Macro Monday
Tag: colors
Lens Artists Photo Challenge #386 – What Astonishes You?
What have you seen or experienced that has astonished you? Beth from Wandering Dawgs asked.
Beth was inspired by these words by Mary Oliver from her poem “Sometimes” for this weeks challenge.
Pay attention
Be astonished
Tell about it”
I have been astonished many times in my lifetime by children, people, young and old, revealing layers of beauty and complexity in humanity. So often by nature, I find myself in awe of the vibrant colors of a sunset, the intricate patterns of leaves, and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Each moment is a reminder of the wonder that surrounds us, and I cherish these experiences, life’s fleeting magic. The older I get more I appreciate the small wonders that surround me.
I lived in Las Vegas many years ago, and I was astonished by the nature of the desert, with its stunning, expansive views that stretched endlessly beneath a brilliant blue sky. The rock formations in the Valley of Fire, with their vibrant hues of red and orange, seemed almost otherworldly, as if a painter had splashed the landscape with bold colors. I was especially fascinated by how much life there is in the desert, from resilient cacti standing tall against the harsh conditions to small creatures that thrive despite the intense heat and dryness. Each visit revealed new wonders, as the desert’s beauty and complexity continued to surprise and captivate me, showcasing the remarkable adaptability of nature.
Enlarge the images in the collage by clicking them for a better view.
THose who follow me know; I am always impressed and taken by the power of water is truly astonishing; it manifests in various forms such as the vastness of the sea, the depth of the ocean, the swift flow of rivers, and the majestic splendor of waterfalls. Each of these elements have the relentless force and beauty of water, which can provide life and nourishment while also possessing the ability to create destruction. The gentle pitter-patter of rain, for instance, can refresh the earth and bring forth new growth, yet in larger quantities, it can lead to floods that reshape landscapes and communities. From the tranquil lakes reflecting the sky to the raging torrents of rivers carving through mountains, water is indeed a vital and powerful element of our world.
Mountains captivated me at every glance, their grandeur towering sharply against the skyline, with their immense presence enveloping them in a nurturing hug. The sunlit, snow-draped summits shimmer in the warmth, while the rugged ground narrates stories of age-old geological events. Surrounding forests flourish with vitality, their lush green shades strikingly set off by the stark whites and grays of the summits. The air is invigorating and clear, rich with the aroma of pine, the numerous pathways and hollows that weave through this stunning terrain.
I am going to stop here. I have added way too many photos, but that is due to the fact that nature always, constantly amazes me with its incredible beauty and diversity. From lush green forests to serene mountain ranges, deserts, there is an endless variety of landscapes to explore and appreciate. When we travel, we mostly look for natural sights to see that inspire awe and a sense of wonder. I love capturing nature, be it landscapes or close-ups, as each photograph tells a story and preserves a moment in time that can be cherished forever. Look and see – pay attention, and you will be astonished by the intricate details and the vibrant colors that surround us every day, reminding us of the magic that exists in the world.
Last week, Tina welcomed us with a theme centered around Shapes and Designs. The world is teeming with inspirational creations, many of which are derived from nature. Our designs, whether in architecture, fashion, or the everyday items we utilize, reflect this connection. This was clearly visible in the photos we all contributed.
I hope you will join in for this week’s challenge. Share us what astonishes you. Be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to Beth’s post.
Be sure to check back on Saturday, February 14, at noon Eastern Time, when I will once again host; I know it’s Valentine’s Day, still, I hope you will join me then. Until then, let’s continue to explore, expand our knowledge and stay positive ❤️
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.
Art is a meditative relaxation experience.
For Debbies Six Word Saturday
Nature’s Artistry
For this week’s edition of Flower Hour Weekly for Terri, I’ve rummaged through my archives in search of inspiration and beauty. I haven’t purchased any new flowers for the vase, and nature currently offers only evergreens and snow, so my choices are quite restricted, leaving me to reflect on the stunning blooms I’ve captured in the past. These flowers are nature’s artistry in my mind; they delight me even when we are surrounded by the stillness of winter.
Blooming flower of giant granadilla or giant passion fruit (Passiflora quadrangularis)
LUX Helsinki 2026: Highlights from a Chilly Evening
Last weekend, I attended the LUX Helsinki 2026 festival, which attracted large crowds despite the cold weather. Dressing appropriately helped, but my fingers did get really cold while taking the photos. Five of the twenty installations were situated near Hietalahti Market Hall.
The event featured colorful light displays, particularly at the eerily beautiful Old Church Park, also known as the “Plague Park” due to its historical significance. The Blue light and snow made the place look a bit eerie. It is also known as the “Plague Park” (Ruttopuisto), as victims of the plague in 1710 were buried alongside the church. The gravestones in the Old Church Park remind of the history of cemeteries in this part of town. The park is home to the second oldest church in Helsinki and remains a popular destination within the city center, blending art and history.
