Linked to Six word Saturday at Debbie’s here
Charming Rustic Interior with Natural light
Category: Photography
Midsummer
This weekend we are celebrating midsummer, it is one of the main celebration of the year here in Nordic countries. The nightless night.
Happy midsummer to you all with this
Moomintroll’s Midsummer Poem
But I lie upon the meadow to rest my legs awhile
I stop my musings right away to feel the sunlight shine
Let others do the thinking, they’re wiser anyway
on such a warm and friendly, and sleepy summer day
When all is blue and smells of dew
and you are free for troll-like deeds
or what you will – but choose to be
just lying still.
I am a troll like you, who thinks
the world is a home for me,
right now.
Lens-Artists Challenge #353 – Stormy
Join us in welcoming Beth as she takes the lead on her first challenge with the Lens-Artists team! Let’s show her our support! Her chosen topic stormy – is bound to give us beautiful and impressive images.
I live in an area of the world where we do not have any big weather events; there are no hurricanes or earthquakes to disrupt our peace. Our storms, compared to those experienced in many other places, are very mild and often quite gentle. Even our winter storms are mild relative to regions that face extreme and heavy snowfall. This rarity of severe weather is seen in my amount of stormy images and I capture stormy sky I will have fun with it – that is take many shots of it as it does not happen often. My photographs for this challenge predominantly capture stunning, impressive cloudy skies. I have never been able to capture a lightning for example – not skilled enough nor have the patience to wait for the moment in the rain.
Visiting our son in Oulu last year, we took the opportunity to explore the beautiful Narrikari Beach, a spot known for its stunning views and calm atmosphere. As we walked along the sandy shore, we couldn’t help but notice the storm brewing in the distance over the Baltic Sea, the ominous clouds rolling in like a thick blanket. The sky was so impassive, dominated by dark hues that hinted at the impending tempest, creating a dramatic contrast with the beach’s tranquil setting. We stood there, feeling the cool breeze on our faces, captivated by the natural beauty and the raw energy of the approaching storm, which made that day unforgettable.
Dark skies in Key West often signal the approach of a tropical storm, casting an eerie yet captivating shadow over the vibrant landscape. This dramatic backdrop accentuates the brilliant colors of the sea. The scent of saltwater combines with the rain, creating a refreshing aroma that fills the atmosphere, while the distant rumble of thunder adds to the symphony of nature’s awe-inspiring spectacle.
A coastal scene showcasing a stormy sky with beams of sunlight piercing through the clouds, as two figures stroll along the beach in Nice, France. The color of the water against the dark clouds, I just loved watching the changing sky.
Monaco was graced by fierce, moving clouds that, in a magnificent display, chose to twirl gracefully around us. Their presence made the sky into a striking canvas, creating a dramatic backdrop for these images!
Winter, snowing – heavily – maybe even a blizzard is something that does occur in winter.
Thanks for this week’s challenge Beth from Wandering dawgs. Don’t forget to check out and participate in her challenge here. A special thanks goes to Sofia and everyone who participated in last week’s Mellow challenge; it was a joy to end the week with the serene moments you all contributed. Lastly, we invite you to join us next week as Anne takes the lead again on her Slow Shutter Speed site. Until then, keep on smiling.
Interested in joining our challenge? Click here .
Tiny toes
Johns Cellpic Sunday
This little guy was enjoying the patio swing and a sleepover with us. A day with a baby and I am so tired now, it will take days to recover 😂 as I hardly slept because I was anticipating if he would wake up.
Naturally monochrome nature
This week, our host Elke from pictures imperfect blog has presented a fascinating theme focusing on our colour images that are NATURALLY MONOCHROME. This refers, as I understand it, to images that appear devoid of color, resembling black and white photographs without any conversions applied.
It’s almost impossible to find photos that show no color. Winter offers most opportunities to capture natural monochrome images
These I found, hopefully they work for this prompt.
