She listed listed 20 options with a instruction to do a deep dive into our archives, going back as far as you want to find the items. She also suggested: Be creative and bold. Most of all, have fun!
I don’t think my FIRST image need to be explained to you, as IT speak for itself in capturing the essence of the moment I cherish. I occasionally like to enjoy a drink from a nice glass, savoring the flavors as I unwind, whether it’s a delightful cocktail on a bubbly during a cozy afternoon. Having fun!
Something glass AND Something with water in it.
A colorful display of glass vases in various shapes and sizes, Something with wavy lines
Pink scarf Something with a soft texture
A close-up of a beautifully crafted heart-shaped pendant surrounded by various decorative beads. Some cool jewelry
Art project supplies
A black and white image showcasing various gears, emphasizing an industrial aesthetic. Something circular
Please be sure to link your post to Anne’s original post and use the Lens-Artists tag. She did state that she wanted to check out each and every post to see what you and I have scavenged.
Thanks, Beth, for getting us in a sports mood last week, I have to say it was a challenge for me. Next week I will be back to host, I hope to see you next week …until then stay positive and keep on smiling ☺
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.
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.
Hailuoto beach scene A coastal landscape featuring tall grasses against a backdrop of brooding clouds.A coastal landscape featuring sandy paths, lush grass, and a dramatic sky with shifting clouds.A stormy shoreline with dark clouds looming over a choppy sea, interspersed with rocks and patches of grass.Brooding clouds loom over a choppy sea. a dramatic and moody landscape.A walk along a rocky jetty, surrounded by a dramatic sea under an overcast sky.
Joenniemen kartano (the Manor) designed by architect Jarl Eklund, was completed in 1935 as the representative home of Gösta and Ruth Serlachius on the shores of Lake Melasjärvi. The building represents Classicism and is influenced by English manor architecture. The interior features clean-lined functionalism from the 1930s. Sculptor Hannes Autere designed the wooden furniture of the wine house and carved the wooden reliefs that decorate the space, as I wrote in my previous post. Hannes Autere also made the wooden carvings that adorn the main door and window frames of the manor.
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.
We took a quick trip home and I snapped some pics of Black chokeberry while soaking in the first signs of autumn. I noticed this awesome red leaf and a berry that had already turned red, looking pretty against the green leaves. I know these berries are edible, and while they look great, it’s pretty much best to just eat aronia straight up to really soak up all those vitamins and antioxidants. Seriously, aronia berries pack a punch with vitamins C, E, and B, plus essential minerals and flavonoids that are super good for you. But honestly, I’ve never felt the urge to eat them—maybe because I think they’re more fun to look at than to actually taste. I’ve thought about throwing them into a recipe, but the motivation to pick them and enjoy their awesome health perks just hasn’t hit me yet.
Close-up of Black chokeberry leaves and berries showcasing early autumn colors.Close-up of ripening Black chokeberry, highlighting vibrant green berries among lush leaves.
Close-up of Black chokeberry showcasing various stages of ripeness with green, red, and black berries among lush green leaves.
We visited this museum during our vacation, and I for some reason got inspired to do three monochrome / BW versions of a this photo of a man learning about this piece of art.
I will start with also a color version of the photo compared to the monochrome one if a portrait composition.
This small but immeasurably valuable oil painting is a study of the properties of light and shadow. Monet painted a whole series of haystack motifs in the changing weather conditions of the Normandy countryside.
Claude Monet’s ‘Heinäsuova ilta-auringossa’ (Meadow Meadow in the Evening Sun) displayed at the Serlachius Museum.
A significant art discovery has been made at the Serlachius Museum in Mänttä. The painting “Heinäsuova ilta-auringossa” (Meadow Meadow in the Evening Sun), which is part of the museum’s collection, has been revealed to be the work of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a key painter of the Impressionist art movement.
The painting lacks a visible signature, but the University of Jyväskylä’s hyperspectral camera detected Monet’s name and the year 1891 beneath the paint. Analyses of the pigment and fabric confirm it is by Claude Monet. The Serlachius Museum has had it since the 1950s, assuming it could be by Monet. Its authenticity was confirmed in 2015, thanks to advancements in technology. The work was purchased in London through an art dealer from Mänttä and is believed to have been shown at the Impressionist exhibition at the Grafton Gallery in London in 1905.
