This got me thinking about the nuances between circles and rounds. I try to be as accurate as I can when I participate in challenges 😂, as if it really matters that much in the grand scheme of things. Yet, there’s something strangely satisfying about getting it right. So, I thought I would take some time to refresh and confirm my knowledge on the topic.
The differences between circles and rounds are primarily based on their definitions and geometrical properties. A circle is a two-dimensional shape defined as the set of all points in a plane that are equidistant from a fixed point known as the center. In contrast, the term “round” refers to the general quality of being circular or spherical, which can apply to various shapes and objects, not limited to geometric circles. Moreover, while a circle has a precise mathematical definition with specific formulas for its area and circumference, “round” can be more subjective, describing items that appear curved or circular without adhering to strict geometric rules.
These are the images I decided to share with Leanne’s Monochrome Madness #53: Circles and Going Around in Them Guest host Dawn: Monochrome Madness #53: Circles The last one well… it is a ⭕
A modern circular skylight illuminating a spacious interior, casting intricate shadows on the floor as visitors explore the space.
A performer showcasing impressive acrobatics while balancing on a pedestal in a spotlight.
A monochrome view through a circular opening, framing a landscape of trees and clouds.
A cat resting next to a circular mirror, capturing its reflection in a monochrome setting.
An artistic arrangement of rings captured in monochrome, highlighting their circular forms.
A monochrome image of a Ferris wheel with a ‘Helsingfors’ sign in the foreground, capturing the essence of circular shapes.
Sign marking the Arctic Circle, surrounded by snowy trees.
I had to run some errands and took the opportunity to have a coffee break. And being Monday, why not take a few new photos for today from the cafe? I took a cozy seat by the window just for that reason, allowing the sunlight to illuminate my space. As I sipped my coffee, I looked around, hoping to find something else interesting to capture through IPhone. The people engaged in conversations, the barista expertly crafting intricate latte art, and the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the air. A perfect setting for a spontaneous photography.
A cozy cafe scene capturing the reflective glass and architecture, paired with the bustle of the city outside.A view of modern architecture reflecting blue skies, with window numbers visible from a cozy café.Illuminated modern hanging lights reflecting on a cafe window.Enjoying a Hazelnut nougat latte with a delicious Finnish pistachio cinnamon bun at the cafe. Delicious 😋
Color of light is an interesting idea for a color.
Light itself contains all colors, appearing white when combined, yet it consists of a spectrum of colors—red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet—each with a unique wavelength.
What have you seen or experienced that has astonished you? Beth from Wandering Dawgs asked.
Beth was inspired by these words by Mary Oliver from her poem “Sometimes” for this weeks challenge.
Pay attention
Be astonished
Tell about it”
I have been astonished many times in my lifetime by children, people, young and old, revealing layers of beauty and complexity in humanity. So often by nature, I find myself in awe of the vibrant colors of a sunset, the intricate patterns of leaves, and the soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore. Each moment is a reminder of the wonder that surrounds us, and I cherish these experiences, life’s fleeting magic. The older I get more I appreciate the small wonders that surround me.
A snuggling, newborn, embodying the astonishment of new life. I have experienced this miracle three times, this is me with my first born nearly 36 years ago. Photo Martti Sillanmäki which I edited.
I lived in Las Vegas many years ago, and I was astonished by the nature of the desert, with its stunning, expansive views that stretched endlessly beneath a brilliant blue sky. The rock formations in the Valley of Fire, with their vibrant hues of red and orange, seemed almost otherworldly, as if a painter had splashed the landscape with bold colors. I was especially fascinated by how much life there is in the desert, from resilient cacti standing tall against the harsh conditions to small creatures that thrive despite the intense heat and dryness. Each visit revealed new wonders, as the desert’s beauty and complexity continued to surprise and captivate me, showcasing the remarkable adaptability of nature.
Enlarge the images in the collage by clicking them for a better view.
THose who follow me know; I am always impressed and taken by the power of water is truly astonishing; it manifests in various forms such as the vastness of the sea, the depth of the ocean, the swift flow of rivers, and the majestic splendor of waterfalls. Each of these elements have the relentless force and beauty of water, which can provide life and nourishment while also possessing the ability to create destruction. The gentle pitter-patter of rain, for instance, can refresh the earth and bring forth new growth, yet in larger quantities, it can lead to floods that reshape landscapes and communities. From the tranquil lakes reflecting the sky to the raging torrents of rivers carving through mountains, water is indeed a vital and powerful element of our world.
