A curious little gentleman in a straw hat crouches in front of a classic Ford Mustang. Completely taken by its vintage design and fancy details, he inspects the car like a mini detective on a mission to uncover its secrets. With wide-eyed admiration for the car’s elegant lines, he explores its features for at least two minutes, perhaps pondering if he can convince his parents to trade in the family car for his grandpa’s proud possession, because who wouldn’t want to make kindergarten drop-offs feel more thrilling?
A child in a straw hat crouches curiously in front of a vintage Ford Mustang to see more of the details-
A boy with a straw hat stands in front of a classic Ford Mustang obviously admiring the cars lines
This time, I am sharing photos from Anjalan Kartano, which is open during the summer months when it features various art and history exhibitions. We had the chance to visit while artists were setting up a new exhibition, they were kind enough to let us in, as it was really closed to public at that time. so many of the rooms were unoccupied. To be honest I was a bit disappointed that there was so little furniture left, I was expecting something else when we chose to visit this place. But I was able to get some nice interior shots. I also noticed while editing these that most of them were shot in the portrait mode, I seem to do that often when taking similar shots. The light in the rooms was wonderful.
Just a piece of history; Anjalan Kartano dates back to the 17th century, when Henrik Wrede made the ultimate sacrifice of his loyal horse and his own life for King Charles IX of Sweden. Since then, the manor has played a significant role in the community of Anjala.
The charming wooden porch with open white doors revealing a glimpse inside the Manor, flanked by flower pots on either side welcomed us.
It was a calm indoor setting, with a large window letting in natural light that made everything look calm. In front of it were wooden chairs, carved with care, huddled together as if they were having a quiet chat. Their soft, dark cushions softened the contrast with the wood. A table with a patterned tablecloth held a leafy plant in the center, adding a touch of hominess to the scene. The room felt peaceful, making me want to sit there, especially as the light and shadows danced playfully around. Two slightly different edits of the same window. Which crop do you prefer?
a calm indoor setting, with a large window letting in natural light
A striking black and white photo of multiple open doors creating a captivating visual tunnel effect in an empty vintage room. There is no need to explain this photo.
In this serene corner of the room, I noticed a large, hand-crafted rectangular frame leaning gently against the wall, while a mirror on the opposite wall captured and reflected the light and warmth of the surrounding space. The mirror’s surface showcased a wooden chair featuring a cozy cross-back design. Natural light poured in from a nearby window on the right, creating delightful shadows that danced across the wooden floor and the soft, textured fringed rug. Adjacent to the wall, a sturdy metal rod stretched horizontally, embellished with a whimsical paper chain decoration that infused a sense of charm and handmade character into this calm and minimalist haven.
A cozy corner with a wooden chair, decorative mirrors, and soft natural light filtering in through a window.
Sunlight streaming through a vintage window casting shadows on a rustic wall and bench, that is obviously why this shot was taken.
I got stuck on an idea, but after viewing some posts I realized that I do have other options than streets, but still that is what I’m starting with
What’s the time?If you look closely you can see twice the number 19What 19 again?This is obviously 49You can see this one easily tooCalculate the old way Football players ⚽️
And especially for today, just moments agony,I took this picture of old coffee can to end my post. That’s commitment 😂
I am still sharing photos from our Norway trip, these are taken with my IPhone 17 PRO, when traveling taking shots with the phone also works as a dairy. Joining in John’s Cellpic Sunday
A cloudy sky looms over a tranquil beach in Sommarøy with scattered seaweed and small houses nestled among greenery.
The dark clouds that circled the area was what I wanted to capture, because when looking the other way you saw the turquoise waters glimmering like jewels beneath the faint light. Even if the clouds loom over the mountains, casting a shadow that blankets the landscape, the contrast between the foreboding sky and the vibrant hues of the sea creates a breathtaking scene. It was as if nature itself was putting on a show, with the cloudy atmosphere adding a dramatic flair to the serene beauty of the coastline. The combination of these elements stirred a deep sense of wonder in me, urging me to preserve this moment through my lens.
The crystal-clear turquoise water gently lapping against a sandy beach, the soothing sound.
As a photographer, I wanted to convey the beauty and tranquility of our coastal landscape. The crystal-clear turquoise water gently lapping against a sandy beach, the soothing sound. I wanted to highlight the shallow water, where you can see the sandy bottom, subtle ripples, and even a small patch of seaweed, adding to the setting’s authenticity. In the background, I included the rocky shoreline adorned with lush greenery, leading up to the rugged mountains that stand strong yet appear melancholic under the thick, gray clouds. This composition captures the calmness I felt in the moment, balancing the vibrant blues and greens with the moody sky, aiming to evoke a sense of peace and reflection in those who view it.
Wildflowers, rocks, and a weathered log with mountains and a calm North sea under a cloudy sky in the background.
