Today I am offering you a precisely cropped image of Artek Helsinki store window with a greeting: Hyvää Joulua, Got Jul, Merry Christmas
Monday Window: 15 December 2025
Festive Store Display
Helsinki’s Holiday Lights
So far, December has been unseasonably warm, characterized by gray and rainy weather; we’ve only enjoyed one sunny day here in southern Finland. The dreariness of the skies affects my mood, it really does. However, we did go to Helsinki to see live music and on the way we saw the season’s festive lights in Helsinki, which I found to be quite tastefully arranged, stylish would be my word. I snapped a few iPhone photos to preserve the memories, but unfortunately, none turned out well in terms of quality—they’re all somewhat blurry. I’ll attribute this to the frigid weather; the biting wind was so cold it left me shivering, making it hard to hold the camera steady.
Americana Sounds
Livemusic, americana, mexicana? We went to see a top band assembled by Alejandro Escovedo and Sami Yaffa in Savoy in Helsinki. A long-time songwriter (74 years old), Escovedo was born to a family of Mexican immigrants, and he often sings stories about the experiences of immigrants in the United States, a musical family as only 8 out of the 13 children became musicians. Brothers Coke and Pete once played in a small Chicano band called Santana. Pete’s daughter is Sheila E.
This was a new artist from Texas to me; I loved how he told the stories about the songs. I can say I truly enjoyed this wonderful artist’s music there is something to be said about to listening to live music played by wonderful musicians.
The photos are nothing to brag about, but will be a reminder of nice evening. For John’s Cellpic Sunday
Lens-Artists Challenge #378 – Last Chance
I enjoy these year-end moments to showcase some photos that didn’t make the cut or align with our themes. This year, I’ve taken fewer pictures than usual. My time in Singapore and Australia was when I truly captured a wealth of my images. There are still posts on that journey waiting to be crafted. Health challenges have hindered my enjoyment of photography as I once knew it, leading me to rely more on quick snaps from my phone. Additionally, like Ann-Christine, I’ve been dedicating more time to art projects, reigniting my passion for them. Aquarelle and Graphic Monotype are the art forms I’ve concentrated on, even though they often don’t turn out as I envision. I’ve realized that practice is key—at least it feels that way to me. The same holds true for photography. Hopefully next year will hold more inspiring photography opportunities.
This did not come together as I planned, but as I looked at the photos, this theme rose from the photos I took on our memorable trip. My plan was to share the most beautiful shots I have, ones that showed the beauty we saw, and instead, I give you this collection of people with their phones or posing for a photo, and two with no connection to the theme at all. But here they are, my final glimpses!
I was at the plaza in Marina Bay in Singapore, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and engaging in some casual people watching. As I sat on a bench and listened to the lively sound of chatter and commands about how to pose for the photo, I captured these images of people striking poses for their parents and friends.
The varied gathering, featuring both tourists and locals, brought a blend of languages and cultures to the space; yet, it was hard to ignore that many were absorbed in their phones, scrolling intently and often missing the vibrant life around them. It felt a bit sad, don’t you think? As I witnessed this scene, I found myself thinking about on the connections we make and those we inadvertently let slip away, realizing that while technology helps us stay connected in so many ways, it can also create an invisible wall that distances us from the rich, shared experiences that life has to offer.
In Australia, we traveled extensively through the breathtaking natural spots. Obviously, the beauty of the natural environment drew us in, providing countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. However, we also noticed some people here with their phones, capturing their experiences on camera—posing against the backdrop of iconic landmarks and sharing their moments. When you look at these photos, it seems everyone has their hand on a phone, me included—or, in many cases, a camera.
Time to say thanks for this year; 2025 has passed so quickly. A big thank you to all the Lens-Artists team for their creativity and dedication. I really enjoy the community that Lens-Artists has created, the unity and kindness people have toward each other, the positivity, and the power of kind and thoughtful words and humor. The world needs it. Photography is a great way to share the beauty around us. I am ever so grateful for the new blog friends I’ve made, as well as those who have been with me for all the fourteen years I’ve been blogging.
