I’ve experimented a bit in post-processing with the three images below. The idea was to create a set of arty digital photographs that hopefully depict some of the key elements of the beautiful winter landscapes around frozen Lake Inari – the gloomy blue half-light, the icy-cold stillness and the promise of a warm welcome visible in the distance:
2. “Frozen Tracks”
3. “Homeward Bound”
© Mark Simms Photography (2020)
Belfast is world famous for it’s fantastic murals painted on the side of various houses and buildings throughout the city.
Even though the decades of sectarian violence known as “The Troubles” were, officially at least, brought to an end with the signing of the Good Friday Agreement in 1998, the underlying tensions between Catholics/Protestants and Republicans/Unionists haven’t really gone away. Consequently many of the murals still depict images that leave the viewer in little doubt as to which side is being supported.
On a more positive note, Belfast has undoutedly come along way in the last two decades, and so there are also many murals that depict images of peace and hope for the future…..and that despite the fact that Brexit threatens to undermine the progress made over the last two decades.
There are also some murals that have meanings that are not so obvious or easy to discern.
Whatever the message or politicals behind these murals though, there is no question the artists responsible are incredibly talented and they have turned Belfast into possibly the worlds largest open air art gallery.
© Mark Simms Photography (2018)
© Mark Simms Photography (2015)
A few shots from in and around Siena’s magnificent Battistero di San Giovanni (the Baptistry):
© Mark Simms Photography (2015)
Following on from my last post, here are a few shots of the spectacular interior of Siena’s Duomo:
© Mark Simms Photography (2015)
Like the Taj Mahal, the Amber Fort not only impresses because of its huge scale, but also because of the intricacy and delicacy of its beautiful artwork and craftsmanship……..we just don’t build them like this anymore:
© Mark Simms Photography (2015)
“The Water of Life” is a sculptural water feature located in the cloister garden of Chester Cathedral. According to Stephen Broadbent, the artist, it “presents the life changing encounter between Jesus and the woman of Samaria, as told in John’s gospel, celebrating the literal and spiritual, life-giving properties of water.”
© Mark Simms Photography (2014)
I just wanted to say, at this festive time of year, thanks so much to all those people who visited, followed, liked and commented on my photoblog during 2013. I really do enjoy sharing my work with you all, I find your positive feedback and kind words a constant source of support and inspiration 😊
As Liz and I are up on Orkney for Christmas, the first time we have been away for the festive period in 13 years of marriage, it seems appropriate that I share with you a shot from the trip. So, below is a close-up image of a wood-carving of an angel from St Magnus’ Cathedral in Kirkwall:
Merry Christmas everyone, wherever you are and whoever you’re with, I hope you have a great time, but most of all take care and best wishes.
© Mark Simms Photography (2013)
© Mark Simms Photography (2013)
© Mark Simms Photography (2013)
Mark Simms Photography 