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.
Forget-me-not flowers, their delicate beauty and rich colors amidst lush greenery.
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.
Delicate white forget-me-not flowersA close-up of delicate white Forget-Me-Not flowers, symbolizing eternal love and remembrance.
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.
A vibrant cluster of Blue Forget Me Not flowersA delicate blue Forget-Me-Not flowers, symbolizing love and remembrance.A delicate Blue Forget Me Not flowers surrounded by lush green foliage, symbolizing tranquility.
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 Annefrom 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.
Bursting of spring’s vibrant greens of birch tree’s, showcasing the beauty of new growth through ICM
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.
An artistic representation plant, showcasing vibrant colors and motion through intentional camera movement.
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.
An abstract capture of backlit foliage
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
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.
A stunning view of the Bay of Islands showcasing rugged coastal cliffs and vibrant turquoise waters.
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.
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.
I don’t know the name of this house, but I like how it’s framed by the tree.The historic mansion constructed in 1873, once the center of Savannah’s elite social life and depicted in ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.’ the Hamilton-Turner house
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.
An example of the ornate ironwork found in Savannah.No name, but nice shutters and door and a blurry ironworks
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.
A close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, captured in monochrome, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence.
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.
Delicate buds emerging from tangled branches
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.
Spring buds begin to emerge on delicate branches, finally signaling the arrival of the season.
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.
Elegant street light illuminating a scenic view in a Monaco, surrounded by lush foliage and mountains. This sepia tone suited this image.
The streetlights in Monaco are stylish for sure.
Two boats moored near a vintage street lamp.
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.
A narrow, dimly lit street in Nice, and streetlights amidst old architecture.
A narrow, dimly lit street in Nice, showcasing elegant streetlights casting soft light on the tiled path.
The streetlights illuminate a narrow alley and ambiance of the 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 Hamilton-Turner Inn, a historic luxury inn in Savannah, Georgia, showcasing distinctive French Empire architecture.
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.
The Kessler Armstrong Mansion showcases Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, featuring intricate details and grandeur that reflect Savannah’s rich cultural heritage.
Grand house in Savannah – The Mercer-Williams House
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.
Savannah – the Kehoe house at the corner of the street is supposed to be haunted.
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.
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 🙂
The composition features lines and shapes that convey movement, enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow. Although similar to the other image, subtle editing differences reveal distinct details, particularly the stripes under the woman’s feet and this one having a flat muted surface
A woman on a floor installation featuring striking monochrome light patterns.
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.
An impressionistic view of a red shed amidst a blurred landscape of trees, emphasizing emotion and creativity over technical precision.
A woman capturing a spontaneous moment on camera, while a child walks by, highlighting the beauty of candid photography.
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.
An impressionistic exploration of creativity, blending unique angles and personal vision in photography.
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.
Framed view of a coastal rock formation, highlighting the beauty of nature through a unique perspective.
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!
A misty landscape captured from a moving vehicle, embodying the essence of impressionist photography.A child curiously gazes at a glass jar filled with various seashells, exemplifying the beauty of spontaneous, impressionistic photography with the focus on the seashells.A photograph of a duck in motion, capturing the essence of spontaneity and creativity in photography.A creative perspective of an object with reflections, illustrating the intersection of light and abstract photography.
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.
On the way to the Great Ocean Road, we had one more motel to stay the night, in Mount Gambier. Mount Gambier is famous for its Blue Lake, caves and sinkholes. Blue Lake was unbelievably blue. But we were lucky because it’s blue only from November to March. The rest of the year its water looks like in any other lake. However, Blue Lake was formed by meteorite, and it is deep as well.
It is really blue, a stunning shade that captivates the eyes and draws you in. I took way too many photos to prove it, capturing the depth and vibrancy of the color from various angles and perspectives, ensuring I could hold onto this mesmerizing view long after I leave.
Later we went to the Umpherston Sinkhole, which had an English garden in the 1900’s and even a small pond inside of it. The pond went dry and when Mr. Umpherston passed away nobody took care of the garden. Luckily the sinkhole has been renovated and is a lush green spot in the area worth the visit. Only thing that spoiled the visit was the wood mill next to it. The exhaust fumes from the mill were really bothering me down in the sinkhole. Hopefully, it was wind direction and it’s not like that every day.
From sinkhole we drove to Little Blue Lake 15 kilometers away from Mount Gambier. To me the water looked more green than blue, but it was a fun place to visit and see the locals swim and dive from the cliffs. I was afraid even to look at the approximately 10-year-olds diving. I would never jump myself.
Dinner was at Casa de Tequila. Maybe they had good tequila, but the food was disappointing. Where were the spices? Staff seemed all be Asian. Maybe none of them had ever tasted real Mexican food or they hadn’t studied the recipes too carefully in the kitchen?