Lens-Artists Challenge #352 – Mellow
Sofia’s challenge this week is mellowness: a sense of softness, in tones or shapes, the slowness of a summer holiday, where time seems to drift gently by, allowing for moments of stillness and reflection. This kind of relaxation invites everyone to pause and appreciate the beauty of simplicity in our surroundings. The challenge is to convey the sense of relaxation through various artistic expressions, utilizing subdued warm tones that remind one of the golden hour, soft shapes reminiscent of gently swaying trees, and a deliberate focus on creating an inviting atmosphere. This overall aesthetic should evoke a mellow mood of calmness and cosiness, encouraging an experience that soothes the mind and spirit, leaving one feeling at peace and deeply connected to the essence of tranquility that life has to offer. That is my take from her post and these are my photos to show it.
The first set evokes a sense of mellow, relaxed serenity. Lazy and mellow summer days when you can just relax. Finnish summer unfolds with fresh, bright greens that lovingly embrace the landscape, weaving a beautiful tapestry of nature. As the season draws to a close, especially towards the end of summer, a soothing mellowness envelops us, gently contrasting the vibrant days that have passed. This tender ambiance is felt not only in the softening light of the season but also on those peaceful days when the sun paints gentle hues across the sky, easing the brilliance of colors. In these precious moments, we can truly savor the transition as nature subtly shifts into softer shades, wrapping us in a comforting sense of tranquility and calmness that beautifully defines the essence of late summer in Finland.
Second set are flowers, the lovely beauties of summer, that brighten our days and gently coax us into taking our cameras out to capture their stunning beauty and intricate details. These vibrant blooms sway softly in the warm breeze, bringing a sense of joy and vitality to gardens, parks, and meadows. As each petal glistens in the sunlight, they create an enchanting atmosphere that draws us near, inviting us to pause and reflect on nature’s artistry. Their delightful fragrances fill the air, that truly encapsulate the essence of summertime.
Hazy, warm light nights – summer nights are a wonder every year, as the brightness of Nordic summers paints the sky in hues of soft pastels and vibrant colors that enchant all who experience them. For those who know this magic from past summers, there’s a sense of nostalgia as familiar scents of blooming flowers and fresh-cut grass fill the air, evoking cherished memories. And for those who witness this beauty for the first time, the spectacle is awe-inspiring, as they find themselves wrapped in the warmth of endless twilight. Each year, you always submerge yourself in its wonder, surrendering to the charm of late-night strolls, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. Magical. All Photos 👇 are taken between 10PM to midnight.
Thank you to all who enthusiastically participated in my Books challenge; it was an absolute joy to witness the profound appreciation we collectively have for the written word and the essential role it plays in shaping our lives. Books are not just mere collections of pages; they are gateways that transport us to distant realms, enriching our minds with unparalleled knowledge and stirring our souls with unforgettable stories. Seeing the stunning libraries from every corner of the globe was nothing short of breathtaking—each one a sanctum for avid readers, beautifully crafted and steeped in history, where the echoes of the past resonate through the ages. The creativity and enthusiasm you all poured into this challenge illuminated our shared passion for literature, reminding us how stories—both timeless classics and contemporary gems—continue to ignite our imaginations and inspire our hearts.
This week was a lovely dip into summer, not yet there weather wise, but the light nights are…Thanks Sofia for this lovely topic. Please link your post to hers and use the lens-artists tag in the reader so your post can be found. Next week June 14th, Beth from Wandering Dawgs will host her first challenge so be sure to check her post next Saturday. I sure am looking forward to seeing what it’s like 🙂
You can find out more about the Lens-Artists Challenge here.
Until then keep on smiling ☺ it’s free therapy.
a narrow lane
Same place, two strikingly different compositions of this narrow lane, and you find yourself captivated by entirely new aspects. Do you feel the same? The other image irresistibly draws your gaze towards the windows and shutters, despite offering a wealth of intricate details beyond its landscape counterpart. The interplay of light and shadow weaves a dynamic tapestry that elevates the textures of the buildings. Each detail enlightened, allowing us to revel in the artistry of the architecture. Above all, I love the contrast and the play of light here—the very essence of monochrome and black and white photography. It accentuates shapes and forms, urging us to dive deeper into the image, as the absence of color beautifully challenges us to discover elegance in both simplicity and complexity.