I put together these different versions for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness project as a fun way to dive into artistic expression. The whole idea was to check out how the mood and meaning of the photo shift with different edits. I found myself thinking about what the image is really about—is it the painting itself, the man who’s learning about it, or maybe even the overall space where both the art and the observer exist? My idea was to show just how complex art can be and how it hits people in different ways based on their own experiences and perspectives.
A visitor contemplates Claude Monet’s ‘Heinäsuova ilta-auringossa’ at the Serlachius Museum, surrounded by informative text about the artist and his works.A visitor reflects on a Claude Monet painting at the Serlachius Museum, highlighting the intersection of art and admiration.A visitor admires Claude Monet’s ‘Heinäsuova ilta-auringossa’ reflecting on the painting’s historical significance.
The captions were created with AI – all slightly different… because of the light and contrast?
Four weeks have gone by since the official summer holiday came to an end, and I find myself still spending this week at the summer house, relishing the warm weather that lingers. The sun hangs high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the landscape, while soft breezes rustle the leaves of the trees surrounding me. Now the temperature has settled at a pleasant +20°C; it is nice enough to enjoy early morning coffee outdoors, Evenings are perfect , the horizon is painted with hues of orange and pink as the sun sets, creating a picturesque backdrop that makes it hard to believe that summer is truly slowly slipping away.
enjoying a sunny day by the waterfront, exploring the pier in a picturesque summer setting.
It has been an odd summer; the first half was so unseasonably cold that it hardly felt like summer at all. However, everything changed dramatically in the middle of July when our holiday commenced. To our surprise, we experienced the longest hot period in Finland’s recorded history—an astonishing 22 consecutive days of weather ranging between +25-30°C. This was a remarkable shift that caught many of us off guard, as such temperatures are not the norm for our region. We spent our days enjoying the sunny days in the shade, laying in the hammock, not really doing much. Lazy hazy summer days. Spending time with family, by the sea and lakes. Enjoying tasty fresh food prepared by others. I didn’t even take that many photos, hardly any. That is if I compare it to what I have done.
The increase in extreme weather has become a point of concern for many, as it is evident that these phenomena are occurring more frequently, likely due to the impacts of climate change. As I reflect on this summer, I cannot help but wonder what changes the future holds for our weather patterns and how we will adapt to them in the coming years.
A boy sitting on a dock by the serene lake, enjoying the warm summer day.
I have made few posts, but I apologize for not commenting on posts, and I have also been slow in replying to comments. I feel bad about it, but the thing is I feel almost guilty when there is a lovely summer day and I choose to stay inside. So I don’t . The summer is so short here, and when you have the opportunity to enjoy the good weather, you have to take it. It’s a time for outdoor life, barbecues with friends, and simply soaking up the sun’s rays. We have a long winter, and during that season, the days can feel endless as we spend more time indoors. Therefore, when summer arrives, I want to embrace every moment of it, squeezing in all the joy that I can before it slips away once again. I will try to do better …
Now I will post few photos, as this is a photography blog. Words have not really been my thing, but I am trying to include more …
A tranquil lakeside with a rowing boat moored at the water’s edge, embodying the essence of a lazy summer day.
Relaxing in a hammock at the summer house, enjoying the warm weather and the tranquility, plus a good book.
A beautifully plated dish featuring fresh ingredients, perfect for enjoying summer flavors .
This week is Ann-Christine‘s turn to host, and when I saw the topic, I thought, wow, do I have anything for this one? I was pretty sure I didn’t, but as I reflected more, I realized my memory did not serve me well. As I started to look for images, I revisited these places again, and they brought back lots of nice memories, each one a little treasure from the past. I remembered the conversations, and the warmth of those special moments. The sights and sounds all came rushing back, making me appreciate the experiences I had taken for granted. It’s funny how a simple image can trigger such a flood of emotions and nostalgia, reminding me of the connections I’ve made and the joy that comes with them.
Marketplaces nor fairs are not something I frequently go to. Many of the marketplaces are often tourist traps, and I am not into those places; I find them to be overwhelming and overpriced, and they lack the charm I seek in my outings. Instead, I usually visit stores that have vintage furniture and quirky home decor items, or we have great recycling stores that we might have a quick peek at, offering unique finds and sustainable options. There’s something special about hunting for treasures in these hidden gems rather than being surrounded by the hustle and bustle of a crowded market.
