Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

Reflections, reflections, reflections! This is a simple fountain, but it's been designed to radiate beauty through the reflections in the water. Its simplicity enhances the clarity and brilliance of the lights. I positioned myself to capture the full geometrical shape, making this picture a relaxing delight to gaze upon. for me looks like the heartbeats in a hospital machine, up and down strong to low!

The colours were nothing short of amazing – green, blue, pink – and the night was both hot and dark, which enriched the colour tones. I'm sure you have a mobile phone, and there might be a local fountain nearby. I challenge you to go one night and give it a try!

Esther Amaya-Gallen - EAGPhotos.com

Heartbeats

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

I saw these two ladies waiting for the tram, and it reminded me of the movie Belleville Rendez-Vous.
I saw these two ladies waiting for the train, and it reminded me of the movie Belleville Rendez-Vous. They seemed to be recreating the beautiful and cheerful atmosphere of the film. It also portrayed the idea that an old friendship can remain vibrant over time. To take the picture I had to pretend I was casually looking around, and I positioned myself to capture the dramatic clouds. It's incredible what we can observe if we take the time to look around us. Try it!

Belleville Rendezvous (film)

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

I stumbled upon this small church and, by chance, entered just as these girls were emerging from the main room. The play of shadows caught my attention immediately! Somehow, I witnessed the statue bathed in a bright light, illuminating the entire room in a magical way, with the two individuals leaving it behind. The floor was also remarkable – the black and white geometry added an extra layer of interest, interacting with the oval shapes of the windows in the lighting room. It was a captivating moment of unexpected beauty.

Leaving The Light Behind

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

I love this picture. It is a very clear example of how light and shadows can transform anything into art. This is a close building part of Bristol University that only opens once a year to the public. So there is some rubbish left behind that in this case is pottery; the light reflection is warm, and you can even see the granulated walls made of pottery. Look at the brush; it has some spider webs and dust, just visible because of the light coming through the window. As I say, anything can become an incredible subject to take a photo. Here in Budapest, my dream comes true! The broken buildings and imperfect things give character and reflect history, although my Hungarian friends think they need to be plastered :)

Left Behind

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

This is another one-off picture that I really cherish. This is part of a private patio in the Gothic quarter of Barcelona. They were doing some work, and they just opened the door to go and dispose of their construction rubbish... I had to do it... I know you understand. I didn't break the rules; I just extended my arms and shot as fast as possible, hoping the image would be sharp... and it is!

The Bicycle

This beautiful beach scene, with its striking shadows, was transformed by a piece of concrete and iron in the middle—turning the spot into a “concha” and adding an intriguing frame to the dreamlike setting.

Concrete in Paradise

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

I enjoyed taking this photo so much! I spotted goths! Can you see them on the right side of the picture? Now, can you guess how I took it? Okay, here's the reveal: the two people on the right are mannequins from the opposite posh shop, and their reflection appears on the abandoned old shop. Additionally, can you see, just beyond these two figures, a woman's smiling face? What an incredible find!

Furthermore, notice all the pipes on the left side—observe how they are constructed and the shapes they create. It's easy to forget that everything has been designed by someone, and we may have different opinions about it, but there was thought put into it.

And the most incredible thing...can you see that someone left two tins with flowers in the middle of the floor, and now they are beautifully adorning the scene?

Ghosts

Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

This image is quite busy, with pieces of ice on the river providing reflections but also contributing to the overall busyness. I appreciate the contrast between the new, less attractive building and the beautiful old one, as well as the symmetry present in objects like the two white cars opposite the new building and the river ports. The colours are also noteworthy – warm and beautiful, even on a cold day.

Noise

Hahnemühle Fine Art Baryta 325grm paper

In the picture of the cars, the effect of light on the sparkly metal is incredible. However, in this one, there is also a metal pipe in some doll colours that, by chance, match the bike and its surroundings. Let's be honest; what a nice and interesting way to park it! Look at the middle circle of the white line on the floor, the semicircle of the floor stone, which again contrasts with the strong vertical lines of the building. Also, the colours all match. How lucky I was to walk there!

The Perfect Corner To Rest

Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

Oh, let me tell you about the magic that unfolded on this very cool night! The shadows and reflections of colours in the water became this clear, shiny spectacle that's nothing short of spectacular. I mean, check out that sky – it's like a masterpiece in the making!

This a clear example of how colours can magically change with the temperature.

