For SimplyRed.
SimplyRed 5
Tag: finland
Sunday lunch
For Cellpic Sunday
Sunday here was a very windy, but sunny day in end. I did wake up to the sound of thunder and lightning and very heavy rain. I should have gotten up to take a photo, but instead I just stayed in bed and listened to it.
That has nothing to do with the photos I am going to post 😀
Instead I am going to share few images from our Sunday lunch. We drove to a restaurant in Espoo we hadn’t been before , Ravintola Cru it’s located in a nice old building which I for some reason didn’t take a picture of 😀 but I did take one from the bakery across the street. Note, we enjoyed the food.
Summer
In the hush of a Nordic summer night,
The sky glows soft, a canvas of light,
Whispers of breezes dance through the trees,
While shadows play hide and seek with the leaves.
Stars blink awake, a celestial sight,
Laughter and dreams take gentle flight,
In this tranquil hour where time stands still,
The magic of summer our hearts shall fill.
Charming Rustic Interior with Natural light
Linked to Six word Saturday at Debbie’s here
Midsummer
This weekend we are celebrating midsummer, it is one of the main celebration of the year here in Nordic countries. The nightless night.
Happy midsummer to you all with this
Moomintroll’s Midsummer Poem
But I lie upon the meadow to rest my legs awhile
I stop my musings right away to feel the sunlight shine
Let others do the thinking, they’re wiser anyway
on such a warm and friendly, and sleepy summer day
When all is blue and smells of dew
and you are free for troll-like deeds
or what you will – but choose to be
just lying still.
I am a troll like you, who thinks
the world is a home for me,
right now.
Naturally monochrome nature
This week, our host Elke from pictures imperfect blog has presented a fascinating theme focusing on our colour images that are NATURALLY MONOCHROME. This refers, as I understand it, to images that appear devoid of color, resembling black and white photographs without any conversions applied.
It’s almost impossible to find photos that show no color. Winter offers most opportunities to capture natural monochrome images
These I found, hopefully they work for this prompt.
Rhododendron for Cellpic Sunday
This is the time to get a shot of Rhododendrons, as their vibrant blooms are a spectacular. The particular one I captured was taken with my iPhone from the comfort of my backyard, where the sun gently kissed the petals, 🙂 Their lush foliage and intricate blooms not only provide a stunning backdrop and , reminding me of the beauty that nature has to offer right outside my door.
Later that day, we went to visit the Rhododendron park, and the sight was absolutely awesome; it is truly a wonder how big these magnificent plants can grow and how the different color blooms create a stunning spectacle. As we walked through the park, I couldn’t help but admire not only the vibrant pinks and deep purples but also the delicate whites and fiery reds that seemed to dance in the gentle breeze. I have to say, we were certainly not the only ones there that day; the park was packed with people of all ages, and nationalities each one enjoying the lovely day and taking advantage of this small, fleeting window of time to see the rhododendrons fully bloom in all their glory. Families were well presented, couples strolled hand in hand, and photography enthusiasts eagerly captured the beauty surrounding us, creating a lively atmosphere that enhanced our shared appreciation for nature’s artistry. What a great opportunity to people watching as well… I will post a separate post about those photos as I did not take them with my phone
For Cellpic Sunday
Lens-Artists Challenge #352 – Mellow
Sofia’s challenge this week is mellowness: a sense of softness, in tones or shapes, the slowness of a summer holiday, where time seems to drift gently by, allowing for moments of stillness and reflection. This kind of relaxation invites everyone to pause and appreciate the beauty of simplicity in our surroundings. The challenge is to convey the sense of relaxation through various artistic expressions, utilizing subdued warm tones that remind one of the golden hour, soft shapes reminiscent of gently swaying trees, and a deliberate focus on creating an inviting atmosphere. This overall aesthetic should evoke a mellow mood of calmness and cosiness, encouraging an experience that soothes the mind and spirit, leaving one feeling at peace and deeply connected to the essence of tranquility that life has to offer. That is my take from her post and these are my photos to show it.
The first set evokes a sense of mellow, relaxed serenity. Lazy and mellow summer days when you can just relax. Finnish summer unfolds with fresh, bright greens that lovingly embrace the landscape, weaving a beautiful tapestry of nature. As the season draws to a close, especially towards the end of summer, a soothing mellowness envelops us, gently contrasting the vibrant days that have passed. This tender ambiance is felt not only in the softening light of the season but also on those peaceful days when the sun paints gentle hues across the sky, easing the brilliance of colors. In these precious moments, we can truly savor the transition as nature subtly shifts into softer shades, wrapping us in a comforting sense of tranquility and calmness that beautifully defines the essence of late summer in Finland.
