Tag: nature

Lens Artists Challenge #339: Life’s Changes

lens-artists, Photography

Anne is our lovely guide this week, and she really made me think… a long time before deciding.

Honestly, I’ve been through a lot of big changes in my life that really shaped who I am today. Moving to a different country when I was six opened my eyes to a crazy mix of cultures and perspectives that totally changed how I see people and the world. Each move came with its own set of challenges and opportunities that helped me figure out who I am. Then, as a teenager, I moved again, which opened up my world even more and made me more adaptable, even though it was tough to leave what I knew behind. Changing countries again in my early twenties really tested my resilience and made me crave new experiences and friendships. And losing both my parents before I hit 25 hit me hard; it forced me to figure out how to deal with grief and find my own strength. Everything that happened after that was life-changing, pushing me to live in the moment and really appreciate life because it’s so unpredictable. All these experiences taught me just how important it is to be adaptable, empathetic, and resilient as I navigate this wild journey called life.

Life’s like a road that you travel on
When there’s one day here and the next day gone
Sometimes you bend, sometimes you stand
Sometimes you turn your back to the wind
There’s a world outside every darkened door
Where blues won’t haunt you anymore
Where the brave are free and lovers soar
Come ride with me to the distant shore

Life Is a Highway ‧ Rascal Flatts ‧ 2006

On the road

Now let’s talk photography. It’s been my sidekick ever since I got my first camera back in 1981. At first, I was all about snapping pictures of my family; my sisters’ kids were basically my go-to models. Those early days were all about capturing those cute, candid moments and silly snapshots that really showed what being a kid was all about. As I got older, I started branching out. I started to take photos of my friends, our fun hangouts, all the laughter, and those fleeting moments that turned into priceless memories. Plus, every new place I visited sparked my creativity. I found myself chasing after cool light patterns and unique angles in these unfamiliar spots, just wanting to capture the vibe of each place I went.

With the advent of digital photography, a world of possibilities opened up for me. The freedom to take countless images, unconstrained by the cost of film, was exhilarating and enhanced my passion for documenting my family’s journey. My three boys grew up quickly, and their milestones are well documented, even as they resisted my attempts to take photos during their teenage years. Those challenges changed our relationship, yet I cherished the moments I captured before they stepped into a more independent chapter of their lives.

As our kids grew up, we stumbled upon this awesome chance to dive into travel photography. My husband and I got to travel more, exploring all kinds of places together. It was a great way to keep our travel memories alive and got me super excited to try out different photography styles. Every spot we visited was a new opportunity to capture the beauty of nature, the lively hustle of cities, cool architectural details, and those peaceful landscapes, really adding to my portfolio and changing how I see things as a photographer. My sister always joked that I viewed the world through my camera lens, which is why I call it “the world as I see it – through my lens.”

When I first started blogging, it was all about just sharing my photos—no stories, just the images doing the talking. Many of them were digital art projects, but then I got into blogging challenges, especially those focused on photography, like the Lens Artists challenge, and that totally changed my game. These prompts made me think about adding some narrative to my pics, which got me more engaged with my work. Digging through my old photos or heading out to snap new ones really shift how I saw my photography. Plus, checking out all the awesome stuff from other bloggers helped me find a great community of folks who pushed me to explore new ideas and subjects.

Being invited to join the team of contributors for these challenges was a pivotal moment. It not only pulled me deeper into the blogging community but also expanded my horizons as a photographer. I found myself part of a vibrant exchange of creativity, where I could share my experiences and learn from others. This sense of belonging and collaboration has enriched my journey, solidifying photography as not just a pastime, but a vibrant part of my life that continues to evolve and inspire me.

Thanks to Anne for giving me a chance to share my thoughts on life and photography. Next week, I will once again host the challenge, which provides an excellent opportunity for everyone to explore their creativity and showcase their unique perspectives with me, maybe try something new. I would love to have you join me. I will post the challenge prompt Saturday at noon Eastern time, so be sure to check in! If you’d like to join in the challenge responses, but aren’t sure how to get started, look here.

Still on the road

Landscapes, Photography, Travel, Traveling Australia

I have seen your comments, but days are so full of surprises and new things so I haven’t been active on any social network. Three weeks and 4100 km underneath us and still few more days left.

