Finally I found something yellow for One word Sunday we are in the very early stages of spring, we have green moss, otherwise everything is brown. No yellow in sight. I did not buy yellow flowers for Easter 🐣
Yellow
Easter Day
Johns Cellpic Sunday
Framing Your Shots: Exploring the Foreground, Middle Ground, and Background
Framing Your Shots: Exploring the Foreground, Middle Ground, and Background Photography essential; Framing and composing your shots is, in my book, one of the most important parts of photography, if not the most important. The way in which elements are arranged within the frame can dramatically alter the mood and storytelling of an image. Patti shows and explains this concept beautifully, illustrating how the interplay of the foreground, middle ground, and background can create depth and dimension, drawing the viewer’s eye to the focal points in a more engaging way. By carefully considering the placement of subjects and elements within each layer, photographers can enhance their visual narratives. Visit her post for more information, as it offers valuable insights into mastering these techniques that can elevate your photography to new heights.
The request was three images; here are mine and the header as a plus one.
Italy is famous for its stunning landscapes and fascinating history, and right at the front, there’s a charming gate that looks like it’s inviting everyone in. If you take a moment to look up, you’ll spot a beautiful set of stairs in the middle, guiding your eyes deeper into that amazing scenery and sparking a sense of adventure. The lush greenery in the background just adds to the charm, with its vibrant shades of green making this place feel like a dream as you stroll through this lovely setting.
In the scene set in Helsinki, the police are right in the spotlight, viewing with those around them. Up front, people are on the move, while in the background, the impressive SOKOS building towers over everything, giving the urban landscape some real character. The way the officer interacts with the locals really shows a moment of busy city , where the cool architecture meets everyday life.
This from Kirkkonummi, the shoreline in Porkkala, offers a captivating view where the rugged rocks in the foreground create a striking contrast against the shimmering waters. As the eye travels to the middle ground, the point juts out, inviting exploration and intrigue. The sky serves as a breathtaking backdrop, with clouds dancing overhead, casting shadows that play upon the landscape. This picturesque setting is not just a feast for the eyes; it also evokes a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, making it a perfect spot for reflection and inspiration.
Hope you join us and show us how you interpret this challenge. Please link to Patti’s post and use the “lens-artists” tag so we can find your post in the Reader. But mostly, enjoy exploring this technique!
Huge thanks to Tina for last week’s phone photography challenge; it really showed how much the cameras have improved over the years and what great shots we can get with them. What’s up for next week? Sofia returns with our next challenge on Saturday, April 11th at noon EST. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.
Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.
Here we are The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.
It’s crumbling down this old barn
Linked to Six Word Saturday at Debbie’s here
Navigating Creative Droughts
I find myself writing a third post on this topic, grappling with my thoughts by myself, as there’s no one around to discuss it. Recently, I’ve been struggling with inspiration when it comes to photography. Photography, for me, is not merely about capturing beauty or documenting moments; I take pictures so I don’t have to explain them, that is the whole point. I started out just posting photos, hardly any words. It is, was so much easier.
However, when inspiration eludes me, the camera feels heavier, and each click seems to lack purpose. It’s frustrating to experience these creative blocks, as they can lead to a sense of disconnect from the “art” that I love. I long for those moments, where the world presents itself in a way that ignites my passion and motivates me to capture its essence. Maybe more eventful life. In life there are ebbs and flows, and those periods of silence can sometimes lead to the most profound revelations.
There are days when I wake up and feel like I’m staring into an empty well. The usual well of ideas, creativity, and inspiration seems to have dried up, leaving behind a hollow echo instead of the vibrant thoughts I’m used to. It’s a strange sensation — one that feels both familiar and unsettling. The wakening of nature will surely help
The fast-paced world we live in, we often rush to fill that emptiness with distractions or quick fixes. But what if, instead, we took a moment to just sit with that feeling? I’ve been doing that for few weeks now. The truth is, experiencing uninspired days is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness; it’s simply part of the ebb and flow of life.
When I reflect on that empty well, I come to understand that it isn’t something to dread, but rather a space to recognize. Much like nature undergoes its seasons, we too experience cycles of creativity. There are moments when the well is brimming with ideas, and others when it feels barren—and that is perfectly acceptable. In this present moment, when I attempt to create, the outcomes are, to be honest, rather dull and uninspiring.
