Sofia is in search for our – Lucky Shots. Just like her my photography is largely influenced by chance. For me, I’d estimate that around 80% of it hinges on either the moment of capture or the editing process. This week, the request is to explore how that element of luck often results in our most remarkable images. Whether it’s being in the right spot at the right time, having faith in your camera, or experiencing pure serendipity, these unexpected moments create the types of shots that brighten our day.
A black and white photograph captures a group of six people crossing a street on a pedestrian crosswalk in Paris an urban setting. The figures are silhouetted against a misty backdrop, emphasizing their winter clothing and motion. The street is lined with tall, ornate lamp posts, and bare trees frame the scene on both sides. In the distance, a large classical dome-shaped building with a spire emerges through the haze, adding an atmospheric historical context to the image. This image is a quick click and I have always liked it – it somehow speaks to meThe image captures a breathtaking sunset over the ocean in Negombo in Sri Lanka, with the sun low on the horizon casting a warm, golden glow across the sky and water. Gentle waves roll towards the shore, reflecting the rich hues of orange, yellow, and hints of purple in the fading light. I was so lucky to capture the man silhouetted against the vibrant sunset engaged in kite surfing, suspended mid-air, creating a dynamic contrast to the serene natural setting. The scene evokes a sense of freedom and adventure amidst the tranquility of the evening sea.One lucky morning walk to the lake in September 2017 – Lake Ruuhijärvi. A scene during autumn the tall trees adorned in vibrant shades of orange and yellow leaves. The sunlight gently filters through the foliage, casting a warm golden glow across the landscape. In the foreground, a calm body of water reflects the colorful trees, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The overall composition conveys a peaceful and contemplative mood, highlighting the natural beauty of fall. A scenic coastal landscape in Northern California rugged cliffs and a sandy beach with waves gently washing ashore. The foreground shows earthy, textured soil and lush green shrubbery covering parts of the cliffs, while the ocean extends into the distance under a bright blue sky. Several seagulls are seen flying above the water, adding life to the tranquil scene. The horizon blends soft clouds with clear skies, creating a peaceful and natural atmosphere and that is what I love and this has such a holiday fibe to me.The image captures a large, lush green tree standing prominently against a backdrop of a clear blue sky with soft clouds in Crete. Beneath the tree, several chairs and tables are arranged, some occupied by a few people who appear to be seated comfortably in the shade. The ground is light-colored, sandy, and the scene conveys a peaceful, coffee moment. A road curve is visible in the foreground, adding depth and framing the natural and human-made elements harmoniously. I was once again taking macro shots of these flowers and lucky me. I was so happy to see this small cluster of delicate white forget me not flowers with yellow centers arranged in a heart shaped formation. I The flowers stand out sharply against a lush green background, which is softly blurred to emphasize the blossoms. A single blade of grass crosses over the flowers diagonally, adding a natural and dynamic element to the composition. The overall mood is fresh, highlighting the simple beauty of nature in spring, early summer
The last one is lucky in many ways 😊so I set it as the featured image.
The Piedras Blancas Rookery is the only elephant seal rookery in the world that is easily accessible, in San Simeon on Highway 1. we by accident came across it. I was able to capture a large group of elephant seals is seen resting closely together on a sandy beach. The seals vary in shades from light gray to dark brown, with pronounced textures on their skin showing natural folds and wrinkles. One seal in the center raises a flipper toward its head, luckily I caught it, adding a touch of individuality to the otherwise uniform cluster of animals.
How wonderful it is to capture the shot of your dreams when all you had to do was press the button and let luck take care of the rest. I don’t know if these are the luckiest shots, but I do like them a lot. I hope you enjoy reminiscing about those fortunate moments and share them with us. Don’t forget to link back to Sofia’s post and tag Lens-Artists, so we can all discover your work easily in the Reader.
Last week Patti’s challenged focused on working with the three grounds as compositional tools and it was great to see your takes on this theme. John returns with our next challenge on Saturday, April 18th 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.
Oh my, some of these shots are pure works of art. The fall scene is magnificent, but the heart-shaped flowers get the top prize. How lucky can one be to see that? Great gallery.
Beautiful choices as always Ritva. My favorites are that glorious golden surfer captured as he flew over the waves and the golden morning on the lake. I also loved the flowery heart – amazing!
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 
What a great collection of images … my favorites are the second image and the last … rare moments…amazing presence
A beautiful gallery, Ritva! So many perfect photos. Good photographers make their own good luck. >grin<
Ritva, these are all excellent images. The sunset with the surfer is stunning.
That autumn scene is staggeringly beautiful, Ritva, and I love your opening shot too. Sometimes someone walking into your shot absolutely makes it.
Do you folks know in advance what the theme is going to be? Your responses are so fast xx
These are all wonderful, but ina great selection, that seal one is truly special. What a moment!
Such beautiful images Ritva. I especially like the lone tree, seal, and silhouette surfer.
A beautiful set of photos, Ritva.
Oh my, some of these shots are pure works of art. The fall scene is magnificent, but the heart-shaped flowers get the top prize. How lucky can one be to see that? Great gallery.
Beautiful choices as always Ritva. My favorites are that glorious golden surfer captured as he flew over the waves and the golden morning on the lake. I also loved the flowery heart – amazing!