What surprised us around Mount Gambier, was the amount of pine forests. They seemed to go on and on. Pine wood is not indigenous to Australia, so they had all been planted at some point. Planting pine wood is understandable because building material is needed, and I guess pine doesn’t take over the indigenous trees and plants? We come from the land of forests, but we were still amazed by the size of the forests. Also, we get a fit every time we see an area with clearcutting in Finland. They are ugly. I’ve never seen clearcutting like this before. Once again, the size of it. But you have the landmass here, I guess? By the way Fleurieu Peninsula had large pine forests as well.
In morning we didn’t see any nice places for breakfast, so we hit the road. We didn’t see any cafes or restaurants on the way but around noon we couldn’t take it anymore and had to take a break in Port Fairy. Town was packed. We found out there was running event going on from short distances to kids to all the way to marathon. We were able to find an empty table. Food was disappointing once again. How can you ruin hamburger and fries, even if it was busy.
The first one is taken with my new Sony A7 Mark III, I bought it to replace my old one that I had used for the last 19 years. I have been taking lots of photos of my grandkids with it lately.
Close-up of my smiling grandson with his bright blue eyes. He is a sweetheart
My IPhone I used to take a shot of one of the white roses I received from my friend as she came to visit.
Close-up of a delicate white rose, symbolizing friendship and appreciation.
“I know that mirrors give us a false sense of confidence.” I continued. “The reflection that we see everyday has nothing to do with how others see us. The glass lies.” ― Rasmenia Massoud,
A reflective moment captured inside a vintage trolley in Savannah, highlighting the beauty of everyday life.A reflective black and white image showcasing a sleek car and a stylish building, embodying the theme of elegance and design in a car showA serene black and white reflection of trees in calm water, capturing the tranquility of nature in FloridaA monochrome image of reflective spheres capturing various reflections of the surrounding space in Florida.A contemplative moment captured in monochrome, featuring a woman gazing into a mirror, surrounded by candles and roses.A reflective orb capturing the surroundings in a monochrome aesthetic infront of Monaco casinoA monochrome photograph capturing rain droplets on a car window, reflecting the side mirror and blurred scenery beyond.
We had a nice tranquil moment at the Union Café in morning in Robe. I need to mention this, because we didn’t have many tranquil moments during the whole trip, even though we had promised to ourselves to take it easy this time. I drove 4750 kilometres in three weeks with the “high end Toyota” but I still managed to leave the car occasionally. Back to Union Café. It was packed and full of locals. We managed to get a table close to the window and enjoy the people in and outside. Ritva had French Toast that was a sight and tasty too.
After relaxing breakfast we started driving towards Beachport and Bowman Scenic Drive.
Highly recommend. Huge waves and beautiful scenery, once again. Look at the pictures if you don’t believe me. I’m running out of words.
Stunning coastal view showcasing turquoise waters and dramatic waves, framed by coastal vegetation.
The sea’s color was absolutely breathtaking, a rich turquoise that sparkled brilliantly under the blazing sunlight, forming a vivid contrast with the frothy white waves crashing against the shore. The waves were the largest we encountered throughout our journey, rising majestically, due to the wind. With the sun positioned directly overhead, the intense light created challenges in capturing the true magnitude and strength of the waves. I did my very best, with enthusiasm and determination to tackle this task, hoping to preserve a snapshot of that mesmerizing moment, but the interplay of bright light and color made it remarkably difficult—if not entirely futile—to truly express the stunning beauty of what I was experiencing. With nothing but admiration for nature’s spectacle, I realized that some moments are best cherished in our memories.(RS)
Lovely turquoise waters and crashing waves against rocky formations , it is a joy to enjoy these moments.
This week’s theme for Monochrome Madness is open, allowing for more flexibility in photo selection. I was drawn to a charming rustic house topped with a corrugated metal roof. Its inviting porch, adorned with a stack of chairs, complements a large tree providing shade right in the front. It simply beckoned me to capture its essence in a photograph – the chairs 🙂 .
The first monochrome image is stacked wooden chairs against a textured wall.
A part of this rustic building (winery)with a corrugated metal roof, featuring a porch with stacked chairs and a shaded tree.
When you pull back and take a wider shot, the wholeconsepth of the photo totally changes.
This week, John is guiding us through the My Go-To Places challenge, and I believe many of you can easily guess my answer. I’ve mentioned it on numerous occasions before: they are simply my home and my summer house. These serene spots allow me to just be myself.
This path takes me to a serene location surrounded by nature. Just this past Easter, I visited there. The scenery was not yet vibrant with greenery; instead, it appeared more brown and dreary. However, the melody of the birds chirping was beautifully powerful and soothing.
A serene winding road through lush greenery, inviting tranquility and connection to nature.
Summer green, a hue renowned for its calming properties, envelops me in a serene embrace here. As I sit n oone of my favorite places, I observe the gentle wind dancing through the leaves, accompanied by the vast expanse of blue skies overhead. The melodious sounds of nature create a symphony around me, wrapping me in tranquility—there are no problems to solve, only the bliss of the moment to savor.
A tranquil path leading to a lush green field, surrounded by trees and nature’s beauty.
