Tag: photography

Lens-Artists Challenge #326 – This Made Me Smile

lens-artists, Photography

This post was a nice reminder of the power of a smile. I just Love Ann-Christine‘s theme this week.

I have been in the dumps nothing serious, November blues, but I am doing my best to crawl out of it, finding the glimmers of hope amidst the dullness I feel. A smile always is uplifting, like a beacon of light in the dark. I’ve had a few smiles and laughs with friends lately, which served as a much-needed reminder of the joy that friends bring. Thank you all for your comments lately, even if I have been very bad, very naughty, at responding and reciprocating. Your kindness has not gone unnoticed, and I still have had smiles seeing your posts and comments. Each interaction, no matter how small, a connection that pulls me in, and it’s this sense of community that inspires me to keep pushing forward and rediscovering the need to crawl out of the inactive mode.

Now for the smiles. This young women made me smile when I saw her 🙂 She sure likes pink.

I know, naughty

The look and the contrast with his clown get-up for some reason made me smile. Not a happy dude in happy gear.

A good bookstore and a book can bring surely bring a smile when you discover it.

Random encounters like a man and his pig, also an old fella with pigeons, add a touch of whimsy to everyday life. The sight brings a smile to my face, while the elderly gentleman carefully holding his feathered friends creates a serene yet delightful scene. Twins, never fail to bring joy wherever I see them 🙂 The duck with fish, is a sight I don’t often see. These are some of the smile-triggering moments that remind me of the simple pleasures life has to offer, creating little pockets of happiness throughout the day. And every time I see cows in the field I need to point them out.

Signs that have some humor in them… I’ll just post this one.

 Thank you Ann-Christine for your uplifting post. When you post your response, remember to link to Ann-Christine’s original post and use the Lens-Artists tag.

Last week, Tina emphasized gratitude and reflection on appreciation beautifully, setting the stage for an this week challenge. Next week, Sofia will take over the challenge, so look out for her post and join us again.

Capturing Unique Cafe Moments

Captures from Finland, Photography

These are not the best shots I’ve taken with my mobile, but I had fun experimenting with light settings. The last set is taken from inside a cozy cafe, looking out through the window— searching for funny reflections that add an interesting twist to the ordinary scene. It’s amusing to notice how, in some of the pictures, there are lots of people appearing without heads. These unusual captures reminding me of the joy that comes from simply observing the world around me while sipping on a warm cup of coffee.

For John’s Cellpic Sunday.

How to Survive November 2024 -V

how to survive November

November 22nd

V – VALKOINEN – White

The day was gray as it often is this time of the year, but we did have white snow to brighten it up. First snow of the year.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Valkoinen ❄

How to Survive November 2024 -U

how to survive November

November 21st

U – UNILELU – Sleeping toy. A child cannot sleep without his sleeping toy, all my boys had one. Isn’t it one of the first things new parents by their child – a soft teddy.

As I took these shots of this UNILELU using the natural light from the window – which was not a lot as it is rather cloudy day, Tinka also wanted to join, – I know my cat is not a toy, but it is so soft and warm as it cuddles to my side and purrs me to sleep, making the moment feel infinitely comforting. There’s something magical about the way she gently settles beside me, her fur invitingly plush, and the rhythmic sound of her purring creates a soothing lullaby that envelops me, assuring me that everything is just as it should be.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Unilelu 🐻

How to Survive November 2024 -T

how to survive November

November 20th

T – TULI – Fire , flame . It also means came, arrived

It’s obvious that November has beaten me; I don’t seem to get anything done, and I just want to be, to do nothing—I’m not excited about anything. This is one of the reasons Surviving November is important—to take at least one or two photos a day, one thing at least accomplished. But as you can see from my photos, I am happy to disappear into my couch/sofa, wrapped in a cozy blanket, where time seems to blur.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

🔥 TULI 🔥

How to Survive November 2024 -S

how to survive November

November 19th

S – SUKKA / SUKAT – SOCK / SOCKS

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

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

S

How to Survive November 2024 -P, Q, R

how to survive November

November 16th, 17th and 18th.

I got caught behind and now I am trying to catch up with the days and letters. I looked around my office and found something to photograph, not my best shots, but I am putting in the the effort – I am taking the shots not using the the archive. That would be so much easier to do and the photos would be better, but that’s not the point here.

P – pensseli – brush

Q – QWERTY – same in both languages – a keyboard used in Finland

R – raidat – stripes

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

P, Q, R

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 ❤

How to Survive November 2024 -O

Captures from Finland, how to survive November, Photography

November 15th – O – Omena / Apple

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Omena

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.