Second set are flowers, the lovely beauties of summer, that brighten our days and gently coax us into taking our cameras out to capture their stunning beauty and intricate details. These vibrant blooms sway softly in the warm breeze, bringing a sense of joy and vitality to gardens, parks, and meadows. As each petal glistens in the sunlight, they create an enchanting atmosphere that draws us near, inviting us to pause and reflect on nature’s artistry. Their delightful fragrances fill the air, that truly encapsulate the essence of summertime.
Hazy, warm light nights – summer nights are a wonder every year, as the brightness of Nordic summers paints the sky in hues of soft pastels and vibrant colors that enchant all who experience them. For those who know this magic from past summers, there’s a sense of nostalgia as familiar scents of blooming flowers and fresh-cut grass fill the air, evoking cherished memories. And for those who witness this beauty for the first time, the spectacle is awe-inspiring, as they find themselves wrapped in the warmth of endless twilight. Each year, you always submerge yourself in its wonder, surrendering to the charm of late-night strolls, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. Magical. All Photos 👇 are taken between 10PM to midnight.
Thank you to all who enthusiastically participated in my Books challenge; it was an absolute joy to witness the profound appreciation we collectively have for the written word and the essential role it plays in shaping our lives. Books are not just mere collections of pages; they are gateways that transport us to distant realms, enriching our minds with unparalleled knowledge and stirring our souls with unforgettable stories. Seeing the stunning libraries from every corner of the globe was nothing short of breathtaking—each one a sanctum for avid readers, beautifully crafted and steeped in history, where the echoes of the past resonate through the ages. The creativity and enthusiasm you all poured into this challenge illuminated our shared passion for literature, reminding us how stories—both timeless classics and contemporary gems—continue to ignite our imaginations and inspire our hearts.
This week was a lovely dip into summer, not yet there weather wise, but the light nights are…Thanks Sofia for this lovely topic. Please link your post to hers and use the lens-artists tag in the reader so your post can be found. Next week June 14th, Beth from Wandering Dawgs will host her first challenge so be sure to check her post next Saturday. I sure am looking forward to seeing what it’s like 🙂
You can find out more about the Lens-Artists Challenge here.
Until then keep on smiling ☺ it’s free therapy.
Loving the white flowers of summer
My first Idea was for title forget me not the beautiful scent of lilacs 🙂 Too many words 😀
For Six Words Saturday
Still standing tall against the odds
For Debbie´s Six Words Saturday.
traditional Scandinavian grain drying and threshing cabin
Vibrancy of Dandelions
This is the prime time for dandelions in my neck of the woods. The glorious yellow fields of this pest of a flower look lovely, stretching out like a bright carpet across the landscape, creating a vivid contrast against the greens of the grass and the browns of the earth. This weed is lovely in its brightness, with its unapologetic splendor. I took these yesterday, reveling in the beauty of the fields and the soft, fluffy clouds drifting lazily above, where the sun peeked through to illuminate the landscape. However, towards the end of the day, the clouds turned dark, gathering together ominously and giving us a pour of rain that was both refreshing and needed. The scent of the air after the rain was so fresh and lovely, invigorating my senses.
The seeds, delicate and fluffy, are a great macro photography subject, exploding into the air with just a gentle breath, scattering like tiny parachutes on the wind.
My old neighbor, by old I mean she used to be my neighbor and well she was on the older side; I was in my late forties and she in her late eighties, told me she used to make wine out of dandelions, a unique blend that captivated and surprised many. She said she would give me the recipe, but I never did actually get it, although it came up many times during our conversations, often reminiscing about the joy ipicking the dandelions. She was a lovely lady, always positive, her laughter , and her stories rich with wisdom about foraging, gardening, and the simple pleasures found in nature.
Dandelions can be made into wine, offering a refreshing and unique beverage. This traditional recipe is perfect for beginners looking to try something new for spring or summer meals. While many see dandelions as weeds, wine enthusiasts view them as ingredients. Dandelion wine is gaining popularity among DIY winemakers, featuring a light and citrusy flavor.
