This week’s Monochrome Madness, hosted by Dawn features horizons. I am sharing these three images
Category: Landscapes
Charming Farmhouses and Barns Along Norway’s Roads
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The Weather and Clouds of Sommarøy
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
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.
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.
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.
Norway’s Rural Charm
I have taken so many photographs of houses, doors, and windows this year, I will not run out of them shortly. Each image showing the architecture and charm of the surroundings. These all are taken from a moving car as we were driving in Norway, where the picturesque landscapes and vibrant colors provided the perfect backdrop. From quaint wooden cottages to barns, The love sights as the scenery rushed by, but I managed to document fleeting moments that otherwise would be lost forever.
I shoot in raw, so the editing is more flexible, allowing me to capture the fullest potential of the image. As I was editing this particular photo, I recalled how, while driving past, I spotted a serene lakeside scene under a cloudy, overcast sky that created a muted and tranquil mood. In the foreground, a dark wooden building with a metal roof caught my eye, nestled at the water’s edge and complemented by a small pier extending into the fjord. Beyond it, the landscape blurred gently into the distance, revealing dense green hills dotted with a few scattered houses, adding a quaint rural charm. Further back, snow-capped mountains emerged, cloaked in heavy gray clouds, enhancing the cool, misty atmosphere enveloping the scene. I found myself wondering about the various versions of this image that could exist: which version did I initially see, and which one do I prefer now? It’s fascinating to consider how each adjustment alters the mood and feel of the photograph. Editing has been a fundamental aspect of photography since its inception, shaping how we interpret and present what we see. Every change in light, color, and detail offers a unique perspective, inviting viewers to connect with the image on different emotional levels. It’s a delicate dance between reality and artistic expression, where each choice reflects my vision and the story I want to convey through my work.
As we drove through the countryside, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful rural landscape. There was this winding road that twisted gently in front of us, surrounded by vibrant greenery and wildflowers that seemed to pop up everywhere. Along the side of the road, I spotted a bunch of houses, including a bright yellow one and a big red barn with a charming shingled roof. Just beyond those buildings, I could see a body of water and some mountains in the distance, adding to the picturesque view. Power lines crisscrossed the scene, blending the natural beauty with the human touch, and the overall colors—rich greens and soft earth tones—really created a peaceful, countryside vibe.
I saw a variety of rustic structures located at the base of a verdant, wooded mountain side. In the front, a meadow adorned with wildflowers in bright yellow and white blooms reaches out toward the homes, giving it a splash of color and natural allure. Among the buildings, a light green wooden house features a checker-patterned roof that particularly stood out, accompanied by red barns that evoke a classic rural ambiance. Behind the structures, the thick forested hill is shrouded in soft, diffused light, enhancing the lush greenery.
Participating in Dans Thursday Doors
Beauty of Northern Norway Through Edits
I’m truly enjoying the process of editing photos, immersing myself in the creative journey that allows me to enhance their vibrancy and bring them to life in ways that surpass what the original images captured. With each adjustment, I experiment with colors, contrasts, and textures, striving to evoke emotions and memories that resonate deeply. This artistic endeavor is not just about modifying images; it’s about taking creative liberties to ensure they reflect the vivid vision I have in my mind, transforming mere snapshots into compelling visual stories that convey my unique perspective and imagination. It’s a fulfilling experience that combines technical skill with personal expression, enabling me to share how I perceive the world through my lens.
When I snapped this shot, I loved the serene landscape that unfolded before me. This gently rolling field, sprinkled with delightful patches of yellow and white wildflowers, all set against an overcast sky. And right there in the middle ground, a charming row of green trees stands tall, perfectly spaced out like they’re in a well-rehearsed formation. Then, in the background, there’s this grand, densely forested hill, slightly hidden in a veil of mist adding a touch of moodiness to the scene. Tranquility—it’s exactly the kind of peaceful feeling you get during a light rainy day in the lovely countryside!
