I was softly observing Tinka grooming itself, a tender and instinctual behavior that truly resonates with the essence of what it means to be a cat. It fills my heart with warmth to realize that they invest so much of their day in maintaining their cleanliness and fur; this ritual is much more than a matter of hygiene—it offers them comfort and a profound connection to their environment. Cats are wonderfully clean animals, and in that quiet moment of watching Tinka, I felt a deep wave of appreciation for these simple acts that beautifully reflect the innate grace and tranquility these cherished companions bring into our lives. For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
Tinka the cat is self-grooming, showing the grace and tranquility of feline behavior.A moment of Tinka grooming itself, capturing the essence of feline grace and tranquility in black and white.A serene black and white portrait of Tinka, the cat, showcasing its graceful demeanor as it relaxes in a soft light.A close-up of Tinka , capturing its serene expression and delicate features in black and white.
Modes of Transport is an exciting topic that presents endless possibilities! I must commend our host Dawn from The Day After. for an idea with lots of possibilities. The world is filled with remarkable ways to travel, the ones I chose are some of the obvious ones! To keep things clear and focused, here are a few that stood out to me.
I have taken few shots of trams 😀
Vintage horse-drawn carriages, the historical modes of transport.
Few that travel by waters
An old, rusted tractor abandoned in a field,that shows the passage of time and the remnants of agricultural transport.
Transport with two wheels
Colorful public buses, but in B&W , the local transportation in Sri Lanka.
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.
Cloudy day
It’s almost impossible to find photos that show no color. Winter offers most opportunities to capture natural monochrome images
Winter shots Total mistStill life
These I found, hopefully they work for this prompt.
Same place, two strikingly different compositions of this narrow lane, and you find yourself captivated by entirely new aspects. Do you feel the same? The other image irresistibly draws your gaze towards the windows and shutters, despite offering a wealth of intricate details beyond its landscape counterpart. The interplay of light and shadow weaves a dynamic tapestry that elevates the textures of the buildings. Each detail enlightened, allowing us to revel in the artistry of the architecture. Above all, I love the contrast and the play of light here—the very essence of monochrome and black and white photography. It accentuates shapes and forms, urging us to dive deeper into the image, as the absence of color beautifully challenges us to discover elegance in both simplicity and complexity.
A narrow alleyway , featuring charming architecture, vintage windows, and softly illuminated cobblestones. It is just a absolute place for a click.
You cannot escape forests here – they are all around us, enveloping every corner of the landscape. Approximately 75 percent of Finland’s land area is covered by forest, creating a lush, green tapestry that supports an array of wildlife and offers countless opportunities for exploration.
I have had a forest right at my doorstep most of my life, from playing in the forest as a kid to taking walks in it as an adult, allowing me to witness the changing seasons, from the vibrant hues of autumn leaves to the serene blanket of snow during winter, each moment reinforcing the connection I feel with nature. The soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds provide a constant reminder of the peace that these natural havens can bring.
A misty forest scene and the beauty of our wooded landscape. This shot I took from my backyardThe birch trees, the inviting essence of a Finnish forest. The tall, slender trunks of spruce trees amid lush undergrowth amd fallen branches The natural beauty of the forest in KirkkonummiA black and white view of a forest path surrounded by tall trees, showcasing the beauty of woods
For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness this week I took some photos of spring, trying to capture the essence of renewal and vibrancy that this season brings.
A close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, captured in monochrome, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence.
Some plants are just slowly starting to show small buds of leaves, signaling the awakening of nature after the long, cold early spring. So I took a close-up of delicate branches with budding leaves, illustrating the beauty of spring’s emergence against the backdrop of the slowly warming air. These two images are just slightly different, mainly by cropping.
Delicate buds emerging from tangled branches
I also added the color version just for no reason other than that I felt like it, wanting to give viewers a contrast that emphasizes the fresh greenery and the subtle hints of color that are beginning to emerge in the landscape.
Spring buds begin to emerge on delicate branches, finally signaling the arrival of the season.
This week, our host is from Bushboy’s World, Brian, with an great theme of Street lights by day or night. Feel free to choose between day or night, or even combine both—it’s entirely in your hands! I’ve also linked this to Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
Reflecting on my past visits to France and Monaco, I want to share these images of stylish streetlights illuminating the charming architecture and vibrant nightlife, emphasizing the interplay of light and shadows in these picturesque locations. I immediately thought of these images when I read the challenge for this week, such a good choice.
Elegant street light illuminating a scenic view in a Monaco, surrounded by lush foliage and mountains. This sepia tone suited this image.
The streetlights in Monaco are stylish for sure.
Two boats moored near a vintage street lamp.
Nice was such a great place for snapping streetlight photos! The old buildings and the way the streetlights were positioned made everything feel warm and cosy, and I just had to take tons of photos. I aimed to catch the light but also the lively vibe of the city, showing off the cool dance between shadows and light as night rolled in. When it got darker, those streetlights turned into little warm beacons, making it impossible not to hit the shutter.
