Ritva Sillanmäki Photography

Framing Your Shots: Exploring the Foreground, Middle Ground, and Background

Framing Your Shots: Exploring the Foreground, Middle Ground, and Background Photography essential; Framing and composing your shots is, in my book, one of the most important parts of photography, if not the most important. The way in which elements are arranged within the frame can dramatically alter the mood and storytelling of an image. Patti shows and explains this concept beautifully, illustrating how the interplay of the foreground, middle ground, and background can create depth and dimension, drawing the viewer’s eye to the focal points in a more engaging way. By carefully considering the placement of subjects and elements within each layer, photographers can enhance their visual narratives. Visit her post for more information, as it offers valuable insights into mastering these techniques that can elevate your photography to new heights.

The request was three images; here are mine and the header as a plus one.

Italy; gate – foreground, stairs- middle and the greenery being background

Italy is famous for its stunning landscapes and fascinating history, and right at the front, there’s a charming gate that looks like it’s inviting everyone in. If you take a moment to look up, you’ll spot a beautiful set of stairs in the middle, guiding your eyes deeper into that amazing scenery and sparking a sense of adventure. The lush greenery in the background just adds to the charm, with its vibrant shades of green making this place feel like a dream as you stroll through this lovely setting.

The police in Helsinki is the foreground, foreground are the people and background is the building in the back

In the scene set in Helsinki, the police are right in the spotlight, viewing with those around them. Up front, people are on the move, while in the background, the impressive SOKOS building towers over everything, giving the urban landscape some real character. The way the officer interacts with the locals really shows a moment of busy city , where the cool architecture meets everyday life.

This from Kirkkonummi, the shoreline in porkkala. The rocks being the foreground the point a middle ground and sky the backdrop

This from Kirkkonummi, the shoreline in Porkkala, offers a captivating view where the rugged rocks in the foreground create a striking contrast against the shimmering waters. As the eye travels to the middle ground, the point juts out, inviting exploration and intrigue. The sky serves as a breathtaking backdrop, with clouds dancing overhead, casting shadows that play upon the landscape. This picturesque setting is not just a feast for the eyes; it also evokes a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, making it a perfect spot for reflection and inspiration.

Hope you join us and show us how you interpret this challenge. Please link to Patti’s post and use the “lens-artists” tag so we can find your post in the Reader. But mostly, enjoy exploring this technique!

Huge thanks to Tina for last week’s phone photography challenge; it really showed how much the cameras have improved over the years and what great shots we can get with them. What’s up for next week? Sofia returns with our next challenge on Saturday, April 11th at noon EST. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Please see this page for more information about the Lens-Artists Challenge and its history. If you don’t want to miss any future challenges, please consider subscribing to the team members’ websites.

Here we are The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.

It’s crumbling down this old barn

Photography

Linked to Six Word Saturday at Debbie’s here

Navigating Creative Droughts

About

I find myself writing a third post on this topic, grappling with my thoughts by myself, as there’s no one around to discuss it. Recently, I’ve been struggling with inspiration when it comes to photography. Photography, for me, is not merely about capturing beauty or documenting moments; I take pictures so I don’t have to explain them, that is the whole point. I started out just posting photos, hardly any words. It is, was so much easier.

However, when inspiration eludes me, the camera feels heavier, and each click seems to lack purpose. It’s frustrating to experience these creative blocks, as they can lead to a sense of disconnect from the “art” that I love. I long for those moments, where the world presents itself in a way that ignites my passion and motivates me to capture its essence. Maybe more eventful life. In life there are ebbs and flows, and those periods of silence can sometimes lead to the most profound revelations.

Black and white close-up of elegant tulips, capturing their delicate petals and textures.

There are days when I wake up and feel like I’m staring into an empty well. The usual well of ideas, creativity, and inspiration seems to have dried up, leaving behind a hollow echo instead of the vibrant thoughts I’m used to. It’s a strange sensation — one that feels both familiar and unsettling. The wakening of nature will surely help

The fast-paced world we live in, we often rush to fill that emptiness with distractions or quick fixes. But what if, instead, we took a moment to just sit with that feeling? I’ve been doing that for few weeks now. The truth is, experiencing uninspired days is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness; it’s simply part of the ebb and flow of life.

A close-up of vibrant moss and natural textures, the essence of nature’s renewal.

When I reflect on that empty well, I come to understand that it isn’t something to dread, but rather a space to recognize. Much like nature undergoes its seasons, we too experience cycles of creativity. There are moments when the well is brimming with ideas, and others when it feels barren—and that is perfectly acceptable. In this present moment, when I attempt to create, the outcomes are, to be honest, rather dull and uninspiring.

