Category: Photography

Lens-Artists Challenge #302 – AI and Photography

lens-artists, Photography

John is our hero this week for leading us tp a controversial and rapidly-evolving development in photography. He is challenging us to experiment with AI. For those of you who use any of the Adobe programs, I’m sure you’ve been stunned with the speed of development of AI tools.

Artificial intelligence is already everywhere, not least in photography, where it turns the creation of images on its head. In many photo contests, judges have awarded pictures created with artificial intelligence-based image generators, thinking they are genuine. It’s scary and fascinating at the same time.

original photo that I have obviously edited as it was shot RAW

I am not in my comfort zone in this challenge, as a serious hobbyist photographer I like to take my own photos and edit them myself to my style.

I used my photo as a starting point, I changed the sky to two different sunsets. One is more believable..

Regarding the edit process, I am comfortable removing distractions and, on occasion, replacing the sky. It is a very delicate process, the art of replacing the sky in a photograph requires a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of light, perspective, and atmosphere. Ensuring that the new sky seamlessly integrates with the rest of the scene, taking into account the direction of the sun, the play of shadows, and the reflections, It’s a meticulous process that, when executed skillfully, can elevate the entire mood and narrative of the photograph, transporting the viewer to a captivating and immersive visual experience. It can easily go wrong.

An other sample of sky edits…original and edited version, can you tell which is which?

The approach I usually take is to carefully frame the shot at the location to naturally exclude most distractions. However, this is not always feasible. In some cases, I am comfortable with the idea of removing objects like garbage cans and electric cables, or even editing out certain branches from the periphery of the image.

For this challenge I was going to try Photoshop to create something, but as my heart was not into it, I got nowhere, but I did get really frustrated. Then I found t Craiyon free site to create these two photo. Prompts: green field set against dark clouds and Lighthouse during a storm.

These two (below) were my first attempts to create anything on word prompts- done with free version on copilot – these came out as illustrations. Not to my taste. Hence my frustration after seeing others create lovely images.

I don’t condemn anyone using AI, but it not for me at least now at least in photography. I strongly believe that something is lost, the soul , the personal touch. I might take it up when my own inspiration is lost, but most likely not. Art is about individual creativity to me.

As an Contemporary digital artist, which I like to label myself (not to be too modest) I can use editing tools to create art, but I do not want a AI to create art on a prompt. These are from my own images. Art is about individual creativity to me.

Thank you, Sofia, for last weeks floral enchantments, the floral inspiration we got was amazing.

The challenge host next week will be Donna, be sure to visit her inspirational site and see what she is up to! If you’d like to participate in the challenge responses each week but aren’t sure how to get started, check here.

Lilies of the valley

Flowers, Nature, Photography
Lilies of the valley

Lilies of the valley are so beautiful and delicate, and yes also poisonous

Dandelion times 4

Flowers, Nature, Photography

I took these dandelion shots yesterday and edited them on my phone using Lightroom John’s Cellpic Sunday

Dandelion
Dandelion 2
Dandelion 3
Dandelion 4

Square 31.5.24

Flowers, Nature, Photography

We have reached the end of Becky’s Squares photo challenge, I was distracted by starting a full time job in the middle of it and stopped posting even if I had good intentions to follow the month through. Thanks for this challenge Becky.

Tiny wonders
Wild strawberries 🍓 soon
Light

Lens-Artists Challenge #301 – Floral

Flowers, lens-artists, Photography


Lens-Artists #301 – Floral hosted by Sofia wrote: I sincerely believe it to be difficult to have photo of a flower that is not beautiful. But for this challenge, I’d like us to think of how we either capture them or how we process the image afterwards.

First I would like to say all my photos for this post are from past week. Somehow it feels like this year we skipped spring all together, we got summer temperatures now and all the flowers are in bloom at the same time. Most of them I’ve taken with my mobile, because last week I felt the camera’s to the summer house in the belief that there would be nothing to photograph, I was wrong. Everything seemed to bloom overnight. and to the how I capture them – mostly close-ups.

I have now real angle this week, my mind is all overloaded with new things and NUMBERs – my least favorite thing .

First here is a look at one tulip. I took a these few days apart, from different directions and I did some editing with lightroom app on my mobile.

