Ritva Sillanmäki Photography

How to Survive November 2025 – 9

The post shares the nineth entry for surviving November 2025, have a closer look… these are shadows around the round and the crop is square. This is also forJohn’s Cellpic Sunday

Yesterday on my way to my course to learn more about graphic monotype I took this image, for some reason it looks like a good photo opportunity everytime I pass it 😀 I’ll see it itn 15 minutes again so, this is just a quick post. Have a good Sunday.

A weathered round post shows intricate details, perfect for the theme of ’round’ in November’s photography challenge.

November begins, and we’ll keep this year rolling forward. The theme is ’round’, and you can interpret it any way you like. It can be a photograph, a painting, a drawing, a new or old picture, anything. Hopefully, it has ‘that certain something’.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

Shadows in Abandoned Spaces

Photography

This haunting scene featuring a shattered window in an abandoned room, offers a striking view of a desolate landscape. The dramatic interplay of light and shadow, as well as the presence of a broken chair and scattered debris. This imagery is shared in response to Debbie’s One Word Sunday theme, focusing on the concept of “shadow” also sharing with Becky’s NovemberShadows.

A shattered window overlooks a desolate landscape, capturing the interplay of light and shadow in an abandoned space.

A haunting view from an abandoned room, highlighting a broken chair, shattered glass and debris.

How to Survive November 2025 – 8

how to survive November

The post shares the eighth entry for surviving November 2025, have a closer look… these are shadows around the round and the crop is square. This is also for Becky’s NovemberShadows

Aview of a magnifying glass reflecting colorful accessories against a blurred background.

A close-up of a magnifying glass with dust

A close-up of a magnifying glass placed on a wooden table surrounded by colorful beads and various items.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

I’m going to study graphic monotype.

Captures from Finland

This weekend, I’m diving back into learning monotypia again, and man, it’s tough! The results are hardly ever what I’m going for. But honestly, I still find it pretty hard and rewarding the same time. There’s something really special about those unexpected outcomes that pop up with each try. Mostly disappointments. Each print tells a little story and gives me a peek into my struggling journey. I’m just hoping that through all this experimenting, I can pick up some techniques that boost my skills over time. I’m determined to figure this complex art form out, knowing that getting it right takes a whole lot of patience and practice.

Yes, more than six word. Happy weekend to all 😀

An array of colorful paints and tools arranged on a workspace, showcasing the creative process.

for Six Word Saturday.

How to Survive November 2025 – 7

how to survive November

The post shares the seventh entry for surviving November 2025, and I’m throwing this out there as round, even though I know its an oval, but hey, 😂 we let it pass in my yesterdays post. As I have done something in the kitchen – like baking – I needed eggs. Here is one.

a single white egg, and a minimalistic background.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

Long-Lasting joy

Flowers, Photography

Carnations are such simple and pretty flowers that last a long time, and it’s no wonder people have loved them for ages! With their cool fringed petals and bright colors, these blooms come in all sorts of shades. Their staying power in a vase, makes sure they keep bringing some joy and color to your days for a while, so it’s easy to see why I buy them.

A bouquet of carnations, pink and deep pink blooms in a sleek blue vase I bought from a garage sale, it was a find.

For Terri’s Flower Hour

Flowers full of sunshine

Flowers

These sunny and vibrant flowers are my choice to remember and a tribute to Cee, as all flowers are.

#1Day4Cee

A vibrant bouquet of wildflowers including daisies and yellow buttercups, symbolizing a tribute to Cee.

The Beauty of Ordinary Things

Black and White photos, Photography

Keeping it simple, I thought I’d stick to shooting indoors and went with still life for my photo today. The way light and shadow has almost a jazzy feeling; music came to mind while I was wondering what to write here. It’s hard to try to write deeply about a mixer. I picked this object to share because I baked an apple pie; by the way, it is all gone.

A close-up of a metal whisk showing intricate curves and soft shadows, embodying the artistic still life concept.

Becky’s November Shadows # 7

How to Survive November 2025 – 6

how to survive November

The post shares the sixth entry for surviving November 2025, and I’m throwing this out there as round, even though it’s kind of oval, but hey, let’s be creative with how we express things, right? 😂 So, is this OK? We’re not exactly rule enforcers here, and honestly, being flexible and innovative usually sparks the funnest conversations and ideas!

And yes, it is from my archives, a reminder of a season that seems distant now; no green or, come to think of it, not leaves on the trees anyway, just the stark silhouettes against the sky, a symbol of the cold embrace of coming winter.

A view through an oval window showcasing lush greenery and sunlight filtering in, embodying the theme of ’round’ for November.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

End of Day, evening reflection

Captures from Finland, Photography

Still in my workspace, just about to leave for the day – still the same outside light illuminating the room, casting a warm glow that makes the familiar surroundings feel welcoming and cozy. I appreciate how the light shifts, signaling the end of another day.

