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.
Fresh coat of snow
Random Encounters: Street Photography Reflections
We were cautioned about the significant issue of homelessness during our visit to San Francisco several years ago; I’m uncertain about the current situation, but I doubt it has improved significantly. Still, I hope it has. It was quite disheartening to see as we drove through the city; these random shots reflect that experience. RDP Friday: Random
Photographs of Everyday Life: Moments Captured
People watching is one of the things I enjoy most, as it allows me to observe the intricate dance of human interactions and emotions. Here are some photos of the results of doing so, each snapshot telling a unique story of a moment in time. Whether it’s a pair of friends sharing a laugh, a couple lost in conversation, or a solitary figure deep in thought, these images capture the essence of life unfolding around us.
Click the gallery to see better or scroll quickly up to you to explore a variety of images and details that can give you a more immersive experience. Never Lose Hope is good message 😀 As you can see from the amount of images I do like this topic.
Calm Moments Behind Open Door
For Dans Thursday Doors this time I am just leaving you with this calm view from a monastery in Sri Lanka, where the serene landscape creates a peaceful atmosphere.
wordless Wednesday
Understanding Circles vs. Rounds
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 ⭕
The Allure of Siberian Iris
I’m participating in The Flower Hour by sharing these images of Siberian Iris, showcasing the classic hue of a deep, vibrant purple.
Coffee Break Photography
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.
Monday Window: 9 February 2026
Värikollaasi #485 Color Collage
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.
Lens Artists Photo Challenge #386 – What Astonishes You?
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.
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 ❤️
We are Lens-Artists: Tina , Patti , Ann-Christine, John, Sofia , Anne , Egidio, Beth , and me Ritva,
To learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.
Looking from in from the outside
I don’t have any new images for this, but here are a few of looking in windows of shops and cafes. I’m participating in One Word Sunday: outside in with images captured in Helsinki.
Participating in One Word Sunday: outside in with shots from Helsinki.
Spontaneous Mobile Shot: A Lightbulb
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.
Saturday Classics – cold little heart
This is so sad, and at the same time beautiful. Cold Little Heart by Michael Kiwanuka is my choice for this week for Saturday Classics. The haunting melody, combined with the deep emotional lyrics, creates an atmosphere that truly captivates. I am not going to explain this any further; it just resonates with me on a profound level. The way his voice intertwines with the rich guitar sound adds layers of depth, evoking a sense of longing and nostalgia that I find incredibly moving. It’s a song that invites reflection and solace.
A talented singer-songwriter with a rich voice, Michael Kiwanuka gained fame in 2012. Raised in Muswell Hill, London, by Ugandan parents, he started as a session guitarist before signing with Communion Records after performing at acoustic gigs. His debut album, Home Again (2012), showcased his talent with a mix of soul, folk, and neo-soul, reaching number four in the UK charts. In 2016, he released Love & Hate, which topped the UK Albums Chart, featuring the popular track “Cold Little Heart” used in the HBO series Big Little Lies. He released his third album, Kiwanuka, in November 2019, followed by his fourth album, Small Changes, in 2024.
Artwork by me, not in any way related to the song, other than inspired by “Cold Heart,” but done in warm tones.
Art is a meditative relaxation experience.
For Debbies Six Word Saturday
Winter Photography: Enchanting Icy Landscapes
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, 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.
I added a gallery of the same images if you wish to look at them enlarged.
Stairways and Doors of Hvitträsk
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.
Nature’s Artistry
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)
wordless Wednesday
monochrome Shots of Daily Life
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.
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
the Stillness of a Winter Night
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.
One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge in February
One-to-Three Photo Processing Challenge in February
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.
Monday Window at night time
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
Macro Monday
Color Collage 5/2026 reddish brown
The Color Collage Challenge invites you, whether you’re new or an old acquaintance, to join in by combining colors and images into your own unique interpretation of what you see. Shoot, combine, and share for joy and innovation for others.
Värikollaasi # 484 Color Collage
Collage 5/2026 reddish brown
Lens-Artists Challenge #383 – Looking Back to #174 – Shapes and Designs
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.
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.
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 😉
We are Lens-Artists: Tina , Patti , Ann-Christine, John, Sofia , Anne , Egidio, Beth , and me Ritva,
To learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.
Inside Out: Night Views from a Car
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,
Participating in Debbie’s One Word Sunday and Cellpic Sunday
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 