My name is Ritva. I am an avid, self-taught photographer from southern Finland, currently living in Kirkkonummi. Interest in life is evident in my diverse subjects, capturing anything that catches my eye. Whether it’s the delicate intricacies of a plant, the breathtaking beauty of a landscape, or the compelling energy of urban life, My lens finds and celebrates beauty in all its forms. Nature serves as an enduring wellspring of inspiration for me, as I seek out and immortalize its enchanting moments. Additionally, in portrait photography I try to capture human emotion and connection , as I aim to encapsulate the very essence of each fleeting moment.
I totally enjoy playing with photos and immersing oneself in the editing process. It’s truly satisfying to have the flexibility that shooting in RAW provides, opening up a world of possibilities for editing. I’m of the same mindset when it comes to photo editing; I prefer to maintain the authenticity of the moment captured, striving to avoid over-editing and keeping the essence of the shot true to life. However, I also appreciate the occasional opportunity to explore artistic expressions through my edits, transforming images into minimalist monochrome representations that beautifully convey the essence and emotion of the scene. Or using colors to enhance the mood of the image. This delicate balance between realism and artistic expression is what makes photo editing such a captivating endeavor for me.
Inspiration and ideas change. My knowledge changes and grows. Each piece I create is simultaneously an extension from the past, where I’ve come from and what I’ve learned, as well as a preview of the future, where I’m going.
I do not classify myself as just a photographer, as some might think from looking at my work. I am a sculptor, a painter, a photographer, an artist.
If a viewer stops for just a moment to view and reflect on a photograph, a photo collage or a painting I have created, then I have succeeded in my work.
I have often expressed that I enjoy editing photos, even though I tend to post mainly realistic images, having them look like I saw them. On that note, all of my images have been edited, mostly I adjust the light and contrast—highlights and shadows—to enhance the overall feel of the photograph. Contrast plays a crucial role in making certain elements stand out and giving depth to the image. I do it so that it reflects the image I saw in my mind’s eye—hence the title; the world as I see it. Photography, for me, is not just about capturing moments but also about expressing my unique perspective and interpretation of the scenes before me, allowing viewers to experience the beauty and intricacies that I wished to convey. Through careful editing, I strive to invite others into my vision, ensuring that they appreciate the subtleties that might go unnoticed in a more straightforward representation.
Original image without the edits other that cropping it.
I am going to start editing cityscapes, buildings, and industrial places in a more creative way. For a long time, I have wanted to venture towards this direction, and now I am excited to explore various artistic approaches that can bring a fresh perspective to my work. I plan to experiment with techniques such as dramatic lighting, unique angles, and vibrant color palettes to enhance the visual appeal of my photographs. By prioritizing these innovative methods in my editing process, I hope to creatively showcase buildings and cityscapes, transforming my photographs into something more artsy and captivating.
Converted to an black and white
I am going to explore various angles to highlight architectural details. Finding unique vantage points can elevate the way buildings are presented in your images. Adjusting contrast can enhance the structural elements of buildings, making them stand out.
Vintage or black-and-white filters can transform standard images into stunning artistic representations.
Blue and gray tones –
Use color grading to enrich urban atmospheres.. Pay attention to the distinct textures found in urban environments, such as brickwork or glass in post-processing to create depth and interest in your cityscape photos. Play with the color tones in the image.
Fishing dock, placing the interest in the subject matter and bright colors
Use filters to create effects that align with the character of buildings and cityscapes.
Fishing Dock in warm tone and still focusing on the bright subjects
I was trying to find a name for this plant, commonly known as Bishop’s goutweed, Bishop’s weed, Ground-elder, or Herb gerard. Regardless of its various titles, it is a perennial, winter seeder, herbaceous plant that thrives in many different environments and has a fascinating life cycle. Its ability to spread rapidly makes it a frequent garden challenge. In Finland, we affectionately call it talventörröttäjä, which translates to “Winter stickout,” a name that captures its resilience against the harsh winter elements.
Watching the lights across the road, the kelvins seem to be low as all the windows glow in a warm yellow color, casting an inviting aura that contrasts sharply with the icy chill outside. The atmosphere feels cosy, as if the world is wrapped in a gentle embrace of light, creating a sanctuary amid the frosty scenery. Even though the wind blows snow sideways outside the building, the warmth emanating from the interiors provides a sense of comfort and peace.
Weather is always a fascinating topic in Finland, as it is often unpredictable and has a significant impact on daily life. Always safe. Today, for example, we have experienced a mix of snow, slush, and drizzle coming down on us, creating a rather dreary yet quintessentially Finnish atmosphere. Even with the gray sky looming overhead, which is certainly not a pleasant sight, the temperature remains relatively mild for winter standards at +1.4°C. but it does little to brighten the overall mood on such a gloomy day. This warmth is not the best temperature in winter; I think I prefer something between -3°C and -5°C, with no wind.