I will be getting back home later next week..

Today driving t pepply beach, loved this road

Lens-Artists Challenge # 336 – Only One Picture

lens-artists

Lens-Artists Challenge this week by Ann-Christine is only one meaningful photograph, see her lovely and thoughtful post behind this link Only One Picture

Summer night at my summer house – a view printed in my memory

I really like this challenge, but as I am on the road and time is limited, we are constantly moving. There is so much to see and experience, and we are truly making the most of the time we have available to us.

This is my happy place, captured in a photo from my summerhouse. It holds a special significance as it was the very first property we purchased together. When we found it, it was in desperate need of renovation, but it fit within our budget, and that made it perfect for us. Over the years, we have lovingly extended the house up to the attic and transformed the yard into a beautiful space. We have spent thirty wonderful summers there, and it has been a pivotal place for our family, where we’ve watched our kids grow up.

When they were young, we were fortunate enough to stay there from April until the end of October for long stretches instead of just on weekends, allowing us to create lasting memories. This house has become our sanctuary, a refuge from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The serenity of the surrounding nature and the fact that we have poured our hearts and hands into making it ours is precisely why I chose this particular photo to represent my happy place. It speaks to the love and effort that went into crafting a home filled with laughter and cherished moments. Although I might have selected another image if I had my hard drive with me, this one resonates deeply within me and symbolizes the essence of what this place means to our family. It was a decision from my heart, reflecting not just a location but a tapestry of memories woven over the years.

Don’t forget to link your post to Only One Picture when you participate, and use the Lens-Artist tag. We are looking forward to seeing your choices! Next week Sofia will be our host – be sure to visit her inspirational site to find out what she is up to!

Lens-Artists Challenge #333 – Complementary Colors

Flowers, lens-artists

It’s always nice to get a little reminder about how complementary colors work and how to use them in your photography, art, and even fashion choices. As most of us know, complementary colors are those that sit opposite each other on the color wheel, and they really make things pop, enhancing the viewer’s experience and helping the subject stand out. Nature does a fantastic job of this on its own, showing off these awesome color combos in landscapes, flowers, and wildlife. As you notice them in nature artists and photographers can find interpretation of how to use it . By understanding the science and feelings behind these colors, you can really step up your artistic game and whip up some eye-catching compositions and get attention and leave a lasting impression.

Please Check out the introduction from Egídios Through Brazilian Eyes lovely blog and join us by linking your post to his and using the Lens- Artists tag so you post can be easily found.

Complementary colors are basically the ones that sit right across from each other on the color wheel. When you use them in your photography, they create awesome color contrast, making your images really stand out. Think of classic combos like red and green, magenta and green, yellow and violet, or orange and blue. You don’t have to stick to colors that are exactly opposite, though. Just like how the color wheel smoothly shifts from one shade to another, you can mix in some nearly opposite colors. But hey, the most stunning results will come from those perfect opposites!

I think the yellow moon against the blue sky works well.

Using complimentary colors in Still life

Noble fly google translation named this Clematis flower

Viola canina against yellow, green hues

That is what we enjoy mostly in Finland ”bilberry” tai ”wild blueberry” Blueberry is apparently from a bush. Well anyway – nature knows it’s complimentary colors

Rowan berries make great contrast blue sky and green leaves.

Thanks for joining me and looking at things out from above; it’s been an a delightful! I appreciate everyone for sharing your amazing macro shots of nature and stunning views from rooftops or hills. The photos were not just pretty; they highlighted the beauty of our world from unique angles. I’m glad if I could inspire you to consider shooting from above, as those viewpoints often reveal little details we might miss on the ground. It’s incredible how changing your perspective can enhance how we see and appreciate our surroundings, encouraging us to explore and find hidden gems nearby.

Next week, Tina returns with her first new challenge for the year. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out another exciting challenge.

Don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag when creating your post so we can easily find it in the Reader and linking it to original post.

