Lens-artists challenge#385 – unusual crop

lens-artists, Photography

What an Unusual Crop! No, I cannot do this; it’s too hard. No, it’s not. Give it a try, be bold, be creative. You can do it. Exceed yourself, like they say in the Olympics.

Cropping stands as one of the most potent yet frequently underutilized compositional elements in photography. This week, we encourage you to deliberately defy traditional framing conventions. Consider slicing off parts of your subject or positioning it at the far edge of your shot. You might even depict only a hint of an object or an intriguing shadow or reflection. Unconventional crop photography often employs tight, asymmetrical framing techniques—like truncating limbs, using extreme close-ups, or positioning subjects right at the frame’s border—to evoke mystery, abstraction, and artistic tension. Approaches include using a 1:1 aspect ratio to hone in on specific details, employing diagonal lines in your compositions, or leveraging negative space to highlight elements such as the intricate surface of a leaf.

A vibrant market scene showcasing women in traditional attire amidst goods, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of local life.

In-Camera Versus Editing: Although many unique crops are achieved through post-processing, capturing these moments in-camera encourages more intentional and artistically satisfying results. When deploying these techniques, be mindful to avoid cropping at joints, as this can give the impression of amputation. Instead, aim for narrower points like mid-thigh or forearm for a flattering yet bold appearance.

Experiment with framing as a narrative device by illustrating the story of what’s absent; consider capturing a hand reaching into the frame or a smiling mouth peeking from the corner, or even a bicycle wheel without the bike itself. Crop closely for an intimate feel or employ an off-center approach for added intrigue. Think like a graphic designer—make your images striking, graphic, and unexpected.

A close-up view of a window frame reflecting green foliage, illustrating unconventional cropping and negative space in photography.

Notable techniques for unconventional cropping involve:

Disrupting the Subject: Intentionally cutting through heads, hands, or limbs in portraits creates a dynamic composition rather than a conventional one.

A close-up of a person in deep thought, with hands framing their face, illustrating the emotional intensity of unconventional cropping.

Detail-Oriented Macro Shots: Extreme cropping can accentuate textures, lines, and shapes, transforming everyday objects into pieces of abstract art.

Overriding the “Rule of Thirds”: Position subjects at the frame’s extremes or allow them to extend beyond the edges entirely.

Close-up of a weaving loom showcasing intricate details and textures, emphasizing the artistry of craftsmanship.

Utilizing Negative Space: Generating significant areas of emptiness can convey minimalism or create striking tension.

Silhouetted figures walking along a stone wall against a vibrant pastel sky, embodying the essence of unconventional cropping in photography.

TIPS: Frame With Purpose: Make deliberate cuts through heads, hands, or objects; a bold crop can ignite curiosity. Strategic Use of Space: Marry tight framing with negative space to establish either tension or tranquility based on your subject matter.

Instill Mystery: Leave out enough to provoke viewers’ imaginations about what lies beyond the visible.

Emphasize Textures or Shapes: Get close to highlight features like contours, lines, or surfaces that might typically go unnoticed.

An artistic arrangement of colorful glass candle holders with a blurred festive background.

Imply Wholeness: Showcase just part of your subject, encouraging viewers to engage their imaginations.

Use the Frame Purposefully: Position your subject near the edge or let it extend beyond the frame to create dynamic imagery.

A close-up portrait of a young girl smiling, captured in a black and white aesthetic to emphasize her natural beauty and using the framing to the edge.

Disrupt Visual Norms: Surprise audiences by presenting familiar subjects in unusual manners—making them appear strange or abstract.

Consider the Crop During Shooting: Approach cropping not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of your initial composition strategy.

Close-up shot highlighting the intricate lines and curves of overlapping metallic objects, evoking a sense of abstract art.

Last week, Beth introduced us to a theme that truly astonished us. The world brims with wonders, whether they’re grand or subtle, close by or distant, and this was vividly showcased in the photos we all shared.

I hope you will join in for this week’s challenge. Be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to my post. And Happy Valentines day to you all! Hope you have a lovely day. ❤️💙💚💛🧡💜💞❣️

Make sure to return on Saturday, February 21, at noon Eastern Time for an exciting new challenge from Patti at Pilotfishblog. I hope you’ll be there to join us! In the meantime, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset ❤️

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.

In silent whispers, love takes form

Captures from Finland
In silent whispers, love takes form

Icicles sparkle in a gentle sway,
Suspended like wishes in winter’s display.
A sturdy branch cradles, steadfast and wise,
Over a frozen lake that mirrors the skies.
Nature’s hold, both chilly and kind,
In hushed murmurs, affection unwinds. Icicles draping from a limb above a shimmering ice lake, embracing the essence of winter’s charm.