Taken in Villefranche sur Mer
The Beauty of the Great Ocean Road: Twelve Apostles Overview
Since the last visit in 2018, 12 Apostles had a new observation deck jutting out of the coastal cliffs. It made it easier to take photographs of those marvels. Not doing my scouting work properly I decided to follow the sign from tourist info and walk to Gibson’s Steps and the beach. It only one kilometer but it was hot, and we could have driven there as well. But the beach was worth the visit. I was able to get some pics of the Apostles reflecting from the wet sand.
Circling back to the cultural phenomenon of Asian tourists taking pictures. Or at least I think it is culture thing, with all the different poses and selfies? I do take selfies sometimes, like the one with my gorgeous Billabong hat, but I don’t want to go through my holiday pictures and seeing my face in all of them. Imagine showing the pictures to your friends: this is me in front of the Grotto x 5, this is me in front of London Bridge x 10, this is me with victory sign or thumbs up in front of 12 Apostles, etc. But you get the picture. But getting the picture was often hard when there was a bus load of people in front of you. Eventually, there was nothing else to do but to photobomb their pictures.
We had lunch in Port Campbell and in the next table there was an American couple once again. They were from Tampa Bay, Florida. As it happened his grandparents were from North Finland, and he had visited our country when he was a boy. We had a pleasant conversation about their travels. They had visited New Zealand first, then Tasmania, then toured Australia and they were planning on continuing to Great Barrier Reef. The discussion turned to politics, and we got out of there fast. . Enough said.
The day wasn’t over yet; we still had to drive to Bendigo. We decided on Bendigo because it was less than 4 hours from Port Campbell and five hours from Talbingo, where we originally planned to go. Talbingo was a no go, but it was too late to cancel Bendigo. I also picked Bendigo because I once knew a professional poker player Keith “Bendigo” Sloan. He was from Bendigo but that is another story.
Now comes the part where I lost my faith in Google Maps many times. The Great Ocean Road is not situated in, let’s say, densely populated area. Next to it there is basically farmland, and the beginning of our drive was a combination of narrow asphalt roads, gravel roads, cattle, sheep, gum trees and warning signs for kangaroos. Turn right to stay on Cobden-Port Campbell Rd/C164 and drive 1,6 km, turn right to Cobden-Terang Rd/C156/C164 and drive 210 m, continue Neylon St and drive 1,3 km, continue from the roundabout to Camperdown-Cobden Rd/C164 and drive 12,5 km, turn right to Manifold St/Princes Hwy/A1/C164 and drive 60 m, turn left to Cressy St/C164 continue C164 for8,8 km and so on. Seemed it was forever until we got on any highway. That’s what you ask for the fastest and most fuel-efficient route from Google Maps.
But it was so much fun! The roads were in good shape and there was hardly anybody on the road. The speed limit was most of the time 100 km but like I said – no traffic. And no traffic means that somebody next to me is screaming – STOP – every few minutes to, you guessed it, take a picture or hundreds of them. Eventually we got to Bendigo just in time to collect the keys to the room and visit Woolworths or Woolies to the locals.
I always picked our drive to happen during the daylight. The reason being kangaroos and wombats. They move mostly from dusk till dawn. Most cars have the kangaroo bumpers for a good reason. The name says it all. Our high-end Corolla didn’t include kangaroo bumpers. It was sad to see so many road kills. We drove over 4700 km but still the number of dead kangaroos was staggering, and we saw couple of wombats, too, and one dead deer. I’m sure to local people kangaroos are mainly pests but to us they just seemed so cuddly and funny. If I understood correctly kangaroos are not very smart when it comes to traffic. They freeze in the headlights or something.
LAst on the Card MAY
That was yesterday, the last day of May; we were at our summer house. I took some photos on my iPhone of one corner of our grounds. My husband is having fun with his chainsaw, clearing the area of small spruce trees to let some light into the corner and make it look nicer, as it was overgrown and not at all pleasing to look at. Well, it doesn’t look that way now either, but hopefully soon.
This I took with my Olympus – lens OLYMPUS M.45mm F1.8 while sitting on my patio at home watching the oak leaves starting to open from the warmth of the sun.
I also took these during the weekend, I was sitting on my sofa and playing with my new camera and decided I would try the ICM zooming again as I was not impressed with my earlier efforts, this time they are slightly better, still need to continue the efforts Sony A7 III, Lens 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6
For Last on the card in May.