Mountains captivated me at every glance, their grandeur towering sharply against the skyline, with their immense presence enveloping them in a nurturing hug. The sunlit, snow-draped summits shimmer in the warmth, while the rugged ground narrates stories of age-old geological events. Surrounding forests flourish with vitality, their lush green shades strikingly set off by the stark whites and grays of the summits. The air is invigorating and clear, rich with the aroma of pine, the numerous pathways and hollows that weave through this stunning terrain.
I am going to stop here. I have added way too many photos, but that is due to the fact that nature always, constantly amazes me with its incredible beauty and diversity. From lush green forests to serene mountain ranges, deserts, there is an endless variety of landscapes to explore and appreciate. When we travel, we mostly look for natural sights to see that inspire awe and a sense of wonder. I love capturing nature, be it landscapes or close-ups, as each photograph tells a story and preserves a moment in time that can be cherished forever. Look and see – pay attention, and you will be astonished by the intricate details and the vibrant colors that surround us every day, reminding us of the magic that exists in the world.
Last week, Tina welcomed us with a theme centered around Shapes and Designs. The world is teeming with inspirational creations, many of which are derived from nature. Our designs, whether in architecture, fashion, or the everyday items we utilize, reflect this connection. This was clearly visible in the photos we all contributed.
I hope you will join in for this week’s challenge. Share us what astonishes you. Be sure to tag your post with Lens-Artists and include a link back to Beth’s post.
Be sure to check back on Saturday, February 14, at noon Eastern Time, when I will once again host; I know it’s Valentine’s Day, still, I hope you will join me then. Until then, let’s continue to explore, expand our knowledge and stay positive ❤️
A close-up of a colorful light bulb featuring vibrant purple bubbles and reflections.
A spontaneous shot of a light/lightbulb I saw caught my eye. I fancied how it looked and quickly decided to take a shot, capturing the essence of the moment in a single frame. At the time, I had no idea where to use it, as it didn’t fit into any particular theme I was working on. However, after giving it some thought, I realized that it would be perfect to share in John’s Cellpic Sunday. Mobile photography does make it easy to capture these small observations, as it is always handy.
I enjoy capturing the details of winter; these were not taken recently, but they have been recently edited. I love how I was able to find new, interesting, and beautiful aspects while doing this, and I am happy to continue sharing my winter finds.
Icicles formed on rocks and branches by a flowing stream.
Icicles, resembling the sharp teeth of the season, elegantly hang from branches and rugged rocks, forming a scene that is both picturesque and enchanting, ideal for photography. A blanket of sparkling white snow covers the ground, beneath the soft winter sunlight, while a partially frozen stream winds gently through the landscape. It was quite chilly. The icy stones along the banks provide an artistic element to the surroundings, reflecting the glimmering light as the water flows softly over them. The fragile beauty of frozen grass, embellished with countless shimmering icicles, amplifies the wintry allure, instilling a sense of peace and awe. This breathtaking landscape captures the essence of winter’s beauty; it’s wonderful to take a moment to appreciate the serene, cold elegance crafted by nature.
Winter water scene featuring a partially frozen stream with icy rocks and flowing water.Icicles form on snow-covered branches, winters teeth.Icicles forming on a rocky surface.Close-up of icicles and freezing water droplets on a rocky surface.Frozen grass adorned with icicles, captured in a partially frozen stream A serene winter scene featuring a partially frozen stream with snow-covered rocks and frosty branches.
I added a gallery of the same images if you wish to look at them enlarged.
Hvitträsk I have introduced you before in a few posts, and a few more may be on the way. This time I am showing you doors, doorways, and stairways, highlighting the beautiful and intricate details that make each entry unique. The craftsmanship evident in the woodwork and the architectural design invites you to appreciate the artistry behind these structures. I tried to take photos that look interesting and capture the essence of Hvitträsk’s charm; this is the outcome for Dan’s Thursday Doors. Several photos even showcase some interior views, allowing you a glimpse into the rooms connected by these stunning doorways, each telling a story of its own through the combination of natural light and decorative elements that complement the overall aesthetic of the space.
An artistic interior view of Hvitträsk featuring unique furniture and architectural details.
For this week’s edition of Flower Hour Weekly for Terri, I’ve rummaged through my archives in search of inspiration and beauty. I haven’t purchased any new flowers for the vase, and nature currently offers only evergreens and snow, so my choices are quite restricted, leaving me to reflect on the stunning blooms I’ve captured in the past. These flowers are nature’s artistry in my mind; they delight me even when we are surrounded by the stillness of winter.
