“And the yellow sunflower by the brook, in autumn beauty stood.” William Cullen Bryant
Sunflowers Posted for Terri’s Flower Hour
Captivating Sunflower in Autumn Beauty Stood
Tag: colors
Where to Focus on Photography: Capturing Flora and Nature
I was just thinking about where to point my camera during this time. Should I capture the Devil’s-bit scabious that’s either blooming or fading away, showcasing its intricate details and vibrant colors? Or maybe I should focus on the grass, which I believe is Calamagrostis epigejos, swaying gently in the breeze, its delicate blades reflecting the soft light? Then there’s also the Sow thistle, with its bright yellow blooms, and the cotton grass, which adds an ethereal quality to the landscape with its fluffy tufts dancing above the ground. What do you think? I did focus on all of them, keeping little distance so I could capture a mood I was aiming for – soft and light – delicate, evoking a sense of tranquility and harmony within nature. Each element plays a vital role in this ephemeral scene, weaving together a tapestry of colors and textures that resonate with the serene ambiance of the moment.
Devil’s-bit scabious’s inflorescence resembles that of field scabious (Knautia arvensis), but differs in having smaller ray-florets and distinct leaf shapes. The two plants typically inhabit opposite environments; field scabious thrives in dry sands, whereas devil’s-bit prefers heavy clay areas. It is found in clearings, damp meadows, and along coastal regions, mainly in the west and south-west, with a distribution limit in central Finland. A historical climate barrier exists between coastal and inland populations, attributed to post-Ice Age climatic changes. The species has since spread to newer shorelines. LuontoPortti
Devil’s-bit scabious has a history of use as a dye, seasoning, tea, and medicine for various ailments. Legend has it that the Devil attempted to destroy the plant by biting off its root, which appears damaged as it ages. Its names are derived from the Latin term succidere, meaning “to break from the bottom.” This plant also supports insects, particularly butterflies and bees, as they prepare for winter.
I think this grass is Hietakastikka (Calamagrostis epigejos), a perennial large grass species that thrives in a variety of habitats, often found in coastal areas and along riverbanks. It can be identified by its dense and large panicles, which are notably more pronounced compared to other Northern European grasses, contributing to its striking appearance. The spikelets, which are gray-green or bluish-brown, add to its visual appeal, especially when swaying gently in the wind. This species is not only valued for its aesthetic qualities but also plays a vital role in stabilizing soil and providing habitat for various wildlife, making it an essential component of the ecosystems it inhabits.
Sormipaisukarve (Hypogymnia physodes) is a type of lichen that grows on trees and rocks. It has become more common in recent years and is likely the most widespread lichen in Finland. This lichen is found throughout the country, especially in the south, and is rare in northern Lapland. Sormipaisukarve is a sign of air quality: in clean areas, it can grow up to five centimeters, while in polluted areas, it stays under one centimeter.
Cotton grass (Agrostis capillaris, syn. Agrostis tenuis) is a common grass species that thrives in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and along roadsides. Its tall, slender stems and fine leaves create a delicate appearance, making it a notable feature in the landscape. Additionally, this grass species plays a vital role in the local ecosystem, providing food and shelter for various insects and small animals. It is an ancient introduction in Finland, where it has adapted to the climate and soil conditions, contributing to the rich biodiversity of the region.
The Sow thistle reached Finland after the Ice Age from the south and west. The populations from different directions are separate, and changes in distribution are very small on a human scale. The species grows in the Åland Islands and Uusimaa, mainly in the pine forests and edges of the Lohja region. Human activities do not threaten the species; instead, they often help it by creating more open areas with light, which the plant prefers. In some locations, it has even spread to roadsides and railway embankments.
Humans have also utilized sow thistle; the plant’s sturdy taproot is edible and tastes good. Instead of starch, the root contains inulin sugar, making it excellent for diabetics. One would think the sow thistle would stand out in the open pine forest, but its abundance and entire existence can go unnoticed, as it is often present only as leaf rosettes. The rosette somewhat resembles ribwort plantain (Plantago lanceolata), but the large flower heads that often open as early as May reveal that the plant belongs to the daisy family.
Lens-Artists Challenge #154 / 410 – One Photo Edited
Henri Cartier-Bresson said that a photographer is continually shaping and changing his or her perspective to create a capture, but at the speed of a reflex action.