Impressionist Landscapes
I really likes this image, the mood. It shows this peaceful countryside landscape with these gentle rolling hills that are all dressed up in vibrant wildflowers and lush grasses. In the foreground, you’ve got these clusters of white lady’s lace and purple flowers that are hanging out by two rustic wooden posts, all tied together with a simple strand of wire like they’re holding hands—so cute, right? The hill is a beautiful mix of sunny yellows and fresh greens, creating this gorgeous tapestry of color. And there’s this solitary tree in the background, just chillin’ under a sky that’s brushed with light pink and purple hues. Honestly, the whole scene just radiates a calm, pastoral vibe and really captures that tranquil beauty of nature in full bloom!
What do you think about this post? Should I do more similar posts of not-so-sharp, focused photos?
Wordless Wednesday
Koiteli is a unique, nearly natural area of rapids in Oulu, Kiiminki district, only about 25 kilometers from the city center in the direction of Kuusamo and a provincially valuable attraction with cultural and historical importance. The area’s scenic value is formed by riverbeds, rapids, small islands, shores and nature.
Photography Spots below the Fortezza Fortress, Crete
Fortezza Fortress stands proudly in Rethymnon, Crete, Greece. I found myself seated by the seaside road, admiring the fortress while simultaneously looking at the stunning sight of the snow-capped mountains rising majestically in the distance. The view was a breathtaking contrast, with sea creating a mesmerizing panorama. We visited in May, and to our delight, the snow had yet to melt on the peaks, providing us with numerous excellent photography opportunities that encapsulated the beauty of the landscape. The rocky shoreline was not easy to walk on; that is only an observation from looking down at people moving about, carefully navigating the uneven terrain while enjoying the fresh sea breeze and the sounds of waves crashing against the rocks.
The Fortezza Fortress, constructed by the Venetians in the 16th century, is perched on Paleokastro hill and provides stunning views of both the city and the sea. This fortress is a vital historical landmark on the island. Located to the north of the city and adjacent to the old town and the Venetian harbor, it was built between 1573 and 1580 to safeguard the city from pirate attacks.
The two flowers are, the fig-marigold (scientific name Carpobrotus edulis), also known as the Hottentot fig or sour fig. This succulent plant, native to South Africa, has spread and become wild in many coastal areas around the world. Appearance: It has fleshy, triangular leaves and large, daisy-like flowers that range in color from white and pale yellow to bright red.
The prominent, aniline pink flowers depicted in the image are red campions.
The yellow flowers is, I think, dwarf clover (scientifically Anthyllis vulneraria), a perennial plant belonging to the legume family, commonly found in dry meadows and ridges perennial plant. It forms dense, spherical flowers that are usually golden yellow, but the petals can occasionally be lighter or have reddish tips.
The flowers with the butterfly is the night-scented stock (also known as Matthiola longipetala . This annual summer flower is famous for its strong, intoxicating fragrance that intensifies in the evenings and at night. Its modest, pale violet or purple flowers may appear wilted during the day, but they open up in the twilight.
The Charm of Norwegian Turf Roofs
The image shows a traditional Norwegian log house with that classic sod roof. These buildings are an important part of Scandinavia’s architectural history. You know, those sod roofs (Torvtak) have been around since the Viking days and throughout the Middle Ages. They’ve got some great practical perks: for one, that thick layer of turf keeps the place cozy in winter and nice and cool in summer. Plus, the weight of the roof tightens up the log structure and helps stabilize the whole building. Usually, the roof is made up of a few layers of birch bark, and then they add two layers of turf on top.
For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday. with few added words.
Lens-artists Challenge #402 Wonders
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.
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.
I am sorry Sofia I did not have the time to do more well thought out post, but I did want to participate
Liked to Lens Artists at Sofia’s here
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.
We are the Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and I, Ritva.
Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset
Not a Wordless Wednesday
Wordless Wednesday turned into something else; as I am asking which version do you prefer? I initially created it this post to share one photo without the clutter of words, allowing the imagery to speak for itself. However, adding a another edit of the same photo led me to ask which one resonates more. Now I find myself curious about your thoughts?
