trees – Ritva Sillanmäki Photography

The Charm of Crete in Black and White Photography

Black and White photos, Photography, Traveling Crete

I am currently facing some challenges in getting back into the rhythm of blogging, but I’m determined to overcome this creative block. I’m excited to participate in one of my favorites, Leanne’s Monochrome Madness, as black and white photography is a passion of mine. I look forward to showcasing my unique perspective through this medium.

Trees at Crete Mountain in Monochrome -4 — This black-and-white i landscape with a silhouette of several leafless trees against a gradient sky that transitions from dark gray at the top to lighter near the horizon. The trees are situated on a rocky and slightly hilly terrain covered with sparse vegetation. The aim was for he composition to emphasize the intricate, intricate branches of the trees, creating a stark contrast with the smooth sky. The overall mood is calm and introspective, enhanced the subtle texture of the clouds.

Recently, I have been editing photos from a delightful short trip to Crete, where the stunning landscapes and rich history offered countless opportunities for captivating black and white images that truly reflect the island’s unique charm. Each photo tells a story, capturing fleeting moments of beauty, and I can’t wait to reveal the allure of Crete in this timeless art form, hoping to inspire myself to embrace the joy of photography once again and foster a deeper connection with my creative side. Although we initially sought warm and sunny weather for our exploration, we were only fortunate enough to experience two beautiful days, with the rest unexpectedly turning cloudy and windy, which transformed our plans in unanticipated ways and added an element of spontaneity to our journey. Renting a car for four days provided us with the freedom to explore breathtaking mountains with dramatic vistas, charming cities adorned with historical architecture, and stunning sea views that left us in awe of nature’s artistry. While the weather shift made our adventures more challenging, especially considering my wardrobe choices that were geared towards sunnier conditions, the comfortable travel clothes I wore helped me adapt to the cooler temperatures and unpredictable winds, allowing me to fully enjoy discovering new places without the discomfort of being underdressed. Each day brought new experiences, moments of laughter, and a reminder that sometimes the best parts of a trip come from embracing the unexpected.

Trees at Crete Mountain in Monochrome -1 — A lone, leafless tree standing on a rugged hillside under a cloudy sky.

Trees at Crete Mountain in Monochrome -5 — A mountainous landscape with snow-capped peaks partially shrouded in mist or low-hanging clouds. The foreground features darker forested slopes with dense clusters of evergreen trees, creating a stark contrast against the lighter, snow-streaked mountain ridges in the background. The overcast sky adds a moody, atmospheric quality to the scene, emphasizing the natural ruggedness and tranquility of the setting. I hope the image conveys a sense of vastness and quiet solitude in a pristine wilderness environment.

Trees at Crete Mountain in Monochrome -3 — Looking at the a foggy, rocky mountain landscape densely populated with trees and shrubs in the distance. The mist creates a soft, ethereal atmosphere, obscuring the background and blending the edges of the barren trees and foliage. In the composition I did a gradual transition from darker, more detailed foreground vegetation to a hazy, almost white sky, enhancing the sense of depth and mystery. The aim was for overall mood to be tranquil yet eerie, evoking a quiet, contemplative moment in nature.

Trees at Crete Mountain in Monochrome -2 — I am always on the lookout for a lone tree, why I don’t know they appeal to me. The image shows a stark, leafless tree with multiple gnarled branches extending upwards against a muted, cloudy sky. The tree stands atop a rugged, rocky mountain, creating a dramatic contrast between the dark, intricate silhouette of the branches and the textured ground below. The overall monochrome color scheme adds a somber and contemplative mood to the scene, emphasizing the raw natural forms and the starkness of the barren environment.

Fresh coat of snow

Captures from Finland, Photography

We got a fresh coat of new light snow as the weather is continuing to be cold 🥶 but it looks really pretty in my backyard.

A serene winter scene showcasing trees blanketed in fresh snow against a clear sky.

