A Sunset at the Ocean

Sunset at the oceanWhat a view-nothing like a sunset at the beach! Though they take a bit of planning, sunset photos are a must-have for anyone that wants to bring the outdoors into their space. Sunsets provide a myriad of colors that are sure to go with whatever decorating scheme you’re using. The surrounding area-ocean, forest, river, or city-can provide an additional backdrop to your photo. No matter what colors you want to decorate with, a sunset will provide all the inspiration you need.

The River in Fall

River rapids in fallI’ve posted pictures of this river in previous posts, but nature’s scenery tends to change with the season. The river is now swollen, the rapids are larger, leaves have fallen off trees, and the foliage has changed color. This gives me an idea for a project! Have a place you like to explore year round? If so, take a few pictures in the same area during each season. At the end of the year, you can take one photo from each season and hang all four on your wall. We’ve all seen similar photos in galleries, so why not create your own personalized version? This is definitely a long-term project, but it’s also totally worth it. So what are you waiting for? It’s not too late to start your own season-by-season project, so get out there and capture nature’s seasonal beauty!

The Watery Jail

Watery jailAs 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!

Under the Overpass

Under the overpassOne 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!

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 Fish Ladders

Fish ladders_riverAs I was walking along the trail I noticed a concrete structure along the river bank. Upon closer inspection, I realized they were fish ladders! While I couldn’t spot any fish in the ladders, I thought it was cool that the park had them built into sections of the river. I appreciate how the ladders almost blend into the landscape, not to mention the positive impact of helping the fish (likely Salmon) make their way up stream to spawn. I like the contrast of the concrete against the trees, boulders, and white-water rapids. Such an awesome shot! Next time you’re at your local park, look around and see if you can find man-made wonders. These wonders not only provide a positive impact to nature, but should also inspire you to bring the outdoors into your space.

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!

Ducks at the River

Ducks at the riverOne day I saw these two ducks preening by the riverbank. At first I couldn’t get a good shot, but I was eventually able to get the picture featured in this post. The ducks are framed on either side by trees and below by grass. You can even see the ripples of the water. This is not only a great picture, but the colors are a great inspiration for Spring decorating ideas. I love the earthy tones of the flora and the colors of both ducks’ feathers. Looking for new colors to decorate your space? All you need to do is look at nature for inspiration!

Old Buildings: Brick

Abandoned building: brickOften times you’ll be driving around and notice an interesting building. Sometimes these buildings are new, old, or abandoned. The one pictured is an abandoned building near one of my local historic districts. The building itself is on the other side of a river, but I was able to get a good shot. I love all types of architecture, and decided this would make an awesome photograph. While you could frame this picture, one could easily make a collection of building photos and create a scrapbook. The book would not only give you something to display on your table, but also allow you to show all your friend your awesome photo skills!