I’m so mad, this weather is just terrible – in December, I’d be all for it, but snow in April? No way! It’s been snowing non-stop since last night. I had a hair appointment, so I had to venture out. Luckily, my husband hadn’t switched to winter tires yet, so I was okay to drive. Many others weren’t so lucky , my hairdresser had most of her appointments canceled due to the fact that they could not get there.
I took some photos of this white nightmare. The first is from my car window as soon as I parked it.
These windows are from inside the Vizcaya Museum showing interiors and beautiful old high windows. I love the grandeur of the interior and the windows in old buildings are so stylish.
I was closing the blinds when I noticed the moon behind the clouds, the trees on the hill beautifully framed it. I had my mobile at hand as I was about to place it on the bedside table for my night time clock. As we all know everything is on that thing. This is the last photo I took last night for Cellpic Sunday , otherwise you might have gotten a shot of Tinka.
I am rather amazing how great shots you can get with the mobile phone even in the darkness.
I did go and get my camera, and these are the comparison shots. There is a slight difference to be noticed I think.
Moonlit nightnight time in April
And as I’ve just done an abstract photo challenge – with a little handshake – this is what you get 🙂
Explore – that is the key to this topic in my opinion. It’s fun, believe me, it can be fun. I am not in my element in this type of photography, it is a challenge to me as well. Sometimes we need to explore and expand to create something new. I am looking forward to see the inspiration you can give me for my future abstract photos.
Abstract photography breaks the normal rules of realism. It turns everyday scenes, objects, or textures into visual poetry, inviting viewers to see beyond the surface. It plays with light and shadow, blurring reality and using vibrant colors. Abstract images evoke emotions, spark curiosity, and challenge our perception. It is a genre of photography that focuses on the shapes, colors, textures, and patterns of the subject, rather than its literal representation.
Start with finding a new vantage point and look for interesting shapes and lines in your surroundings.
Get in close to your subject and capture the details that are usually overlooked.
Shoot from above and create abstract patterns from the landscape or the cityscape. Use architecture as your subject and look for geometric shapes, curves, patterns, and contrasts. You can also use perspective, framing, or cropping to create abstract compositions.
Use water, glass, or metal surfaces to create abstract images. You can also distort or manipulate the reflections by using ripples, bubbles, or angles.
Golden moment
Wait for the light to create interesting shadow patterns and use them to enhance your composition. Try a creative technique (such as intentional camera movement) and experiment with different shutter speeds, apertures, and focal lengths to create motion blur, zoom blur, or tilt-shift effects. Use a source of light and paint with light in a dark environment. You can also move your camera while shooting a stable source of light to create light trails.
Create bokeh by using a wide aperture and focusing on a point close to your lens. You can also use a filter or a cut-out shape to create custom bokeh shapes.
Use smoke or dye in water to create elegant and dynamic forms. You can also add some lighting or color effects to enhance the mood.
Use high-speed water drops as your subject and capture the moment when they collide, splash, or bounce. You can also use different liquids, colors, or backgrounds to create variety.
A bit of mystery
I hope these ideas inspire you to create some amazing abstract photos.
Abstract Lens
In shimmering silver, warm sepia, and radiant gold, the lens captures enchanting tales. A silent storyteller behind the glass unveils secrets of the past and present. The dancing light illuminates people. Within the interplay of shadows and light, stories are intricately woven. Each click captures frozen whispers, rhythm, and rhyme, echoing the passage of time.
A moment’s pause, a breath of grace – within frames, life’s exquisite beauty finds its rightful place. Images speak volumes beyond words, offering unique narratives for the discerning eye. Preserver of memories, guardian of time, capturing eternal glimpses of fleeting days.
Last week Donna’s wonderful post invited us to go all rocky, and what beautiful places we got to visit. Next week Egídio is hosting, I am sure his theme and beautiful photography will once again give us wonderful inspiration.
Until then, keep smiling ☺
IMPORTANT
To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.
And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
This stirred my memories this week. I often listen to alternative rock… this is not all that rock, but the label of the band is that.
Keane – Somewhere Only We Know
“Somewhere Only We Know” is a song by English alternative rock band Keane, officially released as the lead single from their debut album Hopes and Fears.