Roadside Views in Crete
As I approached, I noticed a large, lush green tree standing majestically at the crest of a gently curving road. I have an old photo of the same place. I remembered this well. This time beneath its branches, two parked vehicles caught my eye, including a old Toyota pickup truck . A solitary chair was placed nearby under the welcoming shade, adding an aura of stillness and solitude to the scene. Above, the sky was mostly overcast, with patches of blue peeking through, creating a moody atmosphere. On the right side of the road, a brightly colored sign in Greek hinted at a nearby cafe or a tavern. This was an overall roadside experience that stayed with me. We stopped there to see the scenery from there.
A majestic green tree and recalled an old photo of the spot.
You know, as I was looking at that vast mountainous landscape, I couldn’t help but admire the beauty of it. The layers of green hills and valleys just draw you in, all under this soft, hazy sky. It’s amazing how the dense forests and terraced fields blend together, creating this wonderful pattern of nature and cultivation. And those small roads winding through the terrain—they really add to the charm. You can barely spot a few buildings hidden among all that greenery. The whole vibe is so serene and expansive, with these muted, earthy tones that make the whole scene feel incredibly calming.
A weird feature of the Greek roads is the small shrines on the roadside, commonly referred to as iconostasis or small churches. These exist everywhere, whether the road is in the center of a big city or in a small village, on major highways or on the mountains on bad dirt roads. One can often spot models of churches, like that small, handmade model mounted on a white pedestal set against a lovely grassy outdoor backdrop. Just look at that red dome with the golden cross on top! Those cream-colored walls and charming little blue windows really catch the eye too. s. The iconostasis serves as an offering-expression of gratitude to the god from those who had an accident, adding a slice of spirituality to the serene and contemplative landscape.
Last on the Card – April 2026
By the beach in Maleme a pair of weathered wooden benches positioned on a grassy patch adorned with small purple and yellow wildflowers, a large, leafy tree with a thick trunk, providing a natural backdrop and some shade. The sky is overcast, casting a soft, muted light over the scene. In the blurred background, distant buildings and conifer trees are faintly visible, adding depth and context to this tranquil outdoor setting. My last on the card is from Crete.
A timeworn monastery in Crete, known as the Gouverneto Monastery (or the Monastery of Our Lady of the Angels), is an active place of worship that beautifully showcases its yellow, textured facade, with signs of peeling paint that speak to its age. Notice the small wooden-framed windows and distinctive terracotta-tiled roof, topped with a dome and cross? This architectural detail certainly highlights its importance as a historical and religious site. In the foreground, verdant greenery, including a leafy tree and tall cypress bushes, frames the scene, introducing a natural element that adds depth to the composition. Meanwhile, the rugged hills in the background sit beneath an overcast sky, contributing to a tranquil and timeless ambiance. Established in 1537, the monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and serves as a starting point for a popular hiking trail leading to the Arkouditissa Cave and the ruins of the abandoned Katholiko Monastery. It’s interesting to note that it was originally built as a Venetian-style fortress to protect the monks from pirate raids, featuring thick walls and defensive towers, which further emphasizes its significance on the island of Crete.
A serene night scene featuring a bright full moon partially obscured by thin, wispy clouds. Silhouettes of various trees, including leafless branches and a spruce, frame the moon and enhance the depth of the composition. The sky exhibits deep blue tones transitioning to lighter shades near the horizon, creating a mystical and tranquil atmosphere. Back home or our summer house, emphasizing the natural beauty of a quiet night in the countryside. Taken at 23:19 before May 1st – a day of celebration in Finland.
Participating on Brian’s Last on the Card April 2026
Exploring Rustic Architecture: Doors And Windows
I took considerable time and effort to capture lots of doors and windows during our trip, making it a true photographic adventure. Each door and window reflects unique stories, revealing the charm of every location we visited. So these images are fresh from the oven, so to speak; I meticulously edited them today, ensuring they showcase the intricate details and colors that make them stand out. I did these especially for Dan’s Thursday Doors, community that appreciates the beauty of architectural elements.
