This is a topic free week for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness and I am at the moment experimenting with editing, playing with light and contrast to see how subtle adjustments can dramatically affect the overall impact of an image. As you change the elements, such as brightness, shadows, and highlights, how does it change how you perceive the image? Each adjustment can convey different emotions, stirring distinct feelings or memories within the viewer. Not all the changes are big, yet they can significantly shift the mood of the photo, influencing where your attention is drawn and what stories are told through the visual. The interplay between light and shadow can create depth, drawing you deeper into the scene, while contrast can emphasize particular features, guiding your gaze in a more intentional way. What do you think, was it worth my time to do these edits?
A monochrome photograph capturing the interplay of light and shadow as visitors walk through a stylized architectural space.
A doorway at the War Memorial in Canberra, Australia. This architectural feature not only embodies the solemnity of the site but also symbolizes the passage between the past and present, wherein the sacrifices of countless individuals who served their country are honored. As one approaches the doorway, the intricate details and sturdy materials evoke a sense of reverence, signifying the importance of the history encapsulated within the memorial.
the interplay of light and shadow at a historical site, inviting viewers to reflect on their own memories.A view through an archway, showcasing visitors at a historic siteExploring the interplay of light and shadow at an architectural site, inviting viewers to consider how subtle edits influence perception.A monochrome image capturing a doorway leading to a scenic view, accentuating the interplay of light and shadow.
Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #41: Movement was a bit of a head-scratcher for me at first. I found myself pondering what movement actually meant and how on earth I could represent it in my photos. The sea and waves seemed like the obvious choices, but honestly, can water really convey that captivating essence of motion? As I mulled over this theme, I came across a few other ideas, like birds soaring and kids playing around, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m not quite capturing movement as I should. I’m left wondering if experimenting with different techniques and angles will even make a difference in truly conveying that feeling of motion in my shots.
A bird soaring over crashing waves.
Fishermen casting their lines against crashing waves on the rocky shore.
Dramatic black and white seascape showcasing turbulent waves under a stormy sky.
Children enjoying a moment by the waves on rocky outcrops
Children play with bubbles on a bustling promenade, capturing a moment of joy and movement.A dynamic view of blurred cars moving swiftly past urban architecture, capturing a sense of motion.
I was first a bit lost with this challenge; it’s not that I don’t enjoy taking backlit photos—quite the opposite, in fact. I find it a great way to capture atmosphere and mood, as there’s something inherently magical about the way light interacts with the subjects. However, I also recognize that no sunsets or sunrises should be featured if I’m not shooting directly towards the light source. This has prompted me to explore different angles and perspectives, allowing the light to create a sense of depth and intrigue in my images. Additionally, I made a conscious effort to avoid overly simplistic silhouette images, as I wanted my photographs to embody a more complex layering of shades and nuances of light. Each shot became an opportunity to experiment with subtle gradients and textures, enriching the overall visual narrative that I aimed to convey through my work. Hope you fell I succeeded in my effort.
My first is a side portrait of my grandsone sitting in front of a window.
A side portrait of a boy sitting by a window, showcasing the interplay of light and shadows.A forest scene, highlighting the intricate roots of a tree intertwined with rocks and foliage, showcasing the play of light and shadows. Location a forest in FinlandA serene view of a wooden pier extending into the dark waters, with dramatic clouds overhead, evoking a sense of tranquility and atmospheric depth. I used blue as the base color for this monotone image. Location FloridaA moody view of the coastline framed by trees, showcasing the beauty of nature in monochrome. Location Hyams Beach in NSW Australia A tranquil, winding road enveloped by lush trees, showcasing the interplay of light and shadow. Green tones in this image. Location NSW AustraliaA black-and-white/ monochrome image showcasing people walking through a modern, well-lit corridor, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadow. Maybe more sidelight than backlit, or is this semantics. Image from Serlachius museum in Mänttä Finland
This week I have thought about my learning curve, and one of the most interesting aspects is monochrome adjustments. I have come a long way from the first attempts .
At the canal
I posted these in color in a previous post few days ago. This how they look in monochrome.
Margaret is hosting Leanne’s Monochrome Madness this week. She thought it would be fun to explore those shots which, by accident, design, or clever editing, are monochrome in any colour but black and white. Let’s go…
Here I am going… I once again looked up the definition; photograph or picture developed or executed in black and white or in varying tones of only one colour.
My photo choices capturing varying shades of a single color, including green oak leaves, purple lilac flowers, and blue ocean scenes, exemplifying the concept through various serene landscapes.