I googled this recipe
Dandelion Wine
Yields approx. 4 liters
Ingredients:
• 3 liters of dandelion petals (only the yellow parts)
• 4 liters of water
• 1.5–2 kg of sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 organic lemons (juice + zest)
• 1 orange (optional – for rounder flavor)
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger (optional)
• 1 packet wine yeast
• Optional: 1 tsp yeast nutrient
Instructions:
- Pick & prepare:
Pick dandelions on a sunny day when they are fully open. Use only the yellow petals – the green parts can make the wine bitter. - Pre-fermentation:
Boil the water and pour it over the petals in a large pot or fermentation bucket. Cover and let sit for 2 days, stirring occasionally. - Strain & flavor:
Strain out the petals. Gently heat the liquid with the sugar, lemon juice + zest, optional orange and ginger. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let cool to room temperature. - Fermentation:
Add the wine yeast (and optional yeast nutrient) to the cooled liquid. Pour into a fermentation vessel with an airlock. Let ferment in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks. - Bottling & aging:
When fermentation is complete, transfer to clean bottles. Age for at least 3–6 months. The wine only improves over time!
A manor in Messilä
First green
Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday
The rules are to be broken
For Debbie’s Six Words Saturday.
Lens-Artists Challenge #345 – My Go-To Places
This week, John is guiding us through the My Go-To Places challenge, and I believe many of you can easily guess my answer. I’ve mentioned it on numerous occasions before: they are simply my home and my summer house. These serene spots allow me to just be myself.
This path takes me to a serene location surrounded by nature. Just this past Easter, I visited there. The scenery was not yet vibrant with greenery; instead, it appeared more brown and dreary. However, the melody of the birds chirping was beautifully powerful and soothing.
Summer green, a hue renowned for its calming properties, envelops me in a serene embrace here. As I sit n oone of my favorite places, I observe the gentle wind dancing through the leaves, accompanied by the vast expanse of blue skies overhead. The melodious sounds of nature create a symphony around me, wrapping me in tranquility—there are no problems to solve, only the bliss of the moment to savor.
With the arrival of early autumn, the enchanting mist that blankets the mornings and evenings creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, while the skies transform into a stunning palette of colors. It’s an absolute delight to seize the opportunity and take your camera along for an outing, ensuring that these beautiful moments are captured forever.
Lakeside, where the gentle sound of water caresses the shore and the vibrant yellows of autumn paint the landscape, offers a serene escape into nature. It’s here that I find my sanctuary, a place to reset and rejuvenate. My summer house is my primary retreat, where I spend most of my time during the pleasant seasons that invite outdoor activities. While winter holds its own beauty, I prefer to stay indoors, as the cold air isn’t my favorite companion. As the saying goes, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished,” reminding me to embrace the tranquility that surrounds me.
I sat in my living room beside my grandson, having just snapped a few photos of him. With my mobile in hand, I captured the very spot on my sofa where I’ve spent countless calm and peaceful moments, gazing out at the changing seasons through the window. I’ve watched deer, hares, and foxes stroll by, and even glimpsed a moose once, while birds soared and squirrels scampered along the fence. This corner of my home is truly one of my favorite places, reminding me that “home is not a place, but a feeling.”
Thank you, John, for this challenge. It reminded me once again to be grateful for what I have. Please link them to his original post here and use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can find you. Thanks also to Anne for last week’s “abandoned” challenge and to everyone who responded. I’m not sure why we are drawn to such things, but as long as they are around, we’ll keep capturing them.
I often dedicate countless hours to editing photos from the numerous places we’ve traveled to over the years. While I may not physically venture out, I immerse myself in the editing process, often losing track of time in front of my computer screen as I reminisce about those experiences. Which also is calming.
Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Sofia leads us once again on her beautiful Photographias site. Until then keep on smiling☺It might be someone’s highlight of the day.
Lens-Artists Challenge #343 – Seen on my Last Outing
Here I am trying to decide whether to be truthful or go with better photos for Ann- Christine‘s request. My last outing was to spend a moment in Helsinki while my husband went to play football (soccer to those in the US). I took a few photos, capturing the vibrancy of the city and the intriguing blend of old and new architecture. The streets were alive with locals and tourists alike, and I found myself engrossed in people-watching. There is certainly a charm to Helsinki.
This sight It always baffles me, the people lining up to get it to this shop 🙂 mostly tourists.
I took in the sight of the seagull perched majestically on top of The Johan Ludvig Runeberg Monument, which is a revered tribute to the esteemed poet J. L. Runeberg, located in Esplanade Park in Helsinki, Finland. The staue intricately sculpted by his son, Walter Runeberg, has stood as a proud symbol of Finnish heritage since its unveiling in 1885. While I paused to appreciate its significance, my attention was drawn to a street musician nearby, passionately singing “Hallelujah,” as his soulful voice filled the air, drawing in a small crowd of curious passersby. Moving on, I continued to soak in the vibrant spring atmosphere and soon found myself listening to a skilled trumpet player on a bustling corner of Aleksanterin katu, surrounded by the rhythmic pulse of city life, where countless people dressed in dark clothes walked by, adding to the tapestry of urban existence.