Lens-Artists Challenge #351 – Books
It is often said that a great book has the power to resonate with the human spirit, transport us to new realms, ignite our imagination, and shift our viewpoints in an instant… but are we discussing literature or photography here?! For Challenge 351, I invite you to embrace your inner book lover and share your most creative photographic interpretation of anything related to books. What significance do books hold for you? Can you inventively capture an image of one of the most timeless themes in existence?
I am looking for photos of books, any kind of books that inspire a love for reading. This could include someone deeply engaged in the act of reading a book, perhaps captured in a cozy nook, lost in a world of imagination. A shot of your favorite bookstore, with its enchanting display of titles and welcoming atmosphere, would also be wonderful to see. Alternatively, simply showcasing a book, whether it’s an old cherished classic or a trendy new release, can evoke a strong connection to the written word. I am not looking for book reviews, as they present another challenge altogether, but rather visual representations that highlight the beauty and allure of books, reflecting the passion of those who are truly bookworms amongst us.
It can be older books, these books were in the Library of Hvitträsk’s Museum
These newer books can be found in my own bookshelves. No rhyme or reason for the books in this shelve.
The Bookshelf is from our Library Fyyri in Kirkkonummi, a beautiful, modern architecture and welcoming atmosphere, where community members gather to enjoy books, attend events, and connect with one another. Meanwhile, the three men reading are in Oodi, the innovative central library in Helsinki, which serves as a vibrant hub for culture and creativity.
I took these photos of a book about Vintage bags, it is a gift from a friend of mine – I do love handbags 🙂
In conclusion, zooming this way was fun and, to many of us, a new experience. Anne’s challenge last week was an excellent reminder of the joy of experiencing and learning something new. Her post was, as always, a source of inspiration with amazing photos. I hope you have fun joining us again this week. Remember to tag Lens-Artists; also, please link back to my original post.
Next week is Sofia’s turn to host, Saturday 7th June. Until then keep on smiling ☺
If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
Let me end this post with book of vintage sheet music . “While strolling through the park one day, in the merry merry month of May….
Still standing tall against the odds
For Debbie´s Six Words Saturday.
traditional Scandinavian grain drying and threshing cabin
Vibrancy of Dandelions
This is the prime time for dandelions in my neck of the woods. The glorious yellow fields of this pest of a flower look lovely, stretching out like a bright carpet across the landscape, creating a vivid contrast against the greens of the grass and the browns of the earth. This weed is lovely in its brightness, with its unapologetic splendor. I took these yesterday, reveling in the beauty of the fields and the soft, fluffy clouds drifting lazily above, where the sun peeked through to illuminate the landscape. However, towards the end of the day, the clouds turned dark, gathering together ominously and giving us a pour of rain that was both refreshing and needed. The scent of the air after the rain was so fresh and lovely, invigorating my senses.
The seeds, delicate and fluffy, are a great macro photography subject, exploding into the air with just a gentle breath, scattering like tiny parachutes on the wind.
My old neighbor, by old I mean she used to be my neighbor and well she was on the older side; I was in my late forties and she in her late eighties, told me she used to make wine out of dandelions, a unique blend that captivated and surprised many. She said she would give me the recipe, but I never did actually get it, although it came up many times during our conversations, often reminiscing about the joy ipicking the dandelions. She was a lovely lady, always positive, her laughter , and her stories rich with wisdom about foraging, gardening, and the simple pleasures found in nature.
Dandelions can be made into wine, offering a refreshing and unique beverage. This traditional recipe is perfect for beginners looking to try something new for spring or summer meals. While many see dandelions as weeds, wine enthusiasts view them as ingredients. Dandelion wine is gaining popularity among DIY winemakers, featuring a light and citrusy flavor.