A close-up of vibrant green oak leaves, showcasing different shades of green for the Monochrome Madness.
Purple lilac flowers representing monochrome in shades of color.
A serene depiction of the ocean in varying shades of blue, exemplifying a monochromatic color scheme.
Here are some monochrome edits, still not using black and white
A serene monochrome scene featuring a sailboat near a lighthouse, capturing varying shades of blue.A serene view of Blue mountains captured in varying shades of blue
A serene forest scene shrouded in mist, showcasing varying shades of green.
A monochrome landscape featuring varying shades of green, showcasing a mix of lush and barren trees against a cloudy sky.
I was softly observing Tinka grooming itself, a tender and instinctual behavior that truly resonates with the essence of what it means to be a cat. It fills my heart with warmth to realize that they invest so much of their day in maintaining their cleanliness and fur; this ritual is much more than a matter of hygiene—it offers them comfort and a profound connection to their environment. Cats are wonderfully clean animals, and in that quiet moment of watching Tinka, I felt a deep wave of appreciation for these simple acts that beautifully reflect the innate grace and tranquility these cherished companions bring into our lives. For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
Tinka the cat is self-grooming, showing the grace and tranquility of feline behavior.A moment of Tinka grooming itself, capturing the essence of feline grace and tranquility in black and white.A serene black and white portrait of Tinka, the cat, showcasing its graceful demeanor as it relaxes in a soft light.A close-up of Tinka , capturing its serene expression and delicate features in black and white.
Modes of Transport is an exciting topic that presents endless possibilities! I must commend our host Dawn from The Day After. for an idea with lots of possibilities. The world is filled with remarkable ways to travel, the ones I chose are some of the obvious ones! To keep things clear and focused, here are a few that stood out to me.
I have taken few shots of trams 😀
Vintage horse-drawn carriages, the historical modes of transport.
Few that travel by waters
An old, rusted tractor abandoned in a field,that shows the passage of time and the remnants of agricultural transport.
Transport with two wheels
Colorful public buses, but in B&W , the local transportation in Sri Lanka.
This week, our host Elke from pictures imperfect blog has presented a fascinating theme focusing on our colour images that are NATURALLY MONOCHROME. This refers, as I understand it, to images that appear devoid of color, resembling black and white photographs without any conversions applied.
Cloudy day
It’s almost impossible to find photos that show no color. Winter offers most opportunities to capture natural monochrome images
Winter shots Total mistStill life
These I found, hopefully they work for this prompt.
I am utterly enchanted by the beauty of old buildings, their majestic arches and rustic charm drawing me in, their textures revealing the stories of time in all their weathered glory. The intricate details and historical significance of these structures deeply captivate me. I adore how light dances and contrasts, creating a mesmerizing play across the surfaces, illuminating the unique features of each masterpiece. I captured these at Villefranche sur Mer, a town that radiates charm and character at every corner. Yet, I acknowledge a composition mistake; I inadvertently cut off the arch, an essential element that conveyed the building’s grandeur, while focusing on the door, a moment I didn’t realize while I took it. This experience serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity to fully immerse oneself in a scene before pressing the shutter, as every element weaves together the photograph’s story.
Same place, two strikingly different compositions of this narrow lane, and you find yourself captivated by entirely new aspects. Do you feel the same? The other image irresistibly draws your gaze towards the windows and shutters, despite offering a wealth of intricate details beyond its landscape counterpart. The interplay of light and shadow weaves a dynamic tapestry that elevates the textures of the buildings. Each detail enlightened, allowing us to revel in the artistry of the architecture. Above all, I love the contrast and the play of light here—the very essence of monochrome and black and white photography. It accentuates shapes and forms, urging us to dive deeper into the image, as the absence of color beautifully challenges us to discover elegance in both simplicity and complexity.
A narrow alleyway , featuring charming architecture, vintage windows, and softly illuminated cobblestones. It is just a absolute place for a click.
You cannot escape forests here – they are all around us, enveloping every corner of the landscape. Approximately 75 percent of Finland’s land area is covered by forest, creating a lush, green tapestry that supports an array of wildlife and offers countless opportunities for exploration.
I have had a forest right at my doorstep most of my life, from playing in the forest as a kid to taking walks in it as an adult, allowing me to witness the changing seasons, from the vibrant hues of autumn leaves to the serene blanket of snow during winter, each moment reinforcing the connection I feel with nature. The soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds provide a constant reminder of the peace that these natural havens can bring.
