Captures from Finland – Page 15 – Ritva Sillanmäki Photography

And it snows – again

The recent weather has been quite challenging, with the continuous onslaught of snow. Sadly, this time around, the snowfall was accompanied by warmer temperatures, resulting in wet snow that has ultimately turned into a mix of sleet and ice on the ground. It’s a frustrating situation to witness, especially as we brace for the arrival of below freezing temperatures again on Friday. Winter can be enchanting and picturesque, but it also has a darker, more treacherous side, as evidenced by the slippery ice underfoot.

Admittedly, I’m finding it challenging to appreciate the beauty of the season in moments like these. In fact, I didn’t even muster up the motivation to venture outside to capture photos, opting instead to take them from the comfort of my windows. Now, looking back, I can’t help but chuckle at my own laziness.

Street Photography – walking street

Captures from Finland, street photography

A pedestrian area in the shopping area in Níce some years back. It was early October, but the weather was still nice and warm, and there were lots of people on the move. The shops were situated in lovely old buildings with Juliet balconies and green and white shutters in front of the windows. The atmosphere in the area was energetic and vibrant, as locals and tourists alike meandered through the charming streets, and the sight of colorful displays in the shop windows. The gentle warmth of the sun added to the allure of the scene, casting a soft golden glow over the picturesque architecture and creating a captivating ambiance.

Well, I do like playing with my images, so once again I did a monochrome version, but this time I am more inclined to go with the color version as my favorite, go figure :-) The golden glow more obvious in it.

Winter landscapes from Kirkkonummi #6

Captures from Finland

Pine trees basking in the sunshine on a rocky hill covered with white snow.

As the winter wraps the world in its chilly embrace, it presents us with scenes of enchanting tranquility. The stark contrast of the vibrant blue skies against the snowy landscapes is a sight to behold, a true testament to the captivating allure of the winter season.

With every image, I aim to convey the unspoken elegance of winter, without the need for accompanying explanations.

pristine blanket of white

Captures from Finland

Yesterday it snowed once again, covering the landscape in a pristine blanket of white. As I gazed out of my window, I found myself without any desire to step out into the chilly weather. The snowflakes gracefully descended, gradually accumulating into a soft, glistening snow bank.

Sunset behind the hilltop

Captures from Finland, Landscapes, Photography

Today I caught a beautiful sunset from my patio, we had huge rise in temperature in the past two days and the snow covered trees are now gone. The trees still gave a beautiful contrast against the colorful sky

Winter landscapes from Kirkkonummi #5

Captures from Finland

With every image, I aim to convey the unspoken elegance of winter, without the need for accompanying explanations.

Silent Sunday

Captures from Finland, Photography

I know should silent, but these are the first sunray’s that touched our backyard in ages. What a joy!

Winter landscapes from Kirkkonummi #4

Captures from Finland

With every image, I aim to convey the unspoken elegance of winter, without the need for accompanying explanations.

Winter landscapes from Kirkkonummi #3

Captures from Finland

Winter always evokes a mix of emotions within us. The cold can be daunting, yet it brings about a serene beauty that is captured through the lens of a camera. As the winter wraps the world in its chilly embrace, it presents us with scenes of enchanting tranquility. The stark contrast of the vibrant blue skies against the snowy landscapes is a sight to behold, a true testament to the captivating allure of the winter season. It’s a time when nature seemingly slows down, allowing us to appreciate the delicate intricacies of our surroundings.

With every image, I aim to convey the unspoken elegance of winter, letting the pictures narrate their own stories without the need for accompanying explanations.

Winter landscapes from Kirkkonummi #2

Captures from Finland

I am going to show how beautiful winter is in photos. I’m not a fan of these damn cold temperatures, but I do enjoy how it brings us blue skies and lovely scenery. That’s what I’m gonna share in the coming days. Not gonna explain the shots; they should speak for themselves without words.

Winter landscapes from Kirkkonummi #1

Captures from Finland

Winter’s here, the cold has settled in and there’s no hope for warmer temperatures in the coming week. Just gonna show how beautiful winter is in photos. I’m not a fan of these damn cold temperatures, but I do enjoy how it brings us blue skies and lovely scenery. That’s what I’m gonna share in the coming days. Not gonna explain the shots; they should speak for themselves without words.

First day of 2024

Captures from Finland

It is the time to look forward, think positively about what the year ahead may bring. Hope for the best, fear the worst. Life does not always happen as one plans, so I have years ago stopped planning. Life throws curveballs and one needs to adjust, go where the road of life leads you. Accept and get on with it. Good things happen and bad things, it’s a balance. I am mainly happy and have many things to look forward to, such as spending time with loved ones, embarking on new adventures, and creating lasting memories.

On the other hand, I recognize that there are some issues that I just need to go with the flow, as there’s nothing I can do to change the situation. Instead of dwelling on them, I choose to focus on the positive aspects of my life and the opportunities that lie ahead. By maintaining a positive mindset and embracing the unpredictability of life, I can navigate through both the joys and challenges that come my way.

The passion for photography is just awesome, isn’t it? It’s like freezing time, capturing moments, and telling stories with just a click. And hey, who doesn’t love hitting the road? There’s this incredible feeling of freedom and excitement, like anything could happen around the next curve, right?

Life can sometimes feel a bit dull, you know, like we’re stuck in a rut. But when we’re on the move, it’s like the whole world is full of potential. Who knows what or who is waiting for us just around the corner?

As we gear up for the new year, let’s think of this road as a guide to a fresh start. Here’s to a year full of good times, growth, and unexpected surprises. Let’s roll with it and make it a truly happy new year!