At the mall

Captures from Finland, Interiors, Photography

For John’s Cellpic Sunday without any explanation, the picture says it all 🎄🎄

Wordless Wednesday

Captures from Finland, Nature, Photography

First green

Captures from Finland, Photography

Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday

Architectural Treasures of Savannah

Cities, Photography, Traveling US

Grand house in Savannah – The Mercer-Williams House

The Mercer-Williams House was meticulously designed for General Hugh W. Mercer, who was the great-grandfather of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer, adding a unique layer of cultural significance to the residence. The ambitious construction began in 1860, showcasing architectural aspirations of the time, but it was subsequently interrupted by the tumultuous events of the Civil War, which not only halted progress but also left its imprint on the history of the structure. After several years of delay and considerable upheaval, the house was eventually completed in 1868, following General Mercer’s decision to sell the unfinished structure to John R. Wilder, an influential local businessman. Thus, in a twist of fate, no Mercer ever actually lived in the house that bears their name, creating a fascinating narrative about legacy and ownership. In Savannah, the majority of historic homes echo this tradition, often using the name of the home’s original family alongside that of the most prominent family, establishing a rich tapestry of historical narratives that delight visitors and residents alike, inviting them to explore the stories that shaped the city. This is what I found out about his house when I googled it.

Savannah – the Kehoe house at the corner of the street is supposed to be haunted.

The Kehoe House is an exquisitely restored 1892 Renaissance Revival mansion in Savannah’s Historic District. The Kehoe House was built in 1892 by William Kehoe, a successful iron foundry owner. The home’s architectural style is Queen Anne Revival. Its exterior stairway, balustrades, window treatments, fluted columns and capitals, fences and gates are all cast iron, a tribute to the iron foundry’s excellence in pattern making and casting.

These are for Thursday Doors, as I was revisiting my images from Savannah. Surprisingly I have so many doors and buildings to share from that visit. I will start with these two houses. I have previously posted them, but there is a good chance you have missed those posts.

Under the green leaves 🍃

Nature, Photography, Traveling Singapore

While sitting by the pool on our last day in Singapore I looked up to see these leaves against the blue sky.

John’s Cellpic Sunday

Lens Artists Challenge #317: Walking the Neighborhood

Landscapes, lens-artists, Photography

Walking in the neighborhood, well I am taking an easy way out. I don’t think Tina will mind this approach. We spend lots of time at Ruuhijärvi were our summer house in the country is located, even in the autumn and early spring, as the changing seasons bring a unique beauty to the landscape. Have done for the past 30 years, enjoying the tranquility that comes with spending time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. We don’t have many neighbors here, so it provides the perfect escape to connect with nature and indulge in peaceful solitude. Here is my take on this challenge: just fields, trees, and a serene lake that reflect the sky like a mirror. If you have followed me for some time, you’re not seeing anything new, sorry 🙂

All photos in galleries can be enlarged and all with the simple signature are taken this weekend.

This path is our drive to our piece of land – I love to watch the sunlight during different times of the day and see the seasons change as the foliage goes from green to yellow to brown. Seeing the sunlight filtering through the branches, casting playful shadows and illuminating the vibrant colors of nature. In the early morning, as the sun rises, the dew glistens on the grass, creating a magical sparkle, while in the afternoon, the warmth of the sun wraps around me like a comforting blanket. As autumn approaches, the leaves dance gracefully down to the ground, creating a colorful tapestry that crunches underfoot. This transformation deepens my connection to the land, reminding me of the beauty and impermanence of nature.

The gallery below has shot that are just few minute walk away, our neighbors old drying barn that is collapsing slowly but surely for the past 30 years 🙂 you can also see their old earth cellar, not in use. And were we could have out boat by the lake, but don’t as we don’t have one.

This road through the forest leads to the the lake.

The same road as in the first photo, but leading to our blue cottage.

Across the fields, there are two houses standing in close proximity, each possessing its own unique charm. One is a bright and visible red house that catches the eye from a distance; until last summer, it was somewhat concealed behind four enormous spruce trees. However, the new owners decided to cut those majestic trees down, eager to allow more sunlight into their yard, especially in the morning when the sunlight paints everything in a golden hue. The other house, in contrast, stays hidden for most of the year, only revealing itself when the leaves have fallen, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of a painting. This second house is captured in the sunset shot below.

Thanks to Egídio and all of those who responded to his Fun challenge last week, it was interesting to see what we all consider as fun. Finally I hope you’ll join us next week when Patti leads us on her beautiful Pilotfish site.

Until then keep on smiling , and as a last photo this is a shot of small discoveries you find in the woods.

One word Sunday – Monotone

Captures from Finland

Linked to one word Sunday at Debbie’s here

Monochrome Madness #13 – Trees

Black and White photos, Photography

This week is a “themed” Monochrome Madness week, and Sarah at Travel With Me is hosting with the theme “Trees”.

