I spent yesterday totally unplugged from the computer, taking a well-deserved break, and ended up going to see a friend on the wrong day. Even though it was a bit of a hassle, I trudged through a snow blizzard, battling the fluffy chaos, only to realize I showed up two days early for our hangout. Not exactly thrilled about digging my car out from under all that snow twice, but hey, we made the best of it and had a good chat, catching up and cracking jokes. Later that evening, we went with my husband to check out the comedian Russell Howard at the House of Culture in Helsinki, which was super exciting. The cherry on top? We ran into some other friends there by total coincidence, which made the night even cooler. Overall, it was a pretty great night, full of unexpected surprises and good vibes. Good night, all in all!
I didn’t get any great photos yesterday, but since this is a photography blog, I guess I should share some moments from my day, even if they’re not ideal. So, I’m throwing in what I think/ know are some bad shots from tonight. I snagged one pic from the gig that didn’t turn out at all, but it still reminds me of the awesome energy and buzz from the moment. Plus, I snapped a few more shots while driving home from a moving car. The snow that had covered everything earlier in the day had stopped falling, and the snowplows had done their job clearing the roads, making our drive a little smoother. Even if the photos aren’t perfect, they definitely capture the vibe of my evening journey back home.
I have never participated in a number challenge before here inCFFCor 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 🙂
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 riverWintery riverside Cabin By the riverreeds
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.
I liked these colorful houses in this country, or in many other warm climate countries, but they would look so wrong, to me, if they were in Finland. I have seen some, and they are so out of place here; the brightness just does not fit with the natural palette of the Finnish landscape. The hues that might look vibrant and inviting against sunlit coastal backdrops or among lush tropical settings feel jarring against the more muted tones of Finland’s forests and snowy winters. But when I’ve seen these vivid buildings in other countries, they seem to blend in perfectly, as if they were meant to be there among the sun-kissed streets and bustling markets. It’s fascinating how context influences perception—go figure…
I have taken these photographs years ago in Cape Verde, and even in their rundown state—or perhaps in their unfinished state—they still appeal to me in a unique way. There’s a charm in their wear and tear, a story captured in the peeling paint and uneven lines. These structures despite their disrepair, they exude a warmth that resonates with the colors themselves.
I am still posting photos of roses. Today the colors is red.
The myth behind red roses??
The story paints a heartbreaking picture: when Aphrodite learned that someone was conspiring to hurt her beloved Adonis, she rushed through a rose bush to warn him, tragically cutting her ankles on the thorns. Her blood staining the white petals red is such a vivid symbol of her pain. Sadly, by the time she arrived, it was already too late—he had been taken from her by a wild boar. In that moment of despair, she was left to grieve, weeping as he took his last breaths in her arms, a profound loss that anyone can feel deeply.
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..
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.
snowingA quick dip to the sea?Frost covered treesWinter 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.
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 ☺
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 🙂
Patti from P.A. Moed Creative Exploration in Words and Pictures challenges us with this themeIn the Details
I was really inspired by this, I often do nothing much, but not doing much being still gives you time to look at details. So obviously my first thought was macro photography. Something you can do in your own backyard or home. Then I say Patti’s approach and found it inspiring – that’s not how I first envisioned it in my head, should I also try that ?
These tiny hardly noticeable fungus grow by my front door, but that day I went out to capture the first frosty morning and these were the last ones I took on my quest for details.
My other set is from Hailuoto, – Finland and the lighthouse there I took so many photos of it so I am able to share some new ones too.
From the distance it looked like this
Different angel and I am closer
Close-up, now you can see the structure and details and the colors so much better.
Last week, Egidio hosted his “Silence” challenge, which was a beautiful exploration of places that are filled with quiet. Each submission capturing serene landscapes and peaceful environments. I love how the silence settled around me just from looking at all your lovely photos. The silence and stillness, encouraging us to pause and appreciate the beauty of the world around us.
Next week, it’s Tina’s turn to lead us, so be sure to stop by her gorgeous Travels and Trifles site next Saturday at noon EST for an engaging and inspiring challenge. Tina has always has a unique perspective, sharing her thoughtful insights and delightful stories that transport us to new places. I can hardly wait to see what she has in store for us this time!
Oh well… the first one is from my Sony SLT-A65V – using the macro lens. I was trying to capture details from different distances.
OLYMPUS DIGITAL shot October 5th, – three weeks later most of the leaves have dropped …
This the last one I took with my Olympus – I have not taken this camera for an outing for three weeks, oh no… this I took during our last stay at the summer house before closing it for the winter.
Well as I aim to be honest, my last is a selfie, cringe 🙂 I had my hair shortened and colored, a transformation that I had been contemplating for quite some time. I just came from the hairdresser, feeling happy about my new look – and I took a shot of myself to commemorate the occasion. Notice that I did not edit the photo :-D, I so wish I had edited it, though, now that I see it on the monitor the harsher light of my screen, I see every little flaw and imperfection. (vanity) A small blessing is that I wore make-up, which helped that not every pore was visible. I wasn’t sure about sharing it, I decided to embrace this little glimpse into my day and it was the last photo on the card.
These are old photos that I edited for the mood challenge, but did not use them, and now they are quite handy for my open doors post for Dan’s Thursday Doors. These images are from a charming square in Amalfi, Italy, a place steeped in history and beauty.
I am happy I was able capture the warm tones and the night mood, evoking a sense of calm, day transitions into night, just about closing time. In the first photo, you can see a woman with pearls closing the gates of her store.
The cafes and restaurants surrounding the square remain open, creating a lively atmosphere, yet the mood is not hurried; it is calm and serene, even amidst the gentle flow of people moving about, enjoying the last moments of the day. The soft glow of the streetlamps reflects off the cobblestones, enhancing the tranquil ambiance.
