Sea Lions on the Rocky Shoal

Sea lions on shoalAs I walked down the pier, I heard the unmistakable sound of sea lions somewhere in the distance. Glancing between two buildings, I saw something moving on a large, rocky outcropping: sea lions! I grabbed my camera and immediately took a picture. A similar photo would look great in a den or study, since it not only blends well with any decor, but will instantly catch someone’s eyes. You can create the same look with other animals that blend into the background, such as ducks, rabbits, or deer. With a little patience and a keen eye for details, you can update your space with a unique animal photo!

Decorating with Underwater Photography: Part 1

Underwater shipwreck_wheelCapturing sea life in its natural environment is an amazing feat that most photographers don’t get the chance to accomplish. Going diving, procuring a waterproof camera, and finding the perfect location can be both expensive and time-consuming. But if you’ve ever dreamed of underwater photography, there’s a simple solution-go to an aquarium! The shipwreck I captured above was actually part of a special exhibit. This exhibit allowed me to create the look of underwater photography without leaving the comfort of dry land. A similar photo would look great as a focal point on a wall! The soothing blue of the water and pops of color from the sea life and ship’s wheel make this a unique photo that will grab any guests’ attention. Stay tuned for more underwater photos that will serve to inspire and bring out the best your space has to offer!

Optical Illusions

Optical illusion building_two to oneSome of the best pictures you can take are ones that create an optical illusion. This can be easily accomplished by changing the angle of your camera, or taking photos in different types of light. The picture to the right is an example of how changing angles can create an optical illusion. Despite how it looks, this is not a picture of a building-it’s actually two buildings. By going around the block and adjusting my camera, I was able to turn two buildings into one! Displaying similar pictures in your space is a great way to use locations you might have already photographed in different ways. Remember, there are a myriad of ways to create optical illusions. All you need is a bit of imagination and adventure to create an original photo that’s uniquely you.

The Setting Sun Beyond the Trees

Sunset beyond the treesAs I went for an evening walk, I noticed the sun shining through some nearby trees. As I got closer, I realized it was actually the setting sun. I love how the color of the sky changes as the sun sets! It has elements of gold, white, and blue, and the shades of each color vary depending on where you look. A similar photo would go well in so many spaces! It would look great in a den, living room, dining room, or bedroom. And with the myriad of different colors, it goes with any decorating scheme. So what are you waiting for? Grab a camera, go for an evening walk, and get the perfect sunset picture for your space!

A Lighted Path to City Lights

Lit city pathThe upside of having to work late? Being able to get great shots of city lights! It’s amazing how an area can be transformed once illuminated by bright lights. I love the glow of the antique lights along the street and the twinkling lights of the city in the distance. A similar photo would look great enlarged and hung on a dining room wall. Next time you might be out late, be sure to take your camera along. You could end up getting a shot that transforms your view of everyday surroundings!

Reaching Out Towards the Sun

Tree reaching towards sunAs I walked along a path I noticed a tree that seemed to be reaching out from the ground towards the sun. As pictured on the right, the tree was fairly large, covered in moss, and part of it illuminated by the sun. Not only do the earth tones go with anything, but it’s just a cool picture! As I’ve said before, nature can be both a focal point in any space and a great inspiration. No matter what you can capture with your camera, you’re sure to find a way to bring the outdoors into any space!

Through the Looking Glass

Lit Hurricane LampIt’s amazing how different glass can look when illuminated! This is a photo of the base of a hurricane lamp that is lit from behind by a single candle. I love the play of light and shadow, and how the illumination from the candle accentuates the curves, design, and colors of the lamp. A photo like this would be a great conversation piece if displayed in a den or living room. Your guests will marvel at your unique art piece while trying to guess what’s actually pictured. A similar photo can easily be taken using a piece of glass of your choice illuminated by a candle. So what are you waiting for? With a few items and a camera, you can create a great photo to decorate your space!

The Bird in the Bush

Bird in the bushI was sitting at my desk one day and kept hearing a bunch of birds outside my window. After awhile I decided to peek out of my window and saw several birds hopping around the garden and front yard. I looked down from my window and saw something moving in one of the bushes. Upon closer inspection I saw that it was a little bird-how cute! It kept jumping from branch to branch, but I was finally able to snap a photo of it. I love how the bird blends in so well with the branches (that’s nature!). This type of photo would be great to display as a centerpiece on a wall or shelf. It features both earth tones and pops of color, and could be a conversation piece due to the presence of wildlife. You can get a similar picture if you keep your ears and eyes open to the wildlife around you. Nature can be found right outside your door, so be sure to have your camera ready to get some awesome nature shots!