For Six word Saturday

Icicles hanging from a branch over a reflective ice lake, capturing the beauty of winter.

Saturday Classic – 14.2

Saturday Classics

This week Saturday Classic is a classic and with a good message it features Graham Nash’s song “Teach Your Children,”I think it says it all. I know it’s valentine’s Day but no love songs from me. Only you need to have a code you live by. Love is a good one.

The video is a collaboration between Graham Nash and celebrated filmmaker and animator Jeff Scher.

The imagery frames the youth-led liberal activism of 2018 against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement and Peace demonstrations of the 1960’s, providing a powerful visual aid to Graham Nash’s relevant-as-ever appeal to teach not only our children but also our parents well.

“I wrote Teach Your Children because we have much to teach them. Conversely, I believe we as parents have much to learn from them as well. I think that Jeff Scher did a wonderful job of animating my lyrics and positioning the song in a contemporary setting.” – Graham Nash (2018)

Fresh coat of snow

Captures from Finland, Photography

We got a fresh coat of new light snow as the weather is continuing to be cold 🥶 but it looks really pretty in my backyard.

Snow covered trees
Trees on the hill
A serene winter scene showcasing trees blanketed in fresh snow against a clear sky.
Evergreens under snow
Man at work

Random Encounters: Street Photography Reflections

Cities

We were cautioned about the significant issue of homelessness during our visit to San Francisco several years ago; I’m uncertain about the current situation, but I doubt it has improved significantly. Still, I hope it has. It was quite disheartening to see as we drove through the city; these random shots reflect that experience. RDP Friday: Random

A random shot taken from the car of a person carrying a large mattress walks past an Italian restaurant on a San Francisco city street.
A man struggles to carry a mattress along a city street under a stop light
A personon city sidewalk near a restaurant.

Photographs of Everyday Life: Moments Captured

People, Photography

People watching is one of the things I enjoy most, as it allows me to observe the intricate dance of human interactions and emotions. Here are some photos of the results of doing so, each snapshot telling a unique story of a moment in time. Whether it’s a pair of friends sharing a laugh, a couple lost in conversation, or a solitary figure deep in thought, these images capture the essence of life unfolding around us.

Click the gallery to see better or scroll quickly up to you to explore a variety of images and details that can give you a more immersive experience. Never Lose Hope is good message 😀 As you can see from the amount of images I do like this topic.

CWWC – Deb’s Which Way Challenge: with people unaware

Calm Moments Behind Open Door

Photography, Traveling Sri Lanka
A view from an open door showcasing a serene waterfront and a rustic wooden chair.

For Dans Thursday Doors this time I am just leaving you with this calm view from a monastery in Sri Lanka, where the serene landscape creates a peaceful atmosphere.

Understanding Circles vs. Rounds

Black and White photos, Photography

This got me thinking about the nuances between circles and rounds. I try to be as accurate as I can when I participate in challenges 😂, as if it really matters that much in the grand scheme of things. Yet, there’s something strangely satisfying about getting it right. So, I thought I would take some time to refresh and confirm my knowledge on the topic.

The differences between circles and rounds are primarily based on their definitions and geometrical properties. A circle is a two-dimensional shape defined as the set of all points in a plane that are equidistant from a fixed point known as the center. In contrast, the term “round” refers to the general quality of being circular or spherical, which can apply to various shapes and objects, not limited to geometric circles. Moreover, while a circle has a precise mathematical definition with specific formulas for its area and circumference, “round” can be more subjective, describing items that appear curved or circular without adhering to strict geometric rules.

These are the images I decided to share with Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #53: Circles and Going Around in Them Guest host Dawn: Monochrome Madness #53: Circles The last one well… it is a ⭕

A modern circular skylight illuminating a spacious interior, casting intricate shadows on the floor as visitors explore the space.
A performer showcasing impressive acrobatics while balancing on a pedestal in a spotlight.
A monochrome view through a circular opening, framing a landscape of trees and clouds.
A cat resting next to a circular mirror, capturing its reflection in a monochrome setting.
An artistic arrangement of rings captured in monochrome, highlighting their circular forms.
A monochrome image of a Ferris wheel with a ‘Helsingfors’ sign in the foreground, capturing the essence of circular shapes.
Sign marking the Arctic Circle, surrounded by snowy trees.

The Allure of Siberian Iris

Flowers, Photography

I’m participating in The Flower Hour by sharing these images of Siberian Iris, showcasing the classic hue of a deep, vibrant purple.