How to Survive November 2024 – N

Captures from Finland, how to survive November, Photography

November 14th – N- Neuloa / Knit

Well, this is one of the things you can do in November.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Neuloa

Lens-Artists Challenge #324: In the Details

lens-artists

Patti from P.A. Moed Creative Exploration in Words and Pictures challenges us with this theme In 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!

How to Survive November 2024 – M

Captures from Finland, how to survive November, Photography

November 13th – M – Maisema / Landscape / scene / view

Meri – Sea

Landscape – this is taking the easy way out of this one.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Maisema

How to Survive November 2024 – L

Captures from Finland, how to survive November, Photography

November 11 th -L is for – Lasipullo / Lasipullot – Glass bottle / Glass Bottles

This is a lake reed, most common reed in Finland, photo of Lake Syväjärvi in Kirkkonummi. I am also posting this to John’s Cellpic Sunday

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Lasipullo

How to Survive November 2024 – K

Captures from Finland, how to survive November, Photography

November 11 th -K is for – Kaisla meaning Reed

This is a lake reed, most common reed in Finland, photo of Lake Syväjärvi in Kirkkonummi. I am also posting this to John’s Cellpic Sunday

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Kaisla

How to Survive November 2024 – J

how to survive November, Photography

November 10th -J is for – JÄRVI meaning lake

This is from Syväjärvi in Kirkkonummi – taken around after 3PM. It was already dusk. AS you may have seen from my yearly November posts, it is the grayest month of the year – and apparently the grayest city in Europe in November. That is what we are surviving at the moment. Yesterday I was able to catch a bit of blue in the horizon, even if it had been a dull day for the most part. the camera catches so many more hue’s than the eye can see.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Järvi

How to Survive November 2024 – I

how to survive November, Photography

November 9th – I – INDIGO. Tarkoittaa intialaista sinistä väriä.

Indigo deep blue colour / A purplish-blue colour.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Indigo

How to Survive November 2024 – H

how to survive November, Photography

November 8th – H is for Hampurilainen 🍔 – no translation needed here.

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Hampurilainen

How to Survive November 2024 – G

how to survive November, Photography

November 7th G is for Glögi – mulled wine.

This is often drank during Christmas season, often spiced with alcohol. This bottle is from last year, did not consume it back then

Lepis is hosting once again How to Survive November, and this year’s theme: Let’s follow alphabets! Every day the subject of the photo, drawing, painting, collage or whatever,  is that day’s alphabet. First day the subject is something that starts with A, second day with B and so on. In Finnish there are few more alphabets than in English language: Å, Ä, Ö. The last day we’ll make a collage out of all the other photos. You can make a link from your page with InLinkz-page which is found on the right column of her page.

Farkkutakki

street views from Katajannokka

Captures from Finland, Cities, Photography

Last weekend we ventured outside and drove to have lunch in Helsinki , it’s about half hour drive, not much of an adventure. The restaurant is located in the area of Katajanokka is a neighbourhood of Helsinki,  with around 5000 inhabitants. The district is located adjacent to the immediate downtown area, though in the first major town plan for Helsinki from the mid-18th century, the area fell outside the fortifications planned to encircle the city.

This us driving away from Katajannokka on one of the bridges, in the corner is the part of the The Presidential Palace.

Katajanokka was originally a headland of the Helsinki peninsula but is now an island due to the canal dug in the 19th century. Four bridges connect it to mainland Helsinki. Urban settlement expanded to Katajanokka in the 18th century, remaining largely untouched until the canal’s completion in 1844, which linked the South and North Harbours. The south side features a busy passenger harbour for ferries to various destinations, while the area consists mainly of co-operative apartment buildings and small parks. The eastern part was once a military zone with a naval base, which evolved into a commercial shipyard.

These are from the eastern side looking towards the sea, my attention was on the house on the small island as the sun was casting the last light on it. for some reason I did not take photos of the newer buildings.

Here we are leaving the area, driving towards the Helsinki Cathedral

The western part of the residential area, known as the “Old Side” of Katajanokka, is an upscale neighborhood and a well-preserved example of early 20th century Art Nouveau architecture, though up until the mid-19th century – while the centre of Helsinki was being filled with stone buildings – the area was essentially still a wooden shanty town.

Thursday doors, these are door photos 🙂

Dans Thursday Doors

The westside has some restoration going on and the area is not built for the amount of cars that we nowadays have, a bit tricky to get a parking spot here,