A thoughtful black-and-white portrait of a man shows a ton of emotion and introspection. You can really see the lines on his face and feel the heaviness of his thoughts. The play of shadows and light highlights his furrowed brow and slight frown, hinting at some personal struggles and deep reflections. Every little detail makes you think about the quiet stories behind his gaze, sparking a sense of empathy and a better understanding of what it means to be human.
How to describe this portrait I took was a bit tricky, but this is what I came up with, does it resonate with you?
A contemplative black and white portrait of a man, reflecting deep emotion and introspection.
First time I saw this, my first thought was I have nothing to share on this topic.
I did try to find a neutral spot to take a shoe shot, considering various backgrounds and environments that might complement the shapes and textures of the shoe. I could have used more time on creativity, as I could have explored different lighting or settings to really make the shoes pop visually. However, with the next two images, I just got lazy and took the shots in the cupboard where I keep jugs and bowls, simply because it was the most convenient option. The ease of just snapping photos in the cupboard won out over my original intentions.
So first thing this morning I took these images, the ceramic shoe by artist Kipa Kirsi (2013) is a gift from a dear friend.
And these Heluna Cow jugs, the bigger one was my grandmother’s, and during our trip, we found the smaller cow jug in Canberra. We thought it was funny that someone had taken the trouble to bring it all this way, and now we are returning it back to Finland. They are Vintage Arabia, a milk pitcher pottery by Kaj Frank from 1950.
Vintage Arabia Heluna Cow jugs, one a cherished heirloom and the other a recent find in Canberra.
The bowl with the sea decoration is also Arabia; my husband rescued it from his father’s barn. I think it is really pretty; the colors are white and blue. It’s called Sampo. Based on the seal at the bottom of the bowl, the manufacturing date is from 1928-1932.
A beautifully crafted bowl featuring intricate blue and white designs, showcasing vintage Arabia craftsmanship.
Then I remembered that I had these ceramic shots I took on Vancouver Island from the Craigdarroch Castle Museum, that showcases the grandeur of the Victorian era. It is the quintessential Victoria, BC experience, giving visitors a glimpse of privileged life in the 1890s, complete with exquisite furnishings, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a rich history that reflects the lifestyles of the wealthy elite of that time.
For Leanne and Brian’s Monochrome Madness challenge.
How to describe images of misty landscapes in monochrome, that was my question to myself, this is what I ended up writing . The ethereal quality of a misty landscape can be nicely illustrated in monochrome, where shades of gray evoke a sense of mystery.. The soft blur of the mist envelops trees and fields, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. This lack of color draws attention to light and contrasts; the stark silhouettes of branches, almost as if they are attempting to pierce the blanket of fog. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth, revealing the contours of the terrain while preserving an enchanting ambiguity.
A haunting monochrome night scene with a full moon partially obscured by clouds and silhouetted trees, framed by wooden stakes.
A landscape featuring silhouettes of trees and a rustic fence, shrouded in fog.
A misty landscape featuring silhouettes of trees and a rustic wooden fence, creating a tranquil and mysterious atmosphere.
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.
This challenge is a cool chance to dive into how using color versus black & white photography can totally change your selected images. Patti from P.A. Moed Creative Exploration in Wordsand Pictures invites us to join on this inspiring journey, as her awesome post gives us some solid tips on tackling the challenge! By exploring the feelings that different color vibes can bring out, you’ll see how certain shades can really capture the energy of a moment, while black & white shots can help showcase textures and contrasts, making your storytelling deeper.
So, the deal is to share pairs of the same image in both color and black & white. She asked us to keep it to just 3 pairs, which was pretty tricky since picking only three that really showed what I was going for was tough. But after thinking it through, I managed to do it! The photos I picked really show off the differences in vibe, texture, and light between the two styles. It’s so cool to see how color brings warmth and life, while black & white gives off this classic feel and a deeper emotional punch. I’m also diving into how the editing choices play into each shot—without color, you really focus on the shapes and forms, while bright colors change the whole energy. So, what do you think? Are you more into the timeless charm of black & white, or do you like the rich colors more?
Finally, use the lens-artists tag and leave a link your post to Patti’s original post.