A misty forest scene and the beauty of our wooded landscape. This shot I took from my backyardThe birch trees, the inviting essence of a Finnish forest. The tall, slender trunks of spruce trees amid lush undergrowth amd fallen branches The natural beauty of the forest in KirkkonummiA black and white view of a forest path surrounded by tall trees, showcasing the beauty of woods
For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness this week I took some photos of spring, trying to capture the essence of renewal and vibrancy that this season brings.
A close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, captured in monochrome, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence.
Some plants are just slowly starting to show small buds of leaves, signaling the awakening of nature after the long, cold early spring. So I took a close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence against the backdrop of the slowly warming air. These two images are just slightly different, mainly by cropping.
Delicate buds emerging from tangled branches
I also added the color version just for no reason other than that I felt like it, wanting to give viewers a contrast that emphasizes the fresh greenery and the subtle hints of color that are beginning to emerge in the landscape.
Spring buds begin to emerge on delicate branches, finally signaling the arrival of the season.
This week, our host is from Bushboy’s World, Brian, with an great theme of Street lights by day or night. Feel free to choose between day or night, or even combine both—it’s entirely in your hands! I’ve also linked this to Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
Reflecting on my past visits to France and Monaco, I want to share these images of stylish streetlights illuminating the charming architecture and vibrant nightlife, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadows in these picturesque locations. I immediately thought of these images when I read the challenge for this week, such a good choice.
Elegant street light illuminating a scenic view in a Monaco, surrounded by lush foliage and mountains. This sepia tone suited this image.
The streetlights in Monaco are stylish for sure.
Two boats moored near a vintage street lamp.
Nice was such a great place for snapping streetlight photos! The old buildings and the way the streetlights were positioned made everything feel warm and cosy, and I just had to take tons of photos. I aimed to catch the light but also the lively vibe of the city, showing off the cool dance between shadows and light as night rolled in. When it got darker, those streetlights turned into little warm beacons, making it impossible not to hit the shutter.
A narrow, dimly lit street in Nice, and streetlights amidst old architecture.
A narrow, dimly lit street in Nice, showcasing elegant streetlights casting soft light on the tiled path.
The streetlights illuminate a narrow alley and ambiance of the architecture.
This is for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. I was browsing my photograph archive and found this image, which I don’t recall posting it before and now am wondering why ever not. It is rather striking and captivates the attention immediately. I think the composition draws you in, with lines and shapes that create a sense of movement. I took it in an art museum a couple of years back, where the play of light and shadow was particularly mesmerizing. I used slightly different editing on the images, and while they appear to be the same at first glance, the subtle yet distinct differences reveal themselves, especially with the stripes under her feet that add movement.
One again, I am so bad at giving an image a title, still in the learning process 🙂
The composition features lines and shapes that convey movement, enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow. Although similar to the other image, subtle editing differences reveal distinct details, particularly the stripes under the woman’s feet and this one having a flat muted surface
A woman on a floor installation featuring striking monochrome light patterns.
“I know that mirrors give us a false sense of confidence.” I continued. “The reflection that we see everyday has nothing to do with how others see us. The glass lies.” ― Rasmenia Massoud,
A reflective moment captured inside a vintage trolley in Savannah, highlighting the beauty of everyday life.A reflective black and white image showcasing a sleek car and a stylish building, embodying the theme of elegance and design in a car showA serene black and white reflection of trees in calm water, capturing the tranquility of nature in FloridaA monochrome image of reflective spheres capturing various reflections of the surrounding space in Florida.A contemplative moment captured in monochrome, featuring a woman gazing into a mirror, surrounded by candles and roses.A reflective orb capturing the surroundings in a monochrome aesthetic infront of Monaco casinoA monochrome photograph capturing rain droplets on a car window, reflecting the side mirror and blurred scenery beyond.
This week’s theme for Monochrome Madness is open, allowing for more flexibility in photo selection. I was drawn to a charming rustic house topped with a corrugated metal roof. Its inviting porch, adorned with a stack of chairs, complements a large tree providing shade right in the front. It simply beckoned me to capture its essence in a photograph – the chairs 🙂 .
The first monochrome image is stacked wooden chairs against a textured wall.
A part of this rustic building (winery)with a corrugated metal roof, featuring a porch with stacked chairs and a shaded tree.
When you pull back and take a wider shot, the wholeconsepth of the photo totally changes.
