where to focus

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.

October vibes

Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday

Oak leaves
Pine tree on the hill

trapped in a circle of life

I feel like I’m trapped in a circle of life
That never changes or grows
I want to break free and explore the world
And see what else it shows

But I’m afraid to take the risk
And leave my comfort zone
I don’t know if I can handle it
Or if I’ll be alone

So I stay in the circle of life
And pretend that I’m okay
But deep inside I know I’m not
And I wish I could get away

Linked to Six Word Saturday at Debbie’s here

On the road again

Posted for Cee’s Which Way Challenge

Goats on the road in Crete country side

Flower of the day – 17/11/2023

I was looking for doors, but mainly found windows… and flowers. I found this one taken few years back. And, I thought to myself, this is rather good. It also worked well as monochrome. I’ll post it for next flower of the day.

Flower of the day 17 11 23

For Cee´s Flower of the Day.

Flower of the day 17 11 23 – in Monochrome

Rusty old granary door

This captivating, weathered, rusty old door perched atop a set of worn stone steps. The door’s aged appearance tells stories of the past, inviting intrigue and curiosity. The stone steps, with their rough texture and weathered edges, add to the charm and character of the old brick and stone building. The combination of these elements creates a sense of history and nostalgia, capturing the imagination of those who pass by.

It is the door to the granary from the 18th century stands next to the bridge leading over the rapids at Sjundby manor in Siuntio.

Dan’s Thursday Doors

The door is from the stone building on the left of the photo.

eerie yet captivating scenes

The misty air envelops the landscape, amongst the haze, the silhouettes of towering trees emerge, standing tall like guardians of the monochrome world. Their branches, devoid of leaves, reach out like skeletal fingers, creating an eerie yet captivating scene.

The silhouettes of towering trees emerge, standing tall like guardians

Do you agree the absence of color seems to enhance the mystical ambiance, as if nature itself has decided to paint this particular moment in shades of gray.

Misty hill in Monochrome

The mist weaves through the branches and settles on their trunks, giving them an otherworldly aura that is both haunting and beautiful. In this misty monochrome, the trees stand as solitary figures, adding a sense of mystery and intrigue to the landscape.

Dog walker

it is cold outside

Cold weather can certainly make you feel chilly. When it snows and ice forms, it adds an extra layer of coldness to the surroundings, no doubt about that.. Stay cozy and enjoy the winter scenery!

We here in south of Finland don’t have snow yet, so these are from my archives.

CFFC:  Anything that makes you feel cold

Mist – ethereal veil on the moss-covered hill

The gray mist gently settled over the landscape, casting an ethereal veil on the moss-covered hill behind your home. Despite the gloomy November weather, nature’s touch added a touch of beauty to the scene.

On this misty day, as you gazed upon the hill, the vibrant hues of green from the shrubs stood out, creating a vivid contrast against the muted backdrop. The moss, adorned with its emerald carpet, seemed to thrive in the dampness, adding a touch of tranquility to the atmosphere.

Misty hill top on a misty day

Amidst the shades of brown, the ferns gracefully displayed their weathered elegance. Their delicate fronds, now tinged with earthy tones, created an enchanting juxtaposition against the mist and falling leaves.

In this serene setting, the mist transformed the hill into a picturesque scene that captivated your sight. The occurrence of such beauty in November reminded you of nature’s ability to create moments of awe in every season.

Trees on Misty hill

Moody weather

Taken today from through the car window, a pine tree in our yard and elms that still have yellow brown leaves on them when nearly all tree are bare.

Pine tree in November rain

Posted for John’s Cellpic Sunday

last yellow birch leaves of november

Six-Word Saturday’s 11.11.23

Street Photography – crosswalk

On the crossroad…in Hong Kong.

Crossroads are places where roads intersect and people have to make decisions. They can also be metaphors for important moments in life, where one has to choose between different options and face the consequences.

going over the road

Crossroads are the tests of fate , where we must choose our path and wait, for the unknown to reveal itself and show us if we chose well or not.

crossing

Some crossroads are clear and easy, others are dark and messy . But all of them are part of our journey and shape us into who we are meant to be

Hong Kong street view

Posted for Cee’s Which Way Challenge

Pink and white doors

Don’t these candy stripped doors look inviting? Pink chairs and pike as an added bonus.

