I’m still hanging out in the deserted barn in Veklahti, Kirkkonummi, which has been charred for years. Over the weekend, I found out that it’s a protected structure and that a film crew was on site—apparently shooting a war movie. This information was shared with me, though I haven’t verified it myself, but my source is trustworthy! 😀
A dimly lit hallway in a dilapidated building, featuring a doorway illuminated in the background.
The place is a photographer’s dream, and I have SO many shots to share! The views are absolutely stunning, with every angle offering something unique to capture. I really like these images, both in black and white and color, as they evoke different moods and feelings. I enjoy how the light streams in, illuminating the scene while shadows adds depth to each shot. Also, all the junk scattered around lets one’s imagination run wild, inspiring countless stories in one’s mind. There’s endless possibilities here that truly fuels creativity. Do you agree with me?
A dimly lit, cluttered hallway leading to a door, illustrating decay and neglect.
I don’t necessarily need to explain this shot, but I will. What stands out is that glass display cabinet filled with an array of artistic ceramic pieces and sculptures, complemented by a person seated at a table in the background. To begin the story, I had been cutting my paper – it’s large, high-quality paper that we have to cut ourselves to fit the size we need for our graphic prints. As I made my way back to my chair, I caught sight of the lady visible through the glass, along with the subtle reflections and shadows. Now you understand why I captured the shot; it has an artistic feel, indeed, and it includes those intriguing shadows.
A glimpse of an art studio showcasing various handmade ceramic pieces and sculptures
Artistic reflections in a glass display showcasing pottery and sculpture, with an artist visible in the background. Doesn’t that hedgehog look kind of sadP
While making art, I decided to stroll around the building and check out the shadows and round stuff. This is from one of the rooms, and you can really see how gloomy it is outside—grey skies and bare trees, not exactly inspiring? But, the vibe inside was pretty good, and each shadow brought a little joy to me as I roamed around. I found it wild how the dreary weather clashed with my creative energy. It felt like the shadows were telling their own stories, nudging me to look beyond the obvious. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but you get the idea! This post is for Becky’s November Shadows #11.
A workspace featuring a cutting table with paper, a rolling cutter, and a view of trees outside.A view of a creative workspace framed by gloomy winter trees outside, capturing the contrast between the indoor energy and the overcast weather.
Someone made the request to see what I created this weekend. You should be careful what you wish for 😂
A quick introduction to Monotype as a printmaking technique.Result: The resulting print is a “one-off” or “mono” type, as it is the only one of its kind that can be produced from that specific matrix. Process: Monotype is a form of printmaking where an artist creates a unique image on a non-absorbent surface, like glass or metal. We used metal. Image transfer: The image is then transferred to paper by pressing the two surfaces together, either by hand or using a printing press. We used a press.
A series of monotype prints with vibrant blues and abstract cityscapes. These came out rather nice, I am rather happy with these.Three monotype prints g expressive portraits, highlighting the artist’s technique and creativity. These not so much, these were so hard to do, but it was good practise.monotype prints created using metal as a surface, showcasing intricate textures and layers these were inspired by birch tree trunk.Vibrant trees in autumn hues same plate, two prints.
As a last note, these were the ones I most liked.
Two monotype prints featuring abstract cityscapes in shades of blue, highlighting the unique texture and color application technique.
The post for Monday Window gives us a look at this abandoned room with a cool arched window that shows off some bright autumn leaves outside. It’s pretty wild how the colorful leaves clash with the graffiti-covered walls, showing off that mix of nature and city decay. The whole scene kind of hits you with those feels of decay and the leftover marks of human creativity on the walls. All in all, it really captures a unique moment in time.
An abandoned room with a window revealing a view of autumn leaves outside, contrasting against graffiti-covered walls.
NovemberShadows can easily be seen on how the light comes into the space, and it is highlighted by the square crop, creating an intriguing interplay between illumination and shadow. This contrast adds depth and character to the scene.
An arched window framed by rustic walls and graffiti.
