For Judes Bench Challenge with a the tacky poem attached to it.
A woman on a metal bench of green,
In a black dress, her beauty serene.
A green jacket wraps her in gentle embrace,
With long hair flowing, she lights up the space.
White sneakers on her feet, so bright,
She smiles at the camera, a pure delight.
Clouds. They always fascinate me, I am drawn to the intense and brooding skies that often envelop the horizon combined with the sea, I really love it. The way they shift and change, forming intricate patterns, creates an ever-evolving canvas that captivates my imagination, sparking a sense of wonder about the natural world. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth to these formations, illuminating the rich colors and textures that define them. The mood that they give to a photograph can transform a simple scene into something dramatic and powerful, evoking emotions that resonate deeply within me .
I can almost feel the breeze, a touch of autumn in these photos. These are from Hailuoto, Oulu.
We spent family time with our boys at this gig. For Six word Saturday
Joenniemen kartano (the Manor) designed by architect Jarl Eklund, was completed in 1935 as the representative home of Gösta and Ruth Serlachius on the shores of Lake Melasjärvi. The building represents Classicism and is influenced by English manor architecture. The interior features clean-lined functionalism from the 1930s.
Sculptor Hannes Autere designed the wooden furniture of the wine house and carved the wooden reliefs that decorate the space, as I wrote in my previous post. Hannes Autere also made the wooden carvings that adorn the main door and window frames of the manor.
Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors
Click the images to enlarge the details on the door
Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #41: Movement was a bit of a head-scratcher for me at first. I found myself pondering what movement actually meant and how on earth I could represent it in my photos. The sea and waves seemed like the obvious choices, but honestly, can water really convey that captivating essence of motion? As I mulled over this theme, I came across a few other ideas, like birds soaring and kids playing around, but I can’t shake the feeling that I’m not quite capturing movement as I should. I’m left wondering if experimenting with different techniques and angles will even make a difference in truly conveying that feeling of motion in my shots.
This week here is my take on Windows as the light the rooms with sculptures by Emil Wickström
Emil Wikström (1864–1942) is known especially as a sculptor of public monuments cast in bronze and worked in stone, and as the creator of Finnish national imagery, significantly contributing to the artistic identity of Finland during his era. His works often reflect a deep emotional resonance and connection to Finnish culture and history. Among his most notable pieces is the sculpture of Anna-Liisa from 1906, which is prominently displayed by the window at Serlachius Museum, inviting viewers to reflect on the themes of femininity and beauty. Below this evocative sculpture is another striking piece, named Kuoleva tyttö from 1914 (translated as “dying girl”), which poignantly portrays the fragility of life, adding layers of depth and meaning to his oeuvre while illustrating the artist’s ability to convey complex human emotions through his mastery of form and material.
Kalapoika (Poika ja ahven), 1888, is a captivating work that beautifully captures the essence of childhood and the deep connection between young boys and nature. This piece, also by the talented Emil Wikström, showcases a fishing boy who is lost in his simple yet profound task of catching perch.
Click to enlarge the images , recommend 😀
Monday Window: August 2025
Before I started this post, I enjoyed the beautiful images of doors in Tina’s and Sofia’s post, such a cavalcade of lovely doors and buildings that truly capture the essence of their surroundings. Each door tells its own unique story. The vibrant colors, intricate designs, and diverse architectural styles showcased in their posts serve as a source of inspiration for anyone looking to explore the world of doors. Both posts give us lots of ideas on how to approach this challenge with creativity and enthusiasm, encouraging us to find beauty in the ordinary.
Like Sofia, I enjoy photographing doors and windows as intriguing opportunities to imagine life behind them, often sparking curiosity about the stories within those frames. Each door stands as a portal, and windows offer glimpses of the vibrant world inside, blending the exterior with the intimate. Street photography closely relates to door images for me, capturing the essence of the environment and moments that unfold silently, inviting us to ponder our shared human experiences. The interplay of light and shadow often evokes nostalgia, making each shot a narrative waiting to be explored.
How you crop the image makes you pay attention to different things, emphasizing various aspects of the subject and focus. By adjusting the frame, you can direct the viewer’s eye to specific details, creating a stronger emotional impact. This encourages deeper engagement with the visual narrative. (click the images to get a better view)
Details on doors that have gotten me to click the a shot.
