lifestyle – Ritva Sillanmäki Photography

Lens-Artists Challenge #413 – Bridges

This week, it’s Beth’s turn to host, and she picked the fascinating topic of Bridges, which beautifully ties in with John’s topic from last week. When I think about bridges, I see them as more than just physical structures that connect two places; they symbolize the connections we share between people and ideas. I did a bit of digging into different types of bridges and their historical stories. The first image I found means a lot to Beth because it’s from her neighborhood, showcasing a stunning local bridge that captures the charm of her hometown and perfectly mirrors our shared theme. This journey into the world of bridges has really deepened my appreciation for the artistry and engineering behind these amazing structures.

I caught this dramatic sunset view from the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge (or the Ravenel Bridge for short), which crosses the Cooper River in South Carolina. It was built in 2005 and stretches 4.5 kilometers, serving as a busy roadway on a cable-stayed bridge. You can see the tall central pylon and the sleek suspension cables forming these neat lines towards the horizon. Cars and taxis zip by in both directions, their headlights and taillights lighting up the dark pavement, while curved streetlights glow along the bridge. Above, the sky shifts from deep blue to teal and purple, with a splash of vivid orange and red near the horizon, giving it all a really striking, cinematic vibe.

Charleston-138 — **Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge**

The image showcases the renowned Murray Bridge Road Bridge next to the nearby railway bridge, crossing the Murray River in Murray Bridge, South Australia. Finished in 1879, this iron Warren girder bridge represents the first permanent structure built over the lower Murray River in the region. A broad steel truss bridge extends over the tranquil, gray-green water, captured from the shaded riverbank amid overhanging eucalyptus branches and foliage. The bridge’s light gray framework, supporting pillars, and lower parallel elements contrast beautifully with a cloud-strewn blue sky, while wooded hills and dense riverbank flora create a picturesque backdrop. In the foreground, reeds and a slender railing contribute to a serene, natural composition characterized by soft colors and a documentary-style landscape photography aesthetic.

The Port Mann Bridge, situated near Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada, serves as a vital connection to the Pacific Northwest, adjacent to the U.S. border. Spanning the Fraser River, it carries Highway 1 and links Coquitlam and Surrey. The scene is dominated by a large cable-stayed structure observed from a low, frontal viewpoint beneath a clear blue sky. A multitude of vertical suspension and angled support cables create intricate geometric patterns around the central tower, while the lower part of the image is filled with concrete barriers, streetlights, lane markings, and various vehicles. The bright daylight and cool blue hues evoke a sense of modernity, highlighting the bridge’s impressive scale and engineering prowess.

Port Mann Bridge in Vancouver (9 of 9) (8) — The Port Mann Bridge, situated near Vancouver in British Columbia

Check out this stunning photo of Bixby Creek Bridge in California! It’s right on the Big Sur coastline along California State Route 1, also known as the Pacific Coast Highway. Built in: 1932. It soars about 80–100 meters up, looking down at the ocean and the valley. It’s seriously one of the most photographed bridges in the U.S. and a total must-see landmark! And we saw it 😉

Bixby Creek Bridge-10 — Bixby Creek Bridge in California! I

The image showcases the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, a stunning steel arch bridge situated in Sydney, Australia. This impressive structure, which opened to traffic on March 19, 1932, measures 1,149 meters long and 49 meters wide, making it the world’s widest long-span bridge! It boasts a longest span of 503 meters and stands tall at 139 meters.

A dramatic upward view beneath a large steel truss Sydney bridge shows an intricate network of riveted gray and pale green beams receding into the distance. Massive stone piers support the bridge above a sunny park, where paved paths, vivid green lawns, trees, and scattered visitors create a lively outdoor setting. The strong geometric composition and bright daylight emphasize the bridge’s monumental industrial architecture

Had to Photograph this, a long, weather-beaten steel bridge stretching over calm, gray-green waters, all beneath a moody, overcast sky. This old guy, the Bahia Honda Rail Bridge, sits on sturdy concrete piers, but you can see the years of wear and tear—rusted beams, broken railings, and a bumpy deck that really give it a character. It stands out against the horizon, creating this striking industrial vibe. The cool, blue-gray tones and soft light around it really bring out a sense of quiet solitude. You’ll notice a bit of a waterfront structure peeking in from the lower right This bridge was part of Henry Flagler’s ambitious Florida Overseas Railroad project, built between 1905 and 1912. Nowadays, it’s no longer used for trains or roads—just resting there, partially dismantled, as a historical landmark over the sea at Bahia Honda State Park in the beautiful Florida Keys.