Blooming flower of giant granadilla or giant passion fruit (Passiflora quadrangularis)
A blooming flower of giant granadilla (Passiflora quadrangularis) nestled among vibrant green leaves against backlight.
Here is my entry for Monochrome-Madness I think these are my newest photos taken, so I am going to use them for this week’s post. They are just snapshots of urban city life that I took with my cell phone, capturing fleeting moments that often go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of daily life. I love how the editing can change the mood of the photographs, transforming simple scenes into evocative imagery.
A sepia-toned photograph capturing a moment on an escalator, mother and her two daughters, the tone evoking a sense of nostalgia.
These were taken a few minutes apart, but the sepia tones add nostalgia to the first one, evoking a sense of timelessness that draws the viewer in. The second two are more recent shots; I played with the other, adding color to the person on the escalator, creating a striking contrast against the monochrome background that emphasizes their presence. This technique not only highlights the subject but also evokes a feeling of aloneness amidst the chaos.
I would love to hear any thoughts about these shots and how they resonate with you, as feedback is always appreciated
A monochrome view of an escalator in a bustling shopping center, capturing the movement and vibrancy of urban life.A solitary figure stands by the escalators in a bustling urban space, captured in striking monochrome.
Cold and bright night, moon shines high, trees shimmer with frost, whispering secrets in the winter sky. Each breath a cloud, every shadow a ghost, the world wrapped in silence, a beauty, a host, like a scene on a postcard. Smoke rises gently from the chimney, stars blink down in their velvet attire, as whispers of dreams float higher and higher. February’s breath, crisp and clear.
That is what it was like when we came home Sunday evening.
A winter night illuminated by a bright moon, highlighting frosted trees and a peaceful snowy landscape.
A winter night, frosted trees and a sparkling blanket of snow under the glowing streetlamp.
A winter night showcasing frost-covered trees under a bright full moon.
I do get carried away when I do these edits; I am sorry about that. Your option is to look at only three 😁, but I just happened to create six versions because I had so many ideas swirling in my head. I was also thinking of posting them as a gallery, as at least on my computer when I look at galleries, I find that I see more details as they open up, allowing me to appreciate the nuances in each piece more thoroughly. The way the images transition really captures my attention and draws me in. So, I did both to give you a variety of choices; how do you see them, and which style do you prefer? I would love to hear your thoughts, as your feedback is invaluable to me.
A serene view of a bay with colorful fishing boats and a quiet shoreline, framed by lush greenery. The original image.Orange and turquoise tones as a paintingMore towards greys and muted tones more event texturePainting -brush splatters, slightly blue tones
Inblue ones and painting light textures
Wll muted orange, turquoise and more contrast
A moody black and white photograph of boats docked at a waterfront, surrounded by lush trees and a cloudy sky.
This was taken yesterday evening as we were exiting a movie; I looked towards the window and also at the seating area of a restaurant. So much to see in this image if you look closely. You can see the apartment buildings towering in the background, their windows lit by light, the snow on the ground, a walking path between the buildings, and most obviously the reflections that capture the essence of this urban landscape. Monday Window: 2 February 2026
A cozy, modern dining area illuminated at night, with reflections on the windows.
Aerial view of a cozy restaurant interior featuring modern decor, wooden tables, and unique pendant lighting.
Tina from Travels and Trifles is hosting this week, and the theme is Shapes and designs. It’s such a cool topic that opens up a world of creativity and imagination! A lot of awesome designs actually come from nature, where we see the fun of stripes, the charm of round shapes, and the unique patterns on leaves. These natural vibes not only give us great ideas for art but also show how closely design is linked to the environment around us. Think about how creative the spirals of seashells and the designs of frost on a window can be—nature is like a big treasure chest of inspiration waiting for us to dive in! By creating designs that draw from these organic shapes, we can really deepen our appreciation for both art and the natural world, reminding us to notice and enjoy the beauty that’s all around us every single day.
Intricate frost patterns resembling organic shapes, showcasing the beauty of nature’s design.
They are everywhere in our lives, making a mark on everything from buildings and clothes to art and gadgets. These visuals do more than just look good; they also play a big role in how things work and how we feel about them. You can mix geometric shapes with more fluid, organic ones to spark emotions, create vibes, and set a mood in different spaces. Plus, when you get the hang of design basics like balance and contrast, you can really get creative and make shapes work for you—ensuring your designs hit home with whoever’s checking them out. All this creativity and structure is what keeps design fresh and pushes the boundaries of how we communicate visually in so many fields.