This weekend, I’m diving back into learning monotypia again, and man, it’s tough! The results are hardly ever what I’m going for. But honestly, I still find it pretty hard and rewarding the same time. There’s something really special about those unexpected outcomes that pop up with each try. Mostly disappointments. Each print tells a little story and gives me a peek into my struggling journey. I’m just hoping that through all this experimenting, I can pick up some techniques that boost my skills over time. I’m determined to figure this complex art form out, knowing that getting it right takes a whole lot of patience and practice.
Yes, more than six word. Happy weekend to all 😀
An array of colorful paints and tools arranged on a workspace, showcasing the creative process.
Still in my workspace, just about to leave for the day – still the same outside light illuminating the room, casting a warm glow that makes the familiar surroundings feel welcoming and cozy. I appreciate how the light shifts, signaling the end of another day.
Ainterior scene with soft shadows and warm lighting, featuring a chair and two bags.
I had just closed all the lights in the study, when suddenly, someone walked by our entrance. Causing the outside light automatically lit up, illuminating the area beautifully and casting a light into my study. This unexpected moment allowed me to capture the shadows of November, where the interplay of light and dark creates such striking visuals. With the illumination from the outside light, I realized I had the perfect setting to include both the November shadows and window for my Monday Windows in one post-
My workspace with outside lamp filtering light through sheer curtains and casting a warm glow.
I popped over to get my flu shot and, after a little shopping spree, I thought I’d grab a late lunch at this cozy café/bistro I liked. As I glanced around, I noticed a bunch of folks glued to their computers, phones, or notebooks—definitely seemed like a solid spot for remote work, yet it was super quiet. There were also two new moms with their babies in strollers chatting about the ups and downs of baby life, sharing tips on calming cranky infants and going on about their sleepless nights. Then there was this guy sitting solo with a bag of groceries and a cup of coffee, wearing huge dark sunglasses indoors, which struck me as kinda weird. I couldn’t help but wonder what the deal was with his choice of shades. Just a little quirky, considering we were in a mall on a gloomy, rainy day. So, I dug into my salad while watching the mix of people around me, all caught up in their own little worlds, creating a vibrant tapestry of life right then and there.
A woman focused on her laptop in a cozy café, surrounded by a quiet atmosphere perfect for remote work.
Here are three distinct photographs: a rain-soaked road scene captured with an iPhone showcasing obscured visibility, a decorative ball surrounded by autumn leaves taken with a SONY a7, and frost-covered flora photographed with a SONY SLT-A65V macro lens. The final images in October 2025.
Rain-soaked road scene with traffic visibility obscured by droplets on the windshield. This was my last one my IPhone.
A beautifully woven decorational ball surrounded by vibrant autumn leave and couple birds all slightly blurred. Taken with My SONY a7 through a window.Frost-covered flora with my old SONY SLT-A65V with a macro lens
It is one day away from November, the grayest month of the year. This plan has not many leaves left, only few bright colored berries.
What we have to look forward to: November really feels ( it is, not just feels like ) like the gloomiest month, especially down south, where the thick clouds block out the sun. You can expect a mix of rain, frost, and sometimes a little light snow, with temps hanging around 0°C (32°F), usually between 1–4°C (34–39°F) during the day and dropping below freezing at night. The days get shorter, going from about eight hours of daylight at the start to six or even less by the end of the month. Plus, November tends to be super wet, filled with rainy days and overcast skies, and you might find some icy, slushy spots, although you can’t count on snow sticking around just yet.
It might be best to take this advice to heart: layering up is a must—think warm, waterproof jackets, thermal base layers, hats, gloves, and waterproof boots to tackle the cold and damp.
Close-up of colorful berries on a bare branch, showcasing the vibrant contrasts of late fall. Now we can cross over October 😀
A view of nature gently framed by the entrance of a timeworn building. I hope you appreciate the beautiful contrast between the vibrant outdoors and the wear of the structure, as it tells a story of both beauty and decay. This image highlights the poignant difference between the enchanting allure of nature and the fading remnants of human craftsmanship, observed through the threshold of a once-proud building. It captures a heartfelt moment where the colors of the natural world embraces the history of human creation, inviting us to value both the thriving beauty and the whispers of time. This scene was shared with Thursday Doors.