I opted to revisit Tina for her captivating “One Photo Two Ways” challenge, which was originally posted on June 26, 2021.
I am incorporating quotes from the original post because they perfectly resonate with this challenge, starting with the same quote that Tina used in her inspiring piece. This is an editing challenge, and for those who have followed my journey, you know how much I enjoy the editing process.
“Photography is as much about what is left out of the frame as it is about what the photographer keeps inside the frame.”Daryl Oh
Cropping
I rarely crop or edit my landscape photographs; I find it more important to concentrate on framing to convey my message. Nevertheless, I do occasionally make minor tweaks. I enjoy composing my images as I capture them, which often includes leveling or correcting verticals. Cropping is an useful and powerful way to highlight your subject and composition.
I trimmed the image below quite a bit to highlight the elements I want to emphasize. I’ve darkened the sky to create a gloomier atmosphere and brightened the trees to emphasize the leading line. Additionally, I enhanced the sign to make it stand out as the focal point of the shot. These types of edits are standard for me, as I perceive editing as a means to express my perspective. #1
Black and white conversion
Monochrome / Black and white photography is something I really love. It holds a unique charm that transcends the complexities of color, allowing the viewer to focus on the stark contrasts and intricate details that might otherwise be overlooked. Here I have used the masking tool to get this result, isolating certain elements to enhance their impact and draw attention to the play of light and shadow. The subtleties of texture and form come to life in ways that evoke a range of emotions, inviting viewers to interpret the scene from their own perspective. Through this technique, I aim to not only capture moments but also convey the essence of the subject in a pure, stripped-down manner. #2
“A picture is the expression of an impression. If the beautiful were not in us, how would we ever recognize it?”Ernst Haas
Editing Impression
A rural landscape with a cluster of four small, rustic houses on a grassy field abundant with wildflowers and greenery. Behind the houses lies a calm body of water, fjord, stretching horizontally across the middle of the image. Beyond the water, a large, green mountain range ascends under a dramatic sky filled with thick, moody clouds that partially obscure the mountain peaks. The peaceful, natural environment with a subdued color palette dominated by greens, blues, and earthy tones, suggesting , rightly so, a cool and possibly overcast day in a remote area.
In this gallery, I share the unaltered, original version next to my standard enhancements, as I capture images in RAW format. Editing is essential to prevent the photos from appearing flat. I utilize the masking tool in Lightroom for photo adjustments. To add an extra touch, I’ve presented them as if they were taken with an analog camera. To transform a digital photo into an analog film look, raise the black points, reduce the highlights, incorporate coarse film grain #3, and increase the warmth of the color temperature. The artistic interpretation is generated by AI.
“Every photo I take is a piece of my life that I will never get back, but that I will be able to see again and again.”Malcolm Flowers
The meadow above is filled with tall grasses and a variety of wildflowers, predominantly yellow, interspersed with white and purple blooms. In the background, a cemetery is visible, with an assortment of tombstones and crosses scattered across a green lawn, surrounded by a white fence. The scene is set against a backdrop of trees and distant buildings, all slightly blurred to emphasize the vibrant flora in the foreground. A peaceful and contemplative mood, combining elements of nature and quiet remembrance.
In this gallery I experimented AI to edit a version, as it’s ubiquitous these days, but it shifted the mood and emphasis from the forefront to a much darker tone. Initially, the shot is primarily out of focus, contributing to this ambiance. I aimed for the focus to remain on the light and bright foreground, evoking a sense of hope and that is what I aimed for in my edit. AI can be useful, but do not loose your own vision and style. #4
“I do not document anything. I give an interpretation.”Andre Kertesz
This week, I invite you to explore the different methods you use to create images. Capture the same subject through a variety of unique approaches. Please limit your submissions to 5 photos. You have the freedom to select your technique, including the application of editing tools. I eagerly anticipate the outcomes of your creativity—make sure to link them back to my original post and apply the Lens-Artists Tag so we can easily discover your work in the WP Reader.
Last week we featured a guest host Steve Hyde (of Steve Hyde Photography Blog) and he provided us with a wonderful challenge, but nearly impossible one. Many of us had a hard time choosing them. We appreciate all the fantastic, Best Ever Photos you shared. Wonderful photography!