I was looking for the perfect perspective, and voila, the lamp posts were my guiding star. Their light also makes beautiful reflections on the water forming a parallel line. So many elements make this image very interesting to look at.

Now, let's talk paper. I'm over the moon about my choice – this hemp natural paper is great. It absorbed the ink in such a unique way; I don't think chemically treated paper could pull off these deep, rich colours. It's like my photos are on canvas, not just paper. Love it!

Nocturnal Glow

Innova Photo Art Fiba Print White Matt 280grm paper

I always go alone to take pictures, and I enjoy playing with the light and elements I come across. I appreciate the unexpected, as in this picture. While I may not have expensive gear, I've learned to use light and my body's position to capture interesting and sometimes humorous shots. This is a beautiful example of playing with the elements. The wind was strong, so I utilised its effect on the water and moved to create a circular image, considering the movement of the tree leaves as well. Just great! I also appreciate the contrasts between the darker right side and the lighter left side. One day, I plan to print it A1!

Playing With The Wind

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

This photo showcases how incredible reflections can be achieved using nature. Here, a concrete wall serves as a mirror, with waves breaking and creating a large puddle. The reflections duplicate the kids, resulting in a fascinating composition. Additionally, the clouds form a triangle from the corners to the center, directing the viewer's gaze towards the middle kid.

I considered cropping the block on the left, but, for me, doing so would disrupt the sky perspective. Moreover, I wanted to convey that the kid alone in the next block was the 'boss' of the group, with the rest of the kids following his lead.

The Boss

CUBA! Nooooo, BUDAPEST! >) I was walking on my way to Buda Castle when I saw this incredibly well-preserved car with the most colourful background. I've never been to Cuba, but this scene was exactly what I imagine I would find there. The reflections on the metal of the car make it pop out of the picture. I choose hemp natural paper for all my colour pictures, as the texture and properties make the colours vibrant! It just works as I want.

It is also a clear example of how colours change according to the materials and temperature.
I positioned myself in the middle of the road to be able to frame the car as best possible the car. I missed a bit,  but I managed to get a very nice and balanced frame with the 2 windows and the door and post. Can you see the symmetry, 2 rectangles, and 2 squares? Just a dream come true!

Cuba?

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

I was in Berlin, eager to visit the Holocaust monument, anticipating that its geometry would provide an interesting backdrop for perspective photos. However, as I wandered through the corridors, a surprising and overwhelming feeling of insignificance and powerlessness engulfed me. The coldness conveyed by the concrete material and the imposing, sharp shapes heightened this sense of impotence. It seemed clear that this emotional impact was intentional.

Abruptly, the rain began, only to quickly stop, leaving behind dramatic clouds that allowed rays of light to filter through. At that moment, I decided to pause and observe. To my surprise, two girls defied the solemn atmosphere by laying on one of the concrete pieces (a forbidden act) just to capture a selfie. Despite the contrast with the monument's intended evocation, their joy and kindness were palpable. It was a unique and incredible setting, where the unexpected juxtaposition of elements

Kindness In Brutalism

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

One of my Hungarian friends invited me to her place in a small village close to Budapest (I need to ask her again for the name). She said there was nothing really to see, just a lake. So, I went, and I was shocked. Just a lake!!! Look at this beauty!! This picture, for me, is a clear example of how we take granted things and maybe even people as nice and beautiful just because it is habitual, so we lose their real value. This happened to me after leaving home (Barcelona) and missing small things, like the sound of the birds in summer, some beautiful buildings, people, etc. I think we need, from time to time, to look close to us and remember there are also good things and beauty around us, wherever we are.

Just A Lake

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

This is one of my most precious shots. I was on a train when I noticed a man enjoying a hot drink inside a coffee shop. Despite not having a proper or expensive camera and lens, I observed him from the train and patiently waited until he wasn't looking directly at me to capture the shot. I was also anxious about the train leaving and missing the opportunity. The interplay of light and shadows was too stunning to pass up, and I managed to capture the moment. It goes to show that light can transform even the simplest or seemingly unremarkable scenes into something interesting and beautiful. It's easy to miss such moments when engrossed in scrolling through Instagram :)

Busted!

Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

This one holds immense significance for me, reminiscent of British paintings like Ophelia by John Everett Millais (1829–1896). The colors and the setting echo that same tranquil beauty, but here, Ophelia is absent. I captured this moment in the pond of the Japanese garden on Margaret Island. The beauty of the photo lies in the ethereal light, creating a peaceful ambiance. The pinks, greens, mesmerizing reflections, and the water's transparency come together like a painting.