I went to have coffee and saw these three old men having a chat and looking at a mobile phone most of the time while they spoke. It struck me as fascinating how technology has permeated the lives of all generations, not just the youth. As I sat there, observing the exchange of smiles between them, I couldn’t help but think that these seasoned gentlemen, who have seen so much in their lifetimes, were equally mesmerized by the small screen in their hands. This made me reconsider my earlier thought that only young people are suffering from this type of behavior. In reality, it seems that the allure of technology transcends age, drawing everyone into its captivating world, regardless of the sage wisdom that comes with age.
The afternoon was warm, and as I stood in front of the Tallberg building waiting to be picked up, I couldn’t help but appreciate the charm of the surroundings. I so prefer the old building to the new ones that seem to dominate the skyline; the history and character in its architecture resonate with me. A family with colorful jackets passed by, brightening my day after I had seen so many dark overcoats, including mine, that felt heavy and somber against the vibrant backdrop of the afternoon. The many ways the food deliveries are getting delivered is amazing; I observed a new method today …
I didn’t go wild this week as Egídio had us go last week, the thing that can be seen as wild are varied as the posts we got shows. This week Ann-Christine asked us to share images with a prompt: Seen on my Last Outing. Please link your post to her lovely and inspirational one and don’t to forget to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you.
Finally, we hope you’ll join us next week when Anne from Slow Shutter Speed A photographic journey leads us once again with her unique post. Until then keep on smiling ☺
Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history.
Thursday doors
Photos linked Thursday Doors, Press the badge to access it.
Nature’s triangle
From Blue Moment to sunset
Just now I went to my front door and back to my patio in the backyard to capture these stunning pink clouds of blue moment and sunset. The sky was painted with hues that can only be described as pink .-), transforming the ordinary evening into pastel beauty. I shot them on my iPhone, which is always handy for such spontaneous moments, as seeing the sunset . As I stood there the chill of winter slightly bit my hands and feet as I did not put my winter jacket on, or shoes. these colorful skies pass so quickly, views now saved on my device, I am linking it to John’s Cellpic Sunday to share the beauty that can be found in everyday moments.
Dusk
No explanation other than sharing a photo from a lovely moment captured and not shared before. Have a great friday.
Reeds and Riverside Charm
Snowy reeds stand tall and proud in the frosty winter day, their delicate strands shimmering as they catch the soft light of the pale sun. The biting cold fills the air, crisp atmosphere. Each reed, encased in frost, depicts a picturesque scene in the quiet beauty of nature in its peaceful winter slumber.
Monochrome winter
Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
Lens-artists challenge #331 – Resilience
The simplest definition Anne could find: Resilience refers to the ability to successfully adapt to stressors, maintaining psychological well-being in the face of adversity. It’s the ability to “bounce back” from difficult experiences. So I am starting with that.
My parents and grandparents experienced the second world war, a tumultuous period that indelibly altered the fabric of their lives. It left marks on them and the generation after them, shaping our family narratives in ways that were often unspoken yet profoundly felt. I know it was not a topic discussed in my family, but you could feel the effects of it in the subtle choices they made, the silences they kept, and the values they instilled in us. My father’s family had to evacuate their home in Karelia a couple of times during the war, tearing them away from their roots and forcing them to start anew in unfamiliar places. This constant upheaval forged a resilience within them, yet it also tugged at their hearts, as they navigated life with memories of a homeland left behind. In the end, their area in Karelia, Kaukola, was also handed over to the Soviet Union in World War II, a historical pivot that not only stole their land but also altered the thread of their national identity, leaving a legacy of both loss and survival that continues to resonate within our family today.
The photos, first my Grandmother at the age of 90 in her nursing home, me and her. the last one is of her with my grandfather.
Resilience, my father’s mother, had four children but lost two young daughters during the war and faced the challenge of losing two husbands. My grandfather tragically died in the war, leaving her to raise their children alone. Despite these hardships, she showed great strength. Sadly, she also lost my aunt and father at the age of fifty, creating a deep void in her life. Her journey continued with the loss of her second husband, who also died too soon. Yet, she survived them all and passed away peacefully at ninety, embodying resilience and love throughout her life.