Participating in Johns Cellpic Sunday
The Beauty of a Rose
Let’s kick of the year 2026 for The Flower Hour with a beautiful rose from my archives, showcasing its lively petals. Flowers, they offer us beauty and joy. Particularly during this season when they are so often found only in bouquets, so expect posts of past summer photos,
Red Apples
Red apples and Christmas seem to go together. So that reason no other one am I posting these pictures.
Red apples have long been a symbol of peace, tradition, and abundance during the Christmas season
How to Survive November 2025 – 27
Today, it’s just this for How to Survive the November. I enjoy candles, and these holders are one of my favorites due to their designs and the warm ambiance they create. There’s something truly magical about lighting a candle on a chilly November evening, making my home feel inviting and warm during this season of hibernation.
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.
Urban Abandonment and Nature
The post for Monday Window gives us a look at this abandoned room with a cool arched window that shows off some bright autumn leaves outside. It’s pretty wild how the colorful leaves clash with the graffiti-covered walls, showing off that mix of nature and city decay. The whole scene kind of hits you with those feels of decay and the leftover marks of human creativity on the walls. All in all, it really captures a unique moment in time.
NovemberShadows can easily be seen on how the light comes into the space, and it is highlighted by the square crop, creating an intriguing interplay between illumination and shadow. This contrast adds depth and character to the scene.
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.
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.
How to Survive November 2025 – 8
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
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.
How to Survive November 2025 – 7
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.
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.
How to Survive November 2025 – 6
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.
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.
How to Survive November 2025 – 5
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.
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.
How to Survive November 2025 – 4
The post announces the fourth entry for surviving November 2025,
I accidently posted over my this post so now its a mess…
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.
shrubby cinquefoil
Silent Sunday
Silent Sunday
Floral Mood Board for colorful Interiors
Mood Board – featuring blue and red tones for interior design. I’m beginning with the vibrant shades of blue hydrangea paired with a bold red flower, which will be the centerpiece of this color scheme. A whimsical pink gladiolus adds a playful touch, while a purple great masterwort contributes depth and personality to the overall look. To ground the design, lush greens and muted greens will be integrated through decor or accents, offering a natural essence that tempers the vivid colors. This blend of floral inspiration and striking hues cultivates a magical atmosphere, ideal for transforming any space into a chic and welcoming environment. However, which rooms would suit this palette? In the Nordics/Scandinavia, we tend to lean towards natural and subdued whites and beiges. Yet, I have witnessed beautiful vibrant designs in Britain. I’m curious why this contrast exists. One reason could be that during the dark winter months, a lighter interior provides the brightness we crave, while colors create a cozy nook for us to retreat into. Do you have any ideas?
For Terri’s The #Flower Hour
FOTD – Cheryl Pink
The Dance of Colorful Autumn Leaves
There were two colorful leaves, a vibrant dance,
Then frost whispered in, stealing their chance.
The chill embraced, and one took flight,
Now one lonely leaf lies on the ground, basking in the morning light
Autumn Vibes and Beauty Through Windows
This week has been all about dreamy, autumn vibes, exploring the beauty of windows and ceramics that encapsulate the season’s essence. I feel that I was able to capture the most significant elements into this image taken through these old windows, where the soft, golden light filters in, casting gentle shadows. To enhance the mood, I did a bit of color editing, as the original photo was taken during summer, making it feel quite different with the cooler tones. I will include the original image as well for those who prefer the vibrant brighter and more cooler summer aesthetic; however, please note that the figure in the picture is a statue, not a man with little imagination you could make it the ceramic in this post. A statue adds intrigue, creating a whimsical conversation piece about the intersection of art and nature in our everyday lives.
Autumn’s small wonders
This week I am sharing close-ups of autumn’s small beautiful details that often go unnoticed. Last night, we experienced a significant drop in temperatures, going below 0°C / 32°F, and the frost was there to greet us like a delicate blanket, sparkling in the early morning light. If I’d I walked outside, I could have heard the crunch of frost beneath my feet and the crisp air filling my lungs, a reminder that we are officially heading towards the colder days and into November. It was cold I didn’t , maybe tomorrow I’ll do it, just to take few photos.
Sharing these with Dawn’s Festival of leaves #4:
Macro Monday
Lens-Artists Challenge #368—Looking Back to# 106: Autumn
Autumn is this weeks Lens-Artists ‘Looking Back’ Challenge, set by John. John’s original challenge post is here. In July 2020, the team launched a series called “Seasons.” Patti facilitated the Lens-Artists Photo Challenge #106: Autumn here.