I googled this recipe
Dandelion Wine
Yields approx. 4 liters
Ingredients:
• 3 liters of dandelion petals (only the yellow parts)
• 4 liters of water
• 1.5–2 kg of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 organic lemons (juice + zest)
• 1 orange (optional – for rounder flavor)
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
• 1 packet wine yeast
• Optional: 1 tsp yeast nutrient
Instructions:
- Pick & prepare:
Pick dandelions on a sunny day when they are fully open. Use only the yellow petals – the green parts can make the wine bitter. - Pre-fermentation:
Boil the water and pour it over the petals in a large pot or fermentation bucket. Cover and let sit for 2 days, stirring occasionally. - Strain & flavor:
Strain out the petals. Gently heat the liquid with the sugar, lemon juice + zest, optional orange and ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let cool to room temperature. - Fermentation:
Add the wine yeast (and optional yeast nutrient) to the cooled liquid. Pour into a fermentation vessel with an airlock. Let ferment in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks. - Bottling & aging:
When fermentation is complete, transfer to clean bottles. Age for at least 3–6 months. The wine only improves over time!
A manor in Messilä
Monochrome Madness – Forests
You cannot escape forests here – they are all around us, enveloping every corner of the landscape. Approximately 75 percent of Finland’s land area is covered by forest, creating a lush, green tapestry that supports an array of wildlife and offers countless opportunities for exploration.
I have had a forest right at my doorstep most of my life, from playing in the forest as a kid to taking walks in it as an adult, allowing me to witness the changing seasons, from the vibrant hues of autumn leaves to the serene blanket of snow during winter, each moment reinforcing the connection I feel with nature. The soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds provide a constant reminder of the peace that these natural havens can bring.
Posted for For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
The Allure of Forget-Me-Nots
I’ve had a blast soaking up some sunny days in the backyard, just watching the colors and flowers burst into life like nature’s own art show. Those little forget-me-nots are a real highlight—so delicate and lovely! I’ve got loads photos of them from past springs, so I definitely don’t need more, but honestly, I can’t resist the urge to snap some fresh shots.
The White Forget Me Not Flower carries a heartfelt spiritual significance for many, embodying enduring love and cherished memories. Often used to pay tribute to those who have passed, this delicate bloom has inspired countless poems and songs that beautifully express the depth of its timeless affection. For some, it serves as a comforting beacon of hope, offering assurance of a brighter tomorrow, while for others, it symbolizes the peace and tranquility that only nature can provide during moments of reflection and loss.
The Blue Forget Me Not Flower holds a gentle charm with its spiritual qualities and healing properties, known for bestowing a calming effect and fostering a deep sense of tranquility, making it a wonderful companion for meditation and relaxation. This delicate flower also serves as a heartfelt symbol of remembrance and loyalty, inspired by a poignant medieval legend of a knight who, while gathering these blossoms for his beloved, tragically fell into a river, urging her to “Forget me not.” This touching story has woven the flower into our hearts, associating it with memorials and funerals, reminding us of the enduring connections we cherish.
Lens-artists challenge #350 – zooming
Let’s get this out in the open right away: when I saw this challenge, I was SO out of my depth. I don’t have a tripod, nor do I use any filters, and I rarely shoot in manual mode—my comfort zone has always been in more intuitive settings using either aperture or shutter setting. I am all but a technical photographer; instead, I am all about composition and mood, focusing on capturing the essence of a moment rather than worrying about technical perfection. The idea of embracing an entirely new approach left me feeling insecure. I was terrified, and although maybe that is a bit too strong a term, daunted is more like it. The prospect of experimenting with techniques outside my usual repertoire felt a bit overwhelming, yet at the same time, a small flicker of excitement began to form deep within me, urging me to push through the apprehension and discover what I might learn from this experience.
I did do it, I took SO many, most photos were just rubbish. I am so glad it’s digital photography; otherwise, I might have felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of shots that didn’t turn out as expected. The challenge hosted by Anne from Slow Shutter Speed is all about zooming, which is an intriguing technique that falls under the broader category of Intentional Camera Movement. In this case, instead of moving the entire camera, you simply move the lens back and forth to create a unique visual effect. This approach yields photos of a different kind, capturing the motion and essence of the subject in unexpected ways! So I found out after experimenting with it myself. The results were surprising, and I discovered a new appreciation for movement in photography. For anyone interested in exploring this technique further, please go to her lovely blog, where you’ll find very useful information and guidance on how to tackle this one effectively, enabling you to unleash your creativity and take your photography skills to new heights.