Sommarøy or Sommerøya is a charming old fishing village nestled in western Tromsø Municipality, Norway. Located about 36 kilometers (22 mi) west of Tromsø city, it captivates visitors with its stunning white sand beaches and breathtaking scenery. Spanning 0.41 square kilometers (100 acres), this close-knit community has a population of 304 (2023), creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a density of 741 inhabitants per square kilometer (1,920/sq mi). Sommarøy embraces the beauty of both Store Sommarøya and parts of Hillesøya, as well as smaller surrounding islands. The village thrives on its rich local fishing industry, while also welcoming tourists who are drawn to its unique charm, offering a cozy hotel and inviting rental cabins for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
I am excited to share photos from a restaurant in Tallinn, where the atmosphere was absolutely vibrant that day! The sun shone brilliantly, encouraging all the customers to enjoy their meals outside. I was particularly enchanted by how the Rotermann kvartal beautifully blends old and new buildings, celebrating the city’s rich history alongside its modern innovations. The architecture tells a delightful story, reflecting the perfect harmony of tradition and progress that defines Tallinn. It was a wonderful experience, and I hope these images capture the charm of the moment and the inviting ambiance of this unique location. 🙂 Sharing with Monday Window
A stylish restaurant interior blending rustic stone walls with modern wooden and metal design elements under natural light.
As I framed the shot, I was immediately captivated by the stylish, modern restaurant interior that unfolded before me, where exposed stone and brick walls created a perfect blend of rustic charm and sophistication. The large arched windows at the far end poured natural light into the space, illuminating the high ceiling adorned with visible beams and industrial-style lighting fixtures that hung gracefully above. My lens caught the wooden tables and chairs neatly arranged along the polished wooden floor, complemented by glassware and cutlery that sparkled in the sunlight. The service counter, lined with bottles and glassware, contributed to the warm, inviting atmosphere. I couldn’t help but notice the Staff in blackl attire, adding life to the setting and embodying the vibrant, welcoming experience that harmoniously merged historic architecture with contemporary design elements.
The exposed stone walls, large arched windows, and warmly lit tables set for dining.
Windows in Rotermann
The photo was taken in the Rotermann Quarter of Tallinn, and it depicts an old brick chimney integrated into modern architecture.
the striking juxtaposition of modern and historic architecture
I captured these images to highlight the striking juxtaposition of modern and historic architecture in a single frame. The glass facade, with its slanted design, serves as a reflective canvas, beautifully mirroring the old stone wall and staircase, showcasing how these contrasting styles can coexist. The presence of two bicycles, one black and the other red with a charming basket, adds a touch of life and accessibility to the scene, emphasizing the building’s role in everyday urban life. The warm light fixtures within the interior cast a soft yellow glow that creates an inviting atmosphere, enriching the cool tones of stone and glass. This blend of contemporary and historic elements not only caught my eye but also instills a sense of calm and quiet within the bustling environment, making it a perfect moment to capture.
Street Photography
In capturing this image, I aimed to highlight the harmonious relationship between architecture and nature. The reflective glass panels not only offer a contemporary aesthetic but also serve as a canvas that mirrors the vibrant surroundings, emphasizing the beauty of our environment. The sign “LEVIER,” prominently displayed, represents a connection between people and place, and its reflection speaks to the integration of the structure in its locale. The warm illumination evokes a sense of welcome, inviting those who view it to appreciate the urban landscape. By including the lush greenery and the wooden bench, I wanted to remind viewers of the importance of nature in our daily lives, even in a bustling cityscape.
Today on a rainy Sunday I am sharing some interior photos from a recent trip to a restaurant that has been in Helsinki since 1930´s for John’s Cellpic Sunday
The legendary restaurant Elite, located in Töölö, Helsinki, was established in April 1932. It will celebrate its 94th in year 2026. The restaurant began its operations on Museokatu and has been serving in its current premises on South Hesperiankatu since 1938. Elite is one of Helsinki’s most famous artist restaurants, I enjoyed their perhaps most of traditional classic dishes– Tauno Palo’s creamy onion steak. Art Deco Design: Entering Elite, you’re welcomed by a beautifully elegant interior crafted by Stockmann’s Jung & Jung architects, featuring handmade furniture by Werner West. Located near the Lallukka Artists’ Home, Elite has been a vibrant meeting place for cultural icons like authors Mika Waltari and Matti Kurjensaari, and composer Aarre Merikanto.
During World War II, food regulations and rationing were stringent. Elite managed to remain operational by offering un-rationed game dishes, casseroles, and fish. There are whispers that actual meat steaks were sold discreetly, but only to the most trusted regular patrons. Amidst the 1944 bombings of Helsinki, staff had to hurriedly secure the liquor cabinets and seek refuge in air-raid shelters, resulting in the destruction of nearly all of Elite’s beautifully custom-painted glass windows. Remarkably, this establishment became a second home for the renowned actor Tauno Palo, whose frequent visits are commemorated by a wall plaque at his favorite table. It is said that the famed sirloin steak with creamed onion (sipulipihvi) was invented to quell his late-night hunger after his theatrical performances.
The famous artist table is the first table on the right when entering through the main doors of Restaurant Elite’s, a special corner table shared by two of Finland’s greatest actors, Tauno Palo and Matti Pellonpää. The table has an official brass plaque.
