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.

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.


A serene landscape with grazing animals in a tranquil setting, embodying the essence of mellow summer days.

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.

How to Survive November 2024 -T

November 20th

T – TULI – Fire , flame . It also means came, arrived

It’s obvious that November has beaten me; I don’t seem to get anything done, and I just want to be, to do nothing—I’m not excited about anything. This is one of the reasons Surviving November is important—to take at least one or two photos a day, one thing at least accomplished. But as you can see from my photos, I am happy to disappear into my couch/sofa, wrapped in a cozy blanket, where time seems to blur.



Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

🔥 TULI 🔥

How to Survive November 2024 -S

November 19th

S – SUKKA / SUKAT – SOCK / SOCKS

it is that time of the year. (my imagination is not very creative at the moment.



Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

S

How to Survive November 2024 – J

November 10th -J is for – JÄRVI meaning lake

This is from Syväjärvi in Kirkkonummi – taken around after 3PM. It was already dusk. AS you may have seen from my yearly November posts, it is the grayest month of the year – and apparently the grayest city in Europe in November. That is what we are surviving at the moment. Yesterday I was able to catch a bit of blue in the horizon, even if it had been a dull day for the most part. the camera catches so many more hue’s than the eye can see.


Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Järvi

How to Survive November 2024 – F

November 6th, F is for farkkutakki – denim jacket

I am speechless today after seeing the news this morning. Not much to say. Today is a F day , I’ll post a shot of Farkkutakki 🙂


Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Farkkutakki

Lens-Artists Challenge #298: to be young again

As we delve into the intriguing theme of childhood, we must acknowledge the profound impact it has on shaping our perspectives and aspirations. Childhood represents a time of innocence and wonder, where the world is viewed through untainted eyes, brimming with limitless possibilities. Tina invites us this week to share our photos of children–from our family, our neighbors or friends, or simply children that we’ve seen when we’re out with our cameras.

Whether through the mischievous laughter of siblings or the spontaneous antics of neighborhood friends, the presence of children infuses our lives with a vibrant energy that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Embracing the sentiment of the title, the yearning to relive certain aspects of youth is undeniable, yet it is accompanied by the wisdom and contentment that comes with adulthood. Reflecting on the simplicity of childhood, it becomes evident that finding joy in life’s modest pleasures can indeed lead to a fulfilling existence.

All photos in the galleries can be enlarged with a click.

As I delved into the older archives, I uncovered a treasure trove of cherished memories encapsulated within the timeless images of my boys in their youth. The nostalgia that emanates from these photographs has the power to transport me back in time, evoking a sense of warmth and sentimentality. Each image offers a glimpse into the past, capturing the essence of a bygone era and immortalizing fleeting moments that hold profound significance. These timeless snapshots are more than mere photographs; they are windows to the past, allowing me to reconnect with the essence of my own past and the cherished stories that have shaped my life.

The anticipation of welcoming a new addition to the family is a truly joyous occasion. The prospect of another grandchild, a baby boy no less, brings with it a sense of excitement and celebration. I am looking forward to the happiness of a new family member as the energetic presence of three grandsons is set to be complemented by the arrival of a fourth. The bond between siblings and cousins is such a precious thing, and it’s heartwarming to see the family growing with each new arrival. These shots are taken by a proud grandma 🙂

While I’m inclined towards landscape and cityscape photography when traveling, I also find joy in photographing people, especially the little ones. Children have an unparalleled ability to exude authenticity through their expressions, and this is what draws me to capture their real emotions in my photographs. I strive to immortalize their genuine expression, curiosity, and wonder without resorting to posed or contrived smiles. It’s these honest and candid moments that truly encapsulate the pure spirit of childhood, and I cherish the opportunity to freeze these fleeting instances in time.