A vibrant purple iris and intricate details and patterns.
A vibrant purple iris flower in full bloom,

Coffee Break Photography

Captures from Finland, Photography

I had to run some errands and took the opportunity to have a coffee break. And being Monday, why not take a few new photos for today from the cafe? I took a cozy seat by the window just for that reason, allowing the sunlight to illuminate my space. As I sipped my coffee, I looked around, hoping to find something else interesting to capture through IPhone. The people engaged in conversations, the barista expertly crafting intricate latte art, and the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the air. A perfect setting for a spontaneous photography.

Monday Window: 9 February 2026

A cozy cafe scene capturing the reflective glass and architecture, paired with the bustle of the city outside.
A view of modern architecture reflecting blue skies, with window numbers visible from a cozy café.
Illuminated modern hanging lights reflecting on a cafe window.
Enjoying a Hazelnut nougat latte with a delicious Finnish pistachio cinnamon bun at the cafe. Delicious 😋

Flowers, Photo Collage, Photography

Värikollaasi #485 Color Collage

Color of light is an interesting idea for a color.

Light itself contains all colors, appearing white when combined, yet it consists of a spectrum of colors—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet—each with a unique wavelength. 

Color of light

Lens Artists Photo Challenge #386 – What Astonishes You?

lens-artists, Nature, Photography

What have you seen or experienced that has astonished you? Beth from Wandering Dawgs asked.

Beth was inspired by these words by Mary Oliver from her poem “Sometimes” for this weeks challenge.

Pay attention

Be astonished

Tell about it”

I have been astonished many times in my lifetime by children, people, young and old, revealing layers of beauty and complexity in humanity. So often by nature, I find myself in awe of the vibrant colors of a sunset, the intricate patterns of leaves, and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Each moment is a reminder of the wonder that surrounds us, and I cherish these experiences, life’s fleeting magic. The older I get more I appreciate the small wonders that surround me.

A snuggling, newborn, embodying the astonishment of new life. I have experienced this miracle three times, this is me with my first born nearly 36 years ago. Photo Martti Sillanmäki which I edited.

I lived in Las Vegas many years ago, and I was astonished by the nature of the desert, with its stunning, expansive views that stretched endlessly beneath a brilliant blue sky. The rock formations in the Valley of Fire, with their vibrant hues of red and orange, seemed almost otherworldly, as if a painter had splashed the landscape with bold colors. I was especially fascinated by how much life there is in the desert, from resilient cacti standing tall against the harsh conditions to small creatures that thrive despite the intense heat and dryness. Each visit revealed new wonders, as the desert’s beauty and complexity continued to surprise and captivate me, showcasing the remarkable adaptability of nature.

Enlarge the images in the collage by clicking them for a better view.

Mojave desert, Valley of Fire

THose who follow me know; I am always impressed and taken by the power of water is truly astonishing; it manifests in various forms such as the vastness of the sea, the depth of the ocean, the swift flow of rivers, and the majestic splendor of waterfalls. Each of these elements have the relentless force and beauty of water, which can provide life and nourishment while also possessing the ability to create destruction. The gentle pitter-patter of rain, for instance, can refresh the earth and bring forth new growth, yet in larger quantities, it can lead to floods that reshape landscapes and communities. From the tranquil lakes reflecting the sky to the raging torrents of rivers carving through mountains, water is indeed a vital and powerful element of our world.

Mountains captivated me at every glance, their grandeur towering sharply against the skyline, with their immense presence enveloping them in a nurturing hug. The sunlit, snow-draped summits shimmer in the warmth, while the rugged ground narrates stories of age-old geological events. Surrounding forests flourish with vitality, their lush green shades strikingly set off by the stark whites and grays of the summits. The air is invigorating and clear, rich with the aroma of pine, the numerous pathways and hollows that weave through this stunning terrain.

I am going to stop here. I have added way too many photos, but that is due to the fact that nature always, constantly amazes me with its incredible beauty and diversity. From lush green forests to serene mountain ranges, deserts, there is an endless variety of landscapes to explore and appreciate. When we travel, we mostly look for natural sights to see that inspire awe and a sense of wonder. I love capturing nature, be it landscapes or close-ups, as each photograph tells a story and preserves a moment in time that can be cherished forever. Look and see – pay attention, and you will be astonished by the intricate details and the vibrant colors that surround us every day, reminding us of the magic that exists in the world.

Last week, Tina welcomed us with a theme centered around Shapes and Designs. The world is teeming with inspirational creations, many of which are derived from nature. Our designs, whether in architecture, fashion, or the everyday items we utilize, reflect this connection. This was clearly visible in the photos we all contributed.