As we pause for the final two weeks of December, let’s share kindness and embrace the spirit of the Holiday Season. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas, and may the New Year bless you with joy and good health! We’ll be back with our Favorite Photos of the Year challenge on January 3. Until then, remember to be kind, stay safe, and relish the journey.
We are Lens-Artists: Tina , Patti , Ann-Christine, John, Sofia , Anne , Egidio, Beth , and me Ritva,
To learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.
welcome in we are open – Strindberg
Last night in Helsinki, we enjoyed a vibrant street scenes filled with festive lights, perfect for Debbies Six Word Saturday. The atmosphere was lively, highlighting the city’s charm and energy during the nighttime. It was a delightful experience amidst the festive ambiance of the bustling streets. The sign on the pavement was just great for For Debbies Six Word Saturday
Gentle Rhythms
Here are some gentle reflections mirrored in the calm waters, creating a soothing rhythm with images of wooden docks, masts, and rigging. Each shot adds to a calm atmosphere, and the beauty of reflections and the subtle movements that invite us to pause and appreciate the delicate dance between light and water.
Symbolism in Door Photography
For this week for Dan’s Thursday Doors, I sought AI’s feedback on my image, which inspired me to explore my creative choices. I edited the image in three ways to highlight the importance of color in conveying meaning and emotional resonance, noting how the shift from warm to cool tones alters interpretation. And I just like editing images 😀
This photo, captured by Ritva Sillanmäki, can symbolize several ideas, primarily centered around transition, choice, and new opportunities, as doors are a common subject in art for these themes.
Potential Symbolism:
Transition and Change: Doorways represent the passage from one place or state of being to another, such as leaving one phase of life behind and moving on to the next.
Opportunity and Invitation: An open door, like the ones in the image, generally conveys a sense of welcome, encouragement, and a new beginning.
Choice and Decision: The presence of multiple doors could symbolize a corridor of choices, or the act of making a decision itself—whether to go through a specific door, stay put, or explore a new path.
Boundaries and Connection: Doors serve as a boundary between the outside world and an inner sanctuary, a connection between different worlds, or a point of protection and welcoming.
Artistic Interpretation: As a photographer known for exploring emotions and unique perspectives, Sillanmäki’s work often aims to encourage the viewer to reflect and make their own discoveries within the image. The personal meaning of the photograph ultimately rests with the viewer’s interpretation of the scene and their own experiences.
Wordless Wednesday
A Journey Through and between in Monochrome
I am sharing scenes from five countries for this theme The Space Between.
I am starting with doors leading to boathouses and a view through an archway of a partially collapsed brick structure reveal a jagged brick wall in Finland.
A view framed through a heart-shaped opening captures the essence of urban life showcasing the bustling street life, a man selling ice cream and a riverboat in India.
Additionally, I have an image of a wooden bridge and a picturesque road framed by trees from Australia.
A charming waterfront image features boats between a street lamp and a street adorned with historic buildings from France, and a last-minute addition from Italy shows a man reading at an open window.
I really want to showcase images that catch that sweet spot in between, using black and white photography to highlight intricate designs and the beauty of nature, showing off the contrast and richness of life in different places. I hope the variety of scenes gives you a taste of the amazing cultural and environmental vibes out there!
Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #49: The Space Between and Guest host Stupidity Hole: The Space Between
Embrace the Night
Dance with me, I put my arms around you. With each gentle sway, let us twirl and spin under the soft glow of the lights, surrendering to the magic of the night.
Purple hues linger, fading away.
Frost-kissed leaves in silence lie,
A muted palette beneath a gray sky.
Brown and gold decay, whispers of gray,
Purple hues linger, fading away.
a weathered facade and intricate windows
I am still and for many more days viewing my archives and editing my images from 2012 Riga. I am going to find many windows and doors in these photographs to share with you.