Instead of pushing through the uninspired moments, I’m learning to embrace them. I allow myself to feel the weight of the silence, recognizing that it’s a natural part of the creative process. Sometimes, just acknowledging that I’m in a quiet phase can bring a sense of relief.

As I work through these emotions, I remind myself that inspiration will come back. It’s not about compelling creativity, but rather allowing myself the space to recharge. In that quietude, and in the absence of expectation, I often discover clarity and achieve my finest work.

So, if you’re also staring into your own empty well, know that you’re not alone. It’s a shared human experience, and it’s okay to simply be. The well may be empty now, but it will fill again in its own time. Embrace the quiet, and trust that inspiration is just around the corner, waiting for the right moment to flow back in.

Close-up of dried hydrangea petals, the intricate textures and patterns, reflecting the beauty of nature’s cycles.

I’ve included these four images; these are the latest I’ve taken, and they are here to say I am trying my best to get going again. I am getting my shit together 😀 It’s all under the water 😊

its under the bridge 1 — It’s all under the bridge 😂 well almost at least,

Easter is coming soon; my son and his three boys are coming for a visit, which is something to look forward to as we plan to visit our summer house first time this year. The boys have been asking about it for months. I am not that keen as it not that warm and the house has been cold all winter, but today we are leaving to warm the house and get it ready for them. After their visit, it will be time to go on holiday for a week – I’m especially looking forward to the sun and new surroundings, where I can relax and recharge away from the daily routine. I can’t wait to explore new places and experience new adventures as we embrace this time away as a couple.

Monochrome Photography in Helsinki: March Sunday

Black and White photos, Captures from Finland, Photography

This were taken with my mobile from the car while in Helsinki last weekend for I edited them into monochrome on my mobile with LightRoom Leanne’s Monochrome Madness

Helsinki -Eteläsatama — Eteläsatama – view to construction of new Museum and in the back the Helsinki Cathedral

View to Helsinki Railway station and The Finnish National Theatre from Vilhonkatu and on the side Casino Helsinki

Lens-Artists Challenge #391 – Phone Photography

lens-artists

Tina’s – Phone Photography challenge is super relevant right now; it totally shows how far mobile photography has come, just like our smartphone cameras have leveled up. Her post is great inspiration, so do check it out and join in.

I’ve taken a ton of pics with my phones over the years. Right now, I’m using the iPhone 17 PRO, which is a recent purchase, and let me tell you, its camera setup is awesome with that triple-lens system and cool features like Night mode and Deep Fusion. The picture quality is great, and honestly, having such a great camera on me makes it so easy to grab those spontaneous shots!

I had no complaints about my previous iPhone 14 PRO; I got great shots with it for three years, and most of the images that I will share are shot with it.

A couple enjoys a picturesque moment together in front of The beautiful *Forsyth Park fountain*, surrounded by lush trees and cascading water. ( IPhone 14 PRO )

A serene forest scene showcasing sunlight filtering through the trees, highlighting vibrant greenery and a carpet of small flowers on the forest floor. ( IPhone 6s)

A relaxed moment captured in black and white, showcasing a man lounging in a reclining chair, enjoying the day. (Iphone 12) I take most of my portraits with phone.

Food Photography in restaurants is a must, 😀 A delicious dessert, fresh strawberries and decorative flowers, paired with a cup of coffee. (IPhone 12)

A spacious gallery with a sleek black bench centered in the foreground, framed by large windows and Marimekko curtains. I have edited this as into **black and white**, one of my favorite interior shots, here is the original ( IPhone 12)

A rainy drive on the highway, the blurred view through a rain-streaked windshield. I often take photos while in the car, of the ever changing skies, weather and trying to capture movement. This one; weather 😂 ( IPhone 14 PRO )

Tinka one of my favorite subject to photograph – in this shot I edited in black-and-white of her relaxing, showcasing its peaceful demeanor. ( IPhone 14 PRO )

Stunning view of rugged cliffs and lush valleys in Blue Mountains, Australia. tI took so many there this is a new edit. ( IPhone 14 PRO )

A misty scene featuring tall trees and a partially obscured pathway, creating an atmospheric and serene ambiance. AS I already have said, weather is one I try to capture, mist being one of the favorite things. This is also taken in Australia in 2025 ( IPhone 14 PRO )

A serene winter night scene a snow-covered landscape illuminated by a bright moon. Taken with my new IPhone 17 PRO past winter. I am amazed how great night shots you can get with this phone.

Taking a self portrait with a phone is so much easier than camera, sharing a recent on of myself – in monochrome as I do love that style.

A thoughtful self-portrait in monochrome, showcasing the beauty and easiness of phone photography.

Please remember to include a link to Tina’s post and utilize the Lens-Artists Tag so we can easily find your photos. Huge thanks to Egidio for demonstrating the impact of black and white photography and how our minds can visualize colors through imagination. Lastly, I hope you to join us next week when Patti guides us through her Pilotfish post. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.