The experience of enjoying music and photos inspired by music is a truly special one. It’s fascinating how these art forms can intertwine, evoking emotions and memories in a way that few other things can. The combinations and associations between music and visuals can create a truly captivating experience for the audience. Music, in particular, has an incredible power to evoke memories, transporting us back to specific moments in time. Whether it’s a song that played during a significant life event or an album that brings back nostalgic feelings, music has the ability to connect us to our past in a unique way. Furthermore, it also has the remarkable ability to inspire us to create new memories and experiences. Thank you Egídio for a great challenge.

Next week is Patti’s turn to host. Please visit her site Saturday 11th May for more information on the challenge, I am sure she will once agains surprise us with something inspirational.

Until then, keep smiling ☺


To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.

And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge,  please click here.

Lens-Artists Challenge #297: Music to My Eyes

Egídio has a topic this week Music to My Eyes, my first thought was panic. Music, love it, inspired by it, absolutely. Do I remember what and when inspired me…not really, not so clearly.

He wrote; Do you use music as inspiration? YES A song’s mood or lyrics can spark ideas for a photoshoot’s theme or location. I AGREE Sometimes, it happens before you capture the image, and sometimes after. ABSOLUTELY Thus, this is my twist (pardon the pun) for this week’s lens-artists challenge. What is music to your eyes? CHECK BELOW

My music taste has changed over the years. It has evolved that is a fact. I am really drawn to artists like Etta James, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, and Nat King Cole. That style of music is so stylish – emotional, full of timeless classics and soulful tunes that resonate with me on a deep emotional level, takes me on a nostalgic journey, evoking powerful emotions and painting vivid pictures in my mind.

Well, a song shot is Stormy Weather by Etta James

I love the sea the power, the moodiness and strength of it. This is a song that always gets a strong reaction from me – I tear up nearly every time. I have shared this before in my Saturday Classic posts, but here I go again. Myrskyluodon Maija by composed by Lasse Mårtenson. I encourage you to listen to this even if you do not listen to any other song here.

I grew up in the disco era, but it is not in no way my favorite style of music, it has few really great hits and I just saw an document of the beginning of disco and the death of it as it became commercialized. How about some Post-disco funk celebration by Kool & the Gang after all that stormy weather.

I listen often from all era’s and from many genre’s. Each musical style carries its own unique essence and can evoke such a range of emotions. Country music has a profound way of storytelling, capturing life’s experiences through its heartfelt lyrics and melodies. Alternative music, on the other hand, offers a diverse landscape of sounds and themes, constantly pushing boundaries and defying conventions. I could list many singers that inspire me and are meaningful to me, but then I would not have room for photos and that is what we are looking for.

I have many singers who inspire and hold special meaning for me. The impact of music on our lives is immeasurable, and the artists who create it often become an integral part of our own personal narratives.

Speaking of photos, they have a unique power to capture and encapsulate memories, just like music does. Combining the visual and auditory arts can create a truly immersive experience, allowing us to relive moments and emotions in a tangible way.

Sunsets often bring up vivid association with songs, John Hiatt was a singer I listened to at one point of time. Lipstick sunset often comes to mind when I see pink sunsets.

Lipsticks sunset

Or you could sail away with me by David Gray

Summer Breeze by Seals & Crofts was playing in the back of my mind when I went through what photos I could post for this challenge.

I listened to this song and this is what I was able to create Near Light an instrumental Ambient Music piece by Ólafur Arnalds. I tried to match the captivating image that rose to my mind. I tried to evoke a sense of mystery and contemplation. The smoky, abstract background combined with the central figure I hope creates an atmosphere that feels both ethereal and introspective.

Once again, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who dedicated your time and energy to participate in my abstract challenge. Your contributions have truly enriched the experience, providing me with a wealth of ideas and inspiration. It’s truly fascinating to consider the diverse perspectives through which we perceive things: the unique lenses through which we view the world. Despite these differences, it’s amazing to recognize the common threads that bind us – the way that certain elements and experiences can ignite a spark of creativity and passion within us all.

Next week is Tina’s turn to host. Please visit her site Saturday 4th May for more information on the challenge I am sure she will once agains surprise us with something inspirational.

Until then, keep smiling ☺


To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.

And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge,  please click here.