A narrow, dimly lit street in Nice, and streetlights amidst old architecture.
A narrow, dimly lit street in Nice, showcasing elegant streetlights casting soft light on the tiled path.
The streetlights illuminate a narrow alley and ambiance of the architecture.
This is for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. I was browsing my photograph archive and found this image, which I don’t recall posting it before and now am wondering why ever not. It is rather striking and captivates the attention immediately. I think the composition draws you in, with lines and shapes that create a sense of movement. I took it in an art museum a couple of years back, where the play of light and shadow was particularly mesmerizing. I used slightly different editing on the images, and while they appear to be the same at first glance, the subtle yet distinct differences reveal themselves, especially with the stripes under her feet that add movement.
One again, I am so bad at giving an image a title, still in the learning process 🙂
The composition features lines and shapes that convey movement, enhanced by the interplay of light and shadow. Although similar to the other image, subtle editing differences reveal distinct details, particularly the stripes under the woman’s feet and this one having a flat muted surface
A woman on a floor installation featuring striking monochrome light patterns.
“I know that mirrors give us a false sense of confidence.” I continued. “The reflection that we see everyday has nothing to do with how others see us. The glass lies.” ― Rasmenia Massoud,
A reflective moment captured inside a vintage trolley in Savannah, highlighting the beauty of everyday life.A reflective black and white image showcasing a sleek car and a stylish building, embodying the theme of elegance and design in a car showA serene black and white reflection of trees in calm water, capturing the tranquility of nature in FloridaA monochrome image of reflective spheres capturing various reflections of the surrounding space in Florida.A contemplative moment captured in monochrome, featuring a woman gazing into a mirror, surrounded by candles and roses.A reflective orb capturing the surroundings in a monochrome aesthetic infront of Monaco casinoA monochrome photograph capturing rain droplets on a car window, reflecting the side mirror and blurred scenery beyond.
This week’s theme for Monochrome Madness is open, allowing for more flexibility in photo selection. I was drawn to a charming rustic house topped with a corrugated metal roof. Its inviting porch, adorned with a stack of chairs, complements a large tree providing shade right in the front. It simply beckoned me to capture its essence in a photograph – the chairs 🙂 .
The first monochrome image is stacked wooden chairs against a textured wall.
A part of this rustic building (winery)with a corrugated metal roof, featuring a porch with stacked chairs and a shaded tree.
When you pull back and take a wider shot, the wholeconsepth of the photo totally changes.
Moss popping up under melted snow – spring brings with it a vibrant renewal of life, as patches of green emerge from beneath the remnants of winter’s icy grip. The soft, velvety texture of the moss contrasts beautifully with browns of the earth, creating a picturesque landscape t the beginning of growth. Each little tuft of moss is a testament to nature’s resilience and its ability to flourish in even the harshest conditions, reminding us all of the cycles of life and the beauty of change.
Farmer in his/her tractors in the fields is a sight of spring for sure, as the sun peeks through the clouds and warms the earth, bringing life back to the soil after a long, cold winter. The rhythmic sound of the tractor plowing through the rich, dark earth creates a sense of renewal and hope, while vibrant green shoots begin to emerge, signaling the promise of a bountiful harvest ahead. The air is filled with the fresh scent of tilled soil.
Spring works
Oh the joy of getting rid of winter clothes and putting on the caps, feeling the warmth of the sun on my face as nature begins to wake from its slumber. The waters freed from under ice, shimmering and glistening in the light, if that is not spring, I don’t know what is. I love how the big brother here is holding on to the little brother, their bond of love and togetherness. So caring and loving,
Spring – You ride the bikes you have taken out of storage with your sweetheart, pedaling joyfully along the winding paths, heading to a secluded spot where you can fully embrace the warmth of the spring sun. This delightful moment is best experienced near a charming building that offers a sense of shelter, allowing you to relish the pleasant day without the cool interruptions of the spring breeze. As you lay down near the apple tree blossoms, their delicate petals dancing in the soft air, you can inhale the sweet fragrance that fills the atmosphere, savoring one of the most delightful elements of spring. The soft rustling of leaves in the background and the gentle sounds of nature create a serene symphony that enhances a perfect getaway filled with the simple joys of life.
Soaking the spring sunshine
Is there a spring post without tulips? I am sure there most likely isn’t, as these vibrant flowers symbolize the essence of the season, bursting forth in a palette of colors that bring joy and renewal. They grace gardens and parks, attracting the attention of passersby and inspiring photographers to capture their fleeting beauty. Tulips are not just a flower; they represent the hope and warmth that accompany the arrival of spring, making them an integral part of seasonal celebrations and floral arrangements alike.