I’m having a bit of a tough time keeping a positive mindset and staying motivated to get things done, but I’m really trying to push through. Every day has its moments. I just keep reminding myself that it’s all about just doing it. I am not depressed or anything, just lacking in the motivation part. My motto is even “Inspiration exists, but it needs to find you working.” I hope you get why I haven’t been commenting lately, but I promise I’ll check out the posts, even if it takes me a bit longer. Engaging with the posts matters to me, and I’m doing my best to get back on track and jump in more.

The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.

On the Roof in Monochrome

Black and White photos, Photography

I’m feeling really drained and lacking initiative at the moment. I want to do things, but I can’t seem to get anything done really well. Like these photos, they are not really inspired; I didn’t take the time to edit them as well as I could have, which is frustrating because I know I have the potential to create something beautiful. So I haven’t posted anything in the last few days, despite the urge to share my work and connect with others. It’s as if there’s a wall of apathy keeping me from expressing myself, and I’m sure you know the feeling. Is this spring fatigue? With the change of season, there’s typically a sense of renewal and energy in the air, but instead, I’m left feeling stagnant and lost in a mix of lethargy and longing for motivation. The ideas swirl in my mind, yet they struggle to find their way into action.

But I am trying – so here are four images, which I find to be a great topic, and still this is what I was able to come up with. Brian, here are my photos for Monochrome Madness: on the roof

Black and white photo showcasing the iconic Roosevelt sign atop a historic building, reflecting a moment of urban nostalgia.

A solitary plastic chair overlooks a serene ocean view, taken on a rooftop at Amalfi coast

A striking rooftop sculpture of a cat perched atop a pointed architectural feature,in Riga surrounded by greenery.

A person shoveling snow in and hint, there is also snow on the roof captured in monochrome.

A Trip Back in Time: The Three Crowns

Captures from Finland, Photography

Actually these are Sunday windows as I took them yesterday, when going to have lunch in Helsinki. The restaurant windows were rather nice, don’t you think. As soon as you walk in, the charming interior grabs your attention— I researched that; it was designed by Finnish artist Emil Ruokolainen , and you can’t miss the beautifully polished mirror on the back wall. The stunning stained-glass windows, made by artist Fritz Hilbert, add to the unique vibe. What’s really special is that these lovely details have mostly stayed the same over the years, offering guests a delightful trip back in time.

Kolme Kruunua (Three Crowns) is one of those must-visit spots in Helsinki, a traditional neighborhood restaurant with an incredible history that goes back to 1952. That was the year when Irja Örn and her husband decided to turn their little café, Liisan Baari, into a full-service restaurant, and that’s how Kolme Kruunua was born. Fast forward to today, and it’s become a beloved dining destination for both locals and tourists.

A stunning stained-glass window featuring floral designs, enhancing the charming interior of Kolme Kruunua restaurant in Helsinki.

Stunning stained-glass window and charming interior takes you back to 1950’s

The bar area with elegant wooden design and a cozy ambiance.

Stained-glass windows adorned with colorful floral designs at Kolme Kruunua restaurant in Helsinki, complemented by a bicycle parked outside to showcase the neighborhood restaurant

Posted for Monday Window: 23 March 2026

Green

People

This cutie came to entertain us with all the joys a little fella can bring. A little bundle of joy he is in his green shirt, and the ball was a lucky addition to the photo.

For Debbie’s One Word Sunday.

A young child sitting on a patterned chair, wearing a green apple-patterned shirt and blue jeans, holding a green soccer ball. — My little cutie holding a small green soccer ball, dressed in a green apple-patterned shirt.

From Winter to Spring

Captures from Finland, Photography

I took these yesterday as I watched the snow melt on the hill behind my backyard. I was able to sit outside as our patio is such that the house safeguards us from the wind. Am I happy to see the green emerging- the moss is so bright.

For John’s Cellpic Sunday.

A serene forest scene featuring tall trees with bare branches and vibrant green foliage. The ground is covered with patches of snow and moss, highlighting the transition between seasons. — A forest scene featuring tall trees with bare branches and vibrant green foliage. The ground is covered with patches of snow and moss, highlighting the transition between seasons.

A serene forest scene featuring tall pine trees and dense greenery, with underbrush and sunlight filtering through the foliage.

A serene forest landscape featuring tall pine trees with green foliage, against a clear blue sky, and patches of snow on the ground. — A view of trees with vibrant greenery, the essence of spring.