A cozy interior space featuring an inviting alcove with plush cushions, illuminated by natural light filtering through arched windows. Design and shapes together in perfect harmony
Interior view of a cozy wooden terrace showing its unique design and overlooking a serene lake and trees.The round window in the Chinese garden located at The Society of the Four Arts cultural center in Palm Beach, Florida.
Close-up of natural shells showcasing intricate textures and shapes.
A still life featuring a green apple, a cluster of grapes, and an orange on a wooden surface against a dark background. Fruits serve as a great sample of shapes
A close-up of a weathered stone cross, a design known through centuries
Iittala’s Aalto napkin rings reflect the organic shape of Aalto products. The beautiful napkin rings complete the table setting
Last week, Thanks to Egidio who encouraged us to showcase some of our rejected alongside our edited images to highlight the contrasts. It provided with different and new perspective to our not so good images. It made for an interesting week of photos. Thank you all for sharing them with us,
Lastly, we invite you to join us next week for a challenge Beth will be hosting on Wandering Dawgs. In the meantime, smile and try to stay positive 😉
Inside out – well, it is two words, but I can work with that. This phrase evokes a sense of exploration and introspection, allowing us to delve deeper into the meaning behind the surface or go with the obvious,
View from inside a car, showing a bustling street scene at night.
Two young women enjoy coffee and snacks in a cozy café
I often found myself questioning the presence of tables and chairs outside the café until I observed the mothers during lunchtime, and it all became clear. Strollers require a bit of room. Outside the cozy café, two young women sit at a table, relishing their coffee and snacks. One sports a plaid jacket; her dog looks beggingly for a bite, while the other, a cheerful young mother, beams as she eats and keeps an eye on her baby in the stroller. In the distance, more young mothers with strollers engage in lively conversation. The café buzzes with laughter as mothers enjoy their lunch, sharing stories over coffee. Discussions naturally revolve around parenting hurdles and weekend plans, transforming the café into a delightful space for connection and cherished memories over food and drinks.
I had the fortune of capturing the intricate and fragile beauty of winter in a close-up of frost-laden branches and frozen blossoms. The branches display the frost’s elaborate designs, while the flowers shine with crystalline ice, producing a striking visual contrast against a gently blurred backdrop. A slight alteration in light and composition enhances the sparkle of one image, while the version with the blue background reveals more detail. These visuals underscore the tranquil and enchanting qualities of the winter season, showcasing nature’s craftsmanship in its chilliest state.
A close-up of frost-covered branches, the delicate beauty of winter.Frozen flowers glistening with ice crystals against a soft, blurred background.
SNARL…such a great word I had to look it up, so I don’t mess up, fuck up, snarl, growl, gnarl, snap,
A tangled mess of wires and debris hanging from a power line, illustrating complexity and chaos.
Verb (transitive) To entangle; to complicate; to involve in knots.
A close-up of tangled metal springs tied with rope, illustrating the concept of complications and entanglement.
(intransitive) To growl angrily by gnashing or baring the teeth; to gnarl; to utter grumbling sounds. (intransitive) To become entangled. (transitive) To complain angrily; to utter growlingly. (transitive) To place in an embarrassing situation; to ensnare; to make overly complicated. (intransitive) To speak crossly; to talk in rude, surly terms.
A bustling street scene depicting a traffic jam in Paris, with an obelisk in the distance.
(transitive, intransitive) To be congested in traffic, or to make traffic congested. To form raised work upon the outer surface of (thin metal ware) by the repercussion of a snarling iron upon the inner surface; to repoussé
substantive A knot or complication of hair, thread, or the like, difficult to disentangle. The act of snarling; a growl; a surly or peevish expression; an angry contention. An intricate complication; a problematic difficulty; a knotty or tangled situation. A growl, for example that of an angry or surly dog, or similar; grumbling sounds. A slow-moving traffic jam. A squabble.
What can I express about this photograph? Is there truly a need for words? Should I begin by depicting an enchanting stairway that ascends to a vintage door, stirring emotions of curiosity and intrigue?
Does it have an inviting yet mysterious ambiance, prompting exploration and reflection? Or if I say: The stairway acts as a threshold, encouraging individuals to stop and consider what awaits beyond the door, amplifying the overall sense of fascination; is it true? Does the fusion of charm and appeal captivate the imagination, positioning the door as a central point of interest for anyone who comes across it?
Or should I just say – a door at the top of the stairs, standing tall and mysterious, inviting curiosity about what lies beyond its threshold? The staircase, worn from years of use, leads up to this intriguing entrance, leaving one to wonder if it guards secrets or simply offers a passage to another room filled with memories.
A charming stairway leading to a vintage door, does this have the essence of curiosity and mystery.