I eagerly anticipate your posts, inspired by Tina’s 2018 challenge and Sofia’s current exploration of the same theme. Hope your search enjoyable! Do remember to tag Lens-Artists and to link back to Sofia’s post so that we can all effortlessly connect with your contributions.
Last week was truly remarkable, thanks to Ann-Christine’s challenge focused on Fairs, Markets, and Festivals. These vibrant cultural events are pivotal in defining a society, and it was a pleasure to explore a selection from across the globe. Looking ahead, we eagerly anticipate Beth’s leadership next Saturday, August 23rd. Until then, say positive and keep on smiling.
If you want to know more about the Lens-Artists challenge, please click here.
We took a quick trip home and I snapped some pics of Black chokeberry while soaking in the first signs of autumn. I noticed this awesome red leaf and a berry that had already turned red, looking pretty against the green leaves. I know these berries are edible, and while they look great, it’s pretty much best to just eat aronia straight up to really soak up all those vitamins and antioxidants. Seriously, aronia berries pack a punch with vitamins C, E, and B, plus essential minerals and flavonoids that are super good for you. But honestly, I’ve never felt the urge to eat them—maybe because I think they’re more fun to look at than to actually taste. I’ve thought about throwing them into a recipe, but the motivation to pick them and enjoy their awesome health perks just hasn’t hit me yet.
This week’s Thursday Doors features a beautifully carved wooden wine cellar door at Serlaclius Museum, showcasing intricate reliefs by Hannes Autere. The interior highlights a decorated room, complete with a musician mural and detailed windows that emphasize the artistic celebration of wine enjoyment. Thursday Doors
Details from the wine cellar at the cellar.
We visited this museum during our vacation, and I for some reason got inspired to do three monochrome / BW versions of a this photo of a man learning about this piece of art.
I will start with also a color version of the photo compared to the monochrome one if a portrait composition.
This small but immeasurably valuable oil painting is a study of the properties of light and shadow. Monet painted a whole series of haystack motifs in the changing weather conditions of the Normandy countryside.
A significant art discovery has been made at the Serlachius Museum in Mänttä. The painting “Heinäsuova ilta-auringossa” (Meadow Meadow in the Evening Sun), which is part of the museum’s collection, has been revealed to be the work of Claude Monet (1840-1926), a key painter of the Impressionist art movement.
The painting lacks a visible signature, but the University of Jyväskylä’s hyperspectral camera detected Monet’s name and the year 1891 beneath the paint. Analyses of the pigment and fabric confirm it is by Claude Monet. The Serlachius Museum has had it since the 1950s, assuming it could be by Monet. Its authenticity was confirmed in 2015, thanks to advancements in technology. The work was purchased in London through an art dealer from Mänttä and is believed to have been shown at the Impressionist exhibition at the Grafton Gallery in London in 1905.
I put together these different versions for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness project as a fun way to dive into artistic expression. The whole idea was to check out how the mood and meaning of the photo shift with different edits. I found myself thinking about what the image is really about—is it the painting itself, the man who’s learning about it, or maybe even the overall space where both the art and the observer exist? My idea was to show just how complex art can be and how it hits people in different ways based on their own experiences and perspectives.
The captions were created with AI – all slightly different… because of the light and contrast?
Practice, that is what I am doing here. Practicing still life photography with a beautiful flower I picked up while walking in my yard. I adjust the angles and focus to create the perfect composition using my phone camera, and the TV as a background. With Each shot I try to find an angle that looks pleasant to me.
I tries to find a english name for this plant – Spiraea billiardii is all I could find.
Four weeks have gone by since the official summer holiday came to an end, and I find myself still spending this week at the summer house, relishing the warm weather that lingers. The sun hangs high in the sky, casting a golden glow over the landscape, while soft breezes rustle the leaves of the trees surrounding me. Now the temperature has settled at a pleasant +20°C; it is nice enough to enjoy early morning coffee outdoors, Evenings are perfect , the horizon is painted with hues of orange and pink as the sun sets, creating a picturesque backdrop that makes it hard to believe that summer is truly slowly slipping away.
It has been an odd summer; the first half was so unseasonably cold that it hardly felt like summer at all. However, everything changed dramatically in the middle of July when our holiday commenced. To our surprise, we experienced the longest hot period in Finland’s recorded history—an astonishing 22 consecutive days of weather ranging between +25-30°C. This was a remarkable shift that caught many of us off guard, as such temperatures are not the norm for our region. We spent our days enjoying the sunny days in the shade, laying in the hammock, not really doing much. Lazy hazy summer days. Spending time with family, by the sea and lakes. Enjoying tasty fresh food prepared by others. I didn’t even take that many photos, hardly any. That is if I compare it to what I have done.
