It’s amazing how your perspective of an object can change depending on where you are in proximity to it. Case in point? The close-up photo I took of a section of driftwood. It looks both intricate and unique, and most people probably couldn’t tell what object was originally photographed. A photo like this would be great to add interest to a den or office. Want the same look? Try using a common object to inspire you to look at something differently. Have a favorite flower, building, machine, or other object? Try photographing it at different distances and angles. You’ll be surprised how unique your photos turn out to be! Remember, no matter if it’s an object or a person, you can always find a new perspective on something familiar.
Category Archives: photo
The Spider’s Web
As I was walking through one of my local parks, something caught my attention out of the corner of my eye. I turned and saw a huge spider web strung between a tree. Though I’m not a fan of spiders, I enjoy looking at their webs. They’re simple, yet elegant, and can be created in a matter of hours. While most might immediately think of Halloween with this post, I think of something completely different. The image of this web makes me think of simple, elegant decor! This look can be accomplished using any color scheme or holiday-themed decor. The key? Making sure everything blends together. Try picking a combination of three or four colors and use those throughout your space. By doing this, the colors in your space will meld together seamlessly and effortlessly. And what better to tie the whole thing together than an elegant, simple picture? Nature is full is simple elegance, so why not use it to inspire you? Whether your inspiration comes from flora or fauna, you can find something that inspires elegance in your space!
On the Edge of the Cliff
While I was exploring my local beach I turned to view the cliffs that border the park. As I walked further down I noticed something extraordinary: a group of trees dangling precariously off the cliff! It was obvious that at some point the park’s owners had determined that the large group of trees was a danger to visitors. As seen from the picture on the right, they eventually cut the trees near the base and left gravity to do the rest. I thought it was a very interesting image, and also a great conversation piece. It’s amazing to think how long those trees had been there (I’m guessing a long time based on the thickness of the trunks) and how they might have looked before they were cut. Since this picture features earth tones, it’s the type of photo that could be used to add interest to a space without having it clashing with your current design scheme. Remember, photos with a muted color scheme can not only add interest to your space, but also provide another point of interest for you and your guests to enjoy!
Jellyfish at the Beach
As I strolled the beach in my previous post I decided to walk closer to the water. I found a few shells and thought I’d wash them out in the water. You can imagine my surprise when I looked into the water and saw that it was full of jellyfish! I decided not to stick my hand into the water, and instead opted to take a photo of the jellyfish. It’s amazing how well these creatures blend in to their environment. Photos like these are always a good conversation piece. It’s always fun to see who can find the creature or other hidden element. This is a great photo to use at a party or some other get-together. Whether it’s a photo you take yourself or buy at a store, you, too, can have a great conversation piece!
The Cloudy Beach
When most people think of beaches they imagine sunny skies and miles of sand. However, as the photo on the right demonstrates, you don’t need those things to take a great beach photo. I discovered this beach after my journey through the woods mentioned in my previous posts. The beach was rocky and the sky was full of clouds. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed the beach and its accompanying view. A similar photo would be a great addition to your space now that the seasons are changing. The muted colors go well with a fall/winter decorating scheme, and a beach is always a lovely picture. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and capture your own fall photos to update your space for the season!
The Moss Covered Forest
Not too long ago I decided to explore another one of my local parks. After we found where to park, we looked for a sign that would point us in the direction of the beach. Once the sign was spotted, we were off! After a few minutes the trail goes from bark to dirt-at which point the forest becomes dense with moss-covered trees. You can image starting out in bright, open spaces and then going into a forest that looks like it’s something out of a Grimm fairy tale or scary movie. Despite this, I just had to get a photo of these trees! They’re creepy, but cool-looking. I’m sure you’re thinking, “where can I use a photo like this?” Being October, this is the type of image you could use on the front of hand-made cards. I’d suggest invites to a Halloween or scary movie party. Don’t live near trees with a similar look? Try going to the craft store and buying faux spider webs or moss. Drape them over a tree and photograph to your heart’s content. Some natural elements can be re-created, so if you can’t find something in nature, try creating it yourself!
Clouds in the Lake
While gazing out over the lake on the dock mentioned in a previous post, I noticed the sky reflected on the lake’s surface. What a great shot! I love how the bright blue sky and fluffy clouds seem to be part of the water itself. I’ve always liked photos that feature bodies of water reflecting the sights around it. These types of pictures are very versatile and can go with any room’s decor. You can find similar photos at craft or big box stores, or try capturing one yourself. If you’re going to snap your own photo, there are a few things to remember. If you take the photo in the daytime, it’s best to take the picture on a bright, sunny day at a place where the water is relatively calm. A similar shot can also be taken at night using lights reflecting off a calm surface. Photos like these are both an easy way to add interest to your space, and showcase your photography skills. Happy photographing!
The Watery Jail
As I made my way around the river’s edge, I looked across the water and saw this strange structure. As soon as I saw it I thought, “that looks just like a jail!” I thought it would be an interesting photo to put on my blog, so I took a picture. I kept wondering what this structure was or used to be. After some digging I found out what the structure used to be: it’s the remnant of my county’s first hydroelectric power plant. The original structure was built in the late 1800’s. I thought it made a very interesting picture, and captures a piece of history. Ever pass by a dilapidated structure and wonder what it might have been? Try looking for nearby plaques or historical markers, or searching for information online. No matter where you live, you’ll be surprised how much history is around you!
The Waterfall Park
The picture above features the main waterfall from a park I’ve posted about previously and is adjacent to the mini waterfalls. I love the powerful image of the water flowing over the top and crashing down onto the rocks, creating white spray as it descends. You can see the trees and foliage that have fallen victim to the water over the years. Despite this, I think all the greenery does an excellent job of framing the waterfall. What a gorgeous sight! This type of photo is something I’d display in a den, office, or bedroom. Sometimes in life you have to just go with the flow, and a similar photo could be a reminder. Not only does nature look beautiful, but it can also inspire you as you’re going through tough times.
Under the Overpass
One day my friend and I decided to take a different path that bordered my local lake. After a long walk we eventually came to a large dock that went out onto the lake. We walked onto the dock and were able to see views we couldn’t see from previous vantage points. One of the most surprising things was that the dock was right next to the interstate. You can’t see the dock from the freeway, so it’s no wonder we never knew it was there! I decided to take a picture under the overpass, which features the river that feeds into the lake flowing underneath it. A photo like this brings to mind so many different design ideas! You can take inspiration from the soft colors of nature, or use the concrete of the overpass to go for a modern, clean look. Either of these looks could be accomplished by new furnishings, accessories, or just a fresh coat of paint. Remember, when you look at something for inspiration there are usually multiple elements you can draw from; so keep your eyes open and start decorating!
Inspiration In A Photo 