16 August 2013
Lens:
1. Carefree Feather-Like Cloud, Longwood Gardens, Nikon DSLR, July 2013; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2013
2. Light Outside 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, iPhone 4s, August 2013; © Sally W. Donatello and Lens and Pens by Sally, 2013
Let me know which you prefer and why.
Pens: Today’s challenge instantly sparked a respond. Immediately, I thought about the brilliant way daylight moved freely yesterday. As my friend and I stepped outside 30th Street Station in Philadelphia, the beams of light cast themselves through every opening. Their carefree spirit was evident, and acted as a red carpet for our visit to a marvelous urban center.
In the Lens section is another image that jumped into my mind to use in the challenge. While busily shooting bountiful light that pushed through giant leaves in precision-planted rows of annuals and perennials at Longwood Gardens, I realized that I had not stopped and gazed for more than a few times at the sky.
As I raised my sights into the heavenly blue, one serenely carefree cloud stared back. Acting as though it was a feather floating with great ease and wonder, I was dazed with delight.
These two images are different ways to express the theme of this week’s challenge. Each prompts a sense of flow that has a “freeing” quality.
For me each image speaks in its own voice. Each says that being carefree is not always being irresponsible.
The cloud and daylight celebrate these joyful moments of life. They illuminate our day in new ways.
Note: As always I welcome any comment about this post or any part of my blog.
Lens and Pens by Sally 
Sally, are you a Philadelphia gal?? I lived there for many years. Used to work 5 blocks from 30th street station – in fact was there while they were cleaning it up. It went from horrific to beautiful!! Nice to see it again 🙂
I live in Delaware, which is about 45 minutes south. While driving is a possibility, Usually take the train to 30th Street. It must have been wonderful to watch some of the transformations. I’ve always enjoyed it as a cultural city of many choices. Thanks.
Your images makes us feel like we’re floating above the clouds. Perfect blue skies, white clouds and a radiant sunshine.
I was so delighted to catch that cloud. Thanks and enjoy the week.
Nope! Can’t choose! As my home town I like them both. Although the lighting at 30th is pretty phenomenal !
Oh, do you live in Philly? The day was magical; it’s one of my favorite places to visit, and so easy to do a day trip. Thanks.
I really like the simply cloud it gives such a upward and energetic feeling. Yes, carefree. Just love the simplicity. Very nice work.
Otto, I agree. Sometimes less can really be more. Thanks.
The cloud reminds me of dried goldenrod.
I enjoyed your interpretation. Thanks.
…. and I love how your Lens photo resembles the quill of a pen 🙂
Nice interpretation–thank you.
This post was inspiring in its interpretation. As always the pens adds so much to the lens in helping to appreciate your wonderful perspective 🙂
I’m humbled. Thank you so much.
The first one for me is absolutely spot on! The perfect definition of being carefree 🙂
PS: A new photo challenge – you are welcome to participate! http://esengasvoice.wordpress.com/2013/08/18/eses-weekly-shoot-quote-challenge/
Thanks–your challenge is inviting. Plan to participate.
For me the feather cloud and the endless blue sky simply float me away to lightness and freedom. That photo is my favourite today.
The sight of it was a delicious surprise. Thank you and enjoy the weekend.
I love the cloud feather – simple and peaceful.
Malc, I agree. I was delighted to discover its presence. Thanks.
I like the 30th Street Station better. It just has more interest and I can see the potential of the day in it. 🙂
Sheri, that morning light was just as you described–pushing its viewers to see new possibilities. Thanks.
They are both great for the challenge – they arouse about the same feeling…but I prefer the first one. I think because there are no people in the picture. there are not many in the second one either, there it is the light that does it.
I appreciate your comment and visit.
“Each says that being carefree is not always being irresponsible” — well said! I like the Feather-Like Cloud, it’s a such a cool shape, but the light of the second one is delightful!
Amy, thanks.
The second photo reminds me of the warm morning light that awakens our senses, esp with the red bounceback from the floor and columns…energizing!
Yes, I’m a morning spirit and living in CA I see the pic #1 nearly everyday in one way or another, so I tend to gravitate to those photos bringing a new and fresh appreciation. Having said that, I love my early morning walk with its large expanse of blue sky and daily find treasures among the clouds.
Oh, I agree. My daily walk is the pause that awakens. Thanks so much.
Just a wonderful post & photos! Bravo~
Cindy, thanks so much.
I think the first photo fits the challenge better. The feather like cloud seems to have a will of it’s own floating about without a care in the world…
Thank you for your comment and visit.
I have been trying to be part of weekly iPhoneography. I’m gonna try again. Love the contrail!
Hope to hear from you on Monday. Thanks.