudding (5 for $25L)

ADDITIONAL INFO: Compatible with High Chairs and Toddler Tables ONLY. Some treat items come with spoons.

Books:

Cost: $45L

Permissions: None

Stage Level: All

Prim Count: Unknown

Use: 9 Uses Per Book

Common Examples of what to buy: Active Animals, Nursery Album

ADDITIONAL INFO: Compatible with Parent Armchair ONLY

Playtime Essentials (Fun Stat)

To raise babies fun stat, giving them toys to play with is the way to do so. There are plenty of different toys and it doesn't matter which one you choose for your baby. Keep in mind that there are some toys that don't raise your babies fun stat, but it keeps them busy and can be used an unlimited amount of times such as this slide (Addisons Favorite)

Toys:

Cost: $25 to $299

Use: 5 to 250 Uses

Common Examples of what to buy: Toy Box with 60 Different Toys ($199 for 60 Uses) Stuffed Koala ($30 for 30 Uses) 

TO VIEW ALL TOYS, CLICK HERE!

My Lyuboff Favorites and Awesome Extras

While Lyuboff has a huge selection of items for your family, these are some items that I currently own. While they are not essential, they are amazing to have around the house and fun for the family and baby! And some of them are amazingly helpful! Please note: some of these items raise stats while others don't.

Baby Booster Vitamins

Click here to view

Price: $35L for 6

Prim Count: 2

Stats: Raises all stats except for rest

Uses: 1 Per Vitamin

Our Rating: 5/5

The booster vitamins are a Godsend. Addison is VERY CRANKY when I get up in the morning to care for him. In fact, all babies are cranky when they're down to 0% happiness level. These vitamins are great to give to them first thing in the morning to "hold them over" before feeding them. It generally boosts them all the way up to 14-18% Happiness almost instantly! Less tears when you're feeding them and trying to change their diapers and gives them an extra healthy boost for growth and brain development. Plus, the faces drawn on the vitamins are cute!

Animated Slide

Comes in Blue and Pink

Price: $299L

Prim Count: 4

Stats: None

Uses: Unlimited

Our Rating: 5/5

Addisons Rating: 10/5 (exaggeration necessary)

Addison was first introduced to his slide when visiting Lyuboff Playland. There's a few things to sum it up. 

1. Addison will play on this for HOURS. 2. He has such an addiction to his slide that he will not listen to Daddy or I and will not get off of it. 3. The first thing he does when he wakes up is crawl to his slide

In a nutshell, if you need some time alone, get baby a slide. 

Robotic Nanny (Rosie)

Click Here to View

Price: $199L

Prim Count: 7

Stats: Raises all stats over time

Uses: Unlimited with Necessary Care Items

Our Rating: 3/5

This robotic nanny inspired by The Jetsons (cartoon) comes in handy when you want your baby to grow quicker. She is perfect for overnight use, as well as daily use. I usually rez her out on occasion overnight, or if I know I am going to be gone for long after he wakes up after his nap. I don't like to keep any of my children in my inventory for too long, especially since Lyuboff babies can get sick (note: they can NEVER die).

WHAT IT DOES:

When giving Rosie one of each care item (diaper, baby wash, food, toy and treat) she will dispense the needed care items when babies stat gets low. You will also need a baby pool, sleeping mat or playpen and a potty chair for her to care for your baby. Please note that Rosie CANNOT use furniture from bedroom furniture sets. You can drag and drop your own care items into her edit menu, or alternatively, you can purchase a One Day Care Kit ($21L) from the marketplace. I like to purchase the One Day Care Kit simply because it comes with a single use toy. I don't like to give her the 30 use toys because if she does that, Addison will constantly play with it, which ends up draining the uses and my wallet. 

Family Beach Pool

Click Here to View

Price: $299L

Prim Count: 10

Stats: None

Uses: Unlimited

Our Rating: 4/5

We decided to buy this pool for family day at the beach. We didn't want Addison going in the saltwater so we ended up buying this pool so Addison could safely enjoy some fun in the water. It's also nice because we got to get in the pool with him. You can rezz this pull on a sunny day out in the backyard, or you can go to the beach or the lake in a rezzable location and the whole family can enjoy it! The pool can hold a total of 3 babies and 2 avatars.

The Family Couch

Click Here to View

Price: $299L

Prim Count: 9

Stats: None

Uses: Unlimited

Our Rating: 4/5

Our family likes to spend A LOT of time together. All babies need bonding time with their parents and time to relax with them, this couch makes it all possible! The sofa has plenty of textures to choose from to match your houses interior, and it holds 2 avatars and 3 babies. (Please note it's not compatible with Zooby babies, baby Shawn just happens to be on top of daddies lap)

Animated Rocking Horse

Click Here to View

Price: $299L

Prim Count: 3

Stats: None

Uses: Unlimited

Our Rating: 4/5

We got this rocking horse hoping Addison would play with something OTHER THAN that darn slide! Very rarely will he play on it unless we direct him too, but shortly after he scoots his little diaper butt back to his slide. The horse rocks when baby sits on it and you have the option to turn the rocking on and off. It will continue to rock if baby gets off of it, so you will need to turn it off after it's done being used. We love the rocking horse not only because it gets him away from his S-L-I-D-E, but he just looks so dang cute on it!

I hope this article was helpful and insightful to you!