Sofia will return next week, we will have to wait to see what she has in store for us at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out more about the challenge then.
You can keep up with all of our challenges by subscribing to the Lens-Artists team members websites: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth. Ritva,
For information on how to join the Lens-Artists challenge please click here.
Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset
The Beauty of Snowberry
The fresh green leaves and delicate clusters of pink-and-white blossoms, enhanced by glistening water droplets. A softly blurred background of deep teal, green, and golden foliage establishes a serene atmosphere. It is shared for Terri’s Flower Hour, highlighting American snowberry or snowberry.
I am leaving you with this thought: Beauty can be seen in all things. Seeing and composing the beauty is what separates the snapshot from the photograph. – Matt Hardy
Beauty of Northern Norway Through Edits
I’m truly enjoying the process of editing photos, immersing myself in the creative journey that allows me to enhance their vibrancy and bring them to life in ways that surpass what the original images captured. With each adjustment, I experiment with colors, contrasts, and textures, striving to evoke emotions and memories that resonate deeply. This artistic endeavor is not just about modifying images; it’s about taking creative liberties to ensure they reflect the vivid vision I have in my mind, transforming mere snapshots into compelling visual stories that convey my unique perspective and imagination. It’s a fulfilling experience that combines technical skill with personal expression, enabling me to share how I perceive the world through my lens.
When I snapped this shot, I loved the serene landscape that unfolded before me. This gently rolling field, sprinkled with delightful patches of yellow and white wildflowers, all set against an overcast sky. And right there in the middle ground, a charming row of green trees stands tall, perfectly spaced out like they’re in a well-rehearsed formation. Then, in the background, there’s this grand, densely forested hill, slightly hidden in a veil of mist adding a touch of moodiness to the scene. Tranquility—it’s exactly the kind of peaceful feeling you get during a light rainy day in the lovely countryside!
Vibrant Red Sleeping Hibiscus: A Snapshot of Nature
It is just a flower photo. Live Red Sleeping Hibiscus it is called, and it caught my eye with its vibrant hues and delicate petals, prompting me to capture its beauty in a photograph. The striking color and unique shape of the flower stand out against the lush green backdrop. That’s about it about this one. Although simple, it represents the fleeting moments of beauty that nature offers us. Happy Tuesday from cool (15.5°C) and rainy Finland, where ran keeps me inside, perfect for posting the small wonders like this flower.
Sticky Catchfly is a Nature’s Survivor
Name also Clammy campion (usa), Red german catchfly
Sticky catchfly is a plant that originally grew on rocky areas, dry hills, and sandy meadows. It has adapted to human environments, spreading to pastures and sunny roadsides. The plant can survive long droughts thanks to its deep taproot. Its distinctive reddish-brown sticky substance, which covers the upper stem, helps deter predators like ants. You can often see insects stuck to the stem. When picked, the sticky tar gets on your hands. Sometimes, a pink-flowered version can be found that doesn’t secrete any liquid. Its smaller relative, alpine catchfly (V. alpina), secretes very little or no tar at all.
At the start of summer, the red flowers of sticky catchfly attract queen bees, which are busy creating new colonies and pollinating. When the queen is in the hive caring for her young, the smaller worker bees are less effective at pollination. The flowers also draw in various insects, like butterflies, flower flies, and small beetles. Additionally, pollinators can spread diseases, such as spores from parasitic ustilaginales fungi, and even the sticky substance on the stem doesn’t protect catchfly from these harmful pests.
Straight
Not so monochrome -lilacs
On a request, here are my lilac photos on color, showcasing this flower that insists on flaunting its beauty in every possible lighting condition—it’s like the diva of the garden and the scent of her, aah!! Whether it’s posing against a clear blue sky, showing off its gorgeous self amidst lush greenery, or just casually lounging in the softness of a pastel backdrop, the lilac’s knack for stealing the spotlight, proving once and for all that flowers can outshine even the best of us in the color department!
Monday window
This is fresh from the camera, one of my favorite spots to sit and relax Monday Window
The Short-lived Beauty of Spring Flowers
Spring flowers in nature bloom and fade so quickly, their beauty often lasting only a fleeting moment. Last weekend, I took these shots of wood sorrels, capturing their delicate petals and delicate flowers while they were still alive in the warm sunlight. However, this week, there is only the green leaves left, as nature effortlessly transitions to palette of greens.