A weathered doorway frames a view of vibrant nature, illustrating the contrast between decay and the beauty of the outdoors.
This forest scene in Porkkalaniemi, Finland with a fallen tree nestled in a lush, moss-covered ground evokes tranquility and connection to nature, highlighting the beauty and serenity found in such untouched natural environments, where time seems to slow down, allowing one to fully immerse in the sights and sounds around. The fallen tree, with its weathered bark and vibrant moss, serves as a poignant reminder of nature’s cycles, illustrating how life and decay coexist harmoniously, each playing an essential role in the ecosystem’s intricate tapestry.
A forest scene with a fallen tree and moss-covered ground
I have not taken many window shots lately; this one is from the summer days, capturing a moment that feels timeless. Nature’s art, with all its vivid colors and intricate details, is beautifully framed through this old six-pane glass window, providing a glimpse into the vibrant green world outside. The way the sunlight filters through the dusty panes creates a magical interplay of light and shadow, enhancing the serene view beyond. Take a moment to appreciate the simpler things in life, which aligns perfectly with the spirit of Monday Window always keep an eye for a good window 😀
A view through an old six-pane glass window, capturing the vibrant greens and dappled sunlight of summer.
All my grandsons visiting at the same time :-D. The three older ones stayed with us for five vibrant days as they were here for their Autumn break from school, filling our home with laughter and screams. These days were loud and busy, many shared meals. The little one, full of energy and excitement, came to see his cousins :-D.
Dawn of ’The Day After’ is once again celebrating the autumn season in the northern hemisphere, we here in southern Finland are at this at the point where most of the leaves have fallen and today is cloudy and rainy. This today at 2PM
I took these during summer, and I have previously posted several shots of the Oodi Helsinki Central Library, but these are not them. You mainly see the reflection of the Parliament House in Helsinki. It is good to visit the archives; there are so many photos that I’ve not posted for one reason or another. If you are interested in the building the link offers lots of information.
The closer you look the more clear you can see this week’s image for Thursday Doors
the Oodi Library’s unique architecture.
Reflection of the Parliament House on the glass facade of Oodi Library in Helsinki.
Reflections of people and “Parliament House captured in the glass facade with a door
A view of Helsinki’s Parliament House framed through the architectural design of the Oodi Library.
View from the OODi Library in Helsinki, showcasing the Parliament House through the glass façade.
A view from inside the Oodi Library in Helsinki, showcasing the modern architecture and Music Hall on the other side of outdoor space.Musiikkitalo is the result of a joint endeavour by the Sibelius Academy, the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra and Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra. First opened to the public in August 2011, the building enjoys a prime location in central Helsinki, opposite Eduskunta, the Finnish Parliament. This is a shot from the back of the building as seen from Oodi.
A striking view of the Oodi Helsinki Central Library’s architectural design featuring a curved wooden ceiling and reflective glass facade.
As I walked past this eye-catching scene, I simply had to take a shot, as it was so perfectly suitable for my Monday Windows collection. The contemporary interior, characterized by the mirrored ceiling that reflects the ambiance beautifully, is further enhanced by distinctive light fixtures. Ample windows in and out at the AINOA Mall allow natural light to flood the space, highlighting the design elements.
A modern interior featuring a mirrored ceiling and unique light installations and lots of windows.
Additionally, the modern entrance to a restaurant catches the eye, featuring fashionable lighting that adds a touch of elegance, and an extensive drink display that tempts patrons with a variety of options behind the glass doors.
A modern dining space featuring stylish lighting and a well-stocked drink display.