The increase in extreme weather has become a point of concern for many, as it is evident that these phenomena are occurring more frequently, likely due to the impacts of climate change. As I reflect on this summer, I cannot help but wonder what changes the future holds for our weather patterns and how we will adapt to them in the coming years.
I have made few posts, but I apologize for not commenting on posts, and I have also been slow in replying to comments. I feel bad about it, but the thing is I feel almost guilty when there is a lovely summer day and I choose to stay inside. So I don’t . The summer is so short here, and when you have the opportunity to enjoy the good weather, you have to take it. It’s a time for outdoor life, barbecues with friends, and simply soaking up the sun’s rays. We have a long winter, and during that season, the days can feel endless as we spend more time indoors. Therefore, when summer arrives, I want to embrace every moment of it, squeezing in all the joy that I can before it slips away once again. I will try to do better …
Now I will post few photos, as this is a photography blog. Words have not really been my thing, but I am trying to include more …
This week is Ann-Christine‘s turn to host, and when I saw the topic, I thought, wow, do I have anything for this one? I was pretty sure I didn’t, but as I reflected more, I realized my memory did not serve me well. As I started to look for images, I revisited these places again, and they brought back lots of nice memories, each one a little treasure from the past. I remembered the conversations, and the warmth of those special moments. The sights and sounds all came rushing back, making me appreciate the experiences I had taken for granted. It’s funny how a simple image can trigger such a flood of emotions and nostalgia, reminding me of the connections I’ve made and the joy that comes with them.
Marketplaces nor fairs are not something I frequently go to. Many of the marketplaces are often tourist traps, and I am not into those places; I find them to be overwhelming and overpriced, and they lack the charm I seek in my outings. Instead, I usually visit stores that have vintage furniture and quirky home decor items, or we have great recycling stores that we might have a quick peek at, offering unique finds and sustainable options. There’s something special about hunting for treasures in these hidden gems rather than being surrounded by the hustle and bustle of a crowded market.
It makes me reminisce about a particular trip to a marketplace we came across in Nice, France, years back; the vibrant colors, the sounds of local vendors engaging with customers, and the tantalizing aromas of fresh produce and local delicacies filled the air, making it an unforgettable experience. It was a delightful fusion of culture and community, highlighting the essence of the region. This memory urges me to reconsider my stance on marketplaces and perhaps explore them with a more open mind in the future.
Now that I’ve embraced the spirit of exploration, I’m reminded of a few unforgettable visits to the markets that I’d like to share. Stepping into a Thai floating market feels like entering an entirely different realm. Narrow canals overflow with boats offering a wealth of food and merchandise, while the amiable vendors engage in lively conversations in Thai. This surreal experience is one you shouldn’t miss during your time in the country. One of my most enchanting experiences occurred at a floating market in Thailand, where the air was filled with vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Vendors deftly navigated their boats, overflowing with fresh fruits, fragrant spices, and artisanal crafts, establishing a vibrant atmosphere that embodied the local culture. It was clear that this spot was a must-see attraction for tourists.
This was a totally different experience regarding scents – a fish market in Negombo, Sri Lanka, where the air was thick with the briny aroma of freshly caught fish, mingled with the subtle sweetness of tropical spices. The hustle and bustle of vendors shouting their catch of the day created a vibrant atmosphere, drawing both locals and tourists alike. Memorable for me, this sensory overload offered a glimpse into the daily lives of the fishermen and the rich culinary traditions that define this coastal city. The colors of the fish, the energy of the crowd, and the unique scents combined to create an unforgettable tapestry of sights and sounds. Popular items are generally sharks, prawns, crabs, yellowfin tuna, sardines and Spanish mackerel. You can even find varieties like sea chicken, barracuda, and other “exotic “varieties here. The Dry Fish market usually has endless rows of fish on Hessian rugs to dry.
I apologize for the overload of photos, but the amount of them also kind of creates the same overwhelming feel these two last places had. Each image captures a myriad of memories and moments that can easily saturate the senses, reflecting the vibrant chaos that characterized those locations. That does not include Nice, though; that was calm and had a totally different vibe to it.