This rugged building, characterized by its cracks in the plaster and a weathered wooden door, exudes a certain charm that looks particularly striking in photos. Its aged exterior tells stories of times long past, hinting at a history that adds depth to its appearance. While the visual appeal is undeniable, one might wonder if this intriguing structure holds any other remarkable qualities. Perhaps it conceals memories or maybe the atmosphere within is just as captivating as its façade, inviting exploration and discovery for those who venture inside.
Monday Blues
In Koukouvagia, the captivating interplay of sea and sky unfolds through varying cloud formations and hues. From the deep blue ocean to tranquil soft clouds, the scenes evoke a sense of calm and beauty. This serene environment highlights nature’s vastness and offers moments of hope amid a potentially overcast atmosphere.
As I gaze out at the vast expanse of ocean, its deep blue waters seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon, mesmerizing and profound. Above me, the sky is alive with an array of cloud formations—darker, denser clouds mingle with lighter, wispy ones, hinting at the possibility of an overcast day or storm on the horizon. The muted colors create a calm yet somber atmosphere, while a hint of brightness peeks through the cloud cover near the horizon, offering a moment of hope amidst the gray.
I’m witnessing a tranquil seascape unfold before my eyes, with a vast, soft blue sky dotted by light, fluffy clouds. The horizon line gently divides my view, as the deep blue ocean fills the lower portion and the expansive sky stretches above. I can see the gentle blending of blues and whites, crafting a soothing and peaceful atmosphere. This minimalist view draws my attention to the natural beauty and vastness of the ocean and sky, filling me with a sense of infinite space and quietude.
The calm blue sea. Soft, white clouds stretch across the horizon, water’s surface. A minimalist style, emphasizing the natural connection between the sea, clouds, and sky, while showcasing subtle variations in color that reflect the time of day.
Stairways and Doors of Hvitträsk
Hvitträsk I have introduced you before in a few posts, and a few more may be on the way. This time I am showing you doors, doorways, and stairways, highlighting the beautiful and intricate details that make each entry unique. The craftsmanship evident in the woodwork and the architectural design invites you to appreciate the artistry behind these structures. I tried to take photos that look interesting and capture the essence of Hvitträsk’s charm; this is the outcome for Dan’s Thursday Doors. Several photos even showcase some interior views, allowing you a glimpse into the rooms connected by these stunning doorways, each telling a story of its own through the combination of natural light and decorative elements that complement the overall aesthetic of the space.
Color Collage 5/2026 reddish brown
The Color Collage Challenge invites you, whether you’re new or an old acquaintance, to join in by combining colors and images into your own unique interpretation of what you see. Shoot, combine, and share for joy and innovation for others.
Värikollaasi # 484 Color Collage
Collage 5/2026 reddish brown
Whispers of a Winter River
A river whispers, half asleep,
Framed by snow, secrets it keeps.
Clouds hang low, a muted gray,
In winter’s grasp, the world at bay.
Nature holds a still embrace.
Autumn Reflections by the Lakeside
A calm lakeside scene with trees displaying vibrant autumn colors, their oranges, and yellows beautifully reflected in the calm water, creating a stunning mirror effect. The woods in the backdrop, completing this idyllic escape into nature’s splendor.
Posted for NovemberShadows.
Fallen Tree and Moss
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.
Lens-Artists Challenge #370 – Ancient
Sofia has set a challenge Ancient, she wrote: This week I’m looking for anything that has had an existence of many years. It can be like my examples, ancient buildings or places, unchangeable landscapes. It can also be traditions, whose origins are lost in time, or obsolete objects of everyday life. Your imagination is as much the limit as age…
I was going to show shots from Archaeological sites like of Pompeii and Herculaneum in Italy, maybe few from Tombs of the Kings, Kato Paphos in Cyprus. Then I thought about what is older than that, did a little bit of research and this is what I came up with.