Now to the photos I took. It is spring, a season that always brings a sense of renewal and excitement, and I venture as far as my backyard to do this – and against advice on a sunny day, with not that much shade. The first one is maybe my favorite 👆, capturing the vibrant colors and the fresh scents that fill the air during this beautiful time of year. After a few sunny days, the spring just burst into life, showcasing a dazzling array greenery – and this shot kind of says that, reflecting the joy and energy that surrounds us as nature awakens.
There is this yellow wisteria in the front of the house that exploded with this style.
Juniperus chinensis was my next subject I tried the zooming on – these three were presentable.
Once again – I found backlit plant – I wanted the different shade that the green to pop and hopefully follow my zoom movements. Zoom in or zoom out – I don’t know which one worked better as I took so many shot that are placed in to the bin.
When you post, please remember to link to Anne’s post and use the Lens-Artist tag. I really enjoyed seeing your post on Tina’s challenge, “The First Thing I Thought Of.” It’s amazing how a picture has so many different interpretations depending on how you caption it, and I loved the positivity and smiles I got this week.
I’ll be leading next week’s challenge again; it is rather soon after my last challenge, but it will be something we haven’t done before. Hopefully, you will join me next week. In the meantime, keep on smiling; it just might be someone’s high point of the day. And it is contagious :-d
Stunning Views of Aboriginal cultural landscape
We arrived at Peterborough around 2 and our accommodations were ready. To my surprise we
stayed in a house owned by elderly gentleman named Jim. Somehow, I was expecting motel again.
His house was split in half and this pleasant fellow lived in the other half of the house. After arriving fairly early we had plenty of time start exploring the area. We managed to visit Bay of
Islands, Bay of Martyrs and The Grotto.
Bay of Islands Coastal Park is part of an Aboriginal cultural landscape. The Southern Ocean has carved a stunning collection of rock stacks and sheltered bays with and small beach coves near Peterborough. This one was nearest to us and our first stop.
Bay of Martyrs. According to local legends, it got its name from a pretty brutal showdown between the Kirrae-Wurrong people and the early European settlers. This clash, which some folks call the “Bay of Martyrs,” resulted in the tragic loss of many Indigenous lives and is crucial in understanding the area’s colonial past. The cliffs surrounding the bay are a reminder of that tough time, showing the lasting impact of colonization on the land and its original peoples.
The Grotto was fun because we arrived just after a bus load of Asian tourists. When I saw the steps and long line of people leading down to the Grotto I thought I would never be able to see it. Then I realized that they were all patiently standing in line waiting for their turn to take selfies or have friends take pictures against the Grotto. I wasn’t having any of is, so passed everybody in the line, because there was plenty of room on the deck to take pictures. Luckily, there was a lady standing there who called “next” every 30 seconds to get the line moving. I thought she was the guide for the group but later I saw her with her husband, who had been standing in line that I passed. Anyway, I got some decent pictures but not right in front of the Grotto.
The Grotto is perhaps the most enchanting of all the rock formations in this part of Australia. Part-blowhole, part-archway, part-cave.
After having only the disappointing breakfast/brunch in Port Fairy we had to go grocery shopping in
Port Campbell. Got some disappointing sandwiches , we were having so much bad luck with our food choices and finished them with tea in our beautiful half-house, but not halfway house. Then it was time for another beautiful sunset. This time we welcomed at Bay of Islands.
The afterglow of the sunset.
After we settled in that evening we got a very disturbing phone call from Ritva’s cousin Heli. She informed us that we wouldn’t be able to visit Ritva’s other cousin, Kari, in the mountain city of Talbingo. Kari’s wife, Susan. had just gotten bad health news and she was not, understandably, in a state to welcome guests. Such sad news to receive. We had planned on staying for few nights with them and we were slightly panicking. However, Heli graciously welcomed us to stay as long as we wanted in their home. Phew, problem solved, for now. So grateful.
To be continued 😀
Text credit Mara Sillanmäki
The Charm of Savannah
I am continuing my houses and doors and windows for Dans Thursday Doors. Looking back I am sad that we only had time to stay for two days.