Take a moment to appreciate the lines the plants form and how the reflections elongate them. Notice the various layers the leaves create, adding depth to the composition. Plus look how sharp is my charming frog! When curating the entire exhibition, I envisioned a progression of colour, considering the building itself. I aimed for a transition from black and white to vibrant hues, guiding the viewers' eyes. For this particular photo, I knew it belonged precisely between the two

Swimming With Ophelia

Wow, can you believe what I stumbled upon today? It was like I walked straight into a dream! I even checked both sides to make sure there wasn't some hidden camera crew or an elaborate setup. Nope, it was just luck gracing me with this fabulously refurbished beetle parked in the most symmetrical way, with the coolest background ever.

I had to be lightning-quick because of the traffic, so there I was, smack dab in the middle of the road, ready to seize the moment. And boy, was I over the moon! Can you see the sheer symmetry of that building behind it? Sets of three different windows, various textures on the walls, and that light green shade perfectly complementing the red of the car and its reflections on the metal. It's like a harmonious dance of colors and contrasts.

And let's talk about the juxtaposition of the old, slightly worn-out car with the sleek newness of the surroundings. This photo wouldn't be half as beautiful with one of those fancy, shiny cars.

Resurrecting The Past

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

This photo was the one that made me decide to do more serious street photography. Look at the frame. You have nearly every possible ethnicity in one unique frame. Also, the reflections on the metal make it even better as you have interesting subjects reflected that complement the ethnic group. Look also at the geometrical shapes in the picture: the stones on the floor forming lines, the two bottles in the middle of the two women. You can also find shapes like triangles, such as on the legs of the lady sitting on the right side with a cigarette. Even the carried bag on the right has horizontal lines! This is what, for me, represents England!

Multicultural Heritage

Hahnemühle Fine Art Sugar Cane 300grm paper

One of my friend's dads was a priest in a small town, and they opened up the place for me to show me around and to allow me to take pictures. They mentioned it was a basic church, nothing very special. Everything was constructed with wood, bricks, and not much metal. The sun was streaming in from the big windows on the left, casting a gentle glow on the natural wood and the books placed on the simple shelf. Natural materials have soft reflections, creating an incredibly peaceful effect overall.

Peace

Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

This is one of my favourites from the collection, a clear example of how light can transform a scene. It was a very cool day, and the sky displayed gorgeous colours, while the water, affected by the cold temperature, took on a different hue and approached a glass-like quality, creating a mirror effect.

We often forget that colours change with temperature and the environment. Taking a photo on a cool day produces different colours than on a warm day. These colours, reminiscent of those in Norwegian movies and photos I enjoy, mesmerised me as I found myself in Budapest with this Northern light.

I particularly appreciate the vertical frame, showcasing a prolonged gradient of colours, resembling a painting!

Is This Norway 1?

Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

This picture is very special to me. The sunset was one of the most beautiful ones I've ever witnessed, but at the same time, I was acutely aware of the country's situation. I faced the decision of whether to include the metal safety cable. You might think it's disrupting the perfect, beautiful, dreamy sunset. However, for me, it adds a unique and accurate truth to the image, reflecting the country's reality.

The Philippines embodies this duality of being rich in nature yet economically challenged. Historically, it has grappled with under-occupancy, and that's why I deliberately framed the metal cable on one side, making the image imperfect and contradictory. Paradise is not perfect.

Rich Or Poor

Hahnemühle Fine Art Baryta Satin 300grm paper

I tend to memorise all my pictures, although, as a good dyslexic, don't expect me to remember your name, not get lost even with simple directions, or summarise. So, this picture goes with Yang. They have been taken in different places, moments (day and night), and years, but they follow the same principle. I focused on the light directly and burned the image, and obviously, both are pigeons. So, this is an example of how you can saturate a picture to make an average image interesting.
You can try this principle at home with your mobile camera by focusing on the brighter light with some objects close by. You can get a beautiful silhouette. Try it and let me know how it goes.

Yang

Hahnemühle Fine Art Hemp 290grm paper

I was walking on the frozen surface of Lake Balaton in Hungary (first time in 50 years) as dusk began to fall. The light turned pink, gradually shifting to blue and then to darkness. The ice-covered surface sparkled like diamonds. I wanted to capture the horizon, with distant figures walking, to convey the vastness and scale of the lake. That day's colours, sounds, and lights created an unforgettable experience.