With the arrival of early autumn, the enchanting mist that blankets the mornings and evenings creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, while the skies transform into a stunning palette of colors. It’s an absolute delight to seize the opportunity and take your camera along for an outing, ensuring that these beautiful moments are captured forever.
A serene morning landscape, where mist blankets a lush green field, illuminated by the soft hues of sunrise.
Lakeside, where the gentle sound of water caresses the shore and the vibrant yellows of autumn paint the landscape, offers a serene escape into nature. It’s here that I find my sanctuary, a place to reset and rejuvenate. My summer house is my primary retreat, where I spend most of my time during the pleasant seasons that invite outdoor activities. While winter holds its own beauty, I prefer to stay indoors, as the cold air isn’t my favorite companion. As the saying goes, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished,” reminding me to embrace the tranquility that surrounds me.
A tranquil lakeside view showcasing the serene water, autumn foliage, and cloudy skies.
I sat in my living room beside my grandson, having just snapped a few photos of him. With my mobile in hand, I captured the very spot on my sofa where I’ve spent countless calm and peaceful moments, gazing out at the changing seasons through the window. I’ve watched deer, hares, and foxes stroll by, and even glimpsed a moose once, while birds soared and squirrels scampered along the fence. This corner of my home is truly one of my favorite places, reminding me that “home is not a place, but a feeling.”
A cozy interior, a comfortable chair, and a peaceful view of nature through the window, perfect for relaxation and reflection. That is home to me.
Thank you, John, for this challenge. It reminded me once again to be grateful for what I have. Please link them to his original post here and use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can find you. Thanks also to Anne for last week’s “abandoned” challenge and to everyone who responded. I’m not sure why we are drawn to such things, but as long as they are around, we’ll keep capturing them.
I often dedicate countless hours to editing photos from the numerous places we’ve traveled to over the years. While I may not physically venture out, I immerse myself in the editing process, often losing track of time in front of my computer screen as I reminisce about those experiences. Which also is calming.
Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Sofia leads us once again on her beautiful Photographias site. Until then keep on smiling☺It might be someone’s highlight of the day.
Moss popping up under melted snow – spring brings with it a vibrant renewal of life, as patches of green emerge from beneath the remnants of winter’s icy grip. The soft, velvety texture of the moss contrasts beautifully with browns of the earth, creating a picturesque landscape t the beginning of growth. Each little tuft of moss is a testament to nature’s resilience and its ability to flourish in even the harshest conditions, reminding us all of the cycles of life and the beauty of change.
Farmer in his/her tractors in the fields is a sight of spring for sure, as the sun peeks through the clouds and warms the earth, bringing life back to the soil after a long, cold winter. The rhythmic sound of the tractor plowing through the rich, dark earth creates a sense of renewal and hope, while vibrant green shoots begin to emerge, signaling the promise of a bountiful harvest ahead. The air is filled with the fresh scent of tilled soil.
Spring works
Oh the joy of getting rid of winter clothes and putting on the caps, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face as nature begins to wake from its slumber. The waters freed from under ice, shimmering and glistening in the light, if that is not spring, I don’t know what is. I love how the big brother here is holding on to the little brother, their bond of love and togetherness. So caring and loving,
Spring – You ride the bikes you have taken out of storage with your sweetheart, pedaling joyfully along the winding paths, heading to a secluded spot where you can fully embrace the warmth of the spring sun. This delightful moment is best experienced near a charming building that offers a sense of shelter, allowing you to relish the pleasant day without the cool interruptions of the spring breeze. As you lay down near the apple tree blossoms, their delicate petals dancing in the soft air, you can inhale the sweet fragrance that fills the atmosphere, savoring one of the most delightful elements of spring. The soft rustling of leaves in the background and the gentle sounds of nature create a serene symphony that enhances a perfect getaway filled with the simple joys of life.
Soaking the spring sunshine
Is there a spring post without tulips? I am sure there most likely isn’t, as these vibrant flowers symbolize the essence of the season, bursting forth in a palette of colors that bring joy and renewal. They grace gardens and parks, attracting the attention of passersby and inspiring photographers to capture their fleeting beauty. Tulips are not just a flower; they represent the hope and warmth that accompany the arrival of spring, making them an integral part of seasonal celebrations and floral arrangements alike.
The drive through Fleurieu Peninsula revealed several picturesque lookouts that left us in awe – I loved the rolling hills and their crests, whatever you wish to call them. The scenery was beautiful, with gentle slopes that seemed to dance across the landscape and trees with splashes of green. We tried to figure out what the difference is between the hills and the crests – perhaps it’s merely a matter of terminology – yet, all the same, they looked so lovely.
We actually drove past the HMAS Hobart Memorial Lookout few times and stopped twice, which provided differing moods between day and evening. The evening shots had so much more mood in them. It was worth the second stop.
A nearby lookout showcased stunning scenery. We saw remnants of broken china on the ground. It must have been the end of a beautiful relationship, maybe sweet parting words. At the bottom of plates, you could see beginnings or endings of words: you piece…, manip…, fuc …ng sh… But you get the idea.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 