Trees yes, here are some trees for you that have caught my attention. The first and the last one is from few nights ago…trees are a great choice for monochrome images.

I have shared this before, but I do like…So here it is again.

All images in the gallery can be enlarged with a click.

picturesque view

Photography

As I gazed out of the window on that serene Sunday morning, the wintry scene before me seemed to encapsulate the essence of the season, and it has been too long if you ask me. The freshly fallen snow delicately blanketed the landscape, creating a picturesque view.

Yet, as I contemplated the enduring presence of snow over the past five months, I couldn’t help but yearn for the imminent arrival of spring. Though the winter wonderland had its own undeniable allure, the prospect of bidding farewell to the snow-laden landscape and welcoming a new season brimming with vibrancy and warmth filled me with anticipation.

As I embarked on my graphic art course, the view from the window served as a gentle reminder of the symbiotic relationship between my surroundings and the artistic journey unfolding within. I was eager to channel the essence of the serene landscape outside into my creative pursuits within the course.

For Ludwig’s Monday Windows

These are samples of the inspiration from the window view. Most of my artistic attempts can be labeled as color therapy than art 🙂

Monochrome – Silhouetted Trees at Dusk

Black and White photos

I loved this moody and atmospheric scene with silhouetted trees against a cloudy sky, I took it while in a moving car when traveling in Australia. I loved edited it to a minimalist style. The stark contrast between the dark silhouettes of the trees and the cloudy sky creates a sense of depth and mystery. In the end the edit came out serene and slightly ominous mood.

Posted for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

where to focus

Captures from Finland

I took two shots from the same spot, first one I focused on the vine in the front, and in the second on the pine tree on the hill.

Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday

Nature- Tree Bark

Photography

Keeping it short and sweet

I walked around my summer house yard looking for bark, as we have lots of trees on out blot, So all new quickly taken shots for Denzil’s Nature Photo Challenge #22 Tree Bark

We have lots of birch tree on our yard, new and old one, that are about 100 years old. That ‘ what The photos are.

The last two are from my archives, the first one is a from the redwoods and second one is from an old oak tree where the insects had done natures art work. To me it looks like and deer on a walk about.

Misty field

Captures from Finland, Photography

After rain I love the smell of the nature and the rising mist on the fields

Midnight

Captures from Finland, Photography

Midnight at my house in the countryside, love the summer light and yesterday we had some rain so the mist created a lovely atmosphere

The trees framed the scene beautifully

Mid-week Monochrome #126

Black and White photos, Captures from Finland

I have a soft spot for black and white photography, it is expressive and minimalist in and very mood enhancing.

Light continues tobe the theme, as it is the thing that uplifts me the most at the moment. I posted yesterday shots of advancing sping yesterday. Today it is raining, slush and snow. Well they do say, new snow is the death of old snow this time of the year. Today I converted few into monochrome images.

“The eye is always caught by light, but shadows have more to say.” ~ Gregory Maguire

“There is strong shadow where there is much light.” ~ Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“There’s something strange and powerful about black-and-white imagery.”

Compare to edit, color versus black and white version. But I also with the shadows…

Posted for Bren’s Mid-Week Monochrome

Frosty trees at dusk

Captures from Finland, Landscapes, Photography

White trees

I stopped several times to capture the beauty of the moment of lovely winter views with snow covered trees and hovering mist

Beautiful in Black and White 12

Black and White photos, Traveling Australia

I have a soft spot for black and white photography, I was once again reminded about the importance of exposure, light. It is the key element in these photos.

Clouds work well in B&W as do distinct shapes. I took these when visiting Queensland few years back

Bearded Dragon sign – Bearded Dragon Hotel Tamborine in QLD

The way that light hits objects, I think, is one of the more important things that sculpture and photography share. – Rashid Johnson

Posted for Bren’s Mid-Week Monochrome and Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

Beautiful in Black and White 11

Black and White photos, Captures from Finland

I have a soft spot for black and white photography, I was once again reminded about the importance of exposure, light. It is the key element in these photos.

Sunset in B&W is it’s own thing to capture once again it comes to the light, lowlight in this case. How it enhances the shapes and creates shadows.

Sunset in Naples Pier. Unfortunately it was destroyed in Hurricane Ian, but I have a memory.

The way that light hits objects, I think, is one of the more important things that sculpture and photography share. – Rashid Johnson

Posted for Bren’s Mid-Week Monochrome and Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

Beautiful in Black and White 10

Black and White photos, Captures from Finland

I have a soft spot for black and white photography, I was once again reminded about the importance of exposure, light. It is the key element in these photos.