The taste of the wood sorrel is familiar to many from childhood summers, used to pick them up while playing with friends in the woods. The flavor is refreshingly sour, now I know it is due to the oxalic acid it contains just like rhubarb. We never used it in fresh in salads, soups, and various sauces, where it adds a lemony tartness as fas as I remember.
The beauty I came across during my walk in the woods was what I was searching for, I spotted these delicate wood sorrels, these white flowers, their thin purple veins and yellow centers really stood out. They were nestled among vibrant green clover-like leaves, surrounded by all sorts of other foliage. I took the photo so that the background was softly blurred, filled with warm earthy tones—think soil, dried leaves, and moss—creating a serene woodland atmosphere. Sunlight was gently illuminating the flowers and leaves, bringing out their textures and colors beautifully. Overall, it was just this quiet moment of wildflower beauty in the forest on a bright day.
Participating in Terri’s The Flower Hour #31
LAPC -Choose a Color!
For this week’s Lens- Artists challenge , you are to select one color (excluding black and white). Share a maximum of 6 photos where your chosen color is the prominent hue, or alternatively, you may share one photo featuring each of the following captivating colors in their various shades: red, blue, green, purple, orange, and yellow.
Different cultures and different times throughout history connected various emotions to colors. And though we might argue about which color represents which emotion, we have to admit that adding color to a photo brings a whole new vitality to it.
We see color all the time, but we do not always notice it. Unless a particular amazing sunset catches your eye or you find yourself in a field of poppies or rows and rows of lavender. For this week we are not only looking for color but also paying attention to how subtle shades or bold colors affect our mood and perception of the world.
Your chosen color should be dominant in your photo, but colors are often paired with other colors in photos. So play with the different color relationships such as complementary colors, warm and cold colors, analogous colors and triadic colors.
Isolate your chosen color with monochromatic photography where you use a color scheme that is comprised of variations of one color.
The color red, for instance, embodies sensations of desire, passion, blood, and transgression, while also representing bravery, selflessness, passion, love, and beauty.
Monochrome photography is frequently linked to black & white visuals, yet it truly encompasses any single hue, providing photographers with an expansive array of creative possibilities. This includes captivating images in shades such as red, blue, green, purple, orange, and yellow.
Blue, In Western societies, it often symbolizes calmness, stability, and tranquility. In art, the use of blue can evoke a sense of depth and distance, creating immersive and serene scenes. In contrast, some Eastern cultures associate blue with spirituality, wisdom, and the divine.
The color green offers a variety of meanings, symbolizing growth and representing nature, environmental concerns, naivety, envy, and wealth. Its interpretations can differ across cultures, symbolizing prosperity in some and illness in others.
Historically tied to royalty due to the steep cost of its dye, purple is an elite color that lends a regal air to your photographs.
Orange, named after the fruit, signifies vitality and warmth, appearing gentler than red, which can symbolize anger. It exudes cheerfulness and approachability while still attracting notice, evident in its frequent use for warning signs.
.
Yellow embodies both happiness and negativity, presenting opposing connotations; it signifies joy and optimism but also suggests cowardice, deceit, and aging.
Here is a quick guidance to colors start you off.
Finding triadic colors in nature involves practice and observation, exemplified by the Scarlet Macaw. A triadic scheme comprises a subject color and two complementary colors, like Orange, Teal, and Pink, or Red, Blue, and Yellow, which is beneficial in food and product design.
Ambiguous colors are hues lacking clear definitions, changing based on context and evoking various interpretations and emotions in art and design.
The traditional color wheel includes primary (red, blue, yellow), secondary (green, violet, orange), and tertiary colors formed by mixing them. Colors can be categorized into cool, associated with water and grass, and warm, linked to fire and sun. Warm colors can evoke feelings of anger, happiness, and excitement, while cool colors promote soothing and calming effects.
A huge thank you to Anne for the Texture challenge last week! The diversity of textures in your posts provided us with a wealth of inspiration for the future. Next week, it will be Egídio’s turn to lead us, so make sure to visit his site for more creative ideas.
Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.