Lens-Artists Challenge #390: Color in Black and White

lens-artists

The remarkable influence of tonal suggestion and color memory is unmistakable. Even when a scene appears solely in shades of gray, our minds—shaped by years of experience—can easily “imagine” the recognizable colors we anticipate. We overlay our memories onto the image. This week, we are encouraged by Egídio to delve into this cognitive phenomenon, illustrating how the lack of color can often lead to a more profound and personal perception. This is the challenge we face this week: perceiving color within the confines of black and white.

It was rather hard to find images the we all associate with the same way. Sky, trees, water- even that is hard to precisely say, as there are so many shades.

A close-up of a bee collecting nectar from a large, spiky flower in black and white. — A close-up of a bee on a flower in black and white, illustrating the beauty of nature even without color. What is your guess as for the colors of the flower?

Black and white photograph of a forest path surrounded by tall trees and dense foliage, creating a serene and moody atmosphere. — A serene black and white forest path illustrating the interplay of light and shadow in a nature scene.

A black and white photograph of a serene beach scene, featuring sandy shores, coastal vegetation, and gentle waves lapping at the shoreline under a cloudy sky. — A black and white coastal landscape showcasing the interplay of textures and shapes, embodying the challenge of perceiving color within monochrome. Can you see the yellow sand, blue ocean and sky surrounded by green trees.

Close-up of fern fronds in black and white, with soft bokeh background. — A close-up of ferns in black and white, highlighting their intricate textures and shapes, illustrating the week’s theme of perceiving color within monochrome images.

A person sitting on the beach, watching waves with a surfer in the distance, captured in black and white. — A black and white image capturing a person sitting in the surf, contemplating the waves. Turquoise – was the original, but is that what we all saw?

Black and white close-up of a bell-shaped flower hanging from green leaves. — A monochromatic close-up of a delicate blue bell, showcasing the intricate details of its petals and leaves, emphasizing the beauty of black and white photography.

Two pelicans perched on a rock near the water, captured in black and white. — Two pelicans perched on a rock, captured in black and white composition, emphasizing their unique features and textures, but can you see their color?

Bundles of thick, textured rope stacked together, featuring frayed ends and varying loop patterns, captured in black and white. — A close-up view of neatly bundled strands of rope in various textures, captured in black and white, highlighting the intricate details of their fibers. Can you see the color -Light golden brown?

These are my photos on this challenge; how did I perform? This one had me contemplating for some time as I tried to find suitable colors, I aimed to make sure that my suggestions were both easily identifiable within the given limitations.

It is clear that we all enjoy relaxing, and many of us name nature as one of its main factors, as replies for Anne’s Time to Relax challenge last week showed us. I hope you will participate this week in Egídio’s challenge, too. Please don’t forget to use the “lens-artists” hashtag in your posts to help people discover yours. Also, tag them to his original post.

Next week, Tina will feature a new challenge. It will go live at noon EST in the USA. Tune in to find out more about the challenge then.

The Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.

Hello, how are you?

Saturday Classics

This came to mind for this Saturday.

Hello, how are you? Hey, how ya feelin’?
Are you still the same?

More classic tunes Here.

This Saturday’s reflection centers on Jeff Lynne’s ELO song “Telephone Line,” which prompts thoughts about staying connected and checking in with loved ones in my mind. I should reach out more to friends by calling or and questions about well-being.

Trimming Trees Under a Bright Sky

Photography

For Debbie’s Six Word Saturday

A person stands on a rock, pruning a bare tree in a garden on a sunny day. The surroundings include green shrubs and a wooden fence. — A man is trimming a tree in his backyard, under the bright blue sky, surrounded by all the greenery around him.

Shaping Trees Beneath a Radiant Sky

Embracing Spring: Reflections on Nature’s Renewal

Captures from Finland, Photography

Whispers of a tranquil lake,
Underneath azure skies, shadows dance,
Nature’s gentle reflection.

A semi-frozen lake beneath the bright blue sky of March, showcasing the reflections and shadows cast by trees.

The spring equinox, occurring on March 20th, 2026, marks the start of astronomical spring and is celebrated by various cultures. On this day, daytime and nighttime are nearly equal, symbolizing renewal and rebirth.

I eagerly await the arrival of spring, when the sun shines directly on the equator, and I look forward to the blossoming flowers, warmer temperatures, and the chance to enjoy nature as it revives from the cold of winter. Temperature is +9C today in my area.

Trees reflecting in partially frozen lake water under a clear blue sky. — A March landscape with trees reflecting in a calm lake, hinting at the transition between winter and spring.

A solitary stick standing upright in calm water, reflecting the surrounding ripples and light.

Captivating Moody Clouds

Captures from Finland, Photography

A serene lake under swirling clouds,
Dramatic shades of gray and white,
Sky ever-shifting in reflection,
Where light and shadow play in hues,
With ripples stirred by a gentle breeze,
Moody tones as the sun blends hues.

