As has become our custom, we are asking our followers to select their favorite images of 2024 – whether they’ve been included in previous posts or not. This week, no single host will present the challenge. The entire team will share the challenge topic today.
These are some of the images and edits that I shared this year. Each piece reflects a moment in time that I’ve captured, representing my personal vision as a photographer. Favorite, aah, I like them they say something about me as a photographer and what I like my images to have in them. They convey emotions, stories, inviting them to see the world through my lens. Whether it’s the play of light, the composition, or the subject matter, every detail, aiming to evoke a sense of connection and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.
Mood and contrast – I like that about the image and the color scheme, as they create a captivating atmosphere that draws the viewer in. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the overall depth, making the scene feel more dynamic. Additionally, the choice of colors complements the subject. This thoughtful combination not only highlights the details but also contributes to the emotional tone.
I love the woods, where the tall trees stand majestically, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze, and the small country roads that wind gracefully through the landscape. This scene captivates me deeply, especially during autumn when the vibrant colors paint the world in shades of red, orange, and gold. The beauty of the foliage creates a breathtaking backdrop, and I find solace in the tranquility of nature. The composition, with its leading line that disappears down to the unknown, invites curiosity. e.
Once again, the mood of this shot captivates me. Some of my favorite people are in it, sharing a moment that feels both timeless and fleeting. The sea, with its rhythmic waves, and the clouds overhead create a stunning backdrop—seaside scenery has always appealed to me. A cloudy day often gives it the extra element of drama and intrigue that makes it particularly interesting, enhancing the colors of the landscape. As I gaze at this scene, I can’t help but reflect on the laughter and stories shared.
Surprise – once again at the seaside. I watched the pelican trying to catch fish, it’s graceful movements slicing through the air, showcasing their skill and precision. The sunlight sparkled on the water’s surface, reflecting vibrant hues of blue and green, I like the movement, the colors in this shot, capturing not just the beauty of the moment but also the exhilarating energy of nature all around me as the salty breeze carried the sounds of the sea and the calls of seabirds.
The best time to experience early summer in Finland is undoubtedly in the evening light, as captured in this photograph taken around 10 PM. During this magical hour, the sun lingers on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape. You can see the dandelion field, lush and vibrant, just before their seeds dance away on the gentle breeze, creating a stunning sight that epitomizes the fleeting beauty of summer. The beautiful green tones, so typical of this time of year, shimmer under the soft light, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere,fully embracing the serene splendor of Finland’s natural beauty.
I named this lipstick sunset and boats in the marina – lovely tones that evoke a calm mood, reminiscent of warm evenings spent by the water, where the sky is painted in shades of red and pink as the sun dips below the horizon, and the gentle sway of the boats creates a serene atmosphere, inviting you to relax and enjoy the beauty unfolding before your eyes.
This image is abstract, but it also works as ICM. The movement in it captures the start of newlyweds moving toward their future. This scene means a lot to me, symbolizing the excitement and unpredictability of starting a new life together. The colors blend, making it more than just a picture; it’s a shared experience of moving forward.
One more image, a new one. My husband and youngest grandson at his first Christmas. Love.
Thank you all for joining in the memory lane photos; As we step into the New Year, new challenges await us starting next week, offering fresh opportunities for creativity and expression. I an happy to share that Anne from Slow Shutter Speed will once again grace us with her photographic journey, inspiring us with a new theme Saturday, January 11, at noon EST. Expect to see not only stunning and lovely photos that showcase her unique perspective but also inspiring words that will accompany them, encouraging us all to join in. Let’s embrace this new adventure together with open hearts and imaginations!
Please remember to link your post here, or to any or all of the other Lens-Artists team members. Also, remember to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 
Beautiful images.
Thank You ❤
Ritva, what a wonderful collection of your favorite images from last year. I love them all but if I had to pick a favorite it would be the lipstick sunset and boats at the marina.
Thank You ❤ , Glad you found a favorite
As always, beautiful images and narrative Ritva! I enjoyed the stories behind each photo and your attachment to it.
Thank You ❤ Anne
This is a beautiful collection of images Ritva, made much more interesting by your descriptive and philosophical musings. To finding more beauty in the new year.
Thank You <3, I find writing a bit of a challenge, glad you liked it
As usual, a beautiful gallery, Ritva! My favorites are the trail in the woods, and the boats at sunset.
Thank You ❤ John. Nature and sea…
These are wonderful as always Ritva. I kept changing my mind about my favorite as I went through your post and thought I’d settled on the evening light in Finland. But then….I came upon your last image. It is an amazing portrait of both your husband and your grandchild. The lighting is superb and captures both of them beautifully. Terrific post!
Thank You ❤ Tina, the portrait was taken by the Xmas tree, so it was a soft light that came out better as a BNW image.
I agree with Tina. I kept putting my favourite in the memory bank but gave up as they are ALL so good. Now my favourites too Ritva 🥰
Thank You ❤ Brian
Ritva, your photos are always so full of beauty and mood. This gallery is fascinating. It’s hard to pick one favorite alone, but the second and last images are my picks.
Thank You ❤ Egídio, , they seem to appeal most to many
Sight, Ritva. Your shots are stunning and exploded with your writing. Happy New Year.
Thank You <3, glad you enjoyed them both.
Beautiful selection – the photo of your grandson is adorable!!
Thank You ❤ Nora, the boy is adorable 🙂
Beautiful. The picture of you husband and grandson is wonderful.
Thank you Marie
There’s a little bit of you in every shot and that it’s what makes them so spectacular. I’ll never get tired of your landscapes and I also love your last one, a magical, loving moment.
Thank You ❤ Sofia
A very interesting selection. I like your photographic vision.
Thank You ❤ Ana
How did you pick favourites from such a strong field?
I just chose some, I don’t know if these are absolute favorites, but they are at the top.
All such beautiful images and your explanations about why you selected them are equally lovely. No one captures a mood quite like you do! I love the seaside shot, the dandelion field and the wedding couple in particular 🙂 Your timing for the pelican was perfect, and what a special image of your husband and grandson to close the set!
Thank You ❤ Sarah for your kind words
A beautiful gallery Ritva, they each tell a story and I especially love how you captured the newly-weds and your husband with your youngest grandson 💛
Thank You <3; the last one seems to hit the sweet spot. Must be the Love.
They all are amazing, Ritva! The pelican is a great shot and yes, luck had a lot to do with it (but isn’t that often the case?’) but I adhore the monochrome double portrait.
Here are mine: https://picturesimperfectblog.com/2025/01/05/reluctant-favourites/
Birds are not my expertise, lucky shots mostly. Glad you liked it. And The last one.. love. Thank You ❤
What a stunning collection, Ritva! Beautiful scenes, beautiful light, and the portrait of your husband and new grandson is priceless.
Thank You ❤ Patti. it must be the Love that comes across
Yes, it does!
From all your beauties here, in the light so special for you – the last one is my favourite. You not only are a perfect nature photographer, but also a portrait pro. Wish you a new year filled with love and nice surprises!
The newlyweds ❤️
Nice post dear
Thanks ❤
Beautiful images. I always look forward to your portraits with their lovely low lights
Thanks 🙂
Captivating photos, each with a special quality. Hard to find a favorite, though I especially like the autumn pathway in the tall trees, and the Pelican – great capture!
Beautiful pictures as always, Ritva, and wonderful insight on composition! Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Here is my post on Favorites in 2025: https://mycolorfulexpressions.com/lens-artists-photo-challenge-330-favorite-photos-in-2024/