This image is of an aged European-style architecture under a partly cloudy sky, representing a cityscape in Riga, Latvia. The design reflects an older historic urban setting, featuring a small balcony on the lower level of the main building, while a dark spire or dome can be observed peeking above the primary roofline against the sky.
A historic structure in Riga features a distinctive copper roof and intricately designed windows. Its facade is adorned with 11 elaborate windows that accentuate the architectural elegance of the building. A tall, prominent structure occupies the left and center of the scene, showcasing a weathered pale yellow or beige exterior with numerous rows of windows framed in red. The roof comprises a blend of red tiles and rusted reddish-brown metal sheeting, complete with several dormer windows.
To the right, a smaller structure boasts a lively orange facade and a red-tiled roof.
Presenting this week’s edition of Monday Window, brought to you by Brian, renowned from Bushboy.
Emotional Minimalism
I got a request to show my new vase with flowers that I featured in my how to survive November round post. I am not happy with any of these, not even the edited one.But here they are for John’s Cellpic Sunday.
Lens-Artists Challenge #377 – Holiday Fun
The Holiday Season is approaching and Ann-Christine is inviting you to share some Holiday memories with us! Shared joy is double joy – as they say in Sweden, oddly enough we too say it here in Finland. Choose some joyful and memorable experiences from your holidays— They’re likely tucked away in your memories! With this guidance in mind, I went in search for seasonal images.
I won’t elaborate much on these images, except to mention that they’ve all been captured during the festive month of December, a period when a sense of wonder blankets the world, reminding us of the traditions and beauty that enrich our lives. The view of shimmering Christmas trees and sparkling lights is a tradition I cherish. The soft flicker of candles emits a warm glow, a gentle embrace. The chocolates are a must during this time of the year. The carefully arranged decorations, the lively markets with vibrant energy, the unique gifts, and tasty treats. Above all, the time spent with family is what truly matters most.
Last week, it was Beth’s turn to lead, and I truly enjoyed the Wings you presented; there were so many stunning and tranquil images. A wonderful and motivating challenge from Beth, so a huge thank you to her.
Next week, on Saturday, December 13th, we’ll host our annual Last Chance Challenge, inviting you to share any photos you took in 2025 that haven’t been part of our earlier challenges. Until then, keep on smiling and stay positive.
If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
Posted for Ann-Christine’s Lens-Artists Challenge
Embrace Pink
“One Word Sunday: pink” my focus is on makeup essentials, featuring a vibrant pink, a soft pom-pom, and a compact mirror. Overall, conveying a playful yet chic vibe that appeals to beauty enthusiasts. How does that wording work for subscribing to this post?
Soft and sweet milkshake at sunset
Debbies Six Word Saturday
Sunset Views and Forest Silhouettes
I hope with these images to paint a moment of a serene forest scene at sunset, where you can really appreciate the beauty of nature. Pine trees and spruce trees, the evergreens that give us color during the winter, and I want to share them this Friday. Tomorrow is our 108th Independence Day, so I am sharing some quintessential Finnish nature images.
Image of a tall old pine tree with a unique structure standing proudly against the evening sky. Beneath those towering trees, there’s a moss-covered rock, softly illuminated by the warm glow of the setting sun. The imagery brings forth a tranquil atmosphere, with silhouetted trees contrasting beautifully against the vibrant colors of the sky, crafting a picturesque and peaceful moment in the nature.
The mood of the image captures the golden hours of late afternoon, just before sunset, in a natural environment where sunlight streams through the trees, lighting up the forested area behind a rugged hill. Resilient conifers, such as pine trees, flourish under the intense sun and withstand frost with ease. This scenery features a rocky foreground adorned with lichen, set against a verdant wooded backdrop.
This wooded panorama is observable at sunset by the lakeside. The outlines of the trees contrast vividly with the horizon. The clouds in the sky are tinted by the low-glowing sun. The vista represents a quintessential Finnish natural landscape.