A serene lake scene reflecting dark clouds and hints of blue sky, with vegetation in the distance. — The view unfolds beneath a tapestry of dramatic clouds, their deep grays and striking whites mirroring the ever-changing sky above. A gentle breeze ripples the surface, causing the clouds’ reflections to dance and shift

Wordless Wednesday

Captures from Finland

Abstract reflection with vibrant colors and textures.

Tulip Beauty in Monochrome and Color

Black and White photos, Flowers, Photography

Monochrome Madness is giving us a free week, which means no specific prompt this time around—so much easier to choose the topic. I thought it would be lovely to post flowers, so this week I’m excited to share some gorgeous tulips that a dear friend gave me. I snapped these beauties against the window, using backlight to really capture the details of the petals in the monochrome images. Plus, since I’m also sharing this with TheFlowerHour, I’ve included some colorful images too, taken in light coming mostly from the side above. Just wait until you see the lovely orange shade!

A striking contrast of black and white captures a bouquet of tulips, with the dark background emphasizing their delicate petals and complex textures in the first image in the gallery. The other two monochrome portrayals showcases the arrangement of tulips in a vase, featuring intricate details set against a gently blurred backdrop. Complementing and contrasting this is the radiant bouquet of orange tulips, artfully positioned in a cobalt blue vase atop a wooden table, exuding vibrancy and charm.

Click the gallery images to enlarge them

Monday window – Charming Kitchen

Interiors, Photography

A cozy kitchen scene featuring a curved window with lace curtains, a white countertop with a bowl of lemons and a potted plant, and colorful fruits displayed in a glass bowl. The space is complemented by vintage tiles and kitchen appliances. Hemingway museum-Florida

A black and white cat sitting on a kitchen counter next to a bowl of lemons and a potted plant, with a window in the background. — A cozy kitchen scene: a black and white cat sitting on the countertop beside bowls of fresh lemons and a variety of fruit. A home with a cat is a house.

Posted for Monday Window: 16 March 2026

Lens Artists Challenge #389: Time to Relax

lens-artists, Photography

“How beautiful it is to do nothing, and then to rest afterward.”

Green fields of summer stretch endlessly, painted in vibrant shades of green under the dazzling blue skies. Birds chirp, their melodies harmonizing with the gentle rustle of leaves as the wind slowly blows through the tops of the trees, creating a soothing symphony of nature. While laying in the hammock, I feel a sense of peace enveloping me. The warmth of the sun kisses my skin, and I watch fluffy clouds drift lazily overhead, time seeming to stand still in this serene oasis. The sweet scent of wildflowers mingles with the fresh air, heightening the tranquility of this perfect day.

Waves crashing against a rocky shore, relaxing by the tranquility of nature, is one of the most enchanting experiences when visiting warm places by the ocean. The rhythmic sound of the surf, as it crashes and recedes, creates a soothing melody that caresses the ears and invites peaceful thoughts. As you breathe in the salty air, each breath seems to wash away the stresses of daily life, replacing them with a deep sense of calm. The warm sun, while seabirds glide gracefully overhead, adding to the idyllic scenery. This harmonious blend of sights and sounds encapsulates the essence of coastal bliss, making it an unforgettable moment that lingers long after the visit.

Waves crashing against a rocky shore, relaxing by the tranquility of nature. Is one the things when visiting warm places by the ocean. So soothing

Art, in its many forms, serves as a profound source of relaxation for me. Photography, sculpture, and painting all offer unique avenues for creative expression that help me unwind . Engaging with these mediums brings a sense of peace and tranquility that is hard to replicate elsewhere. I often find myself lost in the moment while capturing the world through my camera lens or molding a piece of clay into something beautiful. Listening to music also plays a crucial role in my relaxation ritual; the genre I choose often varies depending on my mood but regardless of the selection, the melodies wash over me and ease my mind. Singing along in the car is another delightful escape, letting me let loose and enjoy the freedom of expression. Furthermore, taking the time to look at and genuinely appreciate the artwork created by others adds another layer to this experience; observing their techniques and emotions often inspires my creativity and cultivates a greater appreciation for the artistic journey we all share.

Art in many forms relaxes me, actually doing it as well as seeing it.

That is me relaxing- shared some my personal ways.

Thank you, Anne, for this inspiring challenge! I’m thrilled to hear that you’re improving daily. If you’re looking for inspiration, be sure to check out Anne’s amazing website. Don’t forget to tag Lens-Artists and link back to Anne’s original post so we can find your creations easily.

Last week, Ann-Christine shared her recent adventurous trip to Africa with us and encouraged us to recount our own stories. I loved the pictures and appreciated the experiences you described even more.

Next week is Egídio’s turn to lead us, Saturday 21^st March. Until then, let’s keep exploring, broadening our horizons, and maintaining a positive mindset.