According NOAA the Ocean’s are ancient. Over vast periods of time, our primitive ocean formed. Water remained a gas until the Earth cooled below 212 degrees Fahrenheit. At this time, about 3.8 billion years ago, the water condensed into rain which filled the basins that we now know as our world ocean.
Most scientists believe that the atmosphere and oceans formed slowly over millions of years through the release of gases from the Earth’s interior. This process allowed water vapor and other gases from molten rocks to escape into the atmosphere. Once the Earth’s surface cooled below the boiling point of water, it started to rain continuously for a long time. As the rainwater collected in the low areas, the first oceans formed. Gravity kept the water on the planet.
Finland’s bedrock is 3,000–1,400 million years old and is among the oldest, thickest and most stable in Europe. Granite is our country’s most common rock, and it is Finland’s national rock.
The red Aztec sandstone rocks in the Valley of Fire are about 150 million years old, formed from shifting sand dunes during the Jurassic period. However, the park also contains older, darker gray rocks that are between 550 and 250 million years old, dating back to the Paleozoic Era.
Australia holds the oldest continental crust on Earth, researchers have confirmed, hills some 4.4 billion years old. I don’t think I have any photos of that.
BUT the Great Ocean Road offers The “limestone rocks” they refer to the Twelve Apostles, a series of towering limestone stacks that were formed by millions of years of ocean erosion. Stunning landscapes; the views observed today are the result of a dynamic interplay of geological processes that have unfolded over millions of years. So, the spectacular variety of seascapes in the Port Campbell National Park and Bay of Islands Coastal Park is the sum of 7–15 million years of limestone and clay formation sculpted by the relentless forces of nature. These forces include the variables of climate, rain, wind, and waves, alongside a rising sea level that has reshaped the coast over the last 18,000 years.
And all of that my friends has resulted in something very unique and very beautiful.
Another fact I found out was: In 2008, geologists announced that a swath of exposed bedrock in the Canadian province of Quebec was the oldest place on Earth’s surface. The crust on the Nuvvuagittuq greenstone belt, on the eastern shore of Hudson Bay, is 4.28 billion years old, dating to when Earth was still cooling from its formation! No photo to share on this nugget of information.
I gotta give a shoutout to Sofia for this awesome challenge! I learned so much while looking up info for this post. Last week, Ann-Christine took us on a super dreamy trip with serene landscapes, gorgeous flowers, and calm scenes. It was such a delight of relaxing theme.
Next week is my turn to host, Saturday 25th October. Hope you will join me then Until then, keep smiling and stay positive.
Almost forgot; Remember to tag Lens-Artists and to link back to Sofia’s lovely post so we can all easily find you.
If you’d like to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
Lens-Artists Challenge #364 – quiet moment
Where is your serene sanctuary? Is it the warm comfort of sipping your morning coffee as the world gently comes to life around you? Perhaps it’s the peaceful moments spent doing yoga by yourself. This week’s challenge is “story-driven” adventure, encouraging you to explore and connect with your own experiences and emotions – “quiet moment”.
This challenge invites you to hit the pause button. It’s like giving your inner self a little nudge to relax and savor each moment. By slowing down, you become aware of the beauty in the details—the gentle swaying of the leaves, the captivating dance of light upon water—that you may otherwise rush past.
Consider capturing the movement around a still object, like a lighthouse standing tall or a person enjoying the ambiance of a bustling marketplace. You can create a broader scene or zoom in on a specific detail. Remember, your unique style is there to enrich the story you wish to tell.
Freeze that moment and let it resonate, like a serene droplet of water.
Share your images, whether they are old favorites or new captures for this challenge, showcasing the soft, diffused light that contributes to a calm and soothing atmosphere. Focus on portraying subjects in moments of rest or tranquility, as these images evoke feelings of peace and contemplation—steer clear of any motion or action that might disrupt this gentle ambiance. Thoughtfully consider your composition, embracing minimalism to illustrate the essence of quiet and serenity in your scenes. Leave room around your subject to enhance the feeling of solitude, using these spaces to communicate a deeper narrative of reflection and introspection.