Historic Railroad Bridge Stretching Across Open Water — the Bahia Honda Rail Bridge

I took this photo of this famous bridge over the River Kwai in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, part of the notorious Death Railway. The bridge and railway were built during World War II back in 1943. The Japanese army brought in Allied prisoners of war and forced laborers, and sadly, many lost their lives due to terrible conditions. Today, it’s a pretty popular spot for tourists, where you can walk across the bridge or even hop on a train. From a vertical angle, you can see this old, dark steel bridge with its riveted girders and arches leading off into the distance. A few folks are strolling along the tracks, surrounded by lush green trees under a light blue sky. The warm sunlight really makes the weathered metal and greenery pop, creating a cool vibe where industrial meets nature.

KHWAE RIVER BRIDGE — famous bridge over the River Kwai

I snapped this shot in Seattle on a bright day. You can see the Salmon Bay Bridge (or the Salmon Bay Rail Bridge if you want to get formal) in the picture. It’s right by the Ballard Locks and was built way back in 1914, making it a key railway link in the area. It’s that classic steel drawbridge raising over the calm water. The dark truss sections angle up, and there’s an older bridge span stretching across to the left. Up front, you can spot some concrete lock stuff like railings, signal gear, streetlights, and this sign that says “PIPE JACRET ZONE.” A couple of people are hanging out on the walkway. In the background, there’s this hilly area packed with homes and trees against a bright blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds. It really gives off a cool maritime vibe, even with all the industry around!

How about the amazing Conciergerie! This former palace and prison is right on the Île de la Cité. The place is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and once housed royal figures. It got pretty famous during the French Revolution for holding political prisoners. Right next to it is the Pont Notre-Dame bridge, which spans the River Seine and connects all the lively streets of the city. The views from the bridge are just breathtaking! It’s a perfect spot to take in the beauty of Paris and soak up all the historic vibes, whether you’re a local or a tourist.

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA — the Pont Notre-Dame bridge, which spans the River Seine

There’s this beautiful two-lane road that goes over this old concrete bridge with unique geometric cross-bracing, and it’s surrounded by lush green forests and quaint homes on the hills. I saw a person walking their black-and-white dog by the roadside while a car was making its way toward the bridge. The scene was framed by guardrails, double yellow lines in the center, and a sign warning about the winding road ahead. There were also signs pointing to Stonefield Beach Wayside and other local roads, giving it that sunny, coastal vibe. The bridge in the image is the Ten Mile Creek Bridge, which is just south of Yachats along U.S. Route 101, close to the Stonefield Beach State Recreation Site. Conde B. McCullough designed it back in 1931. It’s a reinforced concrete tied-arch bridge, about 55 meters long, and guess what? It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places!

Bridge and road — Ten Mile Creek Bridge, which is just south of Yachats along U.S. Route 101,

A heartfelt thank you to John for his “Shaped by Water” challenge! I also want to extend my thanks to you, Beth, for this wonderful challenge this week. I encourage you to take part and remember to link back to her original post and use the Lens-Artists Tag so we can easily locate your contributions in the WP Reader.

Ann-Christine will be back next week, bringing a new challenge for us to tackle at noon EST in the USA. Make sure to join us to learn more about the challenge at that time.

Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset

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.

Lens-Artists Challenge #408: Just Wow

lens-artists, Photography, Traveling Crete

At some point, we encounter things that seem unusual and excessive, prompting a reaction of surprise. Egídio invites us to share what we find over the top, encouraging creativity and engagement. Don’t forget to link to his post and use the “Lens-Artists” tag for visibility.

I am going to tackle this challenge with just a wow effect. The light coming through the round windows created a just wow moment. Luck was a major factor; I just happened to walk in at the right time of the morning.

As you stepped into the Church of Saint Anthony in Maleme, you were immediately struck by the warm glow of natural light pouring through the large, arched window above the altar, creating a magical atmosphere, that is the just wow. Nestled at the heart of this beautiful space was a stunning, gold-colored chandelier, decked with multiple candle-like lights and gracefully draped in a soft purple cloth that added a touch of elegance. you couldn’t help but admire the serene blue ceiling scattered with tiny stars, which made created a feeling as though you were beneath a vast, comforting night sky. The rows of wooden pews inviting worshippers to sit, while the intricate tile flooring and religious iconography that adorned the walls heightened the sense of peace.

Beautiful light-7 — Sunlight streaming through stained glass windows highlights the intricate chandelier and detailed artwork inside a serene church interior.

An ornately decorated Orthodox Christian altar in a church featuring religious icons, golden accents, and a vibrant red carpet.

