LIS5313

Kiani Cowper

Ripples of Kindness

Synopsis:

This digital story recounts a transformative experience when I witnessed a stranger’s act of kindness that inspired me to pay it forward. The story illustrates how a simple gesture can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to spread kindness in their own lives.

Media Credits:

Text Overlays and Video Editing Software used by: Microsoft Clipchamp

Sound effects downloaded from Pixabay:

Cars Honking Sound by storegraphic is licensed under CC0 1.0

Talking People by szalonegacie (Freesound) is licensed under CC0 1.0

Music downloaded from Pixabay:

Beautiful Memories by PURNANAND_WASAVE is licensed under CC0 1.0

Images Created with Microsoft CoPilot:

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Young woman holding yellow roses on a bench in a busy city. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Older man handing a flower to a young woman on a bench in a busy city. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Water drop creating ripples. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Young woman gardening in the city while wearing a volunteer shirt. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Young woman serving food in a city building with other volunteers. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Young woman in a busy city signing up to volunteer. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Young woman wearing a volunteer shirt in the city with a group of people. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Stranger showing kindness to an older man. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). A busy city street with people rushing by. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). A busy city street where people are busy and ignoring each other. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). A girl on a bench by herself near a busy city street where people are busy and ignoring each other. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). A woman alone on a bench near a busy city street where everyone is busy and ignoring each other with her hands on her head looking distressed. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). An older man handing a flower to a young woman who is sitting by herself on a bench in a busy city where the other people are busy and ignoring each other as an act of kindness. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Title image for “Ripples of Kindness”. AI-generated image.

Microsoft CoPilot. (2025). Image portraying random acts of kindness. AI-generated image.

April 8, 2025 by Student Posts 0

Ready or Not

I used Microsoft ClipChamp software to create this video after I gathered all of my digital assets including my music and images. The ClipChamp software allowed me to layer those assets as well as add text and the credits at the end.

All images are AI generated using Microsoft CoPilot.

References:

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘Can you make an image of AI running the unemployment office for humans?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘Can you make an image of humans working in factories?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you make an image of only robots working in factories?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you make an image of humans working in the grocery store?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you make an image of robots working in a grocery store?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you make an image of humans working on cargo ships? make the humans standing there standing on the docs, not the water’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you make an image of robots and drones working on a cargo ship?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘Can you create an image of doctors and nurses working in a hospital? can you show more patients and make it like a emergency room setting’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create that image of the patient in the ER but instead of doctors and nurses there are only robots? no human nurses only robot nurses’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of lots of tents and people around barrel fires to stay warm in a city’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of a long line of people leading to a building called unemployment office’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘Can you create an image of highways with only self driving cars’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of a restaurant with only robot staff’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of a restaurant now like that but staffed by humans’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘Can you create an image of humans creating music?’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of humans teaching young children’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of a human giving a speech at a rally’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of humans taking food and clothing to a villiage’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of humans living in a universally based income society’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of humans going to space’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

“Microsoft CoPilot. Accessed 2025-3-02. Prompt: ‘can you create an image of humans working in an office with a robot’ Generated using Microsoft CoPilot.”

Audio from ccMixter

References:

“Spirit Of Freedom (stems)” by stellarartwars. Downloaded from ccmixter.org on March 2, 2024. CC BY 3.0.

March 4, 2025 by Student Posts 3

Husky Life

“Microsoft CoPilot . Accessed 2025-16-02. Prompt: ‘Can you create me an image of a husky, he has one blue eye and one brown eye, he has a cone from having surgery and a pink bandage from the IV, he is laying down on the beach and you can see the beach and buildings all behind him’
“Sea Barcelona Beach Traffic Voices 2” by Jordir, 2016 [CC 0].
“dog howling” by simcotter, 2011 [CC 0].

Welcome to the Husky Life Podcast!

Hello, fellow dog lovers! I’m thrilled to introduce you to my new podcast, “Husky Life,” where we embark on an exciting journey into the world of Siberian Huskies. As a proud husky owner living by the beautiful beaches of Largo, Florida, I’ve experienced the joys and challenges that come with having this spirited breed.

In our very first episode, I’ll share the heartwarming story of how I welcomed my husky into my life and the journey we’ve been on since. Recently, my furry friend underwent surgery, and I’ll discuss his recovery process, the ups and downs we faced, and the special bond we’ve developed through it all.

To enhance your listening experience, I’ve incorporated soothing beach sound effects that reflect my coastal surroundings, creating a calming atmosphere as we dive into each episode. You’ll also hear a husky’s adorable howl, a sound that perfectly captures his playful spirit and resilience during recovery.

Join me as we explore the adventures of husky ownership and their playful antics to the heartfelt moments that make it all worthwhile. Whether you’re a seasoned husky owner or just a fan of these incredible dogs, there’s something for everyone in “Husky Life.”

Stay tuned for our first episode, and let’s journey together!

February 16, 2025 by Student Posts 5

Transforming My Photo of the Grand Hotel

Left: Cowper, Kiani. Mackinac Island Grand Hotel, 2023
Right: Cowper, Kiani. Grand Hotel and Carriage, 2023

Photography is not just about capturing a moment; it’s about telling a story. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph the iconic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan. While the initial image had its charm, I realized that it didn’t quite capture the essence of this historic landmark. After some thoughtful cropping, the transformation was remarkable. In this post, I’ll share what was wrong with my original image and how cropping helped me highlight the beauty of the Grand Hotel.

The Initial Image: What Went Wrong?

