In the field where whispers weave, fog blankets the morn,
Trees stand guard, their silhouettes adorned,
A rustic fence, weathered and worn,
Holds secrets of nature, in silence reborn.
Foggy field – Nature’s morning Calm
Category: Photography
The darkness descended
I noticed that needed to switch the light on. The evening was on its way
John’s Cellpic Sunday
Lens-Artists Challenge #364 – quiet moment
Where is your serene sanctuary? Is it the warm comfort of sipping your morning coffee as the world gently comes to life around you? Perhaps it’s the peaceful moments spent doing yoga by yourself. This week’s challenge is “story-driven” adventure, encouraging you to explore and connect with your own experiences and emotions – “quiet moment”.
This challenge invites you to hit the pause button. It’s like giving your inner self a little nudge to relax and savor each moment. By slowing down, you become aware of the beauty in the details—the gentle swaying of the leaves, the captivating dance of light upon water—that you may otherwise rush past.
Consider capturing the movement around a still object, like a lighthouse standing tall or a person enjoying the ambiance of a bustling marketplace. You can create a broader scene or zoom in on a specific detail. Remember, your unique style is there to enrich the story you wish to tell.
Freeze that moment and let it resonate, like a serene droplet of water.
Share your images, whether they are old favorites or new captures for this challenge, showcasing the soft, diffused light that contributes to a calm and soothing atmosphere. Focus on portraying subjects in moments of rest or tranquility, as these images evoke feelings of peace and contemplation—steer clear of any motion or action that might disrupt this gentle ambiance. Thoughtfully consider your composition, embracing minimalism to illustrate the essence of quiet and serenity in your scenes. Leave room around your subject to enhance the feeling of solitude, using these spaces to communicate a deeper narrative of reflection and introspection.
I cannot leave without sharing a quiet moment from this summer. Few weeks back after a very rain pour the evening fell the sunset colored the mist on the field orange, I saw it as as I sat and watched the sunset from my sofa, I had to get up and capture the lovely moment.
Soft shadows can deepen the mood and add layers to your peaceful moments, encouraging viewers to pause and take in the beauty of the scene. Look for those subtle, intimate details that often go unnoticed, like the gentle curve of a leaf or the soft texture of a fabric; these can enrich your narrative and draw viewers into a more immersive experience. Additionally, play with angles and perspectives to create a fresh depiction of tranquility, inviting a beautiful sense of harmony and balance into your work. Enjoy this journey of expression and let your creativity shine!
Last week, thanks to Anne we were led on a Virtual Scavenger Hunt, I found it fun and from what I saw so did you 🙂 Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate Egídio’s leadership next Saturday, September 13th. Until then, say positive and keep on smiling.
If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists challenge, please click here.
Misty Fields Under September’s Bright Moon
For Debbies Six Word Saturday I offer you a scene from last night: A quiet night, with mist hovering over the field, framed by silhouettes of trees and a fence under a bright moon of September.
Moonlit whispers weave through September’s mist,
Soft silver glow where shadows gently twist.
Veils of vapor, drifting, dance on the breeze,
Nature’s quiet secrets, brought to its knees.
Stars peek shyly from their heavens up high,
As the moon casts its gaze on the world nearby.
A tranquil embrace in the nocturnal hue,
Misty echoes of dreams, woven anew.
a Tilted Sauna at Lake Tampaja
This is the most exotic sight by the lake Tampaja in Northern Kirkkonummi, the tilted sauna. This weeks post for Dans Thursday Doors, photos are from y archives – we still have green leaves on the trees.
Just because: Tuesday garden
For no reason other than that I wanted to post these photos taken from my backyard is this post done. Struggling with what to post, why to post and contemplating the reasons behind sharing moments like these, I find myself lost in a sea of hesitation and uncertainty. The beauty of my surroundings often feels too mundane to share, yet there’s a certain charm in the ordinary that I can’t help but appreciate. Each photo captures a fleeting moment amidst the chaos of life, and while I grapple with the idea of their significance, I am reminded that sometimes it’s not about the grand stories or profound insights; it’s about celebrating the little things, embracing the simplicity of life, and allowing these images to resonate with anyone who might pause to look.