A bustling marketplace in Nice, France, showcasing vibrant market stalls and charming architecture.
It makes me reminisce about a particular trip to a marketplace we came across in Nice, France, years back; the vibrant colors, the sounds of local vendors engaging with customers, and the tantalizing aromas of fresh produce and local delicacies filled the air, making it an unforgettable experience. It was a delightful fusion of culture and community, highlighting the essence of the region. This memory urges me to reconsider my stance on marketplaces and perhaps explore them with a more open mind in the future.
Now that I’ve embraced the spirit of exploration, I’m reminded of a few unforgettable visits to the markets that I’d like to share. Stepping into a Thai floating market feels like entering an entirely different realm. Narrow canals overflow with boats offering a wealth of food and merchandise, while the amiable vendors engage in lively conversations in Thai. This surreal experience is one you shouldn’t miss during your time in the country. One of my most enchanting experiences occurred at a floating market in Thailand, where the air was filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Vendors deftly navigated their boats, overflowing with fresh fruits, fragrant spices, and artisanal crafts, establishing a vibrant atmosphere that embodied the local culture. It was clear that this spot was a must-see attraction for tourists.
This was a totally different experience regarding scents – a fish market in Negombo, Sri Lanka, where the air was thick with the briny aroma of freshly caught fish, mingled with the subtle sweetness of tropical spices. The hustle and bustle of vendors shouting their catch of the day created a vibrant atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Memorable for me, this sensory overload offered a glimpse into the daily lives of the fishermen and the rich culinary traditions that define this coastal city. The colors of the fish, the energy of the crowd, and the unique scents combined to create an unforgettable tapestry of sights and sounds. Popular items are generally sharks, prawns, crabs, yellowfin tuna, sardines and Spanish mackerel. You can even find varieties like sea chicken, barracuda, and other “exotic “varieties here. The Dry Fish market usually has endless rows of fish on Hessian rugs to dry.
A bustling fish market in Negombo, Sri Lanka, showcasing freshly caught seafood and local vendors in action.
I apologize for the overload of photos, but the amount of them also kind of creates the same overwhelming feel these two last places had. Each image captures a myriad of memories and moments that can easily saturate the senses, reflecting the vibrant chaos that characterized those locations. That does not include Nice, though; that was calm and had a totally different vibe to it.
A huge thank you to John for another enlightening challenge last week! I really appreciated the examples and tips shared. I’m eager to see what you create this week! Next week, we’ll have another opportunity for “Looking Back,” with Sofia leading the way. Don’t forget to check out her lovely site for more!
If you’re interested in sharing your own responses to the Lens-Artists Challenge each week but need guidance on how to begin, you can find more information here.
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
I had this , and well it is green, so I think I will just use it now For Debbie’s One Word Sunday. Nearly identical shots but still not. I do love watching how light plays.. and brings out depth and detail
I had various Red Images that are more red for position on this last day of #SimplyRed. Thanks for this challenge Becky, I had fun.
Lahti harbour
But, I am still going to post these most recent photos.
Happy days of summer
We went shopping in Lahti, and decided to have lunch at the harbor.
This reflection Sibelius house on the glass fence at restaurant caught my eye The clouds created great leading lines in the same as the 🌲 Such a tasty lunch
One more image of leading lines
August Nights are getting darker, time to light the candles
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.
I was encouraged to stay in my hammock in the comments of my last post. So I did as recommended 😀 Now I can point out how hard work it is to pick blueberries 🫐… 😂
Hard at work. He picked about 5 liters from our own yard.
Sunday morning I went to have coffee in the city and by the sea and what did I see, a lady in red. Just a girl, but lady in red sounded so much better ♥️😀
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 tried different edits to this decoration I have in my garden; originally, it is a candle holder – decoration. However, over time, I noticed I don’t burn candles so often, so I use its visual appeal and blend it more harmoniously with the surrounding plants. Now the candle holder is a focal point on the table under the oak tree. Here are some edits of the same subject, sharing them just because I took and edited them 🙂
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 