When I first took the photo of the Grand Hotel, I was excited about the scene. However, upon reviewing the image, I noticed a few issues that detracted from its overall impact:

  1. Distracting Background Elements: To the left of the hotel, there were numerous background elements, including trees and the street. You can also tell this is taken from a carriage you can see the carriage in the upper right corner. These distractions pulled attention away from the hotel itself, which is the focal point of the image.
  2. Cluttered Composition: The presence of these additional elements made the composition feel cluttered. Instead of showcasing the grandeur of the hotel, the image felt busy and overwhelming.
  3. Lack of Focus on the Subject: The original framing didn’t emphasize the hotel’s historic architecture or the charm of the horse-drawn carriage in front of it. The viewer’s eye was drawn in multiple directions rather than being guided to the main subject.

Cropping Concepts Featured in the Final Image

In the final version of the photo the following cropping concepts were effectively utilized:

  1. Elimination of Negative Space: By removing the excessive negative space on the left, the image became more engaging and complete. The focus shifted entirely to the hotel and carriage, creating a stronger visual connection.
  2. Rule of Thirds: The new composition allowed me to position the hotel in a way that aligns with the rule of thirds, creating a more dynamic and visually appealing image. This technique helps guide the viewer’s eye and adds interest to the composition.
  3. Framing the Subject: The crop effectively framed the hotel and carriage, enhancing their prominence in the image. This technique draws attention to the subject and creates a sense of intimacy with the viewer.

Conclusion

Cropping can be a powerful tool in photography, transforming an ordinary image into something extraordinary. My initial photo of the Grand Hotel had potential, but it was the act of cropping that truly brought its beauty to life. By eliminating distractions and focusing on the hotel and carriage, I was able to create a compelling image that captures the essence of this historic landmark.

February 4, 2025 by Student Posts 2

A Shift in Perspective

How “Yesterday’s Rain” Transforms the Underwater Scene

Initially, the image of the woman snorkeling struck me as hauntingly beautiful, capturing the essence of life’s struggles. With her head submerged beneath the water, it evoked a sense of isolation and the weight of challenges that often feel overwhelming. In that moment, I could relate to the feeling of being underwater, grappling with the currents of life that sometimes pull us down.

However, as I listened to “Yesterday’s Rain” by Andrew Stanton, everything shifted. The upbeat techno rhythm infused the scene with a sense of energy and optimism, transforming my perception of the image. The pulsating beats and vibrant melodies encouraged me to embrace a more hopeful outlook, reminding me that while life can be difficult, it is also filled with moments of joy and resilience.

Photo by Daniel Torobekov from Pexels
Andrew Stanton from soundstripe

As the techno track plays on, I envision myself breaking through the surface, my head finally above the water. The vibrant energy of the music mirrors the sunlight shining down, illuminating the path ahead and filling me with a sense of freedom. The combination of the upbeat sound and the image of the woman snorkeling creates a powerful narrative of resilience and hope. It reminds me that while life may have its depths, there is always a way to rise, to breathe, and to embrace the beauty that lies above.

In this way, “Yesterday’s Rain” not only enhances the visual experience but also transforms it into a celebration of survival and triumph. It encourages us to acknowledge our past while looking forward to the future with optimism. As I reflect on both the image and the song, I am filled with gratitude for the journey that has brought me to this moment—one of clarity, strength, and the promise of new beginnings

January 23, 2025 by Student Posts 3

From Guitar Strings to Baby Things: Kiani’s Big Year Ahead

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Hey everyone! My name is Kiani, and I’m excited to share some big updates in my life you. Right now, I’m in the process of buying my first home in Morriston, FL. Not just any house, it’s a brand-spankin new single wide and our very own piece of land where my husband and I will start our family, basically my dream come true! I can’t wait to make a home our family, and I really can’t wait for my man to rent an excavator and get started on the dirt bike track in the backyard, haha!

During the day, I work as a Capability Analyst for United Health Care’s provider portal. My role is all about connecting the dots between technology and business, and I get to lead various initiatives in areas like Broker, Employer, and Provider Search Services. It’s a dynamic job that keeps me on my toes, and I genuinely enjoy being part of the team I am on I get to work with good people.

Outside of work, I’m diving into something I’ve always wanted to do: learning to play the guitar! My dad gifted me a guitar for my 15th birthday, and it’s been a dream of mine to really learn how to play. But honestly, the best gift he ever gave me was moving our family to Florida when I was just four years old. Growing up here has given me a deep appreciation for nature and the diverse cultures around me. I love spending time outdoors—hiking, camping, or just enjoying the fresh air with my feet in the dirt, and meeting new people.

I am the youngest of 3 children, a brother and a sister, my family is so proud of me for completing my degree and now my Master’s of Science in IT! My parents worked very hard to try to give us the best opportunities, it took me over 10 years to pick a major and stick to it, but I am now at a finish line of sorts and looking back where I started makes me so thankful for them. My last two classes will be the Fundamentals of Metadata Practice and Theory and Digital Media Production. I’m really looking forward to a class on digital media production. In today’s digital world, understanding copyright and how to build a successful digital library is essential, and I can’t wait to dive into these topics.

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And here’s the exciting news: I’m expecting my first baby with the love of my life! We are hoping for a girl, but as my pops would have said, as long as the baby has 10 fingers, 10 toes, and health we are blessed. With the house closing just around the corner, graduation in May, and a little one on the way, 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year for me.

Thanks for following along on this journey of homeownership, parenthood, and all the adventures that lie ahead!

January 14, 2025 by spring 2025 Student Posts 3