The apple tree blossoms beautifully just few days ago and now the really warm weather , not at all normal at this time of the year has wilted them.

random flowers-

Last week Ann-Christine challenged us with the Delicate things, her recent travels to Japan gave us wonderful inspiration. I loved all your examples and how varied they were. This is what makes these challenges so interesting, we all think in different ways and that makes us grow as photographers.

Next week is John’s turn to lead, so please visit his unique site to see what he’s up to, I am sure looking forward to it.

If you want more information on the Lens-Artist Challenge, please click here.

Totally destroyed clubhouse

Captures from Finland, Photography

John’s Cellpic Sunday

Today, our local youth clubhouse at our summer home village burned down. Nothing left, fortunately no lives were lost.

Fire destroys the building down to the ground
Such a sad thing, it was the heart of the village

Monochrome Madness | crossroads

Black and White photos, Photography, Travel, Traveling US

I’m just posting this crossing from our trip to Charleston last year. Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

Which way to go?

Lens-Artists Challenge #300- Delicate

lens-artists, Photography

Ann-Christine  challenges us this week with a theme Delicate , and what a way to celebrate the 300 Lens-Artists Challenges!

First I saw the title and my first thought was nature – obviously. But since Sofia is doing floral next week I will leave those photos for that theme.

Delicate – very fine in texture or structure; of intricate workmanship or quality, easily broken or damaged; fragile. “delicate china”

The first three glasses are are old and fragile, they used to belong to my parents. I got his glass swan with a delicate neck as a gift 🙂

I got a set of six from my grandmother as wedding gift it is truly exquisite and rich in memories. The Paragon “First Love” Cup and Saucer set, appointed by Her Majesty the Queen, carries a sense of elegance and tradition. Even as they are not to my personal style, they embody a timeless charm and sentimental value that transcends individual preferences.I have used these maybe few times. I’ve kept them as a cherished memory, just to honor her gift and the enduring legacy it represents.

So, I was just looking at the world through my phone’s camera, thinking about the idea of delicacy. During the day, I was trying to capture moments that really embodied delicacy, you know, both in a physical and emotional sense. I didn’t really make any big discoveries, I was just trying to find beauty in how delicate everything can be. Like the gentle sunlight filtering through the trees with tiny drops of water, or the delicate lace curtains in my sauna. And, of course, Tinka’s whiskers.

Step into a world where nature and culture intertwined effortlessly. The Chinese Garden of Friendship in Sydney offers a serene escape from the bustling city, where you can wander along meandering pathways adorned with intricate pavilions, peaceful ponds, and lush flora. Each step reveals a new vista, a new moment of awe-inspiring beauty and as these photos show delicate window.

Last week Patti created a an inspiring theme for us to ponder on, the week was full of hope, a big topic and the interpretation of the theme was captured beautifully by all you.

Next week is Sofia’s turn to host. Please visit her site Saturday 25th May for more information on the challenge, I am sure she will give us with truly beautiful floral images to inspire us.

Until then, keep smiling ☺

To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.

And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge,  please click here.

Töölö Windows

Captures from Finland, Photography

Ludwigs Monday Window

Spent few moments in Töölö, Helsinki looking for Windows on a Friday evening. I was able take these without cars. There is one shot I took, just to show movement on the road, it is usually a very busy road. Not on a Friday evening with summer temperatures 😊

Lens-Artists Challenge #299 Hopeful

lens-artists, Photography

What makes me hopeful? That is Patti‘s question. I’m glad she asked!

Here are a few thoughts and images.

The spring season is truly a time of hope and renewal, as nature comes alive with vibrant colors and fresh energy. There’s something truly magical about witnessing the world bloom after the quiet slumber of winter. The emergence of new, fresh greenery brings a sense of vitality and optimism, symbolizing new beginnings and growth. I really love this time of the year, a season full of hope.

One of the most delightful aspects of spring is the return of migratory birds, signaling the changing seasons and reconnecting us with the rhythms of the natural world. Their cheerful songs and graceful flights add an extra layer of beauty to the landscape. I am hopeless in recognizing different species, but past weekend there where so many geese and swans flying in flocks over our summer place – they are rather noisy and you can easily hear when they are approaching.

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement for the warmer days ahead and to feel the embrace of spring, filling our hearts with a renewed sense of adventure and possibility. This year the late arrival has been bit upsetting, but now I am hopeful.