I read that: Keane lead vocalist Tim Rice-Oxley revealed in 2004 of the meaning of the song: It’s about being able to draw strength from a place or experience you’ve shared with someone. I think it’s an idea a lot of people can relate to. It might be about a geographical space, or a feeling; it can mean something individual to each person, and they can interpret it to a memory of theirs… It’s perhaps more of a theme rather than a specific message
Oh, simple thing, where have you gone? I’m getting old and I need something to rely on So tell me when you’re gonna let me in I’m getting tired and I need somewhere to begin
Lepis is hosting Saturday Classics, you can add your own link here Saturday Classics
On Her page she writes: This blog is back with hosting the Classics after few years break. This time we’ll be playing on Saturdays and you can link straight here on this own page. Rules: There are no rules, as long as the song you play is a classic in your mind. Linking open 8 am and closes 12 pm.
These are from Tammisaari, it is an idyllic old coastal town . In the old town, the streets have been in the same places since the 16th century, and from the names you can tell what kind of professionals lived on which street, such as Liinakankurinkatu, (Weaver st.) I have photo of that one below. Hatuntekijänkatu ( Milliner street), Nahkurinkatu ( Tanner street), etc.
Liinakankurinkatu
In the windows of old houses in coastal cities, you can notice a stand with two mirrors attached to it. It is a street mirror whose name has become a gossip mirror in the mouth of the people. Gossip mirrors have mirrors curved in both directions that open outwards. Looking from the inside, you can see the events of the entire street through the mirrors. Old times security cameras ? 😂
This old , rustic wooden door has timeless beauty. Each weathered plank, each sturdy iron hinge and bolt, bears witness to the passage of years gone by, weaving together a narrative of resilience and enduring charm. This barn door stands surrounded by lush greenery, where green foliage delicately caresses its time-worn frame.
The earth in front of the door reveals its well-trodden path, marked by patches of grass and traces of constant use. I took this shot late afternoon as the sun casts enchanting shadows upon and around the door, adding an extra layer of depth to its rustic allure, an enduring appeal of ageless craftsmanship.
So this is posted for Sarah of Travels with Me, who’s prompted this week’s challenge for Leanne’s Monochrome Madness. The first three I took this morning after I saw the topic. Tinka was just having a sip of water, while I was having my morning coffee. I thought I’d cook something with pasta today so I’ll have to choose witch pasta to use. I came to my study and thought that should I apply some makeup on, or not 😀 Probably not.
I mean, those are okay shots or do I have anything in my archives I could post. Off course I have, so I found few and convert them to monochrome . As always, all the images can be enlarged by clicking on them even if in a gallery.
In the quiet dawn, dew-kissed leaves awaken. Each droplet, a crystal globe, clings to the verdant tapestry of life.
Whispers of renewal, as morning breath stirs the air.
Hold on, even when gravity tugs. Reflect, for within each drop lies a universe.
In the quiet dawn, dew-kissed leaves awaken. Each droplet, a crystal globe, clings to the verdant tapestry of life.
Within these glistening orbs, secrets unfold, And so they linger, these liquid gems, In this delicate dance, they teach us, an ethereal moment, freezing time in dew-kissed splendor.
As I am so waiting for summer or even spring to really arrive I am posting this traditional window(s) for Monday Window
In the vast Finnish countryside, you’ll find the charming traditional Finnish falu red log houses, each one telling a story of generations past. These beloved structures, affectionately known as “Grandma’s cottages,” evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, reflecting a simpler time when life was closely intertwined with nature. w
The distinctive falu red hue, derived from a traditional Scandinavian pigment, not only adds a striking visual appeal to these log houses but also serves to protect the wood from the elements, ensuring their longevity for years to come. As sunlight filters through the small, paned windows, it illuminates the cozy interiors.
Embracing the essence of hygge, the Finnish art of coziness and contentment, “Grandma’s cottages” beckon visitors to step inside and experience a slice of authentic Finnish hospitality. The red log houses stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of tradition and the enduring beauty of simple, rustic architecture.