Reading the news
This man seated on a bench by the road, engrossed in reading a newspaper while surrounded by his books in France captured my attention. He is dressed in striking red and blue hues, and the light blue umbrella beside him, along with the collection of books and garbage bags. The color version certainly stands out more, whereas the black and white rendition conveys a more subdued ambiance—maintaining the focus on the individual reading rather than the surrounding elements. Furthermore, the intended message plays a crucial role—what do I wish to communicate through this image? If the objective is to emphasize the man, the black and white option is preferable; however, if I aim to highlight the environment as well, the color version would be better.
A rowing boat on the shore in Hailuoto
This boat image I chose showcases the clouds that give texture, creating a dynamic backdrop for the scene. The boat itself is minimalistic and weathered, adding a sense of history and character, which contributes to its roughness, ultimately enhancing its appeal, at least in a photograph. The editing process, I have found, is not the same for each variant; it is not a direct transition of color into a Black and White version. They are edited differently for distinct emotional and visual impacts. I think whenever you transition to black and white, you need to look at the image from a new perspective, considering what elements you choose to highlight. The color version conveys more about the time of day and the mood, which is more subdued; while in the black and white version, the boat emerges as the main focal point. Interestingly, for some reason, I made the mood lighter, almost brighter, in that version, contrasting with my usual tendency to render black and white images darker and moodier, utilizing more contrast. I like this version for its unique interpretation, but still, I find myself leaning towards the color variant due to its vibrant storytelling and emotional resonance. Analyzing both versions makes me appreciate the nuances involved in editing, as each choice not only alters the visual presentation but also shifts the narrative context within the photograph.
Alleyway in France
This is a charming alleyway in Nice, France, flanked by tall buildings that are closely positioned and adorned with a variety of vibrant colors. Numerous windows, some ajar, feature shutters, while ornate street lamps are gracefully mounted on the walls, capturing my attention with their charm. A cobblestone pathway extends toward a brighter area in the distance, where a few motorbikes are parked, creating a leading line that draws you in. The buildings exhibit beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and beige, with hints of lush greenery visible on the walls and balconies. The overall atmosphere is lively and inviting, evoking a sense of adventure in this historic city. The narrowness of the alley, combined with the height of the buildings, fosters a feeling of intimacy and warmth, while the bright colors and light at the alley’s end enhance its welcoming nature. All of this truly appeals to me.
Conversely, the black and white color scheme imparts a classic, nostalgic quality that emphasizes the textures and architectural details of the structures, showcasing their timeless beauty. This image is noteworthy as it encapsulates the essence of an old European town, characterized by its narrow streets and rich historical architecture in a remarkable way. Despite the absence of color and the quiet demeanor of the alley, the scene conveys a contemplative mood, fostering feelings of solitude and introspection. I find myself captivated by both the vibrant colors and the elegance of the black and white aesthetic—each offers a distinct allure that enhances the character of this alley. Yeah, black and white … for this one.
Last week we got to enjoy beautiful cuddly cats and dogs and some other wilder animals also. Are you a cat or a dog person these were all a joy to see, thanks Tina for this sweet theme, loved it.
Next week, Ann-Christine returns with her first new challenge for the year. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out another exciting challenge.
Don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag when creating your post so we can easily find it in the Reader and linking it to original post.Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history
PS. I am still on vacation so my participation is very limited at the moment.
This week is a “themed” Monochrome Madness week, and Brian is hosting. He chose clouds for a theme.
I love clouds; there’s something so captivating about their ever-changing forms and colors. Mostly, I take photos of them over water or a field, as the reflections and open spaces amplify their beauty. Ever so many of my favorites come from moments spent on the road, where the sky seems to stretch infinitely above. I can spend hours gazing at the clouds while traveling by car, —sometimes they look like soft animals, at other times like in the last shot – people. I find joy and inspiration in the simple act of observing the sky.
In Finland many could associate this cloud to a band …Leningrad Cowboys have listen and look at the hairdos 🙂
for some reason I could not find my “best” on the road cloud shots so I went with these..
Beach, seaside, and coastal areas , in general have always been one of my favorite places to be. There’s something incredibly soothing about the sound of the sea, the rhythmic symphony of waves crashing against the shore, and the vastness of the ocean stretching out as far as the eye can see. Walking barefoot on the soft, warm sand, feeling the grains beneath my feet, brings a sense of relaxation that is unparalleled. Whether it’s the gentle sea breeze, the mesmerizing colors of the sunset reflecting on the water, or the endless opportunities for exploration and discovery along the coastline, the beach is a place where I find true happiness.