This week has been all about dreamy, autumn vibes, exploring the beauty of windows and ceramics that encapsulate the season’s essence. I feel that I was able to capture the most significant elements into this image taken through these old windows, where the soft, golden light filters in, casting gentle shadows. To enhance the mood, I did a bit of color editing, as the original photo was taken during summer, making it feel quite different with the cooler tones. I will include the original image as well for those who prefer the vibrant brighter and more cooler summer aesthetic; however, please note that the figure in the picture is a statue, not a man with little imagination you could make it the ceramic in this post. A statue adds intrigue, creating a whimsical conversation piece about the intersection of art and nature in our everyday lives.
A dreamy autumn scene captured through a window, showcasing soft golden light and a statue basking in light from all directions .
A whimsical sight of a statue seen through a window, capturing the essence of cooler toners and light od summer.
This week I am sharing close-ups of autumn’s small beautiful details that often go unnoticed. Last night, we experienced a significant drop in temperatures, going below 0°C / 32°F, and the frost was there to greet us like a delicate blanket, sparkling in the early morning light. If I’d I walked outside, I could have heard the crunch of frost beneath my feet and the crisp air filling my lungs, a reminder that we are officially heading towards the colder days and into November. It was cold I didn’t , maybe tomorrow I’ll do it, just to take few photos.
Close-up of dew-covered leaves glistening in sunlight, highlighting the intricate web of nature.
She wrote:There are many possibilities hidden in Dreamy – maybe you are given to or indulging in daydreaming? You might even want to illustrate one of your own dreams? Now we are looking forward to Your interpretation of the theme Dreamy!
An abstract artwork capturing the vibrant hues of autumn and winter, reflecting nature’s stunning palette in a dreamy composition.
I do have to include at least one of my artwork, hope you like it! I have used tones suitable for the season and the ones used in this post, incorporating rich hues that reflect the vibrant energy of autumn and the gentle warmth of winter. My goal was to create a piece that resonates with the changing atmosphere, drawing inspiration from nature’s stunning palette. I truly believe that art has the power to connect us to the world around us and to evoke feelings that words often cannot express.
An autumn moment for dog walker in a misty landscape and vibrant fall foliage.
I envision these images encapsulating a tapestry of enchanting autumn scenes, where dew-kissed spider webs glisten in the soft embrace of morning light, serene reflections dance upon a still lake, and misty vistas are adorned with golden hay bales—a true homage to this magical season. It invites us to bask in the tranquil beauty of an autumn landscape, where the vibrant hues of falling leaves gently blanket the earth. As the renowned poet John Keats once said, “Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” In this spirit, I felt compelled to share these evocative images of the season, hoping you can lose yourselves in the quiet allure of nature’s transformation into winter, cherishing the ephemeral beauty that graces our surroundings.
A dreamy spider web adorned with morning dew, capturing the essence of nature’s delicate beauty.A reflection of lush greenery on calm waters, embodying the dreamy essence of nature.Misty landscape with hay bales in a green field, creating a dreamy atmosphere.A close-up view of a moss-covered stump in a softly blurred forest setting, portraying the essence of nature’s tranquility.A dreamy landscape featuring blurred reflections of trees and water, evoking a serene and mystical atmosphere.An autumn landscape featuring golden foliage, a still lake, and a small boat, a view to nature’s beauty during the fall season.
I’ve taken pleasure in crafting my response this week and hope you find joy in it as well. Be sure to check out Ann-Christine’s stunning original post here for a deeper insight into her challenge, and don’t forget to link back to it in your reply. Remember to add the Lens-Artists Tag so your contribution shows up in our reader section.
Thanks to John and all who took part in last week’s Autumn reflection, the images were so colorful. Here in the northern region, we are witnessing the tail end of the season, which carries a sense of melancholy as strong winds send leaves tumbling down, painting a beautiful yet somber scene. Many trees stand bare, resembling elegant silhouettes against the dwindling light, reminding us of life’s cycles and the inevitability of change. I encourage you to join us next week as Sofia once again leads us through her breathtaking Photographias blog. In the meantime, let’s appreciate the beauty around us as we move into the coming months, and remember to keep smiling; it might just brighten someone else’s day.
Interested in joining our challenge? click here for more information.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 