Please see this page to learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history

From Blue Moment to sunset

Captures from Finland

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.

numbers – CFFC

Landscapes, Photography

I have never participated in a number challenge before here in CFFC or Numbers game, but today I excitedly played with the number 256, which I picked from an archive of photos I had stored away since 2016. As I explored this collection, I realized that, before posting any of these images, I would need to edit most of them, as I had initially saved them in RAW format. The original sizes were far too large for sharing without some careful enhancement and resizing. It was actually quite fun to see the photos that popped up; each one carried a memory from that year, evoking nostalgia. However, one shot of flowers caught my attention for being in particularly poor quality — I have no idea why I still had it in my collection. The vibrant colors of the blooms were completely dulled, and the focus was all off, making it a rather unfortunate representation of nature’s beauty.

The photos in the gallery can be enlarged, it is even recommended by me 🙂

Posted as part of CFFC

Reeds and Riverside Charm

Captures from Finland, Photography

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.

By the river
Wintery riverside
Cabin By the river
reeds

Lens-artists challenge #331 – Resilience

lens-artists, Photography

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.

Unpredictable Winter Weather in Finland

Captures from Finland, Photography

Weather is always a fascinating topic in Finland, as it is often unpredictable and has a significant impact on daily life. Always safe. Today, for example, we have experienced a mix of snow, slush, and drizzle coming down on us, creating a rather dreary yet quintessentially Finnish atmosphere. Even with the gray sky looming overhead, which is certainly not a pleasant sight, the temperature remains relatively mild for winter standards at +1.4°C. but it does little to brighten the overall mood on such a gloomy day. This warmth is not the best temperature in winter; I think I prefer something between -3°C and -5°C, with no wind.

Just the other day, the wind blew wildly, causing slush to accumulate on the windows facing east and west, painting a messy but intriguing picture of the weather’s influence on our surroundings. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to capture this moment, and so I took several photos of the slushy windows, hoping to convey the unique elegance of Finland’s winter weather, even when it is less than ideal.

Monochrome Madness #25

Black and White photos

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.

Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #25: Places of Worship
Dawn (todays host) Monochrome Madness #25: Places of Worship

Minimalist take on Birds and Trees

animals, Captures from Finland, Photography

I was watching birds flying around on a cold day, and they kept returning to this tree, which stood majestically against the winter sky. The branches were covered with snow, creating a beautiful contrast with the winter colors of the birds as they flittered about. The tree was so far away that I was not able to get a good shot, which left me feeling a bit frustrated. Despite the distance, I did my best to capture the colors and clarity to a presentable level, but the quality was not quite on par with the stunning visuals I had hoped for.

Then I started playing with the Lightroom editing, experimenting with various effects, I did not use filters, and I ended up with these unexpected results that brought new life to my photos. I rather like them, as they reflect not just the scene but also the mood of that chilly day and the serene beauty of nature in a very minimalist way and monotone colors.

Lens-Artists Challenge #330 – Favorite Images of 2024

lens-artists

As has become our custom, we are asking our followers to select their favorite images of 2024 – whether they’ve been included in previous posts or not. This week, no single host will present the challenge. The entire team will share the challenge topic today. 

These are some of the images and edits that I shared this year. Each piece reflects a moment in time that I’ve captured, representing my personal vision as a photographer. Favorite, aah, I like them they say something about me as a photographer and what I like my images to have in them. They convey emotions, stories, inviting them to see the world through my lens. Whether it’s the play of light, the composition, or the subject matter, every detail, aiming to evoke a sense of connection and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.

Mood and contrast – I like that about the image and the color scheme, as they create a captivating atmosphere that draws the viewer in. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the overall depth, making the scene feel more dynamic. Additionally, the choice of colors complements the subject. This thoughtful combination not only highlights the details but also contributes to the emotional tone.

I love the woods, where the tall trees stand majestically, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze, and the small country roads that wind gracefully through the landscape. This scene captivates me deeply, especially during autumn when the vibrant colors paint the world in shades of red, orange, and gold. The beauty of the foliage creates a breathtaking backdrop, and I find solace in the tranquility of nature. The composition, with its leading line that disappears down to the unknown, invites curiosity. e.

Once again, the mood of this shot captivates me. Some of my favorite people are in it, sharing a moment that feels both timeless and fleeting. The sea, with its rhythmic waves, and the clouds overhead create a stunning backdrop—seaside scenery has always appealed to me. A cloudy day often gives it the extra element of drama and intrigue that makes it particularly interesting, enhancing the colors of the landscape. As I gaze at this scene, I can’t help but reflect on the laughter and stories shared.