Instead of pushing through the uninspired moments, I’m learning to embrace them. I allow myself to feel the weight of the silence, recognizing that it’s a natural part of the creative process. Sometimes, just acknowledging that I’m in a quiet phase can bring a sense of relief.
As I work through these emotions, I remind myself that inspiration will come back. It’s not about compelling creativity, but rather allowing myself the space to recharge. In that quietude, and in the absence of expectation, I often discover clarity and achieve my finest work.
So, if you’re also staring into your own empty well, know that you’re not alone. It’s a shared human experience, and it’s okay to simply be. The well may be empty now, but it will fill again in its own time. Embrace the quiet, and trust that inspiration is just around the corner, waiting for the right moment to flow back in.
I’ve included these four images; these are the latest I’ve taken, and they are here to say I am trying my best to get going again. I am getting my shit together 😀 It’s all under the water 😊
Easter is coming soon; my son and his three boys are coming for a visit, which is something to look forward to as we plan to visit our summer house first time this year. The boys have been asking about it for months. I am not that keen as it not that warm and the house has been cold all winter, but today we are leaving to warm the house and get it ready for them. After their visit, it will be time to go on holiday for a week – I’m especially looking forward to the sun and new surroundings, where I can relax and recharge away from the daily routine. I can’t wait to explore new places and experience new adventures as we embrace this time away as a couple.
Monochrome Photography in Helsinki: March Sunday
This were taken with my mobile from the car while in Helsinki last weekend for I edited them into monochrome on my mobile with LightRoom Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
Lens-Artists Challenge #391 – Phone Photography
Tina’s – Phone Photography challenge is super relevant right now; it totally shows how far mobile photography has come, just like our smartphone cameras have leveled up. Her post is great inspiration, so do check it out and join in.
I’ve taken a ton of pics with my phones over the years. Right now, I’m using the iPhone 17 PRO, which is a recent purchase, and let me tell you, its camera setup is awesome with that triple-lens system and cool features like Night mode and Deep Fusion. The picture quality is great, and honestly, having such a great camera on me makes it so easy to grab those spontaneous shots!
I had no complaints about my previous iPhone 14 PRO; I got great shots with it for three years, and most of the images that I will share are shot with it.
Taking a self portrait with a phone is so much easier than camera, sharing a recent on of myself – in monochrome as I do love that style.
Please remember to include a link to Tina’s post and utilize the Lens-Artists Tag so we can easily find your photos. Huge thanks to Egidio for demonstrating the impact of black and white photography and how our minds can visualize colors through imagination. Lastly, I hope you to join us next week when Patti guides us through her Pilotfish post. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.
I’m having a bit of a tough time keeping a positive mindset and staying motivated to get things done, but I’m really trying to push through. Every day has its moments. I just keep reminding myself that it’s all about just doing it. I am not depressed or anything, just lacking in the motivation part. My motto is even “Inspiration exists, but it needs to find you working.” I hope you get why I haven’t been commenting lately, but I promise I’ll check out the posts, even if it takes me a bit longer. Engaging with the posts matters to me, and I’m doing my best to get back on track and jump in more.
Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites. Here we are:
The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.
On the Roof in Monochrome
I’m feeling really drained and lacking initiative at the moment. I want to do things, but I can’t seem to get anything done really well. Like these photos, they are not really inspired; I didn’t take the time to edit them as well as I could have, which is frustrating because I know I have the potential to create something beautiful. So I haven’t posted anything in the last few days, despite the urge to share my work and connect with others. It’s as if there’s a wall of apathy keeping me from expressing myself, and I’m sure you know the feeling. Is this spring fatigue? With the change of season, there’s typically a sense of renewal and energy in the air, but instead, I’m left feeling stagnant and lost in a mix of lethargy and longing for motivation. The ideas swirl in my mind, yet they struggle to find their way into action.
But I am trying – so here are four images, which I find to be a great topic, and still this is what I was able to come up with. Brian, here are my photos for Monochrome Madness: on the roof
A Trip Back in Time: The Three Crowns
Actually these are Sunday windows as I took them yesterday, when going to have lunch in Helsinki. The restaurant windows were rather nice, don’t you think. As soon as you walk in, the charming interior grabs your attention— I researched that; it was designed by Finnish artist Emil Ruokolainen , and you can’t miss the beautifully polished mirror on the back wall. The stunning stained-glass windows, made by artist Fritz Hilbert, add to the unique vibe. What’s really special is that these lovely details have mostly stayed the same over the years, offering guests a delightful trip back in time.