Last weekend I was so happy by a beautiful weather; the sun shone brightly, the skies were a stunning shade of blue, and the air was neither cold nor warm—comfortable is maybe the word to use, especially if you are properly dressed for the season. The best of autumn colors was not yet totally visible, but the enchanting season of changing colors was right at our doorstep, whispering promises of vibrant reds, golds, and copper hues that would soon adorn the trees. As I took in the view, I pulled out my camera and snapped some photos from a nearby gravel road, capturing the landscape where nature seemed to pause in anticipation before the full display of autumn arrived. The gentle rustling of leaves and the very recognizable noise from the gathering Canadian geese created a loud backdrop, the sound so seasonal as can be.
This week, my focus is on capturing the mood for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. The leafless trees, with their intricate branches reaching out like skeletal fingers, create an eerie and almost haunting atmosphere that resonates deeply with me. As I explored the landscape, I found a certain beauty in the starkness of the scene, where the absence of color allows the viewer to truly appreciate the shapes and forms around us. Hopefully, I have been able to transport that hauntingly beautiful mood into these three images, and the stillness and quiet that often accompany such desolate yet captivating settings.
For the header, I chose a striking red/brown as the monotone colors, as I found it brought totally different vibes to the image, creating a warm atmosphere that draws in. This color combination enhances the visual appeal. The deeper tones of red paired with the earthiness of brown create a balanced aesthetic that resonates differently transforming the overall essence of the piece.
Trees from our visit to AustraliaNO leaves in sightEerie looking landscape
Egídio’s challenge entry for the Lens-Artists Challenge #316 – Destination: Fun provides us with a fascinating glimpse into what brings joy to his life. It’s clear that he leads an incredibly active and dynamic lifestyle, and his stunning photography serves as a testimony to his myriad interests and the delightful locations where he indulges in them. Each picture is a window into his world, a world filled with energy, passion, and a deep appreciation for life’s many adventures.
FUN – or maybe a feeling of contentment. Happiness.
Enjoyment is the word I would use to describe the simple yet fulfilling moments in life. I find joy in being surrounded by my family and close friends; their laughter and support brighten even the dullest of days. Moreover, my appreciation for nature’s wonders knows no bounds. Whether it is the breathtaking sunrise on a misty morning or the mesmerizing night sky dotted with twinkling stars, I wind up finding enjoyment in simple moments of natural beauty, capturing them with my camera lens as an avid photographer.
Time spent with family, the gray day does not matter
Fun is indeed going out for a meal and enjoying the luxury of not having to prepare it yourself, allowing you to savor every bite without worrying if it turned out tasty. It’s about being served in a beautiful way, with carefully arranged dishes and delightful presentations that elevate the entire dining experience. These small joys of life are fun.
Last weekend, it was extremely rainy, with the rain lasting for most the weekend. The night was particularly intense, as the thunder and lightning circled around our summer house for hours, creating a dramatic spectacle in the sky. The heavy rain beat against our roof relentlessly, creating a rhythmic pattern that filled the air. Despite the cacophony, I found myself unable to sleep. It wasn’t the noise that kept me awake, but rather a strange compulsion to listen to the storm. From midnight until the early hours of the morning, I was captivated by the sounds of nature in turmoil. This is entirely unrelated to the topic at hand, but I felt compelled to share this peculiar incident.
Dark clouds couple weeks back
But during the day I did find beauty in the nature set against gray skies and rain. The contrast between the dark clouds and the lush greenery added an extra layer of enchantment to the scenery. It does not take too much to make me happy; the simplicity of nature’s beauty never fails to bring a smile to my face. I got good shots of very common scenery here in Finland, capturing the serene lakes, verdant forests, and charming countryside. This time, I am not going far, even though I love to travel. Exploring the nearby landscapes has allowed me to appreciate the often overlooked treasures close to home, and yes, it certainly is FUN to discover the hidden gems in my own backyard.
One more fun thing; I really enjoy the editing process of photography as well as it gives an opportunity to try to show how I see / saw the view I took the photo off. Hence my blog title: the world as I see it.
Exploring the various editing tools and techniques allows me to enhance the mood, colors, and composition of my photos, turning them into visual representations of my unique perspective. Adjusting the contrast, saturation, and sharpness helps me convey the emotions and beauty I experienced when capturing the image. Through editing, I strive to create experience, inviting you to see the world through my eyes and feel the essence of each moment frozen in time.
I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every individual who graciously dedicated their time and effort to participate in the common objects challenge. Witnessing the diverse and imaginative interpretations of what is often considered ordinary and mundane has been nothing short of captivating. This experience has truly opened our eyes to the unanticipated beauty that surrounds us in the most unexpected of places. The stunning array of photographs and the innovative methods employed to present these everyday items have undeniably demonstrated the exceptional depth of creativity within our community. Each contribution has beautifully illuminated the unique perspectives and artistic talents that enrich our shared space.
Join us again next week as it is Tina’s turn to host at Travels and Trifles next Saturday. Her captivating photography and engaging storytelling always make her blog a delightful site to visit. Prepare to be transported to stunning landscapes and culturally rich locations through Tina’s lens, and immerse yourself in her insightful narratives that bring each place to life. Whether you’re an avid traveler seeking inspiration or simply appreciate the beauty of the world, Tina’s posts are sure to captivate and inspire. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this upcoming adventure with “Travels and Trifles”!
Looking for more information on joining our challenge? Click here.
The weather has been rather unpredictable over the past week, with a mix of rain, clouds, and sunshine. It’s one of the hallmarks of summer, especially in July, when the weather can fluctuate dramatically from one day to the next. This kind of variability keeps everyone on their toes, as you never quite know what to expect when you step outside.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 