Click images to enlarge them.
The Beauty of Everyday Life
I have been kind of uninspired for the longest time; I haven’t really been taking hardly any photos, and that is, of course, compared to how I used to capture every moment with enthusiasm and creativity. I was sitting at home, looking out at the plant that grows and climbs outside my living room windows, watching the evening turn blue, painted softly by the setting sun—a small thing, but it does give me joy.
Each day, I notice how this plant seems to stretch and twist toward the light and anything to cling to, a reminder of life’s quiet persistence. I also watch the season change here; soon, the leaves will be turning yellow, brightening the landscape with their warm hues, and with that change, the atmosphere will be totally different. The crispness in the air will usher in familiar scents of nature, inviting me to step outside and embrace the beauty around me once again. I’ve realized that sometimes, it’s these simple yet profound moments that can spark inspiration anew, urging me to pick up my camera and see the world through a different lens.
For Bushboy’s Last on the Card, Aug, 2025 and Monday window
Serene Nighttime Moment
I was going to bed a bit earlier than my husband, as I had had enough crime for the day while he continued watching Law and Order. After a long day, I felt tired. I had closed the door to our bedroom at our summer home, seeking quiet from the sound of the TV. However, Tinka, our mischievous cat, seemed determined to disrupt my plans; she has an uncanny knack for opening doors and an unmistakable dislike for anything that blocks her pathway. The moment she managed to nudge the door open, a soft glow of light poured in, casting gentle shadows across the room. In that serene moment, I picked up my phone and captured this shot. I have to say, the camera phone takes really nice nighttime images, making even the dimmest light appear vibrant and full of life. The interplay of shadows and lightshowed me of the peaceful and warm atmosphere of our home, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for these little moments of joy that come unexpectedly.
Lens Artist Challenge #363: Virtual Scavenger Hunt
So, this week, Anne challenged us to a virtual scavenger hunt!
She listed listed 20 options with a instruction to do a deep dive into our archives, going back as far as you want to find the items. She also suggested: Be creative and bold. Most of all, have fun!
I don’t think my FIRST image need to be explained to you, as IT speak for itself in capturing the essence of the moment I cherish. I occasionally like to enjoy a drink from a nice glass, savoring the flavors as I unwind, whether it’s a delightful cocktail on a bubbly during a cozy afternoon. Having fun!
Please be sure to link your post to Anne’s original post and use the Lens-Artists tag. She did state that she wanted to check out each and every post to see what you and I have scavenged.
Thanks, Beth, for getting us in a sports mood last week, I have to say it was a challenge for me. Next week I will be back to host, I hope to see you next week …until then stay positive and keep on smiling ☺
Interested in joining our challenge? Click here .
The Power of Light and Shadow in Photography
This is a topic free week for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness and I am at the moment experimenting with editing, playing with light and contrast to see how subtle adjustments can dramatically affect the overall impact of an image. As you change the elements, such as brightness, shadows, and highlights, how does it change how you perceive the image? Each adjustment can convey different emotions, stirring distinct feelings or memories within the viewer. Not all the changes are big, yet they can significantly shift the mood of the photo, influencing where your attention is drawn and what stories are told through the visual. The interplay between light and shadow can create depth, drawing you deeper into the scene, while contrast can emphasize particular features, guiding your gaze in a more intentional way. What do you think, was it worth my time to do these edits?
A doorway at the War Memorial in Canberra, Australia. This architectural feature not only embodies the solemnity of the site but also symbolizes the passage between the past and present, wherein the sacrifices of countless individuals who served their country are honored. As one approaches the doorway, the intricate details and sturdy materials evoke a sense of reverence, signifying the importance of the history encapsulated within the memorial.