These are from few years ago from the village of Ruotsinpyhtää in Loviisa, Strömfors Ironworks is one of the best preserved ironworks communities in Finland. Founded in 1695, the iron mill village has retained its unique atmosphere throughout the years.

Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors

Street Photography – in a hurry

In a Hurry on an Escalator

As the escalator propels forward, an interesting dynamic unfolds. Watch closely, and you’ll observe people in a hurry, their faces etched with determination, striding onto the moving steps. Their impatience fuels their urgency, causing them to bob and weave through the crowd.

going 👇 down

it’s fascinating to witness the blend of efficiency and chaos. Some embrace the escalator as an opportunity to slow down, leisurely taking in the surroundings. Others view it as a race, attempting to reach the summit before their peers. How about embracing the escalator as a —a chance to catch our breath.

So, my fellow escalator travelers, let us take a collective breath and relish the journey, even in the midst of our hurried pace.

The escalator

Marina on a November day

I always liked to visit the marina on gray November days. There was something about the contrast between the white boats and the gloomy sky that fascinated me. The marina was usually lively and crowded, but on those days it was almost empty. The only people I saw were some boat owners, checking on their vessels and doing some maintenance and few people on a walk.

The sky is gray, the water is dull and the air is cold. I see the boats are moored, the sails are furled , the marina is quiet with hardly anyone around. But I don’t mind, I like it here.

These photos I took using my mobile phone and then proceeded to enhance them using the Lightroom mobile app. By transforming the gray tones into a delightful shade of blue, I managed to infuse the photos with a much lighter and uplifting mood.

November in Finland

November in Finland, a world of gray,
Where autumn whispers its final farewell,
Leaves relinquish their vibrant display,
And nature succumbs to the winter’s spell.

fallen leaves

The air is crisp, with a biting chill,
As frosty breath dances upon the breeze,
The sun, a timid presence on the hill,
Casting feeble rays through the barren trees.

The days grow shorter, the nights grow long,
As darkness blankets the land in its embrace,
A melancholic hymn in nature’s song.

Yet amidst the gloom, a flicker of light,
As candles glow in windowsills,
Warmth and coziness fill the bitter night,
A sanctuary from the winds that blow.

November in Finland, a somber sight,
A season of reflection, a time for respite,
Where nature’s cycle finds solace in solitude.

Street Photography – food stand

Helsinki – esplanade last summer.

The popular Esplanade Park, fondly referred to as “Espa” among locals, is the most famous park in Finland and the green heart of Helsinki. People come here to see and be seen, to listen to music and watch performances, and to enjoy picnics. This Brazilian lady was selling food there the summer day I shot this photo. What caught my attention was the matching colors of the seller and the biker that had stopped by to chat.

Helsinki – Esplanade food stand
Having fun editing the photo.

Galerie Door

I an still in old town Chania, in Crete. This wood door with only varnish on it caught my attention.

I liked how it looked, I really have no other reason for the shot, nor do I have a narrative to add to it. I thought it would make a nice shot. That’s all. That is why I have no many edits o it…

open door to art gallery

In Monochrome

in monochrome
Come a little bit closer

It is Thursday and my entry entry to , Thursday Doors! 

Street Photography – Old style public telephone box

While The Rocks is the site of Sydney’s oldest European settlement, there are attractions here that are also thoroughly contemporary. The Rocks, at the to bustling Circular Quay, here you can take in the charming, historic streets of this former convict settlement. And here I saw this old style public telephone box and a lady speaking on the phone next to it – a nice touch don’t you think ?

Circular Quay – The Rocks showing heritage elements like the red phone box
Red phone box at the Rocks in Sydney

Flower of the Day 26/10

Frosty aster at the end of October in the morning light

For Cee’s Flower of the Day.

Aster in early October in the asternoon

This is my last photo of this New York Aster this year. Autumn brown have really set in.

Red Door

I saw this red door at the end of the ally in old town Chania, in Crete. I looked inviting and the colorful walls enhanced it with the turquoise shutters adding interest in the composition of the photo . The stone walls added warmth to the area. What’s not to like so I took few shots.