Just the other day, the wind blew wildly, causing slush to accumulate on the windows facing east and west, painting a messy but intriguing picture of the weather’s influence on our surroundings. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to capture this moment, and so I took several photos of the slushy windows, hoping to convey the unique elegance of Finland’s winter weather, even when it is less than ideal.
My phone brought me a memory from nine years back, and well, it was truly a blessing to revisit that moment. As I scrolled through the gallery, I stumbled upon a picture that seemed so suitable for this occasion. At that time, my mobile phone camera was not so great, the quality of the stunning scene in front of me does not do justice to the building. I did try to edit it in three different ways to enhance its clarity and colors. And obviously I started with the monochrome version.T his particular snapshot was taken in a beautiful church in Goa, India, known for its intricate architecture.
It is dark outside, and the quiet of the night envelops everything in a serene way I am ready to go to bed. In contrast, there is a soft light in the corridor, the wall are covered with bookshelves . The windows, covered with blinds, create a captivating pattern of lines, casting shadows. In – and outside is mixed the reflection on the window. The light of the seasonal light in my backyard snow in yellow glow.
I took these snapshots with my iPhone, and while the quality isn’t the best, they capture the essence of geometric square. My intention is to embrace the challenge of using new photos, to draw inspiration from the ordinary. I don’t think I will succeed in it completely, but I am committed to doing my best, knowing that every effort counts.
I was watching birds flying around on a cold day, and they kept returning to this tree, which stood majestically against the winter sky. The branches were covered with snow, creating a beautiful contrast with the winter colors of the birds as they flittered about. The tree was so far away that I was not able to get a good shot, which left me feeling a bit frustrated. Despite the distance, I did my best to capture the colors and clarity to a presentable level, but the quality was not quite on par with the stunning visuals I had hoped for.
Then I started playing with the Lightroom editing, experimenting with various effects, I did not use filters, and I ended up with these unexpected results that brought new life to my photos. I rather like them, as they reflect not just the scene but also the mood of that chilly day and the serene beauty of nature in a very minimalist way and monotone colors.
I am concentrating in this post on the narrow buildings with lots of windows from Brisbane, which exemplify the city’s unique architectural style and offer a striking visual contrast against the skyline. These structures, characterized by their sleek designs and expansive glass facades, allowing natural light to flood the interiors it’s fascinating to consider how their narrow profiles are utilized efficiently, maximizing space in the bustling urban environment. The abundance of windows not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also connects the vibrant outdoor landscape with the indoor spaces, creating a seamless integration of nature and city living. These were taken 6 years ago, don’t know how much the skyline has changed since then.
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.
Thanks for your company during the past year to my old and new blog friends! Your support and engagement have made this year truly special, and I cherish the connections we’ve created. I look forward to sharing not only the adventures that the coming year will bring but also the insights, stories, and experiences that we can exchange together. Here’s to a fantastic year ahead filled with creativity, collaboration, and even more memorable moments!
Stromfors Mill area buildingsUrajärvi mansionHvitträsk Kuivannon Meijeri
Dairy at Kuivanto An old log house in Seurasaari Museo areaCity Center / Sausage building (a nickname) One of the ugliest buildings in Helsinki and Helsinki railway station also under construction at the time of this photo.
I saw Brian’s post and was instantly reminded of the charming old-style boats that gracefully glide along the tranquil waters of the Chapora River in India. We had a truly lovely trip on this boat, soaking in the serene beauty of the surroundings as the sun dipped below the horizon. The gentle lapping of the water against the hull created a soothing melody, making it an unforgettable experience sleeping on the boat. The view from our cabin “window” was mostly water .-)
As I looked at these photos, I noticed my trusty red bag; I still travel with it, as its compact design and lightweight nature make it the most convenient for me to carry around, haven’t found a new one more convenient.
Just before Christmas, we experienced an unusually warm spell of winter weather, with temperatures soaring to a surprising +7°C (43°F) for a couple of days. This unexpected surge caused all the snow to melt away, leaving the landscape in a dull, uninspiring gray hue. The atmosphere has been heavy with drizzle and fog, shrouding everything in an almost melancholic veil, not very inspiring to say the least. the week ahead, it is supposed to get colder, and there’s even a possibility that we might see some snow, which could bring a much-needed touch of light and cheer to our surroundings. With the weather keeping me indoors, I have spent the last few days reading a books I’ve been meaning to get to, binge-watching my favorite TV series, and unfortunately, spending way too much time scrolling through social media. This endless cycle of news updates has so much depressing news, making it even more difficult to shake off the gloomy vibe.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 