Last Day of 2023

Captures from Finland

Last day of year 2023 was sunny and cold here where I live, the temperature -13C /10F and no wind, so it wasn’t all that bad. Even though I do not like winter, sometimes it looks really beautiful. The way the sunlight glistened off the snow-covered branches filled the whole landscape with a magical glow. I couldn’t resist taking a walk and admiring the picturesque scenery. The crisp air made everything feel so serene and peaceful, almost as if the world had slowed down just for a moment. Sometimes, despite the cold, winter has a way of enchanting us with its natural beauty.

With these pictures I wish you all the best for 2024!

I took a short stroll to capture a cell pic for John’s Cellpic Sunday . I got few nice shots, but these are the ones I chose to post here. Most likely I will post few later on.

The fusion of two worlds collide

Captures from Finland

In the quiet solitude of a room aglow,
Where shadows dance and breezes blow,
A window peers into the soul,
Of nature’s grace, serene and whole.

Trees stand tall with branches bare,
Whispering secrets in the air,
A lake reflects the sky so blue,
Capturing every vibrant hue.

Inside, a chair awaits a guest,
To sit, to ponder, to rest,
The fusion of two worlds collide,
In this space where silence abides.

Debbies Six Word Saturday

Blue house

Captures from Finland, Photography

Blue house in the snow covered woods awaits spring. My neighbor sent me a picture of our summer house as Christmas greeting 😊🎄

Old Sauna Door

Captures from Finland

Sure, I love doors! They’re like guides, letting you in or out. Some doors make you feel welcome, others not so much. They come in all shapes and sizes, old and new. I always look forward to what’s on the other side.

My entry for, simple and not according to instructions. But I did have fun doing it.

2024 Thursday Doors Badge Contest,

It’s that time of the year

Captures from Finland, On my mind, Photography

It’s that time of the year when many of us are taking a break from blogging. I didn’t plan on starting my break so early, but the flu caught up with me, and I haven’t been able to post or respond to any comments for a week due to a high fever. Now, I’m just exhausted. I’ll do my best to get back to all of you soon.

I am filled with joy and appreciation for all of you wonderful bloggers who continue to uplift and inspire me. Your comments bring sheer delight and fill my heart with hope and positivity. I am truly grateful for the time and effort you generously share in leaving such uplifting messages. Let’s keep this optimistic energy flowing and embrace the beautiful journey ahead!

On that note, I sincerely wish you an abundance of joy, happiness, and laughter this Christmas season. May this festive time be filled with warmth and love. Merry Christmas to you!

winter scenery

Captures from Finland, Landscapes

Street Photography – craftspeople

Captures from Finland, street photography

Handicrafts saleswoman at the market place in Helsinki

Welcome to the marketplace, a happy place where time slows down and people smile. It’s a warm place where handmade things are made with love and care. Each stitch and thread tells a story, and the people who make them are filled with joy as they share their craft. Let the marketplace bring happiness to your heart and enjoy all the wonderful things it has to offer!

Christmas market – Helsinki

Captures from Finland, Photography

Yesterday we visited the Tuomaan markkinat – Helsinki Chrismas Market little bit too early if we had waited for the sunset the lights would have been more brighter, but even thought we were a bit early it was crowded hard to get to the the vendor booths. It was rather windy and cold, but it is winter 🙂

Providing a more responsible alternative to mass-produced gifts and decorations, Helsinki Christmas Market brings to Senate Square a significant number of artisans and small producers from all over Finland. The market’s atmospheric core consists of the Deliyard and Restaurant Yard, which also serves alcoholic beverages, where one can enjoy seasonal treats and festive holiday spirit.

Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday

106 years of independence

Captures from Finland

Finland celebrates 106 years of independence today in chilling weather, with blue skies and powder white snow on the ground. Blue and white the colors of our flag. A beautiful day to celebrate independence.

I am celebrating with blue and white scenes from my my home lane.

A lonely wheel in winter’s grip

Captures from Finland

A lonely wheel in winter’s grip
No longer spins or rolls or flips
It rests against a snowy tree
That stands beside a flowing water

Linked to Six Word Saturday at Debbie’s here

Street photography – festive season

Captures from Finland, street photography

These are taken in front of the Helsinki railway station, in the first shot you can see Ateneum museum with its seasonal lights, couple years back.

Seasonal lights welcoming shopper to city center with the lights reflecting on the wet pavement,

Below is a digital artwork I made by being inspired by the first photo.

Street photography – sidewalk lights

Captures from Finland, street photography

The street lights are my stars
They make a warm wave on the wet black path
I sail along their bright trail
They keep me safe from the dark wrath

Walking down a path in the dark can be both exhilarating and unnerving. With each step, uncertainty lingers, as shadows dance and imagination runs wild. So, with a flicker of determination in our hearts, we step forward, embracing the mystery that lies ahead on the path in the dark.

Street photography – I walk alone

Captures from Finland, street photography

The night is cold and dark
A light drizzle was falling
I walk alone
With no one else to meet

Oodi is my destination
The light is my guide
I hope to find some inspiration
Or at least a place to hide

The Library welcoming light in the night

flow and foam, river run wild

Captures from Finland

Flowing and foaming, the river runs wild,
Bringing me joy, making me feel
With not a worry or care in sight,
It spins me around, filling me with delight.
Flowing and foaming, the river runs free,
A place of solace, where I can be me.
You are my escape, my source of glee,
In your embrace, I feel completely free.

Linked to Six Word Saturday at Debbie’s here