A huge thank you to John for another enlightening challenge last week! I really appreciated the examples and tips shared. I’m eager to see what you create this week! Next week, we’ll have another opportunity for “Looking Back,” with Sofia leading the way. Don’t forget to check out her lovely site for more!
If you’re interested in sharing your own responses to the Lens-Artists Challenge each week but need guidance on how to begin, you can find more information here.
Debbies Six Word Saturday
I was first a bit lost with this challenge; it’s not that I don’t enjoy taking backlit photos—quite the opposite, in fact. I find it a great way to capture atmosphere and mood, as there’s something inherently magical about the way light interacts with the subjects. However, I also recognize that no sunsets or sunrises should be featured if I’m not shooting directly towards the light source. This has prompted me to explore different angles and perspectives, allowing the light to create a sense of depth and intrigue in my images. Additionally, I made a conscious effort to avoid overly simplistic silhouette images, as I wanted my photographs to embody a more complex layering of shades and nuances of light. Each shot became an opportunity to experiment with subtle gradients and textures, enriching the overall visual narrative that I aimed to convey through my work. Hope you fell I succeeded in my effort.
For Monochrome Madness this week, Brian Bushboy has set a challenge – Backlighting.
My first is a side portrait of my grandsone sitting in front of a window.
We kicked back on Monday soaking up the culture at Serlachius Manor, where we checked out some amazing exhibits featuring everything from contemporary to classic art. The calm and elegance of the place really added to the exploration ofthe exhibits letting us dive into the creativity and history packed into those gorgeous galleries. We took our time wandering through the different installations, each one with its own unique story and offering cool insights into the artists’ journeys. It was a day full of inspiration and an awesome chance to connect with the rich cultural vibe that Serlachius Manor has to offer.
So this really is Monday windows – These I took with my IPhone. I haven’t uploaded my photos I took with my camera, If I would wait to do that this post would not happen.
Monday Window: 4 August 2025
I took most of the images from the the restaurant we had lunch.
By the way the lunch was delicious, but that is another post
I had this , and well it is green, so I think I will just use it now For Debbie’s One Word Sunday. Nearly identical shots but still not. I do love watching how light plays.. and brings out depth and detail
John’s very informative and inspired challenge this week is – Tools of Photo Composition: Lines, Colors, and Patterns encompasses many of the foundational elements of composition guidelines that are invaluable for both new and seasoned photographers. You will get great ideas from his post.
It’s important to recognize that learning to effectively use lines can guide the viewer’s eye through an image, enriching the narrative that each photograph tells.Colors also hold immense power; warm hues have the ability to envelop us in feelings of comfort or excitement, while cooler tones often bring a sense of calm and introspection.
Meanwhile, patterns can offer depth and texture, transforming an ordinary scene into something truly captivating. By taking the time to master these essential elements, photographers nurture their creativity and artistry, enabling each image to not only preserve a fleeting moment but also convey a meaningful story that resonates with others.
I took this image with this challenge in mind, but then totally forgot and posted it in an previous post, but I think it is worth a repeat as it has many of the elements of what this challenge is about. Leading lines, pattern
How about this to explain this image: A vibrant ferris wheel stands majestically against the skyline, its colorful patterns spinning joyfully as it attracts visitors from afar. The pier, with its inviting leading line, draws people toward the shimmering waters where they can take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The contrasting textures of stone and sand underfoot provide a tactile experience that enhances the charm of this seaside location. The deep blue color of the ocean reflects the sky, enveloping the scene in a serene mood that invites relaxation and contemplation while casting a tranquil aura over the vibrant surroundings.
Let’s end this post with this mood. A serene sunrise casts a soft glow over a misty landscape, illuminating the world with gentle pastel colors that dance across the horizon. The sun’s rays pierce through the lingering fog, creating a tranquil atmosphere that invites reflection and peace. Colors also hold immense power; warm hues, such as soft oranges and soothing yellows, have the ability to envelop us in feelings of comfort, creating a nurturing environment that brings a sense of safety and belonging. As we breathe in the fresh morning air, the harmonious blend of nature’s palette further enhances our mood, urging us to embrace the day ahead with hope and positivity.