“Available light is any damn light that is available!” ~ W. Eugene Smith

Above is so importat during these gray November days.

The way that light hits objects, I think, is one of the more important things that sculpture and photography share. – Rashid Johnson

View from the rocks 2

Captures from Finland, Landscapes

Fall, Autumn, ruska, all words that are presented in this shot in my humble opinion. Porkkala, views there are so delightful.

View from the rocks

Captures from Finland, Landscapes

Yesterday was a lovely and sunny day between gray days. I took myself out to take some photos. I drove to Porkkala, and park area near us. The nature an scenery there is so delightful that I go there several times yearly.

October’s colors

Captures from Finland, Landscapes

Autumn iis about letting go of summer and preparing for winter. Greens give way to dead stems and yellow drooping leaves. Darkness slowly takes over the time of light, but how beautiful it can be at the beginning of autumn🍂

52 Frames: Week 37: Portrait Of A Stranger!

52 Frames, Captures from Finland

Portrait Of A Stranger.

Well, there’s more to it than meets the eye, of course – your location, time of day, and the willingness of a stranger to be kind enough to take some time out of their life to help you (a stranger yourself to them). But there’s magic in a camera – some people just open up when they know they’re the focus of a well-crafted photograph.

There’s creative and technical hurdles here too – one of the more important ones being time – you’ll have far less time to compose and take your photo(s) than you would if you had pre-arranged a shoot. You could grab a candid shot or something more glamorous; go low-key to get a moody and intense look. It’s portraiture after all and the images you can get are as varied as there are humans on the planet.

You’re about to experience a shared moment with someone you’ve never met before.

Please don’t shoot from the hip. Talk to a person. If your palms get sweaty just thinking about it, like me, then go with an easier subject, like your local coffee barista, mailperson, or waiter.

Don’t over think this one, other people are just you in a different rental.

Visiting a nice Italian restaurant in Lahti, I asked our pretty waiter if I could take her photo. She kindly agreed. Haven’t been out much this week as it’sbeen rather rainy, so the chances of taking photos once again happened nearly at the last day. I thought of cropping it to a more portrait, but as it was an at during her work time ,capturing a moment photo, in her busy shift, I wanted it to show the place and to highlight what her job was ,to give context to the shot. Iussed thhe last photo in this post.

TIPS:

Be Friendly: A warm welcoming smile can work wonders
Be Patient: People might be busy or not trusting a stranger. That’s ok. Respect their space and choice and look for someone else.
Be Prepared: Keep your camera ready with appropriate settings. Scour out cool backgrounds or locations near by.
Be Mindful: Do not shoot someone without appropriate permission especially children. Be respectful of people, places and occasions where it might be considered impolite or discourteous to be shooting – like funerals or religious places.

52 Frames: Week 36: Golden Hour!

52 Frames, Captures from Finland

Warmth, Tranquility, Contentment… just a few things I tend to feel when I’m watching a low Sun 🌅. I hope you do too, this week during Golden Hour – soft, golden light that happens twice each day. Golden Hour, or “Magic Hour”, is usually considered to be the first “hour” after sunrise and the last “hour” before sunset.

Golden Hour is when light is diffused and soft and the shadows are long and less harsh than during the day.. Golden Hour offers pretty directional light, so your composition needs to account for the angle and direction of the sun. You could use light flares as a creative choice and shoot into the light or use the shadows to add more depth and dimension to your scene.

Remember, the length of golden hour will vary with where you are on the planet and the time of year.

I seem to leave this always to the last moment. Golden hour, Saturday evening I had an epiphany, I have not taken this shot. Sunset. where I live , was at 8PM, I left the house at 7:30 seaching for a place where I could capture the golden hour. I did not head west, as I was not trying to capture sunset. East that is the direction I drove to. I had half an hour to get the shot. These are some that I considered for the challenge.

TIPS:

Stability: Use a tripod for longer exposures – you would need a stable platform for the camera to avoid shake
Get creative: Consider using the lighting in a variety of ways – as fill light or as rim lighting to highlight a subject. (the sun BEHIND the subject)
Plan ahead: Be mindful of the time – good light can disappear just as quickly as it can reveal a new facet of the scene.
Color Tone: White balance is quite important – whether you’re shooting RAW and then post-processing or editing JPGs straight from your camera.