I took these yesterday, and I am interpreting figures as people this time.
Dog walker on TallinnA Woman and her bagCan I have cappuccino please Evening walk? The difficulty of choosing This shopping is so tiring Hare, Hare Krishna 🎶
On our journey north, we took the timé to make a short stop to the beautiful Aavasaksa, a historical hill nestled in Ylitornio within the beautiful Tornio River Valley. It was a truly lovely place, celebrated for its breathtaking natural scenery and the enchanting midnight sun. I was reminded of the fact that Aavasaksa is the southernmost spot in Finland where you can witness the phenomenon of the nightless nights.
Being a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s part of the Struve Geodetic Arc, which is fascinating as it helps measure the Earth’s size and shape. We did not have time to enjoy exploring the nature trails and hiking routes that reveal spectacular views of the Tornio River leading into Sweden.
Oh, and it is one of Finland’s national landscapes, they reflect the country’s identity and unique characteristics.
Sharing this for John’s CellPic Sunday, I took these with my Iphone 17 Pro and edited them in LRC
A delicate pink peony bud with morning dew drops stands out against a soft green blurred background.
I love peonies, and I have a hard time getting my peonies to expand as I would like. Usually, I only have a few blooms, but this year, I am thrilled to have five, and that feels like a significant improvement for me. Despite my efforts, I suspect that I might be using the wrong soil, and I’m unsure about the best placement for them in my garden, which makes it a bit challenging. Nevertheless, I do enjoy watching them bloom and flourish, and each flower brings me immense joy as it displays its vibrant colors and lovely fragrance, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of nature.
A delicate pale pink peony bud covered in dewdrops against a soft green garden background
A close-up of a delicate pink peony bud adorned with fresh water droplets against a lush green background
The phone is handy and with me most of the time, so I took these with my IPhone 17 PRO for The Flower Hour
I am sharing some food pictures for John’s, Cellpic Sunday enjoying a beautifully set meal is a always a pleasure and good opportunity to practice food photography
StarterStarter Main course Something sweet to enjoy Skirri restaurant in Tromsø, Norway
I just got back from north Norway, and I was in awe all of the time there. I have not had time to edit my photos from my camera, and I took most of them with it. I am now making a quick post from some of the wonderful wonders that I have just seen. Most are unedited taken with my iPhone.
The photos do not show the grandeur of it all
These are from our first stop in Yykeänperä translates to Skibotn in English (Norwegian). It is a village located in the Storfjord Municipality in Troms county, Northern Norway, situated on the southeastern shore of the Lyngenfjord.
It is also known as Ivgobahta in Northern Sami and occasionally Markkina in Kven. The village sits roughly 50 kilometers (31 miles) away from Kilpisjärvi, Finland, making it a popular destination for cross-border day trips and that is why we are there.
This view was about 100 meters away from our room
I am sorry Sofia I did not have the time to do more well thought out post, but I did want to participate
It was beautiful but so windy, and to be honest cold this evening
When you reply, could you link back to her original post? Let’s also use the Lens-Artists tag; it’s such a great chance to connect with other photographers. Today At midsummer Saturday John will post a new challenge be sure to check it out.
Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge . If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.
Still in Oulu, late afternoon 17:30, not that you would know that this time of the year it is so light. Our son is showing us places in in his hometown. Just a little fact about summer nights; last night the sunset was at 00:15 and sunrise at 2:21, creating almost a continuous twilight that casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Back to the topic of this post, I am sharing a few window shots from Pikisaari, located right next to the center of Oulu, which is a real gem! This charming area boasts lots of fascinating architecture, ranging from historical buildings to modern designs that harmonize beautifully with the surroundings. The beautiful nature surrounding Pikisaari, with its lush greenery and serene waters, creates a perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls. Additionally, the vibrant arts and culture scene here is truly inspiring, with local artists often showcasing their talents through various exhibitions and events, making it an ideal spot for both residents and visitors to experience the rich cultural fabric of the city.
Bright red animal and abstract shapes decorate the exterior brick wall of a building surrounded by greenery.
The area around the Old Wool Factory is turning into such a cool cultural hub, and honestly, this little island is just so pretty! Pikisaari has such beautiful nature; almost half of the island is untouched, so there’s plenty of space to kick back and soak in the scenery and art you find along the trails. The running paths here in Oulu are honestly the best and they weave through this stunning island! We didn’t feel like running, i never do though, so we just strolled slowly along the river path instead, but I’ll save those picture for another post!
How do you feel about those chair legs, kind of cute?
My husband standing next to a large rusty metal sculpture that has art inside in front of a brick building
I hope this post has enough windows for Monday Window.
If you’re not in the mood for self pity, skip the text and enjoy the photo 😌
I had one of the worst nights in a long time. My sleep was in shambles, I couldn’t get a comfortable position in my bed, my feet were cold… from within, I was in and out of sleep. Yes I am whining about it… sorry for that. But on a a positive note, I am doing my best so I don’t fall asleep by sitting in my garden/ backyard enjoying the sunshine and beauty of the rhododendrons.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 