We are the Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and I, Ritva.
Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset
Lens-Artists Challenge #397 – Texture
This week, Anne is our guide with a a very textured challenge: Texture! She tells us that texture really adds that visual kick to a surface—think of how rough, smooth, gritty, or soft something looks in a flat image. Check out her amazing site for some awesome tips!
Sharing colorful and tasty textures to start with…enjoy! Click on the galleries to enlarge them, if you are looking at the photos on a computer.
This set I took with my iPhone a few days ago while I was sitting on my patio, enjoying the warm sun day. As I pondered what to post, I looked around, taking in the surroundings of my garden, looking for textures. And to be honest everything is textured. Inspired by some of the things around me, I snapped a few shots, . Afterward, I went inside to find a few more images to contrast with the shots I took, hoping to curate a selection that would better resonate with this challenge.
We’d love to see your images that highlight texture! You might be surprised by how many you actually have. When you post, don’t forget to link back to Anne’s original post and add the Lens-Artists tag.
Last week I had great fun seeing your pairings with pictures and quotes! Many I had never seen before and many recognized but with new surprising combos. Thanks you to all who participated! Next week I will be presenting the challenge. I hope you will join me.
If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites. Here we are, The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and I Ritva.
Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset !
Monday Macro
Pink Facades & Green Shutters in Chania
I came across the cutest pastel pink building facade in Chania Port for my Monday Window! It has these four charming windows framed by vibrant green shutters, all nicely arranged in two uplifting rows. Each window leads to a delightful little balcony with wrought iron railings that give it an elegant touch. I couldn’t help but notice a cheerful table and chairs set up there—just perfect for soaking up the sun! I even spotted a single person on the upper left balcony, dressed in lively colors, which added a joyful vibe to the peaceful, symmetrical scene. The soft natural light made everything pop, especially the lovely contrast between the pink wall and the green shutters.
Lens-Artists Challenge #393 – Lucky Shot
Sofia is in search for our – Lucky Shots. Just like her my photography is largely influenced by chance. For me, I’d estimate that around 80% of it hinges on either the moment of capture or the editing process. This week, the request is to explore how that element of luck often results in our most remarkable images. Whether it’s being in the right spot at the right time, having faith in your camera, or experiencing pure serendipity, these unexpected moments create the types of shots that brighten our day.
The last one is lucky in many ways 😊so I set it as the featured image.
How wonderful it is to capture the shot of your dreams when all you had to do was press the button and let luck take care of the rest. I don’t know if these are the luckiest shots, but I do like them a lot. I hope you enjoy reminiscing about those fortunate moments and share them with us. Don’t forget to link back to Sofia’s post and tag Lens-Artists, so we can all discover your work easily in the Reader.
Last week Patti’s challenged focused on working with the three grounds as compositional tools and it was great to see your takes on this theme. John returns with our next challenge on Saturday, April 18th at noon EST. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.
Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.
Here we are The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.
From Winter to Spring
I took these yesterday as I watched the snow melt on the hill behind my backyard. I was able to sit outside as our patio is such that the house safeguards us from the wind. Am I happy to see the green emerging- the moss is so bright.
For John’s Cellpic Sunday.
Blue
Participating in One word Sunday Blue
Vibrant
Spring Blooms: Eastern Pasque Flower
I do not know my plants, if they are pretty that is mostly enough information for me. I googled this flower and flower enthusiasts may appreciate this.
The image displays the plant known as the common pasque flower (Pulsatilla vulgaris), also referred to as the Eastern pasque flower (Pulsatilla patens) in some contexts.
Key characteristics of the plant: Form: It is a perennial herb with a short, upright rootstock.
Height: The plant typically grows 5 to 25 cm tall.Flower: The flowers are radial to bell-shaped, purplish-blue, and 5.5–8.5 cm wide. They bloom early in spring, often in April or May, as one of the first perennials to flower.
Leaves: Basal leaves are stalked and develop after flowering. The stem leaves form a whorl below the flower.
Habitat: It grows in dry heathlands and is also a popular ornamental garden plant.
Status: In Finland, the species had disappeared from the wild but has reappeared in some locations. The Eastern pasque flower is a protect in Finland
These were photographed at the Botanical garden last spring.
Macro Monday
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,
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 