Clouds over the ocean on a cloudy day
It doesn’t matter if its a bit windy or cold, the seaside has its own lure whatever the weather.
Fencing at the beach
Searching for beautiful seashells on the beach is a delightful pastime . Whether it’s the vibrant hues of a sun-bleached conch , each shell is a unique . As you wander along the shore, there is joy in spotting the intricate patterns the sea has sculpted into the sand, creating a fascinating canvas that changes with each tide.
Dawn hosts this week Monochrome Madness, I also linked to Leanne’s post. I am so proud of myself, I was able to limit my photos to four. As Leanne also pointed out in her post , I don’t really photograph shadows much, or if I have I can’t remember them.
sorry for the life of me I cannot remember where I took this and I am too lazy at the moment to do the research. ( update, Leanne kindly recognized the city as Melbourne. Thanks 🙂
trees and shadows in Finland
Forsyth Park Savannah’s largest and most popular park. The City’s most famous fountain—installed in 1858 and modeled after the fountains at the Place de la Concorde in Paris—crowns the northern edge of the park.
PR‘s Monochrome madness asked for statue photos, and it turns out that I don’t have all that many. The first one is from Oulu. The others are from Italy. And I don’t know anything about them other than for some reason I took photos of them many of them have wings 🙂
A special feature in Oulu’s police history were the market police, whose task was to monitor the discipline and order of the market. It was through them that a large part of the townspeople and the population of the province also got to know law enforcement and the police.
The time of market police lasted in Oulu from 1934 to 1979. From those times, the sayings ‘Are you from Oulu, are you afraid of the police’ and ‘Gents are good and go their separate ways’ have survived in Oulu. After the end of the market patrol, as a tribute to these policemen, a bronze statue, Toripolliisi, designed by Kaarlo Mikkonen, was erected in front of the Market Hall in 1987 as a result of a public gathering. This 220-centimeter-tall, standing policeman from Oulu has over time become one of the sights and subjects that most reflect the Oulu community.
All photos in this gallery can be enlarged by a click
The human face is a canvas of emotions, a tapestry weaved with the threads of life’s experiences. Whether it’s the radiant smile of joy, the furrowed brows of curiosity, or the heavy veil of sadness, every emotion leaves its mark on our visage, a silent symphony playing across our features.
And as we journey through life, we encounter moments where the weather itself becomes the artist, painting our emotions with the subtle hues of mist-draped mornings, the golden warmth of sunshine filtering through the woods, or the contemplative serenity of a view from a quiet room. Emotions are the colors that tinge our existence, infusing each day with the rich palette of human experience. But they also can be seen in monochrome images with the contrast and light enhancing the mood
I delved into my collection of photographs and found some of my all-time favorites monochrome images. The captivating essence of the sea is a recurring theme in most of these photos. However, amidst the sea-themed photos, there are two exceptional ones that stand out – “The wheels” and “The monk.” These images hold a different kind of allure, offering a unique perspective and adding depth to the collection.
There’s something about the sea and its surroundings that resonates deeply within me. The tranquil yet dynamic atmosphere, the soothing sound of the waves, and the rugged beauty of lighthouses never fail to captivate my heart. These elements have a way of inspiring a sense of adventure, peaceful introspection, and a profound connection with nature. It’s moments like these that remind me of the sheer beauty and wonder that surrounds us, urging me to capture them and hold onto their essence forever.
Monochrome Madness – Some of my all time favourites was what Leanne had on her blog, I thought I’d follow her lead.
These bigger and smaller tools are from Verla’s Groundwood and Board Mill, Finland’s first factory museum.
Verla was named a World Heritage site due to its status as a unique and culturally and historically significant example of an industrial settlement from the turn of the 20th century.
Leanne’s post title, Something Abstract, gave me an idea…
How does this explanation strike you ? This image is a visual representation of the complexity and chaos of life. It shows how we are all connected by thin threads of fate, but also how we can get lost in the maze of choices and consequences. The image evokes a sense of mystery and wonder, as well as a feeling of isolation and confusion.