I hope you will join in for this week’s challenge. Share us what astonishes you. Be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to Beth’s post.

Be sure to check back on Saturday, February 14, at noon Eastern Time, when I will once again host; I know it’s Valentine’s Day, still, I hope you will join me then. Until then, let’s continue to explore, expand our knowledge and stay positive ❤️

We are Lens-Artists: Tina , Patti , Ann-Christine, John, Sofia , Anne , Egidio, Beth , and me Ritva,

To learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.

Looking from in from the outside

Captures from Finland

I don’t have any new images for this, but here are a few of looking in windows of shops and cafes. I’m participating in One Word Sunday: outside in with images captured in Helsinki.

A lively storefront inviting customers to ‘Design Your Own’ personalized accessories, featuring interactive design stations and colorful decor.
Evening view of Gateau, a charming bakery and patisserie in Helsinki, showcasing a variety of baked goods.
A man enjoys a quiet moment with a newspaper and coffee at a charming café, while a woman observes from inside.
A stylish window display of cozy alpaca garments and a fashionable mannequin setup and a sales person on the phone.

Participating in One Word Sunday: outside in with shots from Helsinki.

Spontaneous Mobile Shot: A Lightbulb

Captures from Finland, Photography, Still life
A close-up of a colorful light bulb featuring vibrant purple bubbles and reflections.

A spontaneous shot of a light/lightbulb I saw caught my eye. I fancied how it looked and quickly decided to take a shot, capturing the essence of the moment in a single frame. At the time, I had no idea where to use it, as it didn’t fit into any particular theme I was working on. However, after giving it some thought, I realized that it would be perfect to share in John’s Cellpic Sunday. Mobile photography does make it easy to capture these small observations, as it is always handy.

Saturday Classics – cold little heart

Photography, Saturday Classics

This is so sad, and at the same time beautiful. Cold Little Heart by Michael Kiwanuka is my choice for this week for Saturday Classics. The haunting melody, combined with the deep emotional lyrics, creates an atmosphere that truly captivates. I am not going to explain this any further; it just resonates with me on a profound level. The way his voice intertwines with the rich guitar sound adds layers of depth, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia that I find incredibly moving. It’s a song that invites reflection and solace.

A talented singer-songwriter with a rich voice, Michael Kiwanuka gained fame in 2012. Raised in Muswell Hill, London, by Ugandan parents, he started as a session guitarist before signing with Communion Records after performing at acoustic gigs. His debut album, Home Again (2012), showcased his talent with a mix of soul, folk, and neo-soul, reaching number four in the UK charts. In 2016, he released Love & Hate, which topped the UK Albums Chart, featuring the popular track “Cold Little Heart” used in the HBO series Big Little Lies. He released his third album, Kiwanuka, in November 2019, followed by his fourth album, Small Changes, in 2024.

Artwork by me, not in any way related to the song, other than inspired by “Cold Heart,” but done in warm tones.

Art is a meditative relaxation experience.

Photography
A collection of vibrant watercolor paintings showcasing abstract designs and expressive faces.

For Debbies Six Word Saturday

Winter Photography: Enchanting Icy Landscapes

Captures from Finland, Photography

I enjoy capturing the details of winter; these were not taken recently, but they have been recently edited. I love how I was able to find new, interesting, and beautiful aspects while doing this, and I am happy to continue sharing my winter finds.

Icicles formed on rocks and branches by a flowing stream.

Icicles, resembling the sharp teeth of the season, elegantly hang from branches and rugged rocks, forming a scene that is both picturesque and enchanting, ideal for photography. A blanket of sparkling white snow covers the ground, beneath the soft winter sunlight, while a partially frozen stream winds gently through the landscape. It was quite chilly. The icy stones along the banks provide an artistic element to the surroundings, reflecting the glimmering light as the water flows softly over them. The fragile beauty of frozen grass, embellished with countless shimmering icicles, amplifies the wintry allure, instilling a sense of peace and awe. This breathtaking landscape captures the essence of winter’s beauty; it’s wonderful to take a moment to appreciate the serene, cold elegance crafted by nature.

Winter water scene featuring a partially frozen stream with icy rocks and flowing water.
Icicles form on snow-covered branches, winters teeth.
Icicles forming on a rocky surface.
Close-up of icicles and freezing water droplets on a rocky surface.
Frozen grass adorned with icicles, captured in a partially frozen stream
A serene winter scene featuring a partially frozen stream with snow-covered rocks and frosty branches.

I added a gallery of the same images if you wish to look at them enlarged.