The Church of Saint Anthony (Greek: Ekklisia Agios Antonios), located in the center of the village of Máleme in the Chania region of the island of Crete. This beautiful Greek Orthodox church is known for its white walls, traditional red-brick domes, and its distinctive small round window openings with perforated patterns.

Last week, Patti hosted the challenge, and we appreciate all the fantastic responses you shared about your life’s celebrations. Wonderful posts!

Next week, we will feature a guest host. Steve Hyde (of Steve Hyde Photography Blog) will lead the challenge starting 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

Monochrome Photography of the Egyptian Lighthouse

Black and White photos, Photography, Travel, Traveling Crete

This time I am sharing images of The Egyptian Lighthouse for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. It is among the oldest lighthouses in the world, and it stands as a testament to maritime history, guiding sailors safely into the harbor for centuries. I tried to add an old photo touch to them to invoke a sense of nostalgia, highlighting the lighthouse’s timeless charm and the stories it could tell if only its walls could speak.

I captured a solitary man sitting on a wooden bench by the waterfront, facing the prominent Egyptian Lighthouse. The lighthouse stands tall on a rugged stone pier, with a small group of people visible at the base, adding a sense of scale and human presence. The foreground reflects the soft light, while the clear sky enhances a tranquil and contemplative atmosphere. What I wanted was to depict architectural strength intertwined with quiet solitude, utilizing monochromatic tones that emphasize texture and contrast to evoke some emotions in this and all the other photos I edited for this post.

The Egyptian Lighthouse of Chania-5 — A solitary man sitting on a wooden bench by the waterfront, facing the prominent Egyptian Lighthouse.

The Egyptian Lighthouse is one of the oldest in the world and is located in the old harbor of Chania. It’s a stone structure that sits at the end of the breakwater, serving as a “guard” for the old Venetian harbor and is actually the most photographed spot in the Prefecture.

The Egyptian Lighthouse of Chania-3 — A peaceful seaside scene with people relaxing on benches near the lighthouse on a calm waterfront.

The Egyptian Lighthouse of Chania-4 — People strolling and sitting near vintage lamp posts on a pier.

The Venetians built it in the late 16th century, but it was later rebuilt by the Egyptians between 1830 and 1840 when Crete was under the regent of Egypt, Mehmet Ali. By the time the Ottoman Empire was winding down, they had added a ladder on the east side and some pipes for seawater to flow under its base. The lighthouse stands 21 meters tall, covers an area of 26 square meters, and its light can be seen from about 7 nautical miles away. It has an octagonal base, a part with 16 angles in the middle, and a circular top.

Pink

Photography, Still life

As it is International Women’s Day today, I can’t help but think that pink is the unofficial queen of colors when it comes to women! You know, I’ve always had a soft spot for it—there’s just something about that vibrant hue that shouts “I’m fabulous!” It sneaks into my wardrobe in the form of scarves that flutter like a dramatic cape, lipstick that screams “kiss me,” stylish shoes that could probably double as a weapon, and handbags that could house a small village. But let’s be real, while we swoon over these fabulous accessories, there’s nothing wrong with being a tad frivolous. After all, life’s too short not to wear sequins and glitter, right? Wearing pink isn’t just about the color; it’s my cheeky way of saying, “Look at me, I’m here to slay and celebrate womanhood!” So let’s rock those accessories and express our inner divas with a wink and a smile!

The more important things behind International Women’s Day (March 8) is a time for us to celebrate how far we’ve come in promoting women’s economic, political, and social equality. It’s a day to honor the amazing achievements of women everywhere and to shed light on those persistent issues we still face, like the pay gap and violence against women. More than anything, it’s a reminder that the fight for equality is far from over. In today’s world, where challenges still loom large, we must keep pushing for change and stand together in solidarity.

One Word Sunday: Pink

Close-up of a pink scarf with fluffy pom-pom details, perfect for celebrating International Women’s Day.

A stylish arrangement of pink lipsticks and a fluffy accessory on a vanity.

A stylish open magazine showcasing fashion illustrations, complemented by decorative flowers and beauty products in the background.

Stylish pink high heels featuring playful accents, perfect for any fashionable outing.

A pink handbag featured for International Women’s Day celebrations.

Lens-Artists Challenge #368—Looking Back to# 106: Autumn

Captures from Finland, lens-artists, Photography

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

lens-artists, Photography

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

how to survive November

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

how to survive November

November 19th

S – SUKKA / SUKAT – SOCK / SOCKS

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

How to Survive November 2024 – J

how to survive November, Photography

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.

Järvi

How to Survive November 2024 – F

how to survive November, Photography

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 🙂

Farkkutakki

Lens-Artists Challenge #298: to be young again

lens-artists, Photography

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

lens-artists, Photography

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.

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 ☺

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