Unique Doors and Buildings in Riga’s Streets
I have so many doors and lovely buildings from Riga that I have not shared. So I decided to look at them with new eyes and with much better editing skills than I had back then. While wandering through the charming streets, I was struck by the unique architecture that embodies the rich history of the city. I took a trip to Riga with my sister in 2012, so these most likely do not look the same today as they did then, but all the same, they look charming to me. Each building tells a story, and the intricate designs and vibrant colors evoke a sense of nostalgia. I can’t help but admire how these lovely structures reflect the character and culture of Riga, serving as a beautiful reminder of our journey together.
For Dan’s Thursday Doors
Symbolism and Colors of Frangipani
For this week’s edition of The Flower Hour, I present to you images of the flower commonly referred to as Plumeria or Frangipani. These exquisite and aromatic blooms are a delight for all the senses and carry a plethora of cultural significances from tropical regions across the globe. Plumeria is frequently incorporated into various celebrations and ceremonies, as it symbolically represents love, devotion, and beauty. They exhibit a wide array of colors, ranging from gentle pinks and whites to vivid yellows and reds.
Wordless Wednesday
Monochrome Moods in Portraits
In the absence of a theme for Monochrome Madness, I experimented with one image in three versions, focusing on varying lighting and contrast to bring out different moods and emotions in the monochrome portrayal. The main subject of the monochrome portrait is a young girl who appears immersed in deep contemplation, portrayed in a serene natural setting as she thoughtfully gazes downward, which beautifully highlights her profound connection with the environment around her.
This reflective posture suggests an internal narrative, inviting viewers to interpret her thoughts and feelings, yet it does raise questions about what is truly occurring in the moment. What the photograph suggests may evoke feelings of curiosity and tranquility, but it is a juxtaposition to the reality that, in truth, she was looking at her phone, texting friends, I assume, as many young people often do in their daily lives.
This detail presents an interesting contrast between the serene aesthetic of the image and the typical distractions of modern life. I took this photograph last summer, that is obvious by her clothing, which indicates warmth and leisure, making it clear that it is not a recent one. The sunlight filtering through the leaves further adds to the nostalgic quality of the piece, linking the past moments of carefree summer to the present.
“Still life with apricots”
“Still life with apricots” refers to a genre of painting and photography that depicts a collection of apricots alongside other inanimate objects, often used to explore themes of nature, transience, and the beauty of the everyday.
Tinka the Well-Mannered Cat
For Bushboy’s Last on the card November. I have two from my Iphone as I just had to share how well mannered Tinka is, no feet on the table 😀 as she has drink from her water bowl.
And a nice cup of coffee is always a treat.
The Allure of Vintage Windows
For Monday Window, this week hosted this week by PR
I am always looking for old Windows to photograph; I find them lovely and charming, often reflecting history and the stories of those who once inhabited the spaces behind them. The scene visible through the window is just as important as the window itself, capturing a moment in time that speaks to me. Generally, the view outside these vintage windows reveals a more beautiful and inviting landscape, rich with character, than what you might observe from many modern windows.
An old window frequently opens up to nature, bustling streets, or quaint village life, a vibrancy that seems to be lost in contemporary architecture. There is indeed more lived life to be seen both inside and out, as each weathered frame and faded sill holds fragments of memories. The contrast between the aged window and the world beyond often tells a story.
How to Survive November 2025 – 30
These images ends my this years How to Survive the November journey.
Thanks Lepis for hosting again. We survived 😀
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.
Decay: One Word Sunday
Decay, shown by the image of a pigeons 😀 on a mossy ledge, really hits home about how time keeps moving and life just keeps rolling on. This image totally highlights the cool beauty of nature while also reminding us that everything eventually falls apart. The soft, green moss is like this stubborn little guy clinging to the old concrete, proving that even in decline, there’s some strength in sticking around. Meanwhile, the pigeons, with their shiny feathers, are a nod to nature and the tough reality of just trying to make it in a world where everything is always changing.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 