Surprise – once again at the seaside. I watched the pelican trying to catch fish, it’s graceful movements slicing through the air, showcasing their skill and precision. The sunlight sparkled on the water’s surface, reflecting vibrant hues of blue and green, I like the movement, the colors in this shot, capturing not just the beauty of the moment but also the exhilarating energy of nature all around me as the salty breeze carried the sounds of the sea and the calls of seabirds.

The best time to experience early summer in Finland is undoubtedly in the evening light, as captured in this photograph taken around 10 PM. During this magical hour, the sun lingers on the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape. You can see the dandelion field, lush and vibrant, just before their seeds dance away on the gentle breeze, creating a stunning sight that epitomizes the fleeting beauty of summer. The beautiful green tones, so typical of this time of year, shimmer under the soft light, enhancing the enchanting atmosphere,fully embracing the serene splendor of Finland’s natural beauty.

I named this lipstick sunset and boats in the marina – lovely tones that evoke a calm mood, reminiscent of warm evenings spent by the water, where the sky is painted in shades of red and pink as the sun dips below the horizon, and the gentle sway of the boats creates a serene atmosphere, inviting you to relax and enjoy the beauty unfolding before your eyes.

This image is abstract, but it also works as ICM. The movement in it captures the start of newlyweds moving toward their future. This scene means a lot to me, symbolizing the excitement and unpredictability of starting a new life together. The colors blend, making it more than just a picture; it’s a shared experience of moving forward.

One more image, a new one. My husband and youngest grandson at his first Christmas. Love.

Thank you all for joining in the memory lane photos; As we step into the New Year, new challenges await us starting next week, offering fresh opportunities for creativity and expression. I an happy to share that Anne from Slow Shutter Speed will once again grace us with her photographic journey, inspiring us with a new theme Saturday, January 11, at noon EST. Expect to see not only stunning and lovely photos that showcase her unique perspective but also inspiring words that will accompany them, encouraging us all to join in. Let’s embrace this new adventure together with open hearts and imaginations!

Please remember to link your post here, or to any or all of the other Lens-Artists team members. Also, remember to use the Lens-Artists Tag to help us find you.

Monochrome Madness – clouds

Black and White photos, Photography

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..

Lens-Artists Challenge #328 – Winter

Captures from Finland, Landscapes, lens-artists

Check out John’s lovely post at Lens-Artists Challenge #328 – Winter

Winter will be upon those living in the northern hemisphere in only two weeks, well in my opinion it is already here .

For those who know me, know that winter is not my season, but you have to endure it. While I can appreciate the beautiful winter landscapes, with their pristine white snow and glistening icicles hanging from the eaves, and the seasonal lights that illuminate the dark nights, the cold weather is something I struggle with. The crisp air can feel invigorating at first, but it quickly turns into an unwelcome chill that seeps through even the warmest of layers. I know it is a matter of dressing accordingly, but the layer after layer can become cumbersome and stifling; not to mention the effort it takes to bundle up before stepping outside.

Winter season

I will give you a few facts below about the beloved season if you are interested, or you can just enjoy the photos I’ve taken of the beauty of the snow-filled landscape, which captures the serene essence of winter perfectly. There is something magical about how snow blankets the ground, transforming ordinary scenes into picturesque winter wonderlands that take your breath away. I enjoy it too—in the photos, where each pristine flake seems to reflect the beauty of nature and the quiet stillness that accompanies this season, inviting you to pause and admire the frosty charm that surrounds us.

FEW facts about Finland In winter, the mean temperature remains below 0°C, but warm airflows can raise the daily high above 0°C at times. Winter usually begins in mid-October in Lapland and during November in the rest of Finland, though not until December in the southwestern archipelago. It thus takes about two months for winter to proceed from Lapland to Åland. The sea and large lakes slow down the progress of winter. Winter is the longest season in Finland, lasting for about 100 days in southwestern Finland and 200 days in Lapland.

Arctic Circle, part of winter is the period known as the “polar night”, when the sun does not rise above the horizon at all. In the northernmost corner of Finland, the polar night lasts for 51 days. In southern Finland, the shortest day is about 6 hours long.