Abstract
This image has been processed to create an abstract effect. A random noise function to create small dots and lines on the image. The result is a high-contrast image that resembles a tangled web of lines and dots.
Is this Abstract?
The beauty and fragility of nature. As if it is saying goodbye to the summer. The image is blurred, creating a dreamy and nostalgic effect.
Flowers in monochrome are a fascinating subject for photography, art, and design. They can create a dramatic contrast, a subtle elegance, or a mood of mystery. Monochromatic flowers can also inspire creative expressions.
Flowers in monochrome are not just black and white they have a spectrum of shades that reflect the light- they are not silent or dull. They capture the essence of shape and texture.
The Yost is a remarkable machine which was quite popular in the late nineteenth century. It can be recognized immediately by its distinctive design features: the typebars are housed in an enclosed black cylinder, and the double keyboard emerges from a forest of long key stems.
The first typewriter bearing the Yost name came out in 1887. Later understroke models include the New Yost (1889), No. 4 (1895), and No. 10 (1902). A bar sometimes appears over the O in the name “Yost” on the typewriter’s decals, probably to indicate that it should be pronounced as a long O.
I’ve been into black and white photography for the longest time, so Anne Sandler’s challenge this week is really appreciated. Thanks, Anne!
Is monochrome black and white? Is black and white monochrome? You may be surprised at the answer. I was after I did some research. Here’s what I found.
Black and white is the result of only using black or white and shades of. The shades of meaning grayscale. Here are some black and white photographs.
I have always carried a torch for black and white photography 😂 I thought it went well with the header image .
Still life
Cities…
Then, well portraits in black and white are my all time favorite thing to do
Monochrome photos contain variations of only one color and nothing else. Meaning, different shades of one color like blue, red, green, etc. Here are some of my examples.
colored monochrome
Remember to link to your post and use the Lens-Artists tag in the reader section. Thanks Anne, I love to create black and white images.
If you would like to participate weekly in our Lens-Artists Challenge, click here for more info.
Why does black and white photography so often grab our attention more? It’s because we have the ability to create STRONGER elements in our frame, by taking away much of the distraction that often comes with color. It’s simply less “things” for our brains to take in. But more than that, black and white will accentuate just that, so you can create more contrast and light/shadow play within your frame to tell a powerful story.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
They evoke stronger emotions by paying greater attention to shadows, contrast and texture – three photographic elements that push good b/w images to become great ones.
Here a photos I am considering as one of my shots for BW entry. What I am trying to bring to focus in these shots are natural, age positive, emotion. My husband is a good sport as he is always ready to pose.
Any suggestions, idea, what do you think, can you find the elements of a good black and white shot in these.
It is here the dreariest moth of the year for me here in Northern hemisphere. The whole month is a constant loss of light. Gray. Depressing. I am taking on a theme for this month. Monochrome. Black and White photos all month. I am taking on a challenge of editing one old photos to my best ability to Black and White, plus one new photo a day, hey, you guessed it in Black and White. Do you you want to join me with this theme? If you wish to participate add your link here to LEPIS
This is the First of HTSN- 2020
Happy smile – portrait of a graduate
An old chest of drawers that is in my husbands office, we have several old side boards or bureaus or what ever you call them in our home. My husband lovers to restore them and we have more of them that we have places for them. It is his hobby. My hobby is art, paintings, sculpture and photography, for some reason they are also all around our house. I have placed my sculptures on the one that is in his office ,that I have not found proper places elsewhere, my four refugees and a woman with a book. Our wedding photo is there and so is my oldest sons wedding photo too, side by side. Continuance.
I was too lazy to go out into the grayness, this being the reason for this photo.
if you wish to participate add your link here to LEPIS
I spent some time editing tulip images, there are only slight differences to this interpretations. The obvious one being some are black and white…other than that its about shades and light. Do you have a favorite
What do you think of these images. I have not really done lots of landscapes in black and white. Cities, portraits, still life, in those I have thought it works beautifully. Now I have tried, I am rather happy how they turned out. I would not be sharing them if I wasn’t 🙂 .
Signs are every where, mostly I do not take too much notice of them. These go in the theme what I’ve been posting on the blog lately. My trip to Las Vegas and California. I had to add one from the sign capital, Hong Kong. I have never seen so many signs on a street before.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 