Lens-Artists Challenge #280 – Last Chance

lens-artists, Photography

This week Tina asks us to look at Last Chance photos. 

The “rule” is that your chosen photographs must have been taken in 2023, and must not have been included in response to any of our 2023 challenges.

I could view this as a wonderful opportunity to embrace the cozy ambiance of the winter season. Although the days may be shorter, I choose to focus on the beauty that awaits as they gradually begin to lengthen once more in few days time. Instead of dwelling on a recent illness just before Christmas, I find joy in the fact that my fever has subsided. Life presents us with countless choices, and I firmly believe that our attitude holds the power to shape our experiences. Let us embrace the positivity that surrounds us.

Photography can be pretty overwhelming with all the choices to make. Huge issue :-) What should I post? What should I skip? I feel like I suck at this because I always end up posting too many photos.

Well sometimes one needs to look through the magnifying glass to see :-) This was taken on as idle moment in my living room. Odd one for sure, not category to place this photo.

Tinka my pretty little cat is well documented in loads of photos.

Birch trees by the lake. This is taken early spring, I like the the light an reflection and oddly the composition is balanced even though it is very busy scene.
Calm – time to reflect. Moment captured in the botanical garden in Helsinki.
Staying in the subject of calm, this is my summer place, the place to relax- and take photos.
Life can be full of storms at times literally and figuratively. ON life’s stormy highway .
Let the flowing water lead you to the…

Toward the calmer place, where everything seems to slow down, it is essential to focus on the smallest details and allow yourself to relax. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to find moments of tranquility.

When we pay attention to the details, we open ourselves up to a whole new world of experiences. Whether it’s the delicate petals of a flower, the intricate patterns of a pussy willow, or the subtle flavors in a warm bread, a tacky selfie, or a delicate bottle fill of craftmanship these elements invite us to immerse ourselves fully in the present moment. By slowing down and observing the nuances around us, we can cultivate a heightened sense of awareness and find solace in the ordinary.

I find photography helps me in this, see the world through the lens of my camera

As the sun gently dips below the horizon, casting its warm golden glow across the tranquil landscape, I find myself drawn to this serene moment at my happy place. The vibrant hues of orange and pink dance across the sky, creating a breathtaking symphony of colors that captivate my soul.

There’s a certain enchantment in witnessing a sunset, a magical interplay between light and darkness that holds a deeper meaning. It serves as a reminder that every ending carries the promise of a new beginning, a chance to reflect on the day’s experiences and embrace the beauty of what lies ahead.

In this fleeting moment of tranquility, I find solace and renewed inspiration. It’s a time for introspection, for letting go of the worries and stresses that might have consumed the day. As the sun bids farewell to the world, it invites me to let go of the past and embrace the present, to appreciate the simple joys that surround me in my happy place.

But as the sun’s rays slowly fade, I know that this moment is ephemeral. It serves as a reminder to seize each opportunity, to cherish the people and places that bring us joy, and to make the most of this precious gift of life.

At this point I wish to thank Amy for many inspiring posts and hope you enjoy your travels and seize each opportunity on the journey

25 thoughts on “Lens-Artists Challenge #280 – Last Chance”

  1. This is a marvelous response for the week Ritva. I loved every image as well as the thoughts that went with them. I especially loved your closing thoughts this week. I could choose every image as a favorite so I won’t choose any, I’ll just say I loved them all. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season.

  2. Great images for this challenge Ritva. They are all beautiful and I can’t believe that they didn’t make it into a challenge. I didn’t know you were sick but I’m glad you’re feeling better. Soon the weather will permit new and wonderful photo opportunities. Take care! Happy New Year!

  3. Ritva, never too many photos when you post images such as the ones you featured here. I began looking at them and thinking I liked this one best. Then, I’d go to the next and think the same. It’s hard not to marvel at that beautiful sunset or the birch trees or everything else. I’m so happy this challenge gave us a chance to see such beautiful images. I’m also glad your fever has subsided.

  5. Oh my goodness, you know I loved this. You bring such a uniqueness to photography and it is always so well thought out. Your images always require study as sometimes there is something we should make sure not to miss, like the face in the knife. I imagine it was hard to find a few “second place”…to you.

    I am glad you are starting to feel better and thought you might take a break this week, and yet you eloquently weaved your mood and emotions into this weeks post. So much to say about this. On another note. I went on a long walk this morning with thoughts that mimic yours. The morning gifted me with a brilliant sunrise that was nothing less than a true gift. Thank your for this inspiring post. I am certain others will feel the same deep breath from it that I did.

    Favorites: the river and the birch trees today.

    1. Donna, I really do not know how to reply to such high praise, thanks ever so much. Early mornings are so peaceful and I rarely get up to see them, but when I do they are a gift. Unfortunately I am really tired, so I haven’t been a here commenting or replying. First time at the desk in a week.

  9. I truly enjoy your photos. Their drama and your artistic flair show up in every image you create, Ritva! My favorite in this set is your flowing water image. I’m so stealing that idea for my own interpretation. Maybe it will show up at the end of next year in my end-of-year choices. >grin<

  10. Ritva, so glad you are feeling better! Your images always make me want them to go on forever…don’t stop posting…keep them coming. They are so beautiful, magical and scandinavian – and your musings are wisely thought yhrough. The birch trees by the lake hold me in their arms and your last sunset at your happy place is a magnificernt finish (Finnish…)! Happy holidays!

  12. Pingback: Lens-ArtistPC-280-Last-Chance-2023 – WoollyMuses

Comments are closed.