I had some difficulty with what to post, as there are so many subjects to choose from, each with its own charm and allure. After much deliberation, I finally decided to showcase this full hay barn located somewhere in Southern Australia, nestled among sprawling fields that seem to go on forever. It ended up being my choice for this week’s Monochrome Madness, as the rustic looks and textures of the barn beautifully captured the essence of monochrome photography, making it stand out against the vast expanse of the landscape. Its weathered wooden beams and create a fascinating contrast that invites the viewer to appreciate the art found in simplicity.
Additionally, I’m also sure there is a door hidden somewhere within the structure, which makes this fitting as it also qualifies for Thursday Doors. The sight of the barn evokes a sense of nostalgia, even though it is life in the present, and I can only assume there are some animals, most likely cows or sheep, given the sheer number we have seen while driving the rural roads, in need of the hay stored inside, which contributes to the cycle of life on the farm. The barn stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of those who have tend to the land, reminding us of the vital role these structures play in agricultural life.
This week I have been very busy editing photos, and as I love monochrome and black and white images, I took some time to try different styles from our wonderful visit to Glenelg Beach in South Australia.
Glenelg beach pier
The Pier there provided great opportunities for photography, largely due to the striking contrasts between light and shadow, which are essential in monochrome photography. I experimented with various angles and compositions to capture the essence of the scene, highlighting the elegant lines of the architecture against the raw natural beauty of the beach.
These images reflect not only the stunning vistas but also the unique atmosphere of the location. These are my contributions this week for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness.
Leanne from Monochrome Madness thought it would be fun to see how images can change if you crop them. She asked for 3 crops. It would be interesting to see how the story of the image could change using these methods.
I’ve been super busy editing my travel photos lately. Because of that, I haven’t jumped into any of the usual challenges I love. It’s kinda made me feel out of the loop with my creative stuff. But hey, I’m all about editing. I love the art of making photos pop. So, I figured, why not give this challenge a shot? Let’s see how my creativity holds up!
I tried with two images. To be honest, I am not all that happy with them. However, they will have to do for now. I can’t shake off the nagging feeling that these images fall short of my own expectations. This is not that serious, or is it? My stories did not change all that much, so much is actually about the original photo, My choices were not spot on 🙂
Let’s take a look at mine. I have done 3 different images to see how each would come up.
Monochrome image of a beach with rock formations and four figures walking along the water’s edge, reflecting on the wet sand. Then to just have the beach walkers. 16:9 is my favorite crop although it came out slightly too dark in the edit-
A small capture of Sydney skyline captured from the ferry on our way to Manly Beach
My phone brought me a memory from nine years back, and well, it was truly a blessing to revisit that moment. As I scrolled through the gallery, I stumbled upon a picture that seemed so suitable for this occasion. At that time, my mobile phone camera was not so great, the quality of the stunning scene in front of me does not do justice to the building. I did try to edit it in three different ways to enhance its clarity and colors. And obviously I started with the monochrome version.T his particular snapshot was taken in a beautiful church in Goa, India, known for its intricate architecture.
I took these nine years ago, but as I was going through my archives I edited few more photos I have previously ignored..
The Big Buddha statue
Known among Thais as the Phra Puttamingmongkol Akenakkiri Buddha, this magnificent statue has garnered significant cultural and spiritual importance. Built in 2004, it stands majestically at a height of 25 meters across at the base, making it one of the largest Buddha statues in the region. The body of the statue is constructed from sturdy reinforced concrete, ensuring durability and resilience against the elements it is layered with beautiful Burmese white jade marble, which gives it a radiant shine under the sunlight.
There are several golden monk statues, here are two of them.
I just read that the Phuket Buddha site ordered closed due to landslide risks. Phuket’s Royal Forest Centre will order a big Buddha site on top of Nak Koet Hill in tambon Karon to be closed due to fears of further landslides after 13 people were killed in the area by landslides on Aug 23.3.9.2024
This week is a “themed” Monochrome Madness week, and Brian is hosting. He chose clouds for a theme.
I love clouds; there’s something so captivating about their ever-changing forms and colors. Mostly, I take photos of them over water or a field, as the reflections and open spaces amplify their beauty. Ever so many of my favorites come from moments spent on the road, where the sky seems to stretch infinitely above. I can spend hours gazing at the clouds while traveling by car, —sometimes they look like soft animals, at other times like in the last shot – people. I find joy and inspiration in the simple act of observing the sky.
In Finland many could associate this cloud to a band …Leningrad Cowboys have listen and look at the hairdos 🙂
for some reason I could not find my “best” on the road cloud shots so I went with these..
This is for Monochrome Madness, I did some conversions of my photos to Monochrome that I took on a rainy day by the lake in Nastola – Kumian Mylly. I usually find landscapes in color more impactful, with their vibrant hues invoking emotions and memories, but in monochrome, something different can be found within the images. The absence of color allows for a heightened focus on the textures and contrasts present, revealing more details that might otherwise go unnoticed when colors are distracting the attention. The interplay of light and shadow takes on new significance, drawing the viewer’s eye into the depths of the scene. I hope I was able to capture the essence of that rainy day in a way that stirs the imagination.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 