I cannot leave without sharing a quiet moment from this summer. Few weeks back after a very rain pour the evening fell the sunset colored the mist on the field orange, I saw it as as I sat and watched the sunset from my sofa, I had to get up and capture the lovely moment.
Soft shadows can deepen the mood and add layers to your peaceful moments, encouraging viewers to pause and take in the beauty of the scene. Look for those subtle, intimate details that often go unnoticed, like the gentle curve of a leaf or the soft texture of a fabric; these can enrich your narrative and draw viewers into a more immersive experience. Additionally, play with angles and perspectives to create a fresh depiction of tranquility, inviting a beautiful sense of harmony and balance into your work. Enjoy this journey of expression and let your creativity shine!
Last week, thanks to Anne we were led on a Virtual Scavenger Hunt, I found it fun and from what I saw so did you 🙂 Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate Egídio’s leadership next Saturday, September 13th. Until then, say positive and keep on smiling.
If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists challenge, please click here.
shush – wordless Wednesday
Moody Cloudscapes: Embracing Nature’s Drama
Clouds. They always fascinate me, I am drawn to the intense and brooding skies that often envelop the horizon combined with the sea, I really love it. The way they shift and change, forming intricate patterns, creates an ever-evolving canvas that captivates my imagination, sparking a sense of wonder about the natural world. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to these formations, illuminating the rich colors and textures that define them. The mood that they give to a photograph can transform a simple scene into something dramatic and powerful, evoking emotions that resonate deeply within me .
I can almost feel the breeze, a touch of autumn in these photos. These are from Hailuoto, Oulu.
Mist fell down into the valley
Debbies Six Word Saturday
Lens-Artists Challenge #358 – Live and Learn
Many thanks to Tina for this challenge Lens-Artists #358 – Live and Learn. The first quote she posted was “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” Ben Franklin . I can relate to that. I was a lazy student in school, I hardly never read for homework at home, I quickly did it by memory of what i heard in the class. I was a student who told other to shut up, so I could listen what the teacher taught. I did OK with this technique of study.
Well, photography – I looked at other photographers’ images and learned from paintings about composition, as art was my first love. Composition is the key to my images. For years, I didn’t edit any of my photos. I started blogging in 2011, but it was only in 2013 when I started to edit with free editing programs. Mostly, I did cropping and exposure and contrast adjustments. I got my first version of Lightroom in 2016, and I bought some presets – I opened them to see what they kept in them, and that is how I started to learn how to use the program. I never was a guidebook reader. Trial and error, that is the way to go.
Different styles I picked up on the way, bokeh, macro, close-ups, black and white edits… You get the idea.
At this point, I had learned a few more things about the camera settings, and I started following a few photographers, watching them showcase all the new improvements that Lightroom offered.
I found myself fascinated by the way they meticulously adjusted each setting to create stunning visuals that spoke to their unique vision. How they used these tools effectively inspired me deeply, and I copied them, adjusting their techniques to suit my own style. With each photo I took, I experimented with different approaches, trying to find that sweet spot where technical skill met personal expression. I was very taken when someone told me they could recognize my photos from their style. It was a moment of pride for me because it meant I was starting to carve out my own niche in the photography world. I was so flattered and encouraged to keep pursuing this passion.
I chose these photos I searched for photos from the earlier years. I redid the post as It was a disaster in so many levels to start with and reposted it. The photos weren’t the worst, but I realized I could show much more depth and tones by revisiting the editing process with these three new versions. Each edit allowed me to experiment with different filters and adjustments, bringing out the vibrant colors and intricate details in a way that truly showcases the beauty I initially hoped to express. As for the flowers photo I took this week, i soft petals and rich colors that evoke warmth and happiness, reminding me of the fleeting essence of summer and the joy it brings. Even in monochrome, yes?, No?
Last week Egidio took us Into the Woods for some Forest Bathing. It is obvious that Forest are great inspiration to many of us. Be sure to check back on Saturday, August 2 at noon Eastern Time when John will be hosting our next challenge.
For information on how to join the Len-Artists challenge please click here.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 