Kolme Kruunua (Three Crowns) is one of those must-visit spots in Helsinki, a traditional neighborhood restaurant with an incredible history that goes back to 1952. That was the year when Irja Örn and her husband decided to turn their little café, Liisan Baari, into a full-service restaurant, and that’s how Kolme Kruunua was born. Fast forward to today, and it’s become a beloved dining destination for both locals and tourists.
Posted for Monday Window: 23 March 2026
Green
This cutie came to entertain us with all the joys a little fella can bring. A little bundle of joy he is in his green shirt, and the ball was a lucky addition to the photo.
For Debbie’s One Word Sunday.
From Winter to Spring
I took these yesterday as I watched the snow melt on the hill behind my backyard. I was able to sit outside as our patio is such that the house safeguards us from the wind. Am I happy to see the green emerging- the moss is so bright.
For John’s Cellpic Sunday.
Lens-Artists Challenge #390: Color in Black and White
The remarkable influence of tonal suggestion and color memory is unmistakable. Even when a scene appears solely in shades of gray, our minds—shaped by years of experience—can easily “imagine” the recognizable colors we anticipate. We overlay our memories onto the image. This week, we are encouraged by Egídio to delve into this cognitive phenomenon, illustrating how the lack of color can often lead to a more profound and personal perception. This is the challenge we face this week: perceiving color within the confines of black and white.
It was rather hard to find images the we all associate with the same way. Sky, trees, water- even that is hard to precisely say, as there are so many shades.
These are my photos on this challenge; how did I perform? This one had me contemplating for some time as I tried to find suitable colors, I aimed to make sure that my suggestions were both easily identifiable within the given limitations.
It is clear that we all enjoy relaxing, and many of us name nature as one of its main factors, as replies for Anne’s Time to Relax challenge last week showed us. I hope you will participate this week in Egídio’s challenge, too. Please don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag in your posts to help people discover yours. Also, tag them to his original post.
Next week, Tina will feature a new challenge. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out more about the challenge then.
Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites. Here we are:
The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.
Hello, how are you?
This came to mind for this Saturday.
Hello, how are you? Hey, how ya feelin’?
Are you still the same?
More classic tunes Here.
This Saturday’s reflection centers on Jeff Lynne’s ELO song “Telephone Line,” which prompts thoughts about staying connected and checking in with loved ones in my mind. I should reach out more to friends by calling or and questions about well-being.
Trimming Trees Under a Bright Sky
For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday
Shaping Trees Beneath a Radiant Sky
Embracing Spring: Reflections on Nature’s Renewal
Whispers of a tranquil lake,
Underneath azure skies, shadows dance,
Nature’s gentle reflection.
The spring equinox, occurring on March 20th, 2026, marks the start of astronomical spring and is celebrated by various cultures. On this day, daytime and nighttime are nearly equal, symbolizing renewal and rebirth.
I eagerly await the arrival of spring, when the sun shines directly on the equator, and I look forward to the blossoming flowers, warmer temperatures, and the chance to enjoy nature as it revives from the cold of winter. Temperature is +9C today in my area.
Captivating Moody Clouds
A serene lake under swirling clouds,
Dramatic shades of gray and white,
Sky ever-shifting in reflection,
Where light and shadow play in hues,
With ripples stirred by a gentle breeze,
Moody tones as the sun blends hues.
.
Wordless Wednesday
Tulip Beauty in Monochrome and Color
Monochrome Madness is giving us a free week, which means no specific prompt this time around—so much easier to choose the topic. I thought it would be lovely to post flowers, so this week I’m excited to share some gorgeous tulips that a dear friend gave me. I snapped these beauties against the window, using backlight to really capture the details of the petals in the monochrome images. Plus, since I’m also sharing this with TheFlowerHour, I’ve included some colorful images too, taken in light coming mostly from the side above. Just wait until you see the lovely orange shade!
A striking contrast of black and white captures a bouquet of tulips, with the dark background emphasizing their delicate petals and complex textures in the first image in the gallery. The other two monochrome portrayals showcases the arrangement of tulips in a vase, featuring intricate details set against a gently blurred backdrop. Complementing and contrasting this is the radiant bouquet of orange tulips, artfully positioned in a cobalt blue vase atop a wooden table, exuding vibrancy and charm.