Autumn, fall, is a warm-colored season with cool temperatures, bringing a beautiful array of reds, oranges, and yellows as the leaves turn. The woods are full with edible mushrooms to pick and the more poisonous to photograph. It’s a time when nature begins to rest, preparing for the winter months ahead, and people also find themselves slowing down.. Slowly but surely, we are cozying inside our homes, wrapped in soft blankets while savoring warm drinks and apple pie. This season encourages us to stay inside, lighting the candles and fireplaces that create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The crisp air outside calls for strolls among the falling leaves, reminding us to appreciate the beauty of change.
To us, falling leaves and autumn symbolize the closing of the summer season; at our summer house, this transition means not only raking leaves but, in recent times, using a lawnmower to moan them into little bits and leaving them as nutrients for the earth to enrich the soil for the next year. My husband took on the ambitious task this summer of clearing so many trees that one entire corner of the yard , now has an entirely new look, revealing hidden patches of sunlight that we hadn’t seen in years, the wood area of our yard needed cutting and trimming of the trees, which has unfortunately left us with mounds of branches scattered around the property. As the days grow colder and the ground becomes wet, the branches are gathered and prepared for a controlled burn to take care of the debris; it took a whole day to accomplish this, but the effort was worth leaving behind a cleared space that feels refreshing and revitalized for the upcoming seasons. A days work and in the end you are left with area with white ash.
Big thanks to John for giving us a nudge to share our Autumn vibes We’d love for you to share your favorite autumn photos too. Just link to John’s original post here and don’t forget to use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can check out your take on the theme!
Last week, our guest host, Joanna Mason, inspired us with the theme “Everyone Should See This,” resulting in a plethora of unique images in response. Thank you Joanna! Next week, Ann-Christine will be hosting the Lens-Artists Challenge, so make sure to follow her blog here to catch the challenge she will announce on Saturday, October 11, at 12:00 pm. Eastern Time.
For more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.
Wordless Wednesday
Lens Artists #367 – Everyone Should See This
When I think about the ocean, I can’t help but feel a rush of emotions. It’s this vast expanse that holds so many mysteries and beauty, evoking awe and humility in me. The ocean feels like this incredible force—both calming and powerful at the same time. There’s something magical about standing by the shore, where you can hear the waves crash and feel that deep connection to nature and time itself.
Joanne is this weeks host. Her challenge post is here. Her request is to share some photographs of things/people/places that are inspiring and that you want to share. This is my approach to it. Suggestion: all the images in the galleries can be enlarged by a click.
It’s hard to believe that around 60-70% of people around the world have never seen the ocean in person. That means over 2.5 billion folks haven’t experienced the delight of watching the waves or feeling the sand between their toes! For many, it’s just not possible—living in landlocked areas, dealing with financial constraints, or simply not having the chance to travel can keep them away from those tranquil blue waters. It’s a reminder of how important it is to ensure everyone gets a taste of the ocean’s beauty.
I saw this firsthand in India when local people from the countryside came to see the ocean for the first time for the New Year celebration. They had no idea of the power of the water and did not know how to swim, yet the sheer joy radiating from the women, children, but mostly young men was a sight to behold. They were playing on the beach as you usually see children play, building sandcastles and chasing each other in the waves lapping at their feet. The lifeguards were driving up and down the beach giving warnings not to enter if you don’t know how to swim. Also, the amount of selfies and photos 😀 one can guess how many…
The ocean has inspired so many, including some amazing writers. Robert Wyla captures this perfectly when he says, “The ocean stirs the heart, inspires the imagination and brings eternal joy to the soul.” That resonates with me! And Rainer Maria Rilke echoes similar feelings, sharing his experience of going to the sea when life gets heavy: “When anxious, uneasy and bad thoughts come, I go to the sea, and the sea drowns them out with its great wide sounds, cleanses me with its noise, and imposes a rhythm upon everything in me that is bewildered and confused.” Doesn’t that just sound soothing?
I also love Christy Ann Martine’s lines, “Dance with the waves, move with the sea, let the rhythm of the water set your soul free.” It speaks to the joy of immersing ourselves in the ocean’s embrace. It reminds me that there’s this beautiful freedom found in the rhythm of the ocean.
Even if some haven’t been able to experience it firsthand, its essence resonates in our hearts and connects us all. The ocean isn’t just about its waves and shores; it’s about healing, inspiration, and that profound sense of belonging we all seek. So here’s to all the adventures waiting at the ocean!
I cannot end this post without sunset from by the ocean
Last week, you were so creative with your responses to Tina’s challenge! I love how different takes were on that theme. For Joanne’s challenge this week, make sure to link your post to hers and don’t forget to throw in the “lens-artists” hashtag so we can easily spot your post in the Reader.
Next week, John returns with a new challenge. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out more about the challenge then. Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 