Tag Archives: light

Jan 24

Bronze Reliefs from Above

I was walking around where I work and decided to stop at the top of a staircase. I look over at one of the massive chandeliers that dot the ceiling and noticed what looked like intricate designs. I turned on my camera, zoomed in, and took a few photos. The first photo shows a shot of the entire chandelier. Beautiful and grand, it complements the marble walls and high ceilings.

Chandelier_reliefs 1

The second picture (below) offers a close-up view of the ornate reliefs on the bottom section of the chandelier. It’s similar to what you would find on ancient Roman bronze works of art. To think I could find something just as beautiful without having to fly half-way around the world!

Chandelier_reliefs 2

If you were able to find a similar piece of art, I’d suggest taking a close-up shot and framing the picture. It would be a great centerpiece for a dining room or other area that gets a lot of traffic. Not only will the photo look elegant, but the metallic hues will add a warmth and glow to your space in a way that’s timeless.

Jan 21

Cascading Light Through Colored Glass

Illuminated vaseDespite what many people think, vases can be used for a multitude of purposes. It can be used to hold flowers, be filled with sand and shells to create a beach scene, or filled with live plants to create a mini-garden. There is however an additional use: catching light. Glass and crystal can catch and reflect light in amazing ways! The gold-colored vase pictured at the right was illuminated from above with an LED flashlight in a dark room. The bright light beautifully reflects the patterns in the glass onto the surface. I’d hang a similar photo in a living or dining room. The hues and patterns of the light create a warm, comfy atmosphere. You can easily create a similar photo for use in your own space. Try photographing a vase in similar conditions to what I described above, or snap a photo of a vase illuminated by the sun or a candle. There are so many uses for everyday objects, and with a little imagination you can transform the ordinary into something extraordinary!

Jan 19

The Grand Pendant Light

Grand pendant lightNear the skylight in my previous post, there were also several pendant lights. As seen on the right, these grand lights feature ornate metal work and etched glass. The light and it’s multitude of motifs complement the ceiling medallions and pops perfectly against the grayish-black marble walls. Pendant lights are a great way to add interest to any space! They come in a large variety of colors, shapes, and sizes that will add sophistication and elegance to your room. While traditionally used in kitchens, these can also be used in dining rooms, bedrooms, or an entryway. By thinking outside the box, you’ll create a beautiful and unique space that provides interest and additional light. No matter where you decide to hang your pendant lights, you’ll end up with a bright and colorful space that’s all you!

Jan 9

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!

Jan 7

A Candle in the Darkness

Candle in DarknessThere’s nothing like the beautiful glow of a candle! It provides a soft, warm glow in the darkness and casts elegant shadows around it. A simple, elegant photo like this would be great in a bathroom, girl cave, or chill out space. Not only does the soft light in the photo go with any decor, but it’s also a reminder that there’s always a light in the darkness.

Dec 18

Sparkles in the Darkness

Sparkling flower in the darkAs I walked by the Christmas tree one night, I noticed something shining in the darkness. The lights from the tree were causing the gold decorations above the window to sparkle in the dark! I thought it looked awesome, to I decided to take a photo. I love the colorful sparkles shining in the darkness! Not only is this a great way to add interest to a room, but it also reminds us that there is always light in the darkness (hang in there!). Happy Holidays!

Mar 7

Etched Glass Lighting

Etched pendant lightWhen I saw this beautiful etched glass pendant light I thought it was a great way to add sophistication to what would normally be plain glass. As to not overwhelm the space, only every other light contained an etched image. While this look may seem complicated and expensive, it can be far from it if you know where to look. A plain glass light fixture can either be found in your home, or purchased from a local big box or hardware store. Once you have the fixture, you can pick up a glass etching kit at your local craft store (read the back to make sure the kit is heat safe). Now that you’ve got your supplies, it’s time to create! Did you create a look that’s whimsical, classic, fun, or unique? No matter the design, the look should reflect the feel of the space and your personal tastes.

Feb 4

Art Deco: Lighting

Art deco light fixtureEver wanted to try something classic in your decoration? Try art deco! The key with any classic style is to not go overboard. The location where I photographed this big light fixture is a large, multi-story building. The architects kept it tasteful and low-key by only using these lights in main areas: corridors, stairwells, and hallways. By keeping this style concentrated in only certain areas, it creates a low-key, subtle elegance. Try adding an art deco-style lamp or accessory in your space for an elegant touch. Keep an eye out for my next art deco related post later this week!

Dec 31

Enjoy Christmas until the End

Lighted Christmas treeHave you taken down some or all of your Christmas decorations? If so, you can still enjoy what’s left of the holiday season. Even though there are no decorations on my tree, I still enjoy the lights every evening. When you take down your decorations, try leaving the tree up until January 1st. The glow of the tree will remind you of Christmas, and welcome you into 2014.