And the light! Oh, the light in spring is truly a marvel to behold. The extended daylight hours bring so much joy, allowing us to bask in the golden glow of sunsets that linger well into the evening. The longer days also mean early sunrises, painting the sky with hues of pink and orange as the world awakens to a new day.

In fact, the sunsets around in the middle of May at 21:40 and the sunrise at 4:46 create a symphony of light and color that can only be experienced during this magical time of year. It’s a reminder of the beauty and majesty of the natural world, inspiring us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the fleeting yet wondrous moments that define the spring season.

When observing the vibrant energy and open-mindedness of children and young people, it instills a sense of hope for the future. My kids and grandkids keep me hopeful, their unwavering optimism and fresh outlook on life inspire a renewed belief in the potential for positive change and progress. Witnessing their curiosity, creativity, and resilience serves as a powerful reminder of the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. This hopeful perspective encourages an emphasis on nurturing and supporting the next generation, as they hold the key to shaping a brighter tomorrow.

On a more personal note, I have started a full time job and it is bound to take toll, and in a way already has the time and energy will mostly forward to learning the new job, but I will do my best to keep up with this challenge. I am hopeful that I will learn it 🙂

Tinka was so hopeful that she would get some food 🙂

Last week was full of memories and images of young ones, it was lovely to see the images full of candid and open expressions. no one really yearned to be young again, something to be said to required life experience. Thanks so much for this lovely challenge.

Next week is Ann- Christine’s turn to host. Please visit her site Saturday 18th May for more information on the challenge, I am sure she will once agains surprise us with something inspirational and truly beautiful images.

Until then, keep smiling ☺

To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.

And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge,  please click here.

Lens-Artists Challenge #298: to be young again

lens-artists, Photography

As we delve into the intriguing theme of childhood, we must acknowledge the profound impact it has on shaping our perspectives and aspirations. Childhood represents a time of innocence and wonder, where the world is viewed through untainted eyes, brimming with limitless possibilities. Tina invites us this week to share our photos of children–from our family, our neighbors or friends, or simply children that we’ve seen when we’re out with our cameras.

Whether through the mischievous laughter of siblings or the spontaneous antics of neighborhood friends, the presence of children infuses our lives with a vibrant energy that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Embracing the sentiment of the title, the yearning to relive certain aspects of youth is undeniable, yet it is accompanied by the wisdom and contentment that comes with adulthood. Reflecting on the simplicity of childhood, it becomes evident that finding joy in life’s modest pleasures can indeed lead to a fulfilling existence.

All photos in the galleries can be enlarged with a click.

As I delved into the older archives, I uncovered a treasure trove of cherished memories encapsulated within the timeless images of my boys in their youth. The nostalgia that emanates from these photographs has the power to transport me back in time, evoking a sense of warmth and sentimentality. Each image offers a glimpse into the past, capturing the essence of a bygone era and immortalizing fleeting moments that hold profound significance. These timeless snapshots are more than mere photographs; they are windows to the past, allowing me to reconnect with the essence of my own past and the cherished stories that have shaped my life.

The anticipation of welcoming a new addition to the family is a truly joyous occasion. The prospect of another grandchild, a baby boy no less, brings with it a sense of excitement and celebration. I am looking forward to the happiness of a new family member as the energetic presence of three grandsons is set to be complemented by the arrival of a fourth. The bond between siblings and cousins is such a precious thing, and it’s heartwarming to see the family growing with each new arrival. These shots are taken by a proud grandma 🙂

While I’m inclined towards landscape and cityscape photography when traveling, I also find joy in photographing people, especially the little ones. Children have an unparalleled ability to exude authenticity through their expressions, and this is what draws me to capture their real emotions in my photographs. I strive to immortalize their genuine expression, curiosity, and wonder without resorting to posed or contrived smiles. It’s these honest and candid moments that truly encapsulate the pure spirit of childhood, and I cherish the opportunity to freeze these fleeting instances in time.

The experience of enjoying music and photos inspired by music is a truly special one. It’s fascinating how these art forms can intertwine, evoking emotions and memories in a way that few other things can. The combinations and associations between music and visuals can create a truly captivating experience for the audience. Music, in particular, has an incredible power to evoke memories, transporting us back to specific moments in time. Whether it’s a song that played during a significant life event or an album that brings back nostalgic feelings, music has the ability to connect us to our past in a unique way. Furthermore, it also has the remarkable ability to inspire us to create new memories and experiences. Thank you Egídio for a great challenge.