Permanent snow covers the ground about two weeks after winter begins, reaching its deepest around mid-March with 60 to 90 cm in eastern and northern Finland, and 20 to 30 cm in southwestern Finland. Lakes freeze in late November and early December, with ice thickest in early April at about 50 to 65 cm. In severe winters, the Baltic Sea may ice over almost completely, while mild winters keep it open except for the Gulf of Bothnia and the Gulf of Finland’s far ends.

The coldest day of winter typically occurs after the winter solstice, at the end of January in most places, except for maritime islands and coastal areas, where it is delayed until early February. Coldest temperatures range from -45°C to -50°C in Lapland and eastern Finland, from -35°C to -45°C elsewhere, and from -25°C to -35°C in islands and coastal regions.

snowing
A quick dip to the sea?
Frost covered trees
Winter gray day ny the sea.

Please join and remember to link to John’s challenge when you post your response, and use the Lens-Artists tag. 

Last week, Sofia’s challenge focused on the Five Elements in her lovely post, and the responses were interesting to see. How we all interpreted it in our own way .

Next week, it is time for our annual year-end challenge. In December 2022, the Lens-Artists team introduced a “Last-Chance” challenge. The idea was to review the year’s images that never quite fit our challenge subjects that year. The “rule” is that your chosen photographs must have been taken in 2024 and not have been included in response to our 2024 challenges. Go through your gallery and join us on Saturday, December 14, at noon Eastern Standard Time.

Frost: Nature’s Winter Masterpiece

Flowers, Nature, Photography

“Frost is the greatest artist in our clime – he paints in nature and describes in rime.” ~ Thomas Hood

The first frost is the umpire’s final whistle in a game we don’t want to end.

~Adrian Higgins

Lens-Artists Challenge – 5 Elements

lens-artists

Ancient Indian philosophy states that we are made up of five fundamental elements – earth, water, fire, sky, and air, and upon death, we return to these essential components of the universe. This cycle emphasizes the interconnectedness of all living beings with nature. On the other hand, Chinese philosophy presents a different perspective by omitting sky and air, choosing instead to include wood and metal, which highlights the importance of transformation and balance in the natural world. Each element plays a crucial role in sustaining life and maintaining harmony within our surroundings.

This week, Sofia challenges us to creatively represent these five elements, encouraging us to explore their significance and relationships in our lives through art, discussion, or personal reflection.

Blacksmith works with lots of elements

You need to work on a grovel ground – (earth?) This foundation is essential for any blacksmith’s operations. You also need wood to make fire, which is the lifeblood of metalworking; the flames provide the necessary heat to transform raw materials into usable tools. Air is crucial to keep the fire going, as it feeds the flames, allowing them to reach the high temperatures required for forging. Moreover, metal is indispensable, as it is the core element that you are shaping and transforming with fire, bringing life through careful manipulation. Finally, you require water to cool it down, allowing you to temper the metal and enhance its durability and strength, making the end products robust and functional. I think the sky is missing in this one 🙂 Blacksmiths work with lots of elements, combining them in a harmonious dance to create incredible artifacts, often reflecting the beautiful interplay between earth, fire, air, metal, and water.

Water and wood

🔥

Glorious sky in the color of fire, the small touch of blue when you light it, casting a radiant glow over the horizon as day transitions into night. This mesmerizing view serves as water to our soul, nurturing our spirit and inviting serenity. The sand beneath our feet keeps us grounded, offering a soft embrace that reminds us of our connection to the Earth. Trees surround us, standing tall and majestic, providing shelter and warmth, acting as the lungs of our air, purifying every breath we take.

💦

Please join us and link your post to Sofia’s post, showcasing your unique perspective and creativity. Don’t forget to tag your work with Lens-Artists so we can easily find your contributions on the Reader.

Last week was full of awesome smiles and tons of laughs thanks to Ann-Christine’s challenge! Big shoutout to you, Ann-Christine, for the cool theme, and thanks to everyone who joined in—we really loved the positive photos you all shared!