Posted for Anne’s Lens-Artists Challenge

We are the Lens-Artists: Tina, Patti, Ann-Christine, John, Sofia, Anne, Egidio, Beth, and myself Ritva.

To learn more about the Lens-Artists Challenge, click here.

Dynamic City Roads; Speed

Cities, Photography

A dynamic view of a busy city road showcasing the speed of passing vehicles and modern architecture.

Participating in Debbie’s One Word Sunday.

Visual Diary of Our New South Wales day trip

Photography, Traveling Australia

As I have said, I have tons of images from our trip; now here is an overload that captures the essence of our incredible experiences. This is the addition to the LAPC /Your Journey 5-10 images, where you will find a small selection that highlights the beauty and adventure we encountered along the way.

Each gallery can be enlarged by a click, allowing you to immerse yourself in the vibrant details and stunning scenery; I might even be bold enough to recommend it as a visual diary that tells our story, evoking the memories tied to each moment.

Our first stop was to look at the views at Kianga Beach on the southern coast of New South Wales, a tranquil 700-meter-long destination known, according to the South Coast Travel Guide, for its stunning views of the Tasman Sea and Montague Island. It is located near the town of Narooma.

Narooma (/nəruːmə/) is a town in the NSW on the far south coast. The town is on the Princes Highway, which crosses the Wagonga Inlet to North Narooma. We just drove through it. The name Narooma is said to be derived from a word in the local Aboriginal language (one of the Yuin dialects) meaning “clear blue waters”.We didn’t end up stopping at Narooma at all, even though it had a nice little port with oyster shops.

We were going to stop for a break in the charming town of Tilba Tilba, a hidden gem protected by National Heritage listing! I read that this delightful spot came alive during the gold rush back in the 1890s and 1900s, and you can still wander among its beautiful Victorian timber buildings. Nestled right at the foot of the majestic Gulaga (Mt Dromedary), it’s the perfect launchpad for exploring this spiritually rich land of the Yuin people. And to me, I loved spotting the cows and the sheep on the hills.

Have you ever heard of Wallaga Lake? It’s the largest lake in southern NSW, nestled beneath the stunning Gulaga Mountain. I was amazed by the peaceful atmosphere— The sunsets there? Absolutely breathtaking I heard, I wish I could have captured the magic around Beauty Point and Wallaga Lake Heights, we had time just to drive through it. Plus, I learned that this area is culturally significant for the Yuin-Monaro people, with Merriman’s Island being an Aboriginal Place where access is limited.

Bermagui, with its inviting Blue Pool, from our previous visit had stayed in our minds, so we decided to head there for a relaxing day. It’s truly a hidden gem along the Sapphire Coast, showcasing stunning opaline hues that blend from azure to turquoise, then blush, and finally to a cheerful canary yellow. After carefully making my way down the cliff, I arrived at the stunning 50-meter seawater swimming hole—interesting fact: it was enlarged to its present dimensions in 1937 by local philanthropist Bill Dickinson.

Soon, not yet, snowdrops will emerge

Flowers

The snow is melting so fast at the moment, you almost feel the spring. One of the first signs of spring in my backyard is the rise of the snowdrops. So near, but not yet there.

Close-up of a snowdrop flower bud, symbolizing early spring.

Soon…and from the ground, a gentle hum
as vibrant snowdrops reach for the sky
in just a week, a wave of change will come
and white blooms where life begins to thrive
with people arriving, pursuing bold dreams
they say the seasons can’t dictate our path
but one glance at a snowdrop, and optimism awakens.

Delicate snowdrop flowers emerging in early spring.

Participating in SixWordSaturday

A Family Stay at Casey’s Beach: Memories Made

Traveling Australia

During our visit in February 2025, we stayed two weeks with my cousin at Casey’s Beach. Casey’s Beach is a sheltered, 800-meter-long sandy beach located in Batehaven, near Batemans Bay on the NSW South Coast, ideal for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling. It extends south from Observation Point, a lookout point offering panoramic ocean views of the Tasman Sea and Snapper Island, often used for whale watching.

It was our base for the second part of our Australia trip. We are so grateful for the warm hospitality of my cousin and his husband for allowing us to stay there, as their generosity made us so welcome. Each evening, it was nice to go to sleep listening to the soothing sounds of the waves hit the shore, providing a calming soundtrack to our nights. In the morning, we would awaken to the beautiful, panoramic view that greeted us, a breathtaking sight to marvel at. I have always dreamt of living by the coast, now I got the taste of it. Enjoying freshly made coffee crafted by our thoughtful host while enjoying breakfast on the balcony became a cherished routine. The gentle breeze carried the scent of saltwater. We appreciated the warmth of family and the wonders of Australia even more.