Today, the temperature sits at -9°C, with snow gently drifting down throughout the day. The sky appears overcast, a soft white hue. It’s a chilly winter day, and I feel content being indoors, wearing my woolen socks and reminiscing over photographs from past trips. Remembering the blue skies and warmer weather. These are taken years ago, my nephew took me to the waterfront in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada for a visit. I loved the snow-covered mountains, standing majestic against the dark blue sea.
A view of a couple on a wooden pier, side by side, also memorizing the stunning landscape around them, with snow-capped mountains towering majestically in the background, their peaks adorned with fluffy clouds that seem to hover gently, casting a soft shadow over the tranquil water below. The air is crisp and refreshing, while the gentle lapping of waves against the wooden structure adds to the peaceful ambiance that enhances the breathtaking scenery, making it an idyllic moment. That’s what I recall, and hopefully, that is the essence of what this photograph captures.
A view of a couple on a wooden pier with snow-capped mountains in the background, with the clouds hovering at their peaks. So beautiful
I often end up taking photos of the seagulls when I am by a pier; this time, they were perched on a worn wooden pier, gracefully overlooking the serene blue waters and the distant mountains. Their calls carried across the waves, adding a sense of liveliness to the calm surroundings, while I captured the beauty of the moment through my lens, trying to freeze it all in time. The landscape was a perfect blend of tranquility and vibrancy, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Click the gallery to enlarge the images.
The image features a fish market building located on the waterfront in Sidney,
The iconic fish market building on the waterfront in Sidney, British Columbia, surrounded by tranquil waters and a clear blue sky.
It is cold, and the world outside is mostly white, blanketed in a thick layer of snow. The brown hydrangeas are still up under the snow, their once-vibrant blooms now a muted memory, yet they stand resilient in this wintry landscape. Here are some close-ups from their leaves, showcasing the unique textures and shapes that remain visible even beneath the frosty remnants.
Delicate dried petals reflecting softly against a smooth surface.A close-up view of dried hydrangea leaves, showcasing their intricate textures and muted colors.
Triptychs offer an enjoyable viewing experience, and this week, Elke from pictures imperfect blog has chosen the theme of Triptychs. She encourages you to create a triptych, using any three images that fit the challenge: whether it’s three of a kind, three that complement each other, or a narrative told in three stages.
A creative triptych featuring a close-up of jars, a mirror reflecting an artistic workspace, and a cluttered room filled with paper and materials.
I struggled to recall the process of creating a collage, so I decided to start with a single photo that I edited before compiling it in WordPress, allowing for a separate view of each image. I selected one image from the countryside and another from the city, arranging them in a traditional triptych format with the middle image slightly larger. For the city image, I took a daring approach and edited the tones; quite bold of me! 😂
The other three I remembered and did them with the intention to celebrate and enjoy art in all forms, appreciating the creativity and imagination that artists pour into their work. I find it truly inspiring, art can evoke a range of emotions and spark meaningful conversations, ultimately enriching our lives and fostering a deeper understanding of the world around us.
A striking triptych featuring reflections of skyscrapers, an array of elegant cakes, and a well-stocked bar, showcasing a unique blend of urban life, celebration, and leisure.
A black-and-white triptych depicting visitors engaging with art in a gallery setting.
The stunning beauty of winter, featuring icicles and frozen plants that perfectly frame a flowing stream. This picture captures all the cool details of the season, showing off the calm yet eye-catching sights that winter landscapes bring. The mix of cold elements and running water gives a fresh take on nature in this chilly time of year, making you appreciate the delicate balance and beauty found in winter’s embrace. I hope the vibe of winter’s charm in nature comes across.
Icicles and frozen vegetation framing a flowing stream,the beauty of winter details.
Winter and cold weather make for a nice backdrop for the old red mill in Immilä, Finland
I uncovered some historical insights, and here they are in a nutshell. The Immilä rapids have been the site of grain milling since the Middle Ages, with the earliest written record of mills dating back to 1548. The first sawmill emerged in the 1760s, by which point a settlement and an inn had already established themselves on the hill. As the 19th century unfolded, the population grew, and Immilä transformed into a vibrant village of craftsmen and millers. Following World War II, three mills were operational in the Immilä rapids; alongside two sawmills, there was also a power plant equipped with auxiliary machinery, including a bark planer. The final mill to close its doors was the Immilä district sawmill in May 1969. Of all the mill buildings, only the one erected in 1901 in the Immilä district remains today.
A winter scene featuring a red mill surrounded by snow-covered trees and a partially frozen river.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 