Once again it has been a slow week behind the camera, Tinka to the rescue. While I was doing my posts she came to me clearly wanting me to open the window so she could enjoy the fresh air. She was once again so cute, I just had to take a photo
Let’s Rock Your World this week – I will try my best to do as requested. Donna invites us to showcase anything from rocky landscapes to cobblestone streets. I know for sure this is a topic that is close to Donna’s heart, she has so often shared her love to rock formations – as she has showed once again in her beautiful photos. Her post gives us so many beautiful examples of how to approach this challenge. She does know her rocks and captures them beautifully.
I sometimes struggle to get terms right. The solid rock that exists below the ground surface is called bedrock. This type of rock is “in place,” unlike material that has been moved from another location by weathering and erosion. Bedrock forms the foundation for the layers of soil and sediment above it, which is super important for supporting entire ecosystems and shaping the landscape. Plus, the characteristics of bedrock can really affect how landscapes form, how groundwater moves, and even how soil develops. I live next to bedrock – a hill with trees and moss over it.
My life is built on a solid rock as Finland’s bedrock belongs to the old Precambrian (period 4,600 – 570 million years ago) in the bedrock area of Northern and Eastern Europe, or the Fennosarmatian bedrock craton, which is one of the oldest parts of the Eurasian continent.
Beaches and seaside are great places to enjoy the smooth surface of rocks, solid or not.
I love sitting at beaches, seaside watching the water hit the rocks and cliffs. Or piling them up. So meditative.
Stones, rocks are used in old castles this example is from Raasepori. The tunnel and walls of Suomenlinna fortress. Old Stone Church of Lammi is solid as a rock. As are the stone steps and walls from this old building.
I am ending this post same sentiment as Donna. He is as the song says, solid as a rock, is and has been for over 40 years.
Last week we learned so much froms Johns Before and After challenge. Next week I am hosting, hope I will be able to bring you something interesting enough to get your imagination flowing.
Until then, keep smiling ☺
To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.
And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
Gene Pitney – Something’s Gotten Hold of My Heart (1968)
This was originally a #5 hit for Gene Pitney in the UK in 1967. When Almond covered the song in 1989, he invited Pitney to sing on it with him, which Pitney was happy to do. That version was a hit #1 in many countries including the UK, but Pitney’s record label refused to release it in America, where Pitney was from. They were afraid that young listeners who were not familiar with Pitney or Almond would think they were a gay couple.
Lepis is hosting Saturday Classics, you can add your own link here Saturday Classics
On Her page she writes: This blog is back with hosting the Classics after few years break. This time we’ll be playing on Saturdays and you can link straight here on this own page. Rules: There are no rules, as long as the song you play is a classic in your mind. Linking open 8 am and closes 12 pm.
Some years back we visited the hilly village of Lefkara is divided into Pano Lefkara and Kato Lefkara , and is famous worldwide for its old-school crafts of lace embroidery and intricate silverwork. The village sits at the base of the Troodos Mountains in the southeast, at an altitude of 650 meters above sea level.
Blue ShuttersHouses built with horizontal layers of limestone interspersed with pebbles.
Wandering the beautiful alleys of the tiny village reveals good examples of the area’s architecture: houses built with horizontal layers of limestone interspersed with pebbles. It is one of the few villages in Cyprus where the houses are built almost entirely of local white stone, which contrasts beautifully with the terra cotta roofs. The picturesque quality of the village’s architectural style is further enhanced by the charming cobblestone streets and colorful flower-filled gardens that adorn the pathways. Walking through these alleys feels like stepping back in time, as each building tells a story of the village’s rich history and unique craftsmanship. The harmonious blend of natural materials and traditional design creates a timeless allure.
The houses here are not those of farmers but the homes of merchants and artisans. The houses are stone-built, some with doorways providing glimpses of flower-filled and vine-covered courtyards, while others are two-storey colour washed residences with balconies and intricately patterned tiled floors.
This week I found this door from my archives. I decided to add some other photos from above and around the door as well.
Suomenlinna is unique in that although it is a bastion fortress, it is irregular in shape as a result of being built on a cluster of rocky islands with highly variable terrain, requiring a very free adaptation of the theory of fortifications developed in Central Europe.
Steel door at bastion fortress
Suomenlinna is to large extent historically authentic, i.e. consisting of original structures. Several significant layers of historical development in fortifications and shipyards may be seen on Suomenlinna. The dry dock at the heart of the fortress was the state of the art in 18th century technology.