Here are some photos taken in the morning, day, dusk and sunset and blue hour after it. Night shots are missing 😂 Click on the gallery to enlarge the images.

A tranquil view of the beach Casey’s Beach at dusk, showcasing calm waters and smooth stones along the shore.

I have posted several posts about the first half of our trip, I will add the links to them if you wish to have a look, they are in the order I posted them Sydney – Adelaide – South Australia – Victoria

Positano’s Stunning Coastal Views and Iconic Church

Photography, Traveling Italy

Positano, Italy, captivates with its colorful coastal buildings and stunning Mediterranean architecture.

A stunning view of colorful coastal buildings on a hillside in Positano, Italy, showcasing Mediterranean architecture and a vibrant atmosphere.

A vibrant street scene featuring colorful balconies and blossoming plants, with a glimpse of local shops and eateries in a picturesque Positano town.

In the picture is the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta church, nestled in the charming Positano on the Amalfi Coast, a breathtaking architectural gem that weaves memories of sunny day spent wandering its streets. I can still picture that striking dome, embellished with shimmering majolica tiles, catching the sunlight as if it were a beacon from the past. This lovely church, with roots tracing back to the 12th century, isn’t just a place of worship; it holds stories and dreams, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe. The views of the Mediterranean Sea and the quaint cliffside village always felt like a postcard come to life. I can see art lovers admiring the iconic statue of the Black Madonna, while soaking in the exquisite frescoes and intricate details within its walls, each one a testament to a rich history.

Posted for Dan’s Thursday Doors

The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta church in Positano, overlooking the stunning Amalfi Coast.

The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta church in Positano, framed by local vegetation.

The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta and its intricate architecture against a clear blue sky.

The Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta in Positano features a stunning dome adorned with colorful majolica tiles, set against the backdrop of the Amalfi Coast.

View of the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta church in Positano, featuring its iconic dome and the bustling beach below.

The stunning interior of Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, showcasing intricate gold details and elaborate frescoes.

Interior view of the Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta, showcasing its ornate architecture and floral decorations during a special event.

Wordless Wednesday

Captures from Finland, Flowers

Close-up of a pussy willow with dew droplets on its surface, set against a blurred natural background. First sign of spring can be found in sunny places

Monochrome Photography: Walls That Tell a Story

Black and White photos, Photography

Well, it seems I might have gone a bit off-script since most of my walls also feature windows! Talk about being a rebel, right? But unfortunately, those windows do pop up in many of my captures too. It’s not that big of a deal though—after all, I take these challenges seriously, but not so that they’re a life-or-death situation. I strive for precision while trying to sprinkle in some creativity and structure.

A monochrome photograph showcasing the textured walls of a dimly lit brick interior.

A monochrome view of a historic lighthouse framed by stone walls, showcasing its architectural details against a moody sky.

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 bit

A woman poses in front of a vibrant mural, you know the feeling of wanting to blend into the wall

A close-up view of a rustic wooden waterfront building featuring a balcony, windows with shutters, and a seating area.

A close-up view of a weathered and peeling wall featuring windows and a metal ladder, highlighting the charm of urban decay.

Silhouettes of friends standing on a stone wall, enjoying a casual conversation.

Here is my submission for Monochrome-Madness {Walls}, hosted this week by Margaret from Pyrenees to Pennines.

As you can see, I do take these challenges seriously. You know, I’ve been thinking about how to visually represent the concept of invisible walls in photography. It’s fascinating, really. Imagine capturing a person gazing out at what seems like an open space, yet their body language is full of frustration or hesitation—it’s like a silent dialogue that suggests there’s an unseen limit at play. The composition could create that sense of separation between the subject and their surroundings, almost as if there’s this emotional barrier that the viewer can feel. And then there are the shadows; they could really drive home the idea of barriers that aren’t physically there but are definitely felt on a deeper level.

A contemplative figure gazes out from a window, embodying the idea of invisible barriers and emotional separation.

Lens-Artists Challenge # – Your Journey in 5-10 images

Photography, Travel, Traveling Australia

Describing and illustrating trips packed with activities can feel like a monumental task—at least for me. It often seems like too much, and while I usually tend to overshare for the sake of my friends and readers, I’m now hit with a real challenge: Anne-Christine wants us to pull it off with just 5-10 pictures! Lens-Artists Challenge # – Your Journey in 5-10 images

My husband and I recently ( a year ago 😁, that is recently) took a trip to Australia, and let me tell you, editing all the photos has been quite the challenge! I didn’t write the texts; that was all him, but I’m having a hard time putting everything together, especially with the annoying hiccups from my hard drive issues. I had edited everything before but lost it all, so now I’m facing the daunting task of redoing it. Anyway, I just wanted to share a quick summary of part of our adventure. I definitely plan to post more pictures from our stops, because there was so much to see and experience at each location! Let’s get started, thanks for the text Mara!