Then I thought about the meaning of a red door, it can vary depending on cultural, historical, and personal interpretations. In many cultures, a red front door symbolizes a warm welcome and hospitality. It is believed to invite positive energy and good luck into a home. Also red is often associated with strength and protection. Some believe that a red door can ward off evil spirits and bring a sense of security.

Red door in Chania, Crete

Approaching the doorway at the end of the the street

Red door
the red door beckons to approach

It is Thursday and my entry entry to , Thursday Doors! 

Street photography – towards the light

I am going to post images new and old of this genre in this new topic name. Shortly described below as what I want to convey in this photos.

I did three versions of this woman walking towards the light at the end of this narrow alley. It is always amazing how the colors can change the mood, I shoot with raw so the colors can be edited really differently. I think I like the more yellow toned one best.

Walking to the light

Street photography captures candid moments of daily life in public spaces. From bustling city streets to quiet suburban neighborhoods, we try to document the raw and unscripted moments that unfold around us. With an emphasis on capturing the essence of a scene or the emotions of the people within it, street photography offers a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the world we inhabit. Whether it’s a fleeting expression, a captivating composition, or an unexpected juxtaposition, street photography celebrates the beauty and intrigue found in everyday moments.

Street photography – Lahti Street view

I am going to post images new and old of this genre in this new topic name. Shortly described below as what I want to convey in this photos.

Las weekend we drove to our summer house to turn the electricity off for the winter as we do not visit there during winter. My husband mowed the leaves, no need to rake them. Back story was that, them we drove to the city near by- Lahti. I took this autumn street shot as we walked down the road to get late lunch. On the hill on the other side you can see the City Hall of Lahti.

Located in the heart of Lahti, the city hall is one of the city’s most famous landmarks and an important part of Lahti’s cityscape. The monumental building, designed by architect Eliel Saarinen, was completed in 1912. The building stylistically represents late Art Nouveau. The over 100-year-old building, damaged in wars and fires, has been restored with respect to the original.

On the hill you can see Lahti City Hall

Street photography captures candid moments of daily life in public spaces. From bustling city streets to quiet suburban neighborhoods, we try to document the raw and unscripted moments that unfold around us. With an emphasis on capturing the essence of a scene or the emotions of the people within it, street photography offers a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the world we inhabit. Whether it’s a fleeting expression, a captivating composition, or an unexpected juxtaposition, street photography celebrates the beauty and intrigue found in everyday moments.

the falling leaves cover the ground

Linked to Six Word Saturday at Debbie’s here

Street photography – a quick stop

I am going to post images new and old of this genre in this new topic name. Shortly described below as what I want to convey in this photos.

People in hurry, but still have time for a quick stop – at fast-food restaurant. The contrast is the setting in this old building and the Burger King that is there. What caught my attention was how the light showcased the beauty of the wall details and the light streaming from the chairs.

Two takes color and black and white, which one works best? I myself prefer the color one this time.

Helsinki railway station Burger King

Street photography captures candid moments of daily life in public spaces. From bustling city streets to quiet suburban neighborhoods, we try to document the raw and unscripted moments that unfold around us. With an emphasis on capturing the essence of a scene or the emotions of the people within it, street photography offers a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of the world we inhabit. Whether it’s a fleeting expression, a captivating composition, or an unexpected juxtaposition, street photography celebrates the beauty and intrigue found in everyday moments.

flower of the day – 20/10

October colors from this morning. It was once again a bit nippy as the temperatures had gone down to minus side last night.

Here are Hydrangea arborescens, commonly known as smooth hydrangea, wild hydrangea, sevenbark, or in some cases, sheep flower, after the frost had melted and left the pedals moist and shining in the cool but sunny morning air. Most of the pedals are now brown , but few are left white and green.

Posted for Cee’s Flower of the Day

Green Door

While in Crete I took few photos of doors, and this green door and it’s surrounding really intrigued me. I am not so sure that I would be so taken by it if I lived there, it needs a bit of love and care, but from a photographers point of view, I really appreciate it.

Green door

It is Thursday, and this my second entry to , Thursday Doors

Edited with a more punch ☺