Click the gallery images to enlarge them
Monday window – Charming Kitchen
Posted for Monday Window: 16 March 2026
Lens Artists Challenge #389: Time to Relax
“How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then to rest afterward.”
Green fields of summer stretch endlessly, painted in vibrant shades of green under the dazzling blue skies. Birds chirp, their melodies harmonizing with the gentle rustle of leaves as the wind slowly blows through the tops of the trees, creating a soothing symphony of nature. While laying in the hammock, I feel a sense of peace enveloping me. The warmth of the sun kisses my skin, and I watch fluffy clouds drift lazily overhead, time seeming to stand still in this serene oasis. The sweet scent of wildflowers mingles with the fresh air, heightening the tranquility of this perfect day.
Waves crashing against a rocky shore, relaxing by the tranquility of nature, is one of the most enchanting experiences when visiting warm places by the ocean. The rhythmic sound of the surf, as it crashes and recedes, creates a soothing melody that caresses the ears and invites peaceful thoughts. As you breathe in the salty air, each breath seems to wash away the stresses of daily life, replacing them with a deep sense of calm. The warm sun, while seabirds glide gracefully overhead, adding to the idyllic scenery. This harmonious blend of sights and sounds encapsulates the essence of coastal bliss, making it an unforgettable moment that lingers long after the visit.
Art, in its many forms, serves as a profound source of relaxation for me. Photography, sculpture, and painting all offer unique avenues for creative expression that help me unwind . Engaging with these mediums brings a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to replicate elsewhere. I often find myself lost in the moment while capturing the world through my camera lens or molding a piece of clay into something beautiful. Listening to music also plays a crucial role in my relaxation ritual; the genre I choose often varies depending on my mood but regardless of the selection, the melodies wash over me and ease my mind. Singing along in the car is another delightful escape, letting me let loose and enjoy the freedom of expression. Furthermore, taking the time to look at and genuinely appreciate the artwork created by others adds another layer to this experience; observing their techniques and emotions often inspires my creativity and cultivates a greater appreciation for the artistic journey we all share.
That is me relaxing- shared some my personal ways.
Thank you, Anne, for this inspiring challenge! I’m thrilled to hear that you’re improving daily. If you’re looking for inspiration, be sure to check out Anne’s amazing website. Don’t forget to tag Lens-Artists and link back to Anne’s original post so we can find your creations easily.
Last week, Ann-Christine shared her recent adventurous trip to Africa with us and encouraged us to recount our own stories. I loved the pictures and appreciated the experiences you described even more.
Next week is Egídio’s turn to lead us, Saturday 21st March. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.
Posted for Anne’s Lens-Artists Challenge
We are the Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.
To learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.
Dynamic City Roads; Speed
Participating in Debbie’s One Word Sunday.
Visual Diary of Our New South Wales day trip
As I have said, I have tons of images from our trip; now here is an overload that captures the essence of our incredible experiences. This is the addition to the LAPC /Your Journey 5-10 images, where you will find a small selection that highlights the beauty and adventure we encountered along the way.
Each gallery can be enlarged by a click, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant details and stunning scenery; I might even be bold enough to recommend it as a visual diary that tells our story, evoking the memories tied to each moment.
Our first stop was to look at the views at Kianga Beach on the southern coast of New South Wales, a tranquil 700-meter-long destination known, according to the South Coast Travel Guide, for its stunning views of the Tasman Sea and Montague Island. It is located near the town of Narooma.
Narooma (/nəruːmə/) is a town in the NSW on the far south coast. The town is on the Princes Highway, which crosses the Wagonga Inlet to North Narooma. We just drove through it. The name Narooma is said to be derived from a word in the local Aboriginal language (one of the Yuin dialects) meaning “clear blue waters”.We didn’t end up stopping at Narooma at all, even though it had a nice little port with oyster shops.
We were going to stop for a break in the charming town of Tilba Tilba, a hidden gem protected by National Heritage listing! I read that this delightful spot came alive during the gold rush back in the 1890s and 1900s, and you can still wander among its beautiful Victorian timber buildings. Nestled right at the foot of the majestic Gulaga (Mt Dromedary), it’s the perfect launchpad for exploring this spiritually rich land of the Yuin people. And to me, I loved spotting the cows and the sheep on the hills.