Moody Cloudscapes: Embracing Nature’s Drama
Clouds. They always fascinate me, I am drawn to the intense and brooding skies that often envelop the horizon combined with the sea, I really love it. The way they shift and change, forming intricate patterns, creates an ever-evolving canvas that captivates my imagination, sparking a sense of wonder about the natural world. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to these formations, illuminating the rich colors and textures that define them. The mood that they give to a photograph can transform a simple scene into something dramatic and powerful, evoking emotions that resonate deeply within me .
I can almost feel the breeze, a touch of autumn in these photos. These are from Hailuoto, Oulu.
An evening with Manic Street Preachers
We spent family time with our boys at this gig. For Six word Saturday
Serlachius Manor Wooden maindoor
Joenniemen kartano (the Manor) designed by architect Jarl Eklund, was completed in 1935 as the representative home of Gösta and Ruth Serlachius on the shores of Lake Melasjärvi. The building represents Classicism and is influenced by English manor architecture. The interior features clean-lined functionalism from the 1930s.
Sculptor Hannes Autere designed the wooden furniture of the wine house and carved the wooden reliefs that decorate the space, as I wrote in my previous post. Hannes Autere also made the wooden carvings that adorn the main door and window frames of the manor.
Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors
Click the images to enlarge the details on the door
Monochrome Madness: Movement
Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #41: Movement was a bit of a head-scratcher for me at first. I found myself pondering what movement actually meant and how on earth I could represent it in my photos. The sea and waves seemed like the obvious choices, but honestly, can water really convey that captivating essence of motion? As I mulled over this theme, I came across a few other ideas, like birds soaring and kids playing around, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m not quite capturing movement as I should. I’m left wondering if experimenting with different techniques and angles will even make a difference in truly conveying that feeling of motion in my shots.
Capturing Black Chokeberry Beauty
We took a quick trip home and I snapped some pics of Black chokeberry while soaking in the first signs of autumn. I noticed this awesome red leaf and a berry that had already turned red, looking pretty against the green leaves. I know these berries are edible, and while they look great, it’s pretty much best to just eat aronia straight up to really soak up all those vitamins and antioxidants. Seriously, aronia berries pack a punch with vitamins C, E, and B, plus essential minerals and flavonoids that are super good for you. But honestly, I’ve never felt the urge to eat them—maybe because I think they’re more fun to look at than to actually taste. I’ve thought about throwing them into a recipe, but the motivation to pick them and enjoy their awesome health perks just hasn’t hit me yet.
Monochrome madness – art study
We visited this museum during our vacation, and I for some reason got inspired to do three monochrome / BW versions of a this photo of a man learning about this piece of art.
I will start with also a color version of the photo compared to the monochrome one if a portrait composition.
This small but immeasurably valuable oil painting is a study of the properties of light and shadow. Monet painted a whole series of haystack motifs in the changing weather conditions of the Normandy countryside.
A significant art discovery has been made at the Serlachius Museum in Mänttä. The painting “Heinäsuova ilta-auringossa” (Meadow Meadow in the Evening Sun), which is part of the museum’s collection, has been revealed to be the work of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a key painter of the Impressionist art movement.
The painting lacks a visible signature, but the University of Jyväskylä’s hyperspectral camera detected Monet’s name and the year 1891 beneath the paint. Analyses of the pigment and fabric confirm it is by Claude Monet. The Serlachius Museum has had it since the 1950s, assuming it could be by Monet. Its authenticity was confirmed in 2015, thanks to advancements in technology. The work was purchased in London through an art dealer from Mänttä and is believed to have been shown at the Impressionist exhibition at the Grafton Gallery in London in 1905.
I put together these different versions for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness project as a fun way to dive into artistic expression. The whole idea was to check out how the mood and meaning of the photo shift with different edits. I found myself thinking about what the image is really about—is it the painting itself, the man who’s learning about it, or maybe even the overall space where both the art and the observer exist? My idea was to show just how complex art can be and how it hits people in different ways based on their own experiences and perspectives.
