On my second trip to one of my local beaches I was pleasantly surprised to see that the tide was out. This allowed me to explore more of the beach than I had on a previous trip. After walking a few minutes and enjoying the sunshine something caught my eye. As I approached this oddly shaped piece of concrete I walked around it to see what it was. While I still don’t know what it was, I realized that from a certain angle it looks like a cannon-so I snapped a picture! I think it’s cool when an object looks completely different from what it actually is. If you like this type of look, you can easily get the same sort of photo. First, pick an object that you think looks interesting. Next, try taking pictures of it from various angles and distances until you get a photo you like. You may have to take several shots and use multiple types of items, but you’ll eventually get a similarly unique shot. Once this is accomplished you’ll not only have an interesting photo to display, but also a great conversation piece for all your guests to enjoy!
The Beached Tree
I always enjoy walking along the beach and seeing what’s washed up on shore. On this outing, I encountered part of a tree that had washed up on the beach. From the state of the wood it was obvious that the tree had been out to sea for some time. Even so, I thought the tree was in a unique state and decided to take a picture of it. I love the gnarled roots and branches, the stripped bark, and the wood bleached by the sun. It’s amazing how artistic nature can be! You, too, can get a similar shot to adorn your space. You can find beached drift wood not only at the ocean, but at waterways, rivers, and lakes. While the proportions of the wood might vary, what’s important is that you’re able to take a shot that not only adds interest to your space, but also showcases nature’s beauty!
The Incoming Tide
As I was walking along the beach I saw the water coming in and flowing over the rocks. I thought it would be an awesome shot if I could capture the tide. It took a few times, but I got it! I love how you can see the clear water with the sun glittering off it, and all the different rocks underneath the surf. Despite their different colors, the rocks go together seamlessly. This is the beauty of earth tones. Plus, you’ll also notice rocks that provide pops of color (red, orange, etc.) that are mixed in. This photo would be a great basis for decorating your space. Try using earth tones as a base for larger pieces then add pops of color using accessories. Additionally, you could buy a clear bowl or vase, fill part of it with rocks (easily found at your local craft or big box store), add shells, water, floating candles, and viola! You’ll instantly have a look that’s both beachy and elegant. Remember, inspiration can be found right outside your door, so be sure to keep an eye open to the world around you!
Creepy Crawly!
Since it’s Halloween, I thought this would be the perfect time to share a few pictures I took on a walk in the woods. As I was walking down the path I noticed something running across the ground in front of me. I remember thinking, “this is too big to be a bug…right?” Wrong! I zoomed in with my camera and snapped a shot of this beetle. I don’t know what type of beetle it was, but thankfully it seemed more interested in getting off the path than trying to get near me.
A few steps after encountering the beetle I saw another creature: a caterpillar! Though not nearly as scary, I thought it’s coloring was a perfect match to the holiday. Both of these pictures are the perfect inspiration for a Halloween party. Taking inspiration from creatures found in nature not only gives you a great color scheme, but also ideas for how you can decorate your space. Whether you choose bugs, bats, or another type of creature, remember that nature can often provide the scariest backdrop for your party!
Birds of a Feather
When I walk around my local lake there’s usually a large group of geese that tend to congregate towards the far end of the lake. As I kept walking and got closer to the dock, I was surprised to see a visitor in their group: a duck! I thought it was a cute sight and decided to snap a picture. I love how the duck joined the geese as if it was one of their own. The geese didn’t bother the duck, so I guess it was welcome to hang out on the dock. It’s always interesting to see different types of animals enjoying each other’s company. I think this is nature’s way of showing that we often have more in common with each other than we want to admit. Want to capture a similar sight? You, too, can snap a similar picture to decorate your space! Find a spot that has a variety of animals (usually near a body of water) and then just keep your eyes open. It may take awhile to get the perfect shot, but eventually you’ll capture a photo of animal friends having fun in the great outdoors!
The Water Through the Trees
Once you’ve gone through the forest and come towards the end of the path, you see a peek of water beautifully framed between two trees. What a sight! It makes the creepy trees and mud worth the trek. I love how the brightness of the sun on the water contrasts with the shaded section of forest I took the photo in. This is the type of photo I’d frame and put on a table or desk, or hang on a wall within a grouping of similar nature photos. Want a similar look for your space? Try taking a photo at your favorite locale from a shaded area on a bright day. Not only will you get to enjoy the great outdoors, but you’ll also have a unique photo to showcase your talents!
The Path Through the Trees (Literally!)
Remember that post I wrote a few weeks ago? I mentioned how at one point the path I was on literally went through a tree trunk. Thought I was joking? As you can see from the picture on the right, the park’s designers just cut through the trunk and continued the path down towards the beach. I really like this picture and all the symbolism it represents. It reminds us that although obstacles might try to stop us, you have to keep going! This is the type of image I’d put on a Thinking of You card. Images like this can not only benefit the one who captured the photo, but also those going through a rough patch in their life. Have an inspiring photo? Use it to bring joy, comfort, and a bit of style, to yourself or those around you.
The Perfect Shell
Anyone that enjoys beach combing knows that one of the challenges is finding a perfect shell for your collection. Often you’ll find half a shell, or one that’s been damaged from its voyage. But, as I was walking on the beach, it appeared: a beautiful shell! It was just sitting there waiting to be picked up. After making sure the shell was vacant (shells with creatures in or on them should be put back into the water), it was picked up and taken with us on the rest of our walk. This shell presents so many opportunities to decorate! You could frame the picture and use it to accentuate a nautical theme, add the shell to your collection, display it as a stand-alone piece, or nestle it among a group of candles for an elegant look. What was the last thing you collected while out enjoying nature? No matter what it was, there are a myriad of ways for you to stylishly add it to your space!
By the way, did anyone notice the rock behind the shell that has “eyes” on it? An even more unique picture!
The Weathered Wood
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.
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!
Inspiration In A Photo 