Constructed in 1873 by notable local entrepreneur and alderman Samuel Pugh Hamilton, who was referred to as “The Lord of Lafayette Square,” this private mansion emerged as a centerpiece for Savannah’s social activities, its magnificent architecture and interiors adding a sense of opulence to the numerous gatherings of the elite. When it became the first residence in Savannah to harness electricity, residents flocked to witness the enchanting glow of electric light shining through its windows. Over a century later, John Berendt’s book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” highlighted the lively parties hosted by Joe Odom, who once oversaw the estate. Years afterward, the Inn made a memorable appearance in the film adaptation of the same title directed by Clint Eastwood, featuring stars Kevin Spacey and John Cusack.
Focus on Spring Buds
For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness this week I took some photos of spring, trying to capture the essence of renewal and vibrancy that this season brings.
Some plants are just slowly starting to show small buds of leaves, signaling the awakening of nature after the long, cold early spring. So I took a close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence against the backdrop of the slowly warming air. These two images are just slightly different, mainly by cropping.
I also added the color version just for no reason other than that I felt like it, wanting to give viewers a contrast that emphasizes the fresh greenery and the subtle hints of color that are beginning to emerge in the landscape.
Monaco and Nice’s Elegant Street Lights
This week, our host is from Bushboy’s World, Brian, with an great theme of Street lights by day or night. Feel free to choose between day or night, or even combine both—it’s entirely in your hands! I’ve also linked this to Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
Reflecting on my past visits to France and Monaco, I want to share these images of stylish streetlights illuminating the charming architecture and vibrant nightlife, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadows in these picturesque locations. I immediately thought of these images when I read the challenge for this week, such a good choice.
The streetlights in Monaco are stylish for sure.
Nice was such a great place for snapping streetlight photos! The old buildings and the way the streetlights were positioned made everything feel warm and cosy, and I just had to take tons of photos. I aimed to catch the light but also the lively vibe of the city, showing off the cool dance between shadows and light as night rolled in. When it got darker, those streetlights turned into little warm beacons, making it impossible not to hit the shutter.
Savannah’s Historic Architecture
We saw so many wonderful old buildings in Savannah, each telling a unique story through its intricate designs and rich history. I am continuing to showcase some of the buildings we looked at, with their beautifully preserved facades and charming details that transport you back in time. I love old towns, where every corner reveals a piece of the past, and the buildings that are done so beautifully resonate with a sense of nostalgia. As a fan of old architecture, I appreciate not just the aesthetic appeal but also the craftsmanship that has endured for generations, making each structure a testament to the talent of those who built them. Exploring these historic gems is like taking a stroll through time.
This was one of them, the Hamilton-Turner Inn. Located on Lafayette Square in the Historic District of Savannah, Georgia, it is supposed to be one of the city’s most historic luxury inns that captures the style of the Old South. Originally built in 1873 as a private home, the Hamilton-Turner Inn boasts a distinctive French Empire-style architectural design and is filled with original interior elements that will transport you back 150 years.
The Kessler Armstrong Mansion, an impressively Italian Renaissance Revival home, was built in 1919 by the prominent George Ferguson Armstrong and designed by the renowned Beaux Arts architect, Henrik Wallin. This stunning residence, characterized by its intricate detailing and grand architectural features, showcases the elegance and artistry of its era. As the only house of its kind in Savannah listed in the authoritative A Field Guide to American Houses, it stands out not just for its aesthetic appeal but also for its rich history. This is a testament to architectural excellence and historical significance, serving as a captivating reminder of the cultural heritage of the region. I did some googling to tell you this.
For Monday Window.
First green
Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday
Architectural Treasures of Savannah
The Mercer-Williams House was meticulously designed for General Hugh W. Mercer, who was the great-grandfather of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer, adding a unique layer of cultural significance to the residence. The ambitious construction began in 1860, showcasing architectural aspirations of the time, but it was subsequently interrupted by the tumultuous events of the Civil War, which not only halted progress but also left its imprint on the history of the structure. After several years of delay and considerable upheaval, the house was eventually completed in 1868, following General Mercer’s decision to sell the unfinished structure to John R. Wilder, an influential local businessman. Thus, in a twist of fate, no Mercer ever actually lived in the house that bears their name, creating a fascinating narrative about legacy and ownership. In Savannah, the majority of historic homes echo this tradition, often using the name of the home’s original family alongside that of the most prominent family, establishing a rich tapestry of historical narratives that delight visitors and residents alike, inviting them to explore the stories that shaped the city. This is what I found out about his house when I googled it.