Outside of the city and into the country in Monochrome Madness was the Leanne’s post this week. Since it is a great topic, I decided to follow her lead.
Visiting the local blacksmith a few years back the photos have a sense of nostalgia and tranquility. As I walked through the idyllic countryside, the sight of the red cottages against the backdrop of green fields was truly enchanting. The gravel roads, weathered by time, led the way . The old trees, with their gnarled branches and thick canopies, stood as silent guardians of the road, offering shade and a sense of wisdom to the travelers passing by. It was a scene that seemed to be frozen in time. And as a profession a blacksmith is a dying breed.
I do love black and white photography, but this time I left the red buildings as is because they are so in the heart of Finnish countryside. A traditional Finnish falu red log house in is so common. The Finnish expression punainen tupa ja perunamaa, “a red cottage and a potato patch”, referring to idyllic home and life, is a direct allusion to a country house painted in falu red.
Falu red – Punamulta : is a permeable red paint commonly used on wooden cottages and barns in Finland, Sweden, and Norway.
The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens stand as a testament to the vision of businessman James Deering. Constructed between 1914 and 1922. This is one of the window’s, beautiful stained glass windows looking towards the garden.
This week, I captured only a few photos worthy of sharing with my mobile. Despite Tinka’s reluctance, she remains a pretty little cat always ready to pose. These are my submissions for Cellpic Sunday.
The old graveyards hold a poignant history within their grounds. As you cross walk through these hallowed spaces, you are met with an abundance of touching life stories etched into the very fabric of time, while the marks left on gravestones and crosses bear witness to the passage of time itself.
Each weathered inscription, each lichen-covered monument, and each carefully crafted symbol represents a life once lived, a journey once taken, and a story once told. These grounds whisper tales of joy and sorrow, of love and loss, and of the intricate tapestry of human existence.
I will go straight to what John wrote” One of my favorite things is to take the images I captured from my camera and put them in a workflow through two or three different photo editing applications”. I love doing this too. He asks us to feature three or four images in your gallery that you tweaked for whatever reason and the original image out of the camera. Here are my Before and After
I was going through some old photos, and this corner in an old building with light coming in from above, the texture of the walls set my creativity to flow and edited it for this challenge. With this first photo I am giving you more details to explain the edits I did.
This is the one I added light and contrast, texture, and clarity. I also added some vibrancy but used less saturation. I toned down highlights, lessened blacks and shadows. I did not change the composition.
This is the one I added light and much more contrast, texture, and clarity. I also added some vibrancy towards yellows and added orange to the shadows. I toned down highlights but not as much as in previous version, used more blacks and shadows. I did not change the composition.For this image I converted the original image to black and white. I did not touch the exposure or contrast. I turned down the blacks, added dehaze and texture. I turned the colors all down except purple and magenta that I added a bitOriginal photo, no edits.
This shot I took while running to the seaside to capture the sunset at Páfos in 2011. The original is very bland, but with my newfound editing skills I was able to bring the warm tones of the moment into the photo.
I adjusted the exposure and contrast down as well as the highlights and blacks. I toned down the texture, but added clarity and dehaze. Touch of added vibrance and saturation. Added touch of orange to highlight and midtones. Then inspired by John I changed the sky and did lots of little fixes and had an enhanced version, that I then converted to black and white. I have very rarely changed skies, because I try mostly keep it real – well the way I see it – or in this case remember seeing it.
This is a street view from Vancouver that I converted to monochrome – I am a big fan of B&W images. The last one is trying to replicate the style lots of movies and TV shows now use, with teal and orange colors. In both edits I have also edited the exposure, contrast and shadows and light.
Original photo from the camera.Vancouver Street View – MonochromeVancouver Street view – movie style. With teal and orange tones
Last week we enjoyed the inspiration from Sofia – Water motions , it was a theme I really enjoyed. I saw so many wonderful posts about it. Next week Donna is bringing us a new challenge, looking forward to seeing what she comes up with. Until then, keep smiling ☺
To participate in this challenge, you should link to or leave a comment on the week’s host’s original challenge post and please use the #Lens-Artists tag in your own post, so the post is easily found in the Reader.
And if you want even more information on the Lens-Artists Challenge, please click here.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 