Have you ever heard of Wallaga Lake? It’s the largest lake in southern NSW, nestled beneath the stunning Gulaga Mountain. I was amazed by the peaceful atmosphere— The sunsets there? Absolutely breathtaking I heard, I wish I could have captured the magic around Beauty Point and Wallaga Lake Heights, we had time just to drive through it. Plus, I learned that this area is culturally significant for the Yuin-Monaro people, with Merriman’s Island being an Aboriginal Place where access is limited.
Bermagui, with its inviting Blue Pool, from our previous visit had stayed in our minds, so we decided to head there for a relaxing day. It’s truly a hidden gem along the Sapphire Coast, showcasing stunning opaline hues that blend from azure to turquoise, then blush, and finally to a cheerful canary yellow. After carefully making my way down the cliff, I arrived at the stunning 50-meter seawater swimming hole—interesting fact: it was enlarged to its present dimensions in 1937 by local philanthropist Bill Dickinson.
Soon, not yet, snowdrops will emerge
The snow is melting so fast at the moment, you almost feel the spring. One of the first signs of spring in my backyard is the rise of the snowdrops. So near, but not yet there.
Soon…and from the ground, a gentle hum
as vibrant snowdrops reach for the sky
in just a week, a wave of change will come
and white blooms where life begins to thrive
with people arriving, pursuing bold dreams
they say the seasons can’t dictate our path
but one glance at a snowdrop, and optimism awakens.
Participating in SixWordSaturday
A Family Stay at Casey’s Beach: Memories Made
During our visit in February 2025, we stayed two weeks with my cousin at Casey’s Beach. Casey’s Beach is a sheltered, 800-meter-long sandy beach located in Batehaven, near Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast, ideal for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. It extends south from Observation Point, a lookout point offering panoramic ocean views of the Tasman Sea and Snapper Island, often used for whale watching.
It was our base for the second part of our Australia trip. We are so grateful for the warm hospitality of my cousin and his husband for allowing us to stay there, as their generosity made us so welcome. Each evening, it was nice to go to sleep listening to the soothing sounds of the waves hit the shore, providing a calming soundtrack to our nights. In the morning, we would awaken to the beautiful, panoramic view that greeted us, a breathtaking sight to marvel at. I have always dreamt of living by the coast, now I got the taste of it. Enjoying freshly made coffee crafted by our thoughtful host while enjoying breakfast on the balcony became a cherished routine. The gentle breeze carried the scent of saltwater. We appreciated the warmth of family and the wonders of Australia even more.
Here are some photos taken in the morning, day, dusk and sunset and blue hour after it. Night shots are missing 😂 Click on the gallery to enlarge the images.
I have posted several posts about the first half of our trip, I will add the links to them if you wish to have a look, they are in the order I posted them Sydney – Adelaide – South Australia – Victoria
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/25/sydney-from-qvb-to-manly-beach/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/27/adelaide-arrival-and-glenelg-beach/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/27/adelaide-arrival-and-glenelg-beach/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/27/adelaide-arrival-and-glenelg-beach/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/30/escaping-the-heat-of-adelaide/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/30/unforgettable-views-at-barossa-valley/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/03/31/henley-beach-sunset-views-and-beach-rave/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/04/05/fleurieu-peninsula-1/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/04/05/unforgettable-sunsets-second-valley/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/04/07/a-day-in-mclaren-vale-wineries-and-scenic-views/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/04/08/the-robe-obelisk-a-historic-landmark/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/04/10/the-end-of-a-beautiful-relationship-lookout/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/04/28/cotton-candy-and-turquoise-waters/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/05/01/mount-gambier-blue-lake-and-sinkholes/
- https://sillarit.com/2025/05/23/stunning-views-of-aboriginal-cultural-landscape/
Positano’s Stunning Coastal Views and Iconic Church
Positano, Italy, captivates with its colorful coastal buildings and stunning Mediterranean architecture.
In the picture is the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta church, nestled in the charming Positano on the Amalfi Coast, a breathtaking architectural gem that weaves memories of sunny day spent wandering its streets. I can still picture that striking dome, embellished with shimmering majolica tiles, catching the sunlight as if it were a beacon from the past. This lovely church, with roots tracing back to the 12th century, isn’t just a place of worship; it holds stories and dreams, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe. The views of the Mediterranean Sea and the quaint cliffside village always felt like a postcard come to life. I can see art lovers admiring the iconic statue of the Black Madonna, while soaking in the exquisite frescoes and intricate details within its walls, each one a testament to a rich history.
Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors
Wordless Wednesday
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 