Next week is Patti’s turn to host. Please visit her site Saturday 11th May for more information on the challenge, I am sure she will once agains surprise us with something inspirational.

Until then, keep smiling ☺

To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.

And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge,  please click here.

Cellpic Sunday – at the rapid of Kumia

Captures from Finland, Photography

We drove to our summer house to start the season and stopped at Kumia mylly to see how high the water level was this spring- and it was high

Kumian mylly

Cellpic Sunday

April’s last shots

Captures from Finland, Flowers, Photography

These two shot are taken with my IPhone, the old newspaper clips can be seen on my patio table, the wood planks are from 1914. I have showed similar shots before, but I return them every now and then.

this carnation was the last on my Sony – shot with a macro lens 2.8/50

April moon

This is the last shot with my Olympus with 14-150mm lens of April moon

For Bushboy´s Last on the Card April.

Open and closed doors

Cities, Photography

I have taken these some years back in France finding these photos brought back a flood of memories. I found them on my phone yesterday, as I was looking for a certain photo, that I did not end up finding. It’s intriguing how a moment of searching for one thing can lead to the discovery of something entirely different yet equally appropriate for the moment. But these open and closed doors did. Given that it’s Dan’s Thursday Doors, it seems like the universe conspired to present you with a fitting tribute to the day.

In a way, this experience echoes the mysterious allure of doors, both literal and metaphorical. They invite curiosity, incite wonder, and beckon us to cross the threshold into the unknown.

The first really warm spring days are finally here, the joy of it is enormous – and for the life of me, I have not been able stay inside the house. After a very long winter the joy of sunshine, the nature slowly coming to life, watching the birds, seeing the first bumble bee this year.

Cut to the chase, I have not spent much time on my computer. I am so well behind in all comments, sorry!

I checked what does goulet means. French: nickname for a glutton or a topographic name for someone who lived by a narrow pass or defile, from Old French goulet ‘gullet’, a diminutive of goule ‘throat’ (from Latin gula). habitational name from (Le) Goulet, the name of several places in various parts of France.

Monochrome – emotions

Photography

The human face is a canvas of emotions, a tapestry weaved with the threads of life’s experiences. Whether it’s the radiant smile of joy, the furrowed brows of curiosity, or the heavy veil of sadness, every emotion leaves its mark on our visage, a silent symphony playing across our features.

And as we journey through life, we encounter moments where the weather itself becomes the artist, painting our emotions with the subtle hues of mist-draped mornings, the golden warmth of sunshine filtering through the woods, or the contemplative serenity of a view from a quiet room. Emotions are the colors that tinge our existence, infusing each day with the rich palette of human experience. But they also can be seen in monochrome images with the contrast and light enhancing the mood

This post is for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness prompted this week by MRS. CLAIRE GUTKNECHT. Visit both sites for beautiful monochrome images.

Old school window

Captures from Finland, Photography

I really like how the old grass works it magic in photos, creating this wave effect, also the small camera movement might have something to do with it. There’s a certain timeless charm in the interplay of natural elements and photographic techniques, as they come together to produce an image that evokes a sense of nostalgia.

The old window glass create beautiful ripple

Scola is Källnäsudd’s old village school in Barösund, that has a new life as a lovely archipelago restaurant. Usually, once a summer we drive and take the ferry to the island to enjoy a lovely lunch on the patio overlooking the strait.

For Monday Window

Cellpic – a glass of cider

Photography, Still life

We went to have lunch and I decided to enjoy a cider while my husband chose a beer. We did also enjoy some good food 😂

For John’s Cellpic Sunday

Lens-Artists Challenge #297: Music to My Eyes

lens-artists, Photography

Egídio has a topic this week Music to My Eyes, my first thought was panic. Music, love it, inspired by it, absolutely. Do I remember what and when inspired me…not really, not so clearly.

He wrote; Do you use music as inspiration? YES A song’s mood or lyrics can spark ideas for a photoshoot’s theme or location. I AGREE Sometimes, it happens before you capture the image, and sometimes after. ABSOLUTELY Thus, this is my twist (pardon the pun) for this week’s lens-artists challenge. What is music to your eyes? CHECK BELOW ☺

My music taste has changed over the years. It has evolved that is a fact. I am really drawn to artists like Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Nat King Cole. That style of music is so stylish – emotional, full of timeless classics and soulful tunes that resonate with me on a deep emotional level, takes me on a nostalgic journey, evoking powerful emotions and painting vivid pictures in my mind.