This was going to be a day with nothing to do besides drive. The GPS said 750 km and 8 h 6 min from Bendigo to Caseys Beach in Bateman Bay. Start of the journey was full of twists and turns on narrow roads again, which actually made the drive more enjoyable than just staying on highways. The directions seemed to be always wrong, I felt like we going to Melbourne instead of the direction of Sydney. We managed to see plenty of small towns again with funny names. Seriously, there is nothing wrong with the names, but if you are not used indigenous names and languages, they seem humorous sometimes. Even though I don’t even know if these following names are indigenous: Colbinabbin, Wanalta, Moora, Waranga. Anyway, they were next to impossible to remember afterwards. I had to look them up from a map. I remember driving through Murchinson and Violet Town, though. From Violet Town we turned to Hume Highway, and I could just turn the cruise control on and coast – boooring!

We spend 450 km on Hume Highway, and even though the drive was boring, the scenery never was. Just before turning from the highway, we stopped at Yass for lunch. Yass, finally something to eat! After Yass we were directed again to smaller roads to bypass Canberra. We passed Little Billabong, Tumblong, Gundagai, Jugiong, Molonglo, Murrumbateman and Durran Durra (weren’t they a famous band in the 80’s?), before hitting and passing historical Braidwood. Soon after Braidwood we began descending from Clyde Mountain towards the coast,

The descend was exciting. For a while, very steep and winding road surrounded by lush flora, eucalyptus trees and mist. Unfortunately, there is no way of stopping to take pictures, but the going was sometimes so slow, that Ritva was able to take some photos from the car.

Lush eucalyptus forest in Australia, showcasing vibrant greenery and tall trees.

We finally arrived at Ritva’s cousins Heli’s and her husband house in Caseys Beach just before 7 pm. Heli is one of nine children of Family Saarikko that emigrated to Australia in 1969. Can you imagine immigrating to any country with nine children? Most of us can’t even imagine having nine children. And Finland is also pretty far from Australia. And none of them spoke hardly any English. But Australia was very inviting during that era, because the country needed more people. And 11 people at the same time must have been a jackpot to Australia. The father and quite a few of the seven boys ended up in lumber and building industries because they had some previous experience. Few of them ended up building the Parliament House in Canberra. But that is another story and I’m not the right person to tell it. Ritva’s family, with only three girls, emigrated at the same time but didn’t end up staying. The evening after a long day was spent correcting everything that is wrong with the world.

Day after we had it easy. I took a 1,5 h walk from Caseys Beach to town center, to Corrigan’s Beach, to observation point and back to the house. The observation point had been renovated since 2019. Now it had walkways, signs, murals on sidewalk and lookout decks. Nice! After the walk I had to do some shopping for necessities. First, I drove to drive-through bottle shop for beer and white wine, then to petrol station and finally to electronic store to buy an adapter for SD-card, so Ritva could transfer the photos to laptop. Also, some time was spent playing with Baxter the Dog. He is a Jack Russell.

A view from the observation point framed by eucalyptus trees, capturing the tranquil beauty of Australia’s coastline.

On Thursday we took a little drive. Bermagui with its Blue Pool seemed tempting, so off we went. On the way we saw Narooma and Tilba Tilba but we decided to stop on the way back. The Blue Pool was still amazing with its combination of natural and man-made swimming pools. You get the picture, if you look at the pictures. I was lucky enough to video a sea lion cleaning itself between the rocks. Our lunch was grapes, chips and water at the Blue Pool. Catching some rays and taking it easy and people watching, of course. ( Click the gallery to see enlarged images)

Wallaga Lake was also on the way there, with white sands and birds

A tranquil view of Wallaga Lake, showcasing its serene waters and lush greenery on the horizon.

Scenic views of the lush green landscape near Tilba Tilba, showcasing rolling hills and a winding road.

We didn’t end up stopping at Narooma at all, even though it had a nice little port with oyster shops. Tilba Tilba is a pretty old village that at present is meant for tourists. It has quaint little shops and cafes worth the visit, if you like that sort of thing. On the way over to Bermagui I had spotted the Bodalla Cheese Factory and I had a craving for ice cream. When we stepped in to the Factory, they told us that they just lost the power and naturally none of their machines was working and we couldn’t have ice cream. Bummer.

Bodalla Cheese Factory, a charming stop featuring local dairy products and ice cream, located on the journey to Bermagui, Australia.

Last town before Batemans Bay was Mogo and no ice cream there either because everything was closed or closing. Mogo is a small touristy town. We didn’t want to disrupt our host’s normal schedule, so we ended up in observation point to see the sunset.