Ainterior scene with soft shadows and warm lighting, featuring a chair and two bags.

Posted as part of Becky’s NovemberShadows

Just an self promotion to my aquarelle attempts

About

Have look if interested, leave a comment if so inclined, but it would be highly appreciated 😀

Exploring Aquarelle: My Journey into Watercolor Art

Abstract watercolor artwork featuring vibrant red and yellow flowers blended with soft gray hues.

How to Survive November 2025 – 5

how to survive November

The post announces the fourth entry for surviving November 2025, featuring a close-up of a beaded necklace with white stones. I didn’t know this about these beads before I looked it up, I hope it would be this easy 😀

Magnesite can appear externally very similar to howlite, and many consider them to be the same stone. However, magnesite is slightly harder on the Mohs scale. Both magnesite and howlite also share a lot energetically, as they vibrate with a very calming energy. However, the calming effects are somewhat different: while howlite alleviates stress and anxiety on a more physical level and helps with relaxation, magnesite’s calming effect aids in reaching a deeper mental balance and, through that, accessing the deepest emotions and desires. In this way, magnesite encourages its bearer to make important changes in their life that are necessary to achieve the desires and goals that stem from the heart.

I accidently posted over my yesterday’s post so those comments appear here too- A big oops.

Close-up of a beautifully crafted beaded necklace with white stones with brown lines

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

Texture and Light

Black and White photos, Photography

Today, I’m merging two challenges in a single post. I hope this is suitable for both of you wonderful hosts who continually inspire us with fresh ideas and motivate us in our photography: Leanne’s Monochrome Madness and Becky’s November Shadows.

High contrast image of textured brick walls and **shadows**, showcasing architectural decay.

This image is ideal for this post, effectively highlighting its shadows, striking contrast, and the textured richness of the bricks that delivers a compelling visual effect. The contrast between light and dark accentuates the fine details of the worn corner, revealing depth and dimensionality that’s frequently missed in more straightforward images.

High-contrast monochrome image showcasing textured brick walls and shadows.

High-contrast shadows play across weathered brick walls, illuminating the textures and decay in this abandoned space. Original image.

How to Survive November 2025 – 4

how to survive November

The post announces the fourth entry for surviving November 2025,

I accidently posted over my this post so now its a mess…

A decorative round woven orb surrounded by autumn leaves, symbolizing the theme of ’round’ for November.

A whimsical round bird’s nest surrounded by twisting branches and vibrant autumn leaves.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

A Glimpse into My Art Workspace

Photography, Still life

November Shadows #4 presents an unusually warm day for November; the temperature is 10°C, which is quite rare for us. No complaints here—I’m enjoying it! I plan to keep sharing glimpses of my study—my office space. I moved a desk from another room to create a workspace for my art projects, and currently, I’m focusing on aquarelle painting. Here’s a look at my desk; you’ll also see some of the statues I’ve created, along with my art displayed on the wall. Similar to the previous shot, this photo is taken with the light coming from the outside entrance, as the room itself was quite dim.

In my attempt to capture shadows, I created compositions in square, landscape, and portrait crops; since I have them, I thought, why not share?

A workspace, aquarelle painting supplies, colorful statues, and artistic wall displays.

A workspace featuring a colorful painting, hand-crafted statues, and art supplies, illuminated by soft light.

Artistic workspace featuring colorful statues and a vibrant art, showcasing a blend of creativity and personal expression.

Frost-Covered Hydrangeas – Macro Monday

Flowers

Frost-Covered Hydrangeas are like nature’s own little masterpieces, turning into stunning sculptures when winter rolls around. Their petals get decked out in sparkling ice crystals that catch the sunlight just right. Each flower, once bursting with color, now shows off a quiet kind of beauty, capturing that moment when nature shifts from cozy warmth to the peaceful chill of winter. These lovely blooms not only highlight the cool designs frost creates but also urge us to take a closer peek at their fading colors and shapes, reminding us of the never-ending cycle of life and how nature stays elegant, even when it’s resting.

Close-up of intricate, dried floral structures showcasing delicate lace-like patterns.

How to Survive November 2025 – 3

how to survive November

Here is my third post for surviving November 2025.

A spiky ball serves multiple functions, from therapeutic workouts and stress relief. This fun little gadget can enhance circulation and flexibility when you use it for self-massage, transforming your living space into a DIY spa day, complete with zero candles and no calming tunes in sight.

Note: we don’t really use it 😀

A child with a sweater with playful animal designs holding a bright yellow spiky ball, with a sweater with playful animal designs.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

The Light and Dark in My Study

Captures from Finland, Photography

I had just closed all the lights in the study, when suddenly, someone walked by our entrance. Causing the outside light automatically lit up, illuminating the area beautifully and casting a light into my study. This unexpected moment allowed me to capture the shadows of November, where the interplay of light and dark creates such striking visuals. With the illumination from the outside light, I realized I had the perfect setting to include both the November shadows and window for my Monday Windows in one post-

My workspace with outside lamp filtering light through sheer curtains and casting a warm glow.