Next week is John’s turn to lead us, Saturday 7th December. Until then, keep on smiling ☺

Winter’s First Bite, The Beauty of Frosted Leaves

Photography

November frost, the first bite of winter on these colorful leaves of barberry, I think that is the name of this plant, is or not, it sure looks pretty. The crisp air carries with it a stillness that amplifies the vivid reds and yellows of the leaves. As I stood there looking for a right angle to take a photograph, I couldn’t help but marvel at how such a small shrub can capture the essence of the changing seasons, hinting at the chill to come while still clinging to its vibrancy. Each leaf seems to shimmer with the promise of winter, creating a breathtaking contrast that leaves a lasting impression.

Captivating Colors of Bergenia Leaves

Flowers, Nature, Photography

The frost equally enhanced the bergenia leaves, creating a stunning contrast where the vibrant green and deep red colors were beautifully accentuated against the soft, delicate white frost. The scene appeared as if nature had carefully brushed its palette across the foliage, simple leaves transformed into a breathtaking sight, rich with color and texture.

Frosty Coniferous Branches

Captures from Finland, Flowers, Nature, Photography

While we had the cold and frosty days I took some close-ups of coniferous branches.

Lens-Artists Challenge #325 – Gratitude

lens-artists

I am grateful to Tina from Travels and Trifles for presenting this challenge today, as a reminder that I am quite a happy woman 🙂 Life is basically good, even thought I just last week became once again a woman of leisure, as my job ended after a short period of time. Now I find myself faced with the hassle, again, of trying to find a new job at my age, and the reality is that it feels like a daunting challenge that will not lead to success. However, I am grateful and acknowledge that I have a roof over my head and loving friends and family who support me. I have husband, three boys, four grandsons…what girl wouldn’t be happy surrounded by so many boys 😀

I live in a beautiful country that is a haven for both children and adults, allowing us to walk around freely and safely, whether in cities or nature. That reminds me to appreciate the little things. Hanging on to my positive attitude is a must, and although there are moments of doubt, I strive to remain almost happy, finding joy in the present

I live in the happiest country in the world, as recognized in the UN World Happiness Report for the 7th time. Why? Apparently, the answer is rooted in the fundamental trust present throughout Finnish society, which enables individuals to feel safe and relaxed in their daily lives. Another reason contributing to our happiness is the proximity of nature; the four seasons , the stunning landscapes, abundant forests, and serene lakes all provide a beautiful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, offering a tranquil environment that encourages mindfulness and appreciation of the simple joys of life.

However, in my opinion, our current Government is doing a huge amount of things to destroy this happy dynamic, pushing for policies that undermine social cohesion and environmental protection. It’s disheartening to witness changes that might jeopardize our well-being. Yet, despite these challenges, I still find moments of joy and connection in the everyday, almost happy… that is something to be grateful for.

And like many others in our lovely blogging community, which I am grateful for, I in a position where I can travel, meet new people, see wonderful places. Joy.

I want to thank Patti for last week’s In The Details challenge. I got bit carried away with it, but I did only link one to her beautiful original post that inspired me to go out and shoot 😀 I don’t know about you but I discovered some things that were a really nice surprise!

Finally I hope you’ll join us next week when Ann-Christine once again leads our challenge. In the meanwhile, be happy for the things you are grateful for 🙂

PS. and who is not grateful for chocolate ❤

it’s in the details #2

Flowers, lens-artists

Well I took several shots for this week’s Lens-Artists challenge, but as the limited images were six, I could only post that. I think the limited amount of images is a good thing actually, I really should do it more often.

A single wither’d leaf is left
Upon the forest tree,
By angry winds and storms bereft
Of other company:
And though its friends have long since gone,
The wither’d leaf still clingeth on!

– Richard Coe
The One Hope

I chose a slightly different angles and came a little closer – and what I liked about this is that – can you guess what I liked ?

it’s in the details

Flowers, lens-artists

Well I took several shots for this week’s Lens-Artists challenge, but as the limited images were six, I could only post that. I think the limited amount of images is a good thing actually, I really should do it more often.

I really like this shot; the background is the thing that makes this photo stand out for me. The light was just at the right level, softly illuminating the berries and highlighting foliage colors. The autumn colors left, with shades of amber, gold, and deep red blending beautifully, creating a warm and inviting backdrop adds depth to the composition.

I chose a slightly different angle a tad closer – and what I liked about this is that there is a sign of frost in the droplet. The one below the focus is on the berry.