Well, a song shot is Stormy Weather by Etta James

I love the sea the power, the moodiness and strength of it. This is a song that always gets a strong reaction from me – I tear up nearly every time. I have shared this before in my Saturday Classic posts, but here I go again. Myrskyluodon Maija by composed by Lasse Mårtenson. I encourage you to listen to this even if you do not listen to any other song here.

I grew up in the disco era, but it is not in no way my favorite style of music, it has few really great hits and I just saw an document of the beginning of disco and the death of it as it became commercialized. How about some Post-disco funk celebration by Kool & the Gang after all that stormy weather.

I listen often from all era’s and from many genre’s. Each musical style carries its own unique essence and can evoke such a range of emotions. Country music has a profound way of storytelling, capturing life’s experiences through its heartfelt lyrics and melodies. Alternative music, on the other hand, offers a diverse landscape of sounds and themes, constantly pushing boundaries and defying conventions. I could list many singers that inspire me and are meaningful to me, but then I would not have room for photos and that is what we are looking for.

I have many singers who inspire and hold special meaning for me. The impact of music on our lives is immeasurable, and the artists who create it often become an integral part of our own personal narratives.

Speaking of photos, they have a unique power to capture and encapsulate memories, just like music does. Combining the visual and auditory arts can create a truly immersive experience, allowing us to relive moments and emotions in a tangible way.

Sunsets often bring up vivid association with songs, John Hiatt was a singer I listened to at one point of time. Lipstick sunset often comes to mind when I see pink sunsets.

Lipsticks sunset

Or you could sail away with me by David Gray

Summer Breeze by Seals & Crofts was playing in the back of my mind when I went through what photos I could post for this challenge.

I listened to this song and this is what I was able to create Near Light an instrumental Ambient Music piece by Ólafur Arnalds. I tried to match the captivating image that rose to my mind. I tried to evoke a sense of mystery and contemplation. The smoky, abstract background combined with the central figure I hope creates an atmosphere that feels both ethereal and introspective.

Once again, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who dedicated your time and energy to participate in my abstract challenge. Your contributions have truly enriched the experience, providing me with a wealth of ideas and inspiration. It’s truly fascinating to consider the diverse perspectives through which we perceive things: the unique lenses through which we view the world. Despite these differences, it’s amazing to recognize the common threads that bind us – the way that certain elements and experiences can ignite a spark of creativity and passion within us all.

Next week is Tina’s turn to host. Please visit her site Saturday 4th May for more information on the challenge I am sure she will once agains surprise us with something inspirational.

Until then, keep smiling ☺

To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.

And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge,  please click here.

Monochrome Madness – flowers

Black and White photos, Photography

The Monochrome Madness challenge from 2014 holds a place in my memory. It was a wonderfully coordinated endeavor, involving the talents of Leanne and Laura. I recall that the images were sent by email and Leanne coordinated the post. That is a lot of work to do. Reflecting on the past, I recall participating in that engaging challenge, and it feels like it happened just yesterday.

Considering the present, as we embrace a non-theme week, I’m inspired to delve into my archives and unearth some of my black and white images captured during that same period in 2014. Following in the footsteps of Leanne, I’m focusing my lens on the enchanting subject of flowers. It’s fun to ponder how I’ve evolved and honed my skills as a photographer and editor since then. While there’s always room for growth, I can’t help but feel that I have improved a little bit since then

As always all photos can be enlarged by a click.

Posted for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

April 23rd, 2024

Captures from Finland, Photography

I’m so mad, this weather is just terrible – in December, I’d be all for it, but snow in April? No way! It’s been snowing non-stop since last night. I had a hair appointment, so I had to venture out. Luckily, my husband hadn’t switched to winter tires yet, so I was okay to drive. Many others weren’t so lucky , my hairdresser had most of her appointments canceled due to the fact that they could not get there.

I took some photos of this white nightmare. The first is from my car window as soon as I parked it.

The streets of Kivenlahti this morning..

Vizcaya Museum – interiors and windows

Interiors, Photography

These windows are from inside the Vizcaya Museum showing interiors and beautiful old high windows. I love the grandeur of the interior and the windows in old buildings are so stylish.

This is posted for Monday window