Last week, Tina presented a challenge centered on the theme of “Live and Learn.” Next week, Ann-Christine will take over as host. Make sure to follow her blog here to catch her upcoming challenge, which is set to be published at noon Eastern Time on Saturday. If you’re interested in sharing your own responses to the Lens-Artists Challenge each week but need guidance on how to begin, you can find more information here.
Debbies Six Word Saturday
I had various Red Images that are more red for position on this last day of #SimplyRed. Thanks for this challenge Becky, I had fun.
But, I am still going to post these most recent photos.
We went shopping in Lahti, and decided to have lunch at the harbor.
One more image of leading lines
For Leanne’s Monochrome Madness
This week I have thought about my learning curve, and one of the most interesting aspects is monochrome adjustments. I have come a long way from the first attempts .
I posted these in color in a previous post few days ago. This how they look in monochrome.
Keeping it simple today for Becky’s#SimplyRed squares
Many thanks to Tina for this challenge Lens-Artists #358 – Live and Learn. The first quote she posted was “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” Ben Franklin . I can relate to that. I was a lazy student in school, I hardly never read for homework at home, I quickly did it by memory of what i heard in the class. I was a student who told other to shut up, so I could listen what the teacher taught. I did OK with this technique of study.
Well, photography – I looked at other photographers’ images and learned from paintings about composition, as art was my first love. Composition is the key to my images. For years, I didn’t edit any of my photos. I started blogging in 2011, but it was only in 2013 when I started to edit with free editing programs. Mostly, I did cropping and exposure and contrast adjustments. I got my first version of Lightroom in 2016, and I bought some presets – I opened them to see what they kept in them, and that is how I started to learn how to use the program. I never was a guidebook reader. Trial and error, that is the way to go.
Different styles I picked up on the way, bokeh, macro, close-ups, black and white edits… You get the idea.
At this point, I had learned a few more things about the camera settings, and I started following a few photographers, watching them showcase all the new improvements that Lightroom offered.
I found myself fascinated by the way they meticulously adjusted each setting to create stunning visuals that spoke to their unique vision. How they used these tools effectively inspired me deeply, and I copied them, adjusting their techniques to suit my own style. With each photo I took, I experimented with different approaches, trying to find that sweet spot where technical skill met personal expression. I was very taken when someone told me they could recognize my photos from their style. It was a moment of pride for me because it meant I was starting to carve out my own niche in the photography world. I was so flattered and encouraged to keep pursuing this passion.
I chose these photos I searched for photos from the earlier years. I redid the post as It was a disaster in so many levels to start with and reposted it. The photos weren’t the worst, but I realized I could show much more depth and tones by revisiting the editing process with these three new versions. Each edit allowed me to experiment with different filters and adjustments, bringing out the vibrant colors and intricate details in a way that truly showcases the beauty I initially hoped to express. As for the flowers photo I took this week, i soft petals and rich colors that evoke warmth and happiness, reminding me of the fleeting essence of summer and the joy it brings. Even in monochrome, yes?, No?
Last week Egidio took us Into the Woods for some Forest Bathing. It is obvious that Forest are great inspiration to many of us. Be sure to check back on Saturday, August 2 at noon Eastern Time when John will be hosting our next challenge.
For information on how to join the Len-Artists challenge please click here.
I posted this originally 2013 and as I was looking for photos to show of what I have learned in photography and blogging I found out tons. This was post was so bad that had to redo it altogether. I have not edited the photos. But the post had only one view… that says all what can be said about learning curve.
Capilano Suspension Bridge takes you to the serenity of a West Coast rainforest, where lush greenery envelops you and the sounds of nature can be heard all around.
As you walk across this iconic bridge, suspended high above the emerald waters below, you’ll be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of towering trees and the rich biodiversity of the area.
The bridge stretches 137 meters (450 feet) across the Capilano River and is one of the longest and highest suspension bridges in the world, offering an exhilarating experience for visitors.The experience is not only about the bridge itself; the surrounding park is home to various walking trails, treetop adventures, and informative exhibits that celebrate the local ecology and history, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The experience is not only about the bridge itself; the surrounding park is home to various walking trails, treetop adventures, and informative exhibits that celebrate the local ecology and history, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The first version with many crossings is for Debbies One Word Sunday: Crossing
For Becky’s SimplyRed is the second one with more red light 🚦
John’s Cellpic we’ll all are taken with my mobile behind the wheel, edited with Lightroom on the phone.
Additional photo is a bus crossing the crossing in front of the red bus edited into a square.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 