The Kehoe House is an exquisitely restored 1892 Renaissance Revival mansion in Savannah’s Historic District. The Kehoe House was built in 1892 by William Kehoe, a successful iron foundry owner. The home’s architectural style is Queen Anne Revival. Its exterior stairway, balustrades, window treatments, fluted columns and capitals, fences and gates are all cast iron, a tribute to the iron foundry’s excellence in pattern making and casting.
These are for Thursday Doors, as I was revisiting my images from Savannah. Surprisingly I have so many doors and buildings to share from that visit. I will start with these two houses. I have previously posted them, but there is a good chance you have missed those posts.
The Impact of Stripes
This is for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. I was browsing my photograph archive and found this image, which I don’t recall posting it before and now am wondering why ever not. It is rather striking and captivates the attention immediately. I think the composition draws you in, with lines and shapes that create a sense of movement. I took it in an art museum a couple of years back, where the play of light and shadow was particularly mesmerizing. I used slightly different editing on the images, and while they appear to be the same at first glance, the subtle yet distinct differences reveal themselves, especially with the stripes under her feet that add movement.
One again, I am so bad at giving an image a title, still in the learning process 🙂
Lens-artists Challenge #347 – break the rules!
We work so hard to learn the photography rules , at least I do but now it is time to BREAK them!! The problem is just that in order to break a rule, you must know that there is a rule in the first place!
Photography is as much about emotion and instinct to me as it is about technical skill. In those moments when we abandon the constraints of traditional guidelines, we open ourselves up to unexpected and beautiful outcomes in my case many times by mistake. The light might be harsh, and the shadows may seem unflattering, but that can lead to a unique perspective. The carefree spirit of snapping images without overthinking allows for spontaneity to shine through, infusing each shot with authenticity.
So dear challenger, you have two choices. First you can go and look for a rules to consciously break. This could be something like disregarding symmetry or capturing an image at an unusual angle that defies convention. Rather than shooting from eye-level, explore unique angles, such as low or upside down. OR you can just go and shoot without paying too much attention to the rules that we often keep in the back of our minds, allowing pure creativity to guide you. This absence of self-imposed restrictions might lead to surprising results that speak more to your personal vision than any shot meticulously planned around compositional rules.
Unlike conventional photography – which focuses on capturing crisp and detailed images – impressionist photography challenges us to see the world through a different lens, one that is less concerned with sharpness and more with the emotional and visual impact. Impressionist photos aren’t just about what is directly in front of the camera, but about the story you choose to tell through colors, shapes, and even blur.
I love capturing impressionistic shots, you to paint with your camera – so you can create the kind of artwork that resonates deep down. I encourage you to embrace movement, play with focus, and celebrate abstraction.
Here are few suggestions: Hold Your Camera on an Angle, Break the Rule of Thirds, Ignore the ‘Active Space’ Rule for Moving Subjects, Experiment with Different Framings in Portraits, Taking Unfocused Photos, Use a High ISO to Create Grainy Shots, Move Your Camera to Create Motion Blur
OR, if you’re feeling particularly inspired, you can take a photo of a rule breaker!
As a summary, I have to say I really struggled with doing this post – I found out that I am a stickler for rules. Looking for shots that I had not thought about before, especially focusing on the different learned rules, was quite challenging and required me to think outside of my usual patterns. I noticed that I consistently keep in mind the rule of thirds, straight horizon lines, and various composition rules that are ingrained in my approach to photography, and these guidelines are often very hard to ignore or set aside. Despite my efforts to break free from these confines, I felt a strong urge to adhere to these established principles each time I raised my camera. I hope you can provide me with great examples of images to be inspired by that have not been so heavily influenced by the traditional rules, allowing me to embrace a more creative and unconventional perspective in my work.
Last week we enjoyed the creative and cinematic photos with Sofia’s challenge. So let’s keep up the same level of creativity this week. Next week, it’s Egídio’s turn to host on Saturday, May 10th—hope you can join us then! Until then, keep smiling. You never know, it might just make someone’s day a little brighter!
If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
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the beauty of nature after rainfall.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 