Wednesdsay Whim - Bokeh

 all images via Takashi Kitajima via Curbed

Whether you are interested in photography or not, we all recognize what makes a beautiful photo stand out - bokeh. The ability to create bokeh in an image is visually pleasing to the eye.  For argument's sake, bokeh does not make a great image but, bokeh sure makes it seem better. Just ask Japanese photographer, Takashi Kitajima, for instance. 

He has managed to use bokeh in a different way to allow the eye to dance across the image towards the main subject of the photograph. His photos feature city life in Tokyo and New York City. There's a sense of surrealism and magic seen in these photos that remind me of looking through a kaleidoscope. As a viewer, I find his technique unusual but incredibly interesting.

For more, check out his Flickr and blog.

Wednesday Whim - Under My Umbrella

 all images via Patrícia Almeida via Fubiz

The phrase, "under my umbrella" takes on a new meaning with this amazing umbrella installation in Agueda, Portugal. In an art festival called Agitagueda, photographer, Patrícia Almeida (who also photographed the same thing last year!), has captured this beautiful installation that turns traditional shopping streets into a visual masterpiece. Simple but colorful umbrellas fill the sky and the streets suddenly seem like a scene out of a movie. 

It's amazing how such an ordinary item like an umbrella can suddenly feel extraordinary. This installation almost feels like a "why didn't I see that before?" moment. I would love to witness this in person. If you're lucky enough to travel to Portugal (or even live there now!) be sure to see this installation since it will remain there through the month of July!

Wednesday Whim - A Gal's Best Friend

all images via Candice Sedighan 

I don't know many people who can look at these photos without being compelled to coo "awwwww." 20-year-old college student and photographer, Candice Sedighan has captured her golden retriever, Champ, in a refreshing way. Champ can be seen dressed up, running, standing still and even sort of smiling! She's quite the model!

Candice received Champ as a pup from her dad and quickly bonded with her. But, Candice only started to take photos of Champ when Champ was 13 years old. Candice participated in a photo series called 52 Weeks For Dogs on Flickr and for the last seven years she has captured 20,000 photos of this awe-inducing dog. This talented young lady was recently interviewed for the Flickr blog where I was able to find out more about Candice, Champ and her love for photography.

Take a moment to see more of this happy dog here and read about Candice here.  BTW, the butterfly on Champ's nose in the photo below is REAL...not photoshopped!