The captions were created with AI – all slightly different… because of the light and contrast?
Embracing the August days
Four weeks have gone by since the official summer holiday came to an end, and I find myself still spending this week at the summer house, relishing the warm weather that lingers. The sun hangs high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the landscape, while soft breezes rustle the leaves of the trees surrounding me. Now the temperature has settled at a pleasant +20°C; it is nice enough to enjoy early morning coffee outdoors, Evenings are perfect , the horizon is painted with hues of orange and pink as the sun sets, creating a picturesque backdrop that makes it hard to believe that summer is truly slowly slipping away.
It has been an odd summer; the first half was so unseasonably cold that it hardly felt like summer at all. However, everything changed dramatically in the middle of July when our holiday commenced. To our surprise, we experienced the longest hot period in Finland’s recorded history—an astonishing 22 consecutive days of weather ranging between +25-30°C. This was a remarkable shift that caught many of us off guard, as such temperatures are not the norm for our region. We spent our days enjoying the sunny days in the shade, laying in the hammock, not really doing much. Lazy hazy summer days. Spending time with family, by the sea and lakes. Enjoying tasty fresh food prepared by others. I didn’t even take that many photos, hardly any. That is if I compare it to what I have done.
The increase in extreme weather has become a point of concern for many, as it is evident that these phenomena are occurring more frequently, likely due to the impacts of climate change. As I reflect on this summer, I cannot help but wonder what changes the future holds for our weather patterns and how we will adapt to them in the coming years.
I have made few posts, but I apologize for not commenting on posts, and I have also been slow in replying to comments. I feel bad about it, but the thing is I feel almost guilty when there is a lovely summer day and I choose to stay inside. So I don’t . The summer is so short here, and when you have the opportunity to enjoy the good weather, you have to take it. It’s a time for outdoor life, barbecues with friends, and simply soaking up the sun’s rays. We have a long winter, and during that season, the days can feel endless as we spend more time indoors. Therefore, when summer arrives, I want to embrace every moment of it, squeezing in all the joy that I can before it slips away once again. I will try to do better …
Now I will post few photos, as this is a photography blog. Words have not really been my thing, but I am trying to include more …
Lens-Artists Challenge #360 – Found at the Fair/ Market
This week is Ann-Christine‘s turn to host, and when I saw the topic, I thought, wow, do I have anything for this one? I was pretty sure I didn’t, but as I reflected more, I realized my memory did not serve me well. As I started to look for images, I revisited these places again, and they brought back lots of nice memories, each one a little treasure from the past. I remembered the conversations, and the warmth of those special moments. The sights and sounds all came rushing back, making me appreciate the experiences I had taken for granted. It’s funny how a simple image can trigger such a flood of emotions and nostalgia, reminding me of the connections I’ve made and the joy that comes with them.
Marketplaces nor fairs are not something I frequently go to. Many of the marketplaces are often tourist traps, and I am not into those places; I find them to be overwhelming and overpriced, and they lack the charm I seek in my outings. Instead, I usually visit stores that have vintage furniture and quirky home decor items, or we have great recycling stores that we might have a quick peek at, offering unique finds and sustainable options. There’s something special about hunting for treasures in these hidden gems rather than being surrounded by the hustle and bustle of a crowded market.
It makes me reminisce about a particular trip to a marketplace we came across in Nice, France, years back; the vibrant colors, the sounds of local vendors engaging with customers, and the tantalizing aromas of fresh produce and local delicacies filled the air, making it an unforgettable experience. It was a delightful fusion of culture and community, highlighting the essence of the region. This memory urges me to reconsider my stance on marketplaces and perhaps explore them with a more open mind in the future.