Moss popping up under melted snow – spring brings with it a vibrant renewal of life, as patches of green emerge from beneath the remnants of winter’s icy grip. The soft, velvety texture of the moss contrasts beautifully with browns of the earth, creating a picturesque landscape t the beginning of growth. Each little tuft of moss is a testament to nature’s resilience and its ability to flourish in even the harshest conditions, reminding us all of the cycles of life and the beauty of change.
Farmer in his/her tractors in the fields is a sight of spring for sure, as the sun peeks through the clouds and warms the earth, bringing life back to the soil after a long, cold winter. The rhythmic sound of the tractor plowing through the rich, dark earth creates a sense of renewal and hope, while vibrant green shoots begin to emerge, signaling the promise of a bountiful harvest ahead. The air is filled with the fresh scent of tilled soil.
Spring works
Oh the joy of getting rid of winter clothes and putting on the caps, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face as nature begins to wake from its slumber. The waters freed from under ice, shimmering and glistening in the light, if that is not spring, I don’t know what is. I love how the big brother here is holding on to the little brother, their bond of love and togetherness. So caring and loving,
Spring – You ride the bikes you have taken out of storage with your sweetheart, pedaling joyfully along the winding paths, heading to a secluded spot where you can fully embrace the warmth of the spring sun. This delightful moment is best experienced near a charming building that offers a sense of shelter, allowing you to relish the pleasant day without the cool interruptions of the spring breeze. As you lay down near the apple tree blossoms, their delicate petals dancing in the soft air, you can inhale the sweet fragrance that fills the atmosphere, savoring one of the most delightful elements of spring. The soft rustling of leaves in the background and the gentle sounds of nature create a serene symphony that enhances a perfect getaway filled with the simple joys of life.
Soaking the spring sunshine
Is there a spring post without tulips? I am sure there most likely isn’t, as these vibrant flowers symbolize the essence of the season, bursting forth in a palette of colors that bring joy and renewal. They grace gardens and parks, attracting the attention of passersby and inspiring photographers to capture their fleeting beauty. Tulips are not just a flower; they represent the hope and warmth that accompany the arrival of spring, making them an integral part of seasonal celebrations and floral arrangements alike.
I had some difficulty with what to post, as there are so many subjects to choose from, each with its own charm and allure. After much deliberation, I finally decided to showcase this full hay barn located somewhere in Southern Australia, nestled among sprawling fields that seem to go on forever. It ended up being my choice for this week’s Monochrome Madness, as the rustic looks and textures of the barn beautifully captured the essence of monochrome photography, making it stand out against the vast expanse of the landscape. Its weathered wooden beams and create a fascinating contrast that invites the viewer to appreciate the art found in simplicity.
Additionally, I’m also sure there is a door hidden somewhere within the structure, which makes this fitting as it also qualifies for Thursday Doors. The sight of the barn evokes a sense of nostalgia, even though it is life in the present, and I can only assume there are some animals, most likely cows or sheep, given the sheer number we have seen while driving the rural roads, in need of the hay stored inside, which contributes to the cycle of life on the farm. The barn stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of those who have tend to the land, reminding us of the vital role these structures play in agricultural life.
This week I have been very busy editing photos, and as I love monochrome and black and white images, I took some time to try different styles from our wonderful visit to Glenelg Beach in South Australia.
Glenelg beach pier
The Pier there provided great opportunities for photography, largely due to the striking contrasts between light and shadow, which are essential in monochrome photography. I experimented with various angles and compositions to capture the essence of the scene, highlighting the elegant lines of the architecture against the raw natural beauty of the beach.
These images reflect not only the stunning vistas but also the unique atmosphere of the location. These are my contributions this week for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
Leanne from Monochrome Madness thought it would be fun to see how images can change if you crop them. She asked for 3 crops. It would be interesting to see how the story of the image could change using these methods.
I’ve been super busy editing my travel photos lately. Because of that, I haven’t jumped into any of the usual challenges I love. It’s kinda made me feel out of the loop with my creative stuff. But hey, I’m all about editing. I love the art of making photos pop. So, I figured, why not give this challenge a shot? Let’s see how my creativity holds up!
I tried with two images. To be honest, I am not all that happy with them. However, they will have to do for now. I can’t shake off the nagging feeling that these images fall short of my own expectations. This is not that serious, or is it? My stories did not change all that much, so much is actually about the original photo, My choices were not spot on 🙂
Let’s take a look at mine. I have done 3 different images to see how each would come up.
