Underneath the Bridge

Underneath the bridge_riverThis is a shot of underneath the bridge pictured in my previous post. Since I love architecture, I just had to get a picture as I walked under the bridge! I love seeing the ‘guts’ of a structure and how it’s put together. It’s always interesting to see how such a large structure was constructed. A photo like this would be great to display on a wall along with various shots of the same bridge. You could display pictures that feature the view from above (on top of) the bridge, from below, and on the side. Hanging these together would no only look quite gorgeous, but also allow you to show off you photography skills!

The River Under the Bridge

River under the bridgeThis photo is similar to one I took for a previous post, but is a wider shot that shows two bridges with the river flowing underneath. I love how the bridges and trees frame the river, and the brightness of the sun on the water. A picture like this can inspire so many projects! A similar photo could be framed and displayed on a shelf or wall. You could take the colors in the picture-green, grey, brown, blue-and use them as your decorating theme. Add these colors to your space by using throw pillows, vases, faux foliage, or other accessories to bring the outdoors in. It’s amazing how one photo can inspire a myriad of projects to update and decorate your space. You can use your favorite photo to not only to display a great shot, but also to inspire a decorating theme that’s uniquely you!

The River Wild

River at parkWhile I was at the park mentioned in my previous posts, I was able to get this beautiful shot of the river. This picture was taken downstream from the waterfalls in my previous post. Rivers often look serene on the surface, but can be quite treacherous underneath. In this picture, I like the natural elements of the white-water rapids, the brightness of the sun, and how the trees frame the river on either side. Such a gorgeous shot! There’s nothing like taking a picture of nature’s beauty. No matter what your local parks have to offer, you can be sure to find a spot that showcases nature’s beauty, and will allow you to display that beauty in your very own space!

The Mini Waterfalls

Mini waterfallsOff in the distance I noticed a small group of waterfalls. Though there was a larger waterfall nearby (which will be featured in an upcoming post), I liked these mini waterfalls just a much. They look just as magnificent and make a great photo. In addition to photographing the main attraction at a park, try going for shots featuring smaller, more intimate locales. The benefit? You can take lots of unique photos without the crowds. Plus, as with most photos taken in nature, the earth tones will go with any decor. A great idea is to frame several of these types of pictures and hang them on your wall. It will give your space a fresh look, and let you show off your creativity!

The Sun Drifting through the Pine

Split pine with sunHello, and welcome to my 100th post! I decided to post a picture of this unique looking pine tree I noticed along a walking path. I was even able to take the picture with the sun shining down through the upper branches. I love finding unique pieces in nature! Not only are they fun to look at, but they’re also free. A photo like this would look great in a den or office. The earth tones go with any decor, and the sun shining down gives an element of warmth to any space. Next time you go to your local park or beach, look for the uniqueness in nature. Once you take a photo of what you find, you can bring the outside in and create a feeling of warmth all year long.

Here’s to another 100 posts-look for more tips and great things to come!

Totem Pole at the Park

Totem poleToday I decided to explore one of my local parks. Besides the natural beauty, I noticed this totem pole in the same area. I really like totem poles, and thought this one was really interesting. I enjoy looking at this piece of art and trying to decide what each figure on the pole is. Since totem poles are made up of multiple figures, it would be easy to take pictures of each one and display them separately. Something like this would be a great gift to someone who is a fan of totem poles or Native art. You would be giving a unique and personal gift that not many could replicate. Nothing is better than giving a gift that was both a joy to create, and that will be enjoyed by the receiver!

Shower Curtain Art

Shower curtain_butterfliesMany would argue that one of the hardest places to decorate is a bathroom. Most are small, windowless, and seem to offer little in the way of decorating. However, a great piece of inspiration can be your very own shower curtain! My shower curtain (right) is a great example. It features butterflies in multiple colors along with various types of foliage. To begin your design project, start by taking pictures of each individual element in the curtain, such as each butterfly and sections of the foliage. Once you’re done, frame each photo and hang them on the wall(s). You can display all the photos at once, or swap them out every few months to give the bathroom a fresh look. This same project would also work for those of you with geometric patterned shower curtains. Remember, it’s often what’s around you that can provide the best inspiration for your space!

The Carnation

Carnation_pink and whiteTo the right is another flower that was part of the bouquet mentioned in my previous post. I love the pink and cream color of this carnation! This flower inspires me to create a pink and white color scheme. Adding these colors can be done several ways depending on how intense you want the look to be. You can add pink and cream accent walls to a room for a bold punch of color, or simply add accessories. A lamp, throw, or ottoman in a pink and cream pattern will give you that pop of color without overwhelming the space. And remember, since it’s back to school time you can find great deals on accessories at your local big box stores. Now’s the perfect time to get great accessories at great prices!

The Blooming Rose

Blooming roseThis week I received a pretty bouquet as a going-away present from a co-worker. It included roses, lilies, and carnations. The roses were closed up in the morning, but by the next day they had really opened up. I took a picture of one rose (right) and thought I’d post it to my blog. I love how intricate the rose looks-the multiple layers of the petals is amazing. Besides adding a pop of color and interest to my space, it also gave me an idea! If you get a bouquet with various types of flowers, why not turn it into an art project? Take a picture of each flower, then frame it. You can group all the pictures together or spread them out on multiple walls. So next time you get a bouquet, use your camera to enjoy those flowers year-round!

Nature’s Pop of Color

Red berriesWhen I need to stretch my legs a work I try to go for a little walk. One day I was walking by a cluster of foliage and out of the corner of my eye I see a pop of color. A cluster of red berries appears to be floating in a sea of green. Even nature likes a pop of color! Not only does it break up the various shades of green, but also attracts wildlife (another great photo opportunity). Berries are such a summer fruit, and their bright colors would be a great addition to any space. Add accessories in various shades of red to your space. These can be faux foliage, colored glass, pillows, or a piece of art. No matter what accessory you choose, you can bring nature’s pop of color into your very own space!