Now that I’ve embraced the spirit of exploration, I’m reminded of a few unforgettable visits to the markets that I’d like to share. Stepping into a Thai floating market feels like entering an entirely different realm. Narrow canals overflow with boats offering a wealth of food and merchandise, while the amiable vendors engage in lively conversations in Thai. This surreal experience is one you shouldn’t miss during your time in the country. One of my most enchanting experiences occurred at a floating market in Thailand, where the air was filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Vendors deftly navigated their boats, overflowing with fresh fruits, fragrant spices, and artisanal crafts, establishing a vibrant atmosphere that embodied the local culture. It was clear that this spot was a must-see attraction for tourists.
This was a totally different experience regarding scents – a fish market in Negombo, Sri Lanka, where the air was thick with the briny aroma of freshly caught fish, mingled with the subtle sweetness of tropical spices. The hustle and bustle of vendors shouting their catch of the day created a vibrant atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Memorable for me, this sensory overload offered a glimpse into the daily lives of the fishermen and the rich culinary traditions that define this coastal city. The colors of the fish, the energy of the crowd, and the unique scents combined to create an unforgettable tapestry of sights and sounds. Popular items are generally sharks, prawns, crabs, yellowfin tuna, sardines and Spanish mackerel. You can even find varieties like sea chicken, barracuda, and other “exotic “varieties here. The Dry Fish market usually has endless rows of fish on Hessian rugs to dry.
I apologize for the overload of photos, but the amount of them also kind of creates the same overwhelming feel these two last places had. Each image captures a myriad of memories and moments that can easily saturate the senses, reflecting the vibrant chaos that characterized those locations. That does not include Nice, though; that was calm and had a totally different vibe to it.
A huge thank you to John for another enlightening challenge last week! I really appreciated the examples and tips shared. I’m eager to see what you create this week! Next week, we’ll have another opportunity for “Looking Back,” with Sofia leading the way. Don’t forget to check out her lovely site for more!
If you’re interested in sharing your own responses to the Lens-Artists Challenge each week but need guidance on how to begin, you can find more information here.
Mist fell down into the valley
Debbies Six Word Saturday
Capturing Depth with Backlighting in Photos
I was first a bit lost with this challenge; it’s not that I don’t enjoy taking backlit photos—quite the opposite, in fact. I find it a great way to capture atmosphere and mood, as there’s something inherently magical about the way light interacts with the subjects. However, I also recognize that no sunsets or sunrises should be featured if I’m not shooting directly towards the light source. This has prompted me to explore different angles and perspectives, allowing the light to create a sense of depth and intrigue in my images. Additionally, I made a conscious effort to avoid overly simplistic silhouette images, as I wanted my photographs to embody a more complex layering of shades and nuances of light. Each shot became an opportunity to experiment with subtle gradients and textures, enriching the overall visual narrative that I aimed to convey through my work. Hope you fell I succeeded in my effort.
For Monochrome Madness this week, Brian Bushboy has set a challenge – Backlighting.
My first is a side portrait of my grandsone sitting in front of a window.
Green
I had this , and well it is green, so I think I will just use it now For Debbie’s One Word Sunday. Nearly identical shots but still not. I do love watching how light plays.. and brings out depth and detail
Green
Simply Red At the harbor
I had various Red Images that are more red for position on this last day of #SimplyRed. Thanks for this challenge Becky, I had fun.
But, I am still going to post these most recent photos.
We went shopping in Lahti, and decided to have lunch at the harbor.
One more image of leading lines
Monochrome Madness
For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
This week I have thought about my learning curve, and one of the most interesting aspects is monochrome adjustments. I have come a long way from the first attempts .
I posted these in color in a previous post few days ago. This how they look in monochrome.
Simply red chairs
Keeping it simple today for Becky’s#SimplyRed squares
Simply Red-Crossing –
The first version with many crossings is for Debbies One Word Sunday: Crossing
For Becky’s SimplyRed is the second one with more red light 🚦
John’s Cellpic we’ll all are taken with my mobile behind the wheel, edited with Lightroom on the phone.
Additional photo is a bus crossing the crossing in front of the red bus edited into a square.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 