Monochrome image of a beach with rock formations and four figures walking along the water’s edge, reflecting on the wet sand. Then to just have the beach walkers. 16:9 is my favorite crop although it came out slightly too dark in the edit-
A small capture of Sydney skyline captured from the ferry on our way to Manly Beach
This challenge is a cool chance to dive into how using color versus black & white photography can totally change your selected images. Patti from P.A. Moed Creative Exploration in Wordsand Pictures invites us to join on this inspiring journey, as her awesome post gives us some solid tips on tackling the challenge! By exploring the feelings that different color vibes can bring out, you’ll see how certain shades can really capture the energy of a moment, while black & white shots can help showcase textures and contrasts, making your storytelling deeper.
So, the deal is to share pairs of the same image in both color and black & white. She asked us to keep it to just 3 pairs, which was pretty tricky since picking only three that really showed what I was going for was tough. But after thinking it through, I managed to do it! The photos I picked really show off the differences in vibe, texture, and light between the two styles. It’s so cool to see how color brings warmth and life, while black & white gives off this classic feel and a deeper emotional punch. I’m also diving into how the editing choices play into each shot—without color, you really focus on the shapes and forms, while bright colors change the whole energy. So, what do you think? Are you more into the timeless charm of black & white, or do you like the rich colors more?
Finally, use the lens-artists tag and leave a link your post to Patti’s original post.
Reading the news
This man seated on a bench by the road, engrossed in reading a newspaper while surrounded by his books in France captured my attention. He is dressed in striking red and blue hues, and the light blue umbrella beside him, along with the collection of books and garbage bags. The color version certainly stands out more, whereas the black and white rendition conveys a more subdued ambiance—maintaining the focus on the individual reading rather than the surrounding elements. Furthermore, the intended message plays a crucial role—what do I wish to communicate through this image? If the objective is to emphasize the man, the black and white option is preferable; however, if I aim to highlight the environment as well, the color version would be better.
A rowing boat on the shore in Hailuoto
This boat image I chose showcases the clouds that give texture, creating a dynamic backdrop for the scene. The boat itself is minimalistic and weathered, adding a sense of history and character, which contributes to its roughness, ultimately enhancing its appeal, at least in a photograph. The editing process, I have found, is not the same for each variant; it is not a direct transition of color into a Black and White version. They are edited differently for distinct emotional and visual impacts. I think whenever you transition to black and white, you need to look at the image from a new perspective, considering what elements you choose to highlight. The color version conveys more about the time of day and the mood, which is more subdued; while in the black and white version, the boat emerges as the main focal point. Interestingly, for some reason, I made the mood lighter, almost brighter, in that version, contrasting with my usual tendency to render black and white images darker and moodier, utilizing more contrast. I like this version for its unique interpretation, but still, I find myself leaning towards the color variant due to its vibrant storytelling and emotional resonance. Analyzing both versions makes me appreciate the nuances involved in editing, as each choice not only alters the visual presentation but also shifts the narrative context within the photograph.
Alleyway in France
This is a charming alleyway in Nice, France, flanked by tall buildings that are closely positioned and adorned with a variety of vibrant colors. Numerous windows, some ajar, feature shutters, while ornate street lamps are gracefully mounted on the walls, capturing my attention with their charm. A cobblestone pathway extends toward a brighter area in the distance, where a few motorbikes are parked, creating a leading line that draws you in. The buildings exhibit beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and beige, with hints of lush greenery visible on the walls and balconies. The overall atmosphere is lively and inviting, evoking a sense of adventure in this historic city. The narrowness of the alley, combined with the height of the buildings, fosters a feeling of intimacy and warmth, while the bright colors and light at the alley’s end enhance its welcoming nature. All of this truly appeals to me.
Conversely, the black and white color scheme imparts a classic, nostalgic quality that emphasizes the textures and architectural details of the structures, showcasing their timeless beauty. This image is noteworthy as it encapsulates the essence of an old European town, characterized by its narrow streets and rich historical architecture in a remarkable way. Despite the absence of color and the quiet demeanor of the alley, the scene conveys a contemplative mood, fostering feelings of solitude and introspection. I find myself captivated by both the vibrant colors and the elegance of the black and white aesthetic—each offers a distinct allure that enhances the character of this alley. Yeah, black and white … for this one.
Last week we got to enjoy beautiful cuddly cats and dogs and some other wilder animals also. Are you a cat or a dog person these were all a joy to see, thanks Tina for this sweet theme, loved it.
Next week, Ann-Christine returns with her first new challenge for the year. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out another exciting challenge.
Don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag when creating your post so we can easily find it in the Reader and linking it to original post.Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history
PS. I am still on vacation so my participation is very limited at the moment.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 