Silent Sunday

Nature

A dried plant with fluffy seed heads, showcasing the delicate textures against a blurred background.

Cellpic Sunday – Lunch time

Black and White photos, Captures from Finland

I popped over to get my flu shot and, after a little shopping spree, I thought I’d grab a late lunch at this cozy café/bistro I liked. As I glanced around, I noticed a bunch of folks glued to their computers, phones, or notebooks—definitely seemed like a solid spot for remote work, yet it was super quiet. There were also two new moms with their babies in strollers chatting about the ups and downs of baby life, sharing tips on calming cranky infants and going on about their sleepless nights. Then there was this guy sitting solo with a bag of groceries and a cup of coffee, wearing huge dark sunglasses indoors, which struck me as kinda weird. I couldn’t help but wonder what the deal was with his choice of shades. Just a little quirky, considering we were in a mall on a gloomy, rainy day. So, I dug into my salad while watching the mix of people around me, all caught up in their own little worlds, creating a vibrant tapestry of life right then and there.

A woman focused on her laptop in a cozy café, surrounded by a quiet atmosphere perfect for remote work.

Cellpic Sunday 2 November 2025

How to Survive November 2025 – 2

how to survive November

Here is my second post for surviving November 2025. As we face the challenges of the colder months ahead, we all need nutrients to keep going as the days darken.

Tomatoes are low in calories and fat but rich in vitamins and antioxidants, including Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin K, and lycopene. A single medium tomato provides a significant portion of the daily recommended value for vitamin C and contains beneficial compounds like folate and beta-carotene. I love these vine tomato’s, they are so tasty – sweet. I have them available all the time.

Vibrant vine tomatoes, rich in nutrients and perfect for the colder months.

Inlinkz- link for your entry is at the right column.

OWS – nose

animals

A dog with unique blue and brown eyes, alongside a brown nose, appears curious. The image is shared with “One Word Sunday,” emphasizing the word “NOSE.”

A dog with striking blue and brown eyes, and a brown **nose**, looking inquisitive.

November Shadows – Tinka in Natural Light

animals

I am today also using natural light to cast shadows, as the sun streams through the window, illuminating the room in a warm glow. Tinka was sitting by the window kindly posing for me. She is very thoughtful that way, always in the moment. I liked the way the other side was in the shadow, creating a beautiful contrast that added depth to the vision. The interplay of light and dark not only highlighted her features but also evoked a sense of calm, making it perfect for capturing the shot for the challenge.

Close-up of a curious cat with striking green eyes and a soft coat, illuminated by natural light.

Posted as part of Becky’s NovemberShadows

I almost posted the wrong shot, without the square crop.

paws

animals

A close-up image captures a cat’s paws gently placed on a wooden surface, highlighting their delicate features and fur texture. The photograph emphasizes the serene and relaxed demeanor of the cat, the beauty in simple, everyday moments.

Close-up of a cat’s paws resting on a wooden surface.

Lens-Artists Challenge #372 – Ephemeral

lens-artists

I will start this week’s challenge with same way as Tina did, explaining the the dictionary’s short and simple definition of the word ephemeral – “lasting for a very short time”

I am not going to explain these; as you look at this post, it will only be an ephemeral moment, fleeting and transitory, reminding us that sometimes the essence of experience lies in the briefest of encounters that may pass us by but leave a lasting impression.

The first green of spring – it is a fleeting moment.

A close-up of delicate dandelion seeds, embodying the theme of ephemerality

A picturesque autumn pathway lined with vibrant yellow and orange foliage that delights us for a short time.

A close-up of snow-covered branches glistening in sunlight, capturing the essence of ephemeral winter beauty.

A stunning sunset reflecting off the ocean, if anything sunset is a great example of ephemerality.

This is my take on the theme. I hope you’ll join us with your own interpretations. Be sure to link them to Tina’s post and to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you.

I want offer my heartfelt thanks to all of you who respondent to my last week’s Street Details challenge. It was fun to see what everyone game up with, some were supricing , one I would not have guessed 😀 that is the fun with these challenges. Finally I hope you’ll join us next week when John will lead us once again on his Journeys with Johnbo site. Until then as always keep smiling and stay positive

Interested in learning more about the Lens-Artists challenge? Click here .

Last on the card October 2025

Captures from Finland, Photography

Here are three distinct photographs: a rain-soaked road scene captured with an iPhone showcasing obscured visibility, a decorative ball surrounded by autumn leaves taken with a SONY a7, and frost-covered flora photographed with a SONY SLT-A65V macro lens. The final images in October 2025.