Stairways and Doors of Hvitträsk

Captures from Finland, Landscapes, Photography

Hvitträsk I have introduced you before in a few posts, and a few more may be on the way. This time I am showing you doors, doorways, and stairways, highlighting the beautiful and intricate details that make each entry unique. The craftsmanship evident in the woodwork and the architectural design invites you to appreciate the artistry behind these structures. I tried to take photos that look interesting and capture the essence of Hvitträsk’s charm; this is the outcome for Dan’s Thursday Doors. Several photos even showcase some interior views, allowing you a glimpse into the rooms connected by these stunning doorways, each telling a story of its own through the combination of natural light and decorative elements that complement the overall aesthetic of the space.

An artistic interior view of Hvitträsk featuring unique furniture and architectural details.

Nature’s Artistry

Flowers, Photography

For this week’s edition of Flower Hour Weekly for Terri, I’ve rummaged through my archives in search of inspiration and beauty. I haven’t purchased any new flowers for the vase, and nature currently offers only evergreens and snow, so my choices are quite restricted, leaving me to reflect on the stunning blooms I’ve captured in the past. These flowers are nature’s artistry in my mind; they delight me even when we are surrounded by the stillness of winter.

Blooming flower of giant granadilla or giant passion fruit (Passiflora quadrangularis)

A blooming flower of giant granadilla (Passiflora quadrangularis) nestled among vibrant green leaves against backlight.

monochrome Shots of Daily Life

Black and White photos, Photography

Here is my entry for Monochrome-Madness I think these are my newest photos taken, so I am going to use them for this week’s post. They are just snapshots of urban city life that I took with my cell phone, capturing fleeting moments that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of daily life. I love how the editing can change the mood of the photographs, transforming simple scenes into evocative imagery.

A sepia-toned photograph capturing a moment on an escalator, mother and her two daughters, the tone evoking a sense of nostalgia.

These were taken a few minutes apart, but the sepia tones add nostalgia to the first one, evoking a sense of timelessness that draws the viewer in. The second two are more recent shots; I played with the other, adding color to the person on the escalator, creating a striking contrast against the monochrome background that emphasizes their presence. This technique not only highlights the subject but also evokes a feeling of aloneness amidst the chaos.

I would love to hear any thoughts about these shots and how they resonate with you, as feedback is always appreciated

A monochrome view of an escalator in a bustling shopping center, capturing the movement and vibrancy of urban life.
A solitary figure stands by the escalators in a bustling urban space, captured in striking monochrome.

the Stillness of a Winter Night

Captures from Finland, Photography

Cold and bright night,
moon shines high,
trees shimmer with frost,
whispering secrets in the winter sky.
Each breath a cloud,
every shadow a ghost,
the world wrapped in silence,
a beauty, a host,
like a scene on a postcard.
Smoke rises gently from the chimney,
stars blink down in their velvet attire,
as whispers of dreams float higher and higher.
February’s breath, crisp and clear.

That is what it was like when we came home Sunday evening.

A winter night illuminated by a bright moon, highlighting frosted trees and a peaceful snowy landscape.

A winter night, frosted trees and a sparkling blanket of snow under the glowing streetlamp.
A winter night showcasing frost-covered trees under a bright full moon.

One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge in February

Photography

One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge in February

I do get carried away when I do these edits; I am sorry about that. Your option is to look at only three 😁, but I just happened to create six versions because I had so many ideas swirling in my head. I was also thinking of posting them as a gallery, as at least on my computer when I look at galleries, I find that I see more details as they open up, allowing me to appreciate the nuances in each piece more thoroughly. The way the images transition really captures my attention and draws me in. So, I did both to give you a variety of choices; how do you see them, and which style do you prefer? I would love to hear your thoughts, as your feedback is invaluable to me.

A serene view of a bay with colorful fishing boats and a quiet shoreline, framed by lush greenery. The original image.
Orange and turquoise tones as a painting
More towards greys and muted tones more event texture
Painting -brush splatters, slightly blue tones
Inblue ones and painting light textures
Wll muted orange, turquoise and more contrast
A moody black and white photograph of boats docked at a waterfront, surrounded by lush trees and a cloudy sky.

Monday Window at night time

Captures from Finland, Interiors, Photography

This was taken yesterday evening as we were exiting a movie; I looked towards the window and also at the seating area of a restaurant. So much to see in this image if you look closely. You can see the apartment buildings towering in the background, their windows lit by light, the snow on the ground, a walking path between the buildings, and most obviously the reflections that capture the essence of this urban landscape. Monday Window: 2 February 2026

A cozy, modern dining area illuminated at night, with reflections on the windows.
Aerial view of a cozy restaurant interior featuring modern decor, wooden tables, and unique pendant lighting.