This Oak tree is named Paavolan tammi – it is about 350-400 years old, standing tall as a testament to tnature’s resilience. I have seen older trees in Sequoia National Park, where the giants reach impressive heights and possess centuries of history etched into their bark, but as Anne has already posted a photo of one of those magnificent trees, I will share this beautiful example from Finland instead. The Paavolan tammi, with its sprawling branches and dense foliage, not only offers a habitat for various wildlife, but it also serves as a serene spot for visitors looking to connect with nature. Each knot and twist in its trunk tells a story of the seasons it has weathered, making it a remarkable symbol of endurance and strength.
The bedrock in Finland is old and strong, a testament to the Earth’s geological history, and in many places, it looks like artwork sculpted by nature itself. Displaying a stunning array of colors and textures, these ancient rocks tell stories of the forces that shaped the land over eons. The intricate patterns formed by erosion and natural processes create a surreal landscape that captivates anyone who ventures through the Finnish wilderness. This natural artwork serves not only as a visual feast but also as a reminder of the enduring power of the elements and the beauty that can emerge from the passage of time.
History – Herculaneum and Pompeii, so much resilience. These ancient cities, buried by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, stand as remarkable testaments to human endurance and adaptability. The vibrant artifacts and well-preserved architecture unearthed from the ash reveal not only the daily lives of the inhabitants but also their remarkable capacity to endure and rebuild after such a devastating event. In their ruins, we find stories of loss, survival, and the indomitable spirit to overcome the adversities faced in the wake of disaster. The resilience of Herculaneum and Pompeii continues to inspire us, reminding us of our shared history and the lessons learned from past tragedies.
I want to thank Anne for her topic that had me thinking about about my families history, peoples and nature’s resilience. If nothing else these topics gives us the opportunity to think of certain qualities of us humans. One thing I think we Finns have is a resiliency to endure darkness and cold weather (featured image) 🙂
Next week I will host the challenge, I hope you will join me then, until then sunny regards despite whatever the weather is 🙂 in your neighborhood.
One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge-January 2025
Brian recommended this challenge to me, so now I spent few moments playing with my image, during that the time the sunset. Time well spent 🙂 I don’t know, but it is creative fun.
I started with this image I took at Hollola Church – it is rather bland image the light in the window is too strong. Obviously the first would be to convert to B&W and play with contrast and light. It goes without saying that I have adjusted the photo vertically.
The next step is to play with the colors version. I did make it pop 🙂
Then I switched to PhotoShop and added texture to it 🙂
I would not be me if I didn’t have one more to share , playing first in Lightroom with the colors and light, then again switched to PhotoShop to add texture. Blues of the evening…
Joining in to One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge-January 2025
Round car lights
Becky’s Geometric January
Creativity and editing
I have often expressed that I enjoy editing photos, even though I tend to post mainly realistic images, having them look like I saw them. On that note, all of my images have been edited, mostly I adjust the light and contrast—highlights and shadows—to enhance the overall feel of the photograph. Contrast plays a crucial role in making certain elements stand out and giving depth to the image. I do it so that it reflects the image I saw in my mind’s eye—hence the title; the world as I see it. Photography, for me, is not just about capturing moments but also about expressing my unique perspective and interpretation of the scenes before me, allowing viewers to experience the beauty and intricacies that I wished to convey. Through careful editing, I strive to invite others into my vision, ensuring that they appreciate the subtleties that might go unnoticed in a more straightforward representation.
I am going to start editing cityscapes, buildings, and industrial places in a more creative way. For a long time, I have wanted to venture towards this direction, and now I am excited to explore various artistic approaches that can bring a fresh perspective to my work. I plan to experiment with techniques such as dramatic lighting, unique angles, and vibrant color palettes to enhance the visual appeal of my photographs. By prioritizing these innovative methods in my editing process, I hope to creatively showcase buildings and cityscapes, transforming my photographs into something more artsy and captivating.
I am going to explore various angles to highlight architectural details. Finding unique vantage points can elevate the way buildings are presented in your images. Adjusting contrast can enhance the structural elements of buildings, making them stand out.
Vintage or black-and-white filters can transform standard images into stunning artistic representations.
Use color grading to enrich urban atmospheres.. Pay attention to the distinct textures found in urban environments, such as brickwork or glass in post-processing to create depth and interest in your cityscape photos. Play with the color tones in the image.
Use filters to create effects that align with the character of buildings and cityscapes.
I would appreciate if you would like to comment 🙂
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 