There’s going to be a partial solar eclipse on August 12, and I’ve started hunting for the perfect place to watch it. Technically, I could just stay in my garden. Here in Gulbene, the eclipse will begin at around 8:05 pm, reaching its maximum at about 8:56 pm — and spot in my garden might … More Hunting for the Perfect Spot
Yesterday, I shared one of the most magical wildlife moments I’ve ever experienced—a hoopoe unexpectedly visiting our home. I truly thought that would be a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. For more than two hours, I couldn’t stop thinking about that beautiful bird. I felt so inspired that, around 8 PM, I grabbed my camera and headed outside. … More An Evening Gift from Nature
Sometimes a blog post doesn’t need a big story. Today, it’s simply me in my new dress, wandering around the garden. The dress made me feel happy the moment I put it on. It’s comfortable, feminine, and perfect for a warm summer day. The kind of dress that makes you want to slow down, stroll … More Just Me and My Garden
This week is terribly busy at work! It feels I have no time for anything else! I can’t wait for this week to be over. The drive home from Salacgriva was absolutely spectacular. The first summer night fog of the year had arrived, quietly covering the land like a soft white blanket. I always look … More The First Summer Night Fog
It’s monday morning. My inbox is full, my task list is long, and I’m wondering how I’ll get everything done. But that’s a problem for one task at a time. I want to share something much more impressive than my workload. A few days ago, just before a thunderstorm arrived, I looked up and saw … More Right Before the Storm
Some evenings are simply too beautiful to let slip away unnoticed. This sunset was one of those moments. The sky was painted with soft colours, the clouds catching the last light of the day, and everything seemed to slow down for a little while. I stood there looking at it, knowing that a single photo … More I Couldn’t Resist
Yesterday’s sunset was one of those moments that made me stop whatever I was doing and simply look. The sky was painted with beautiful shades of orange, pink, and gold. Soft clouds drifted across the horizon, catching the last light of the day and turning into little works of art. They looked almost too perfect … More A Colourful Goodbye to the Day
Yesterday looked out the window and saw a fox crossing the dandelion field! Just like that — quietly walking through all the yellow flowers. Of course, I rushed outside with my camera and waited for the fox to come closer. I sat there for probably 20 minutes, simply enjoying the view and the evening silence. … More A Fox, a Dandelion Field, and an Unexpected Surprise
Yesterday I saw a strange little bird in the garden.At first glance, I honestly thought it was a sparrow that was bleeding 😅 I quickly grabbed my phone and took a photo and a short video to send to the local birding group. And decided to grab my camera. I was lucky to get two … More A Bird I Almost Mistook for an Injured Sparrow: Common Linnet (Linaria Cannabina)
Yesterday was supposed to be all about the photoshoot… but in reality, it turned into an Olympic-level event of outfit hunting. I spent the whole day digging through clothes, trying to match outfits to each kid’s personal “style” and “personality.” (Yes, sarcasm heavily implied.) Before all that chaos, I picked my straw flowers — they … More Vacation Day 11 – Our Annual “Photoshoot”
A single picture can stir up so many emotions, and this time, it was one from my brother. In the photo is a bag with an old camera inside. Handwritten note triggered me: “Ilzei piemiņai no Jura.” (For Ilze, in remembrance of Juris.) This camera once belonged to my mom’s brother, Juris, who passed away … More More Than Just a Camera
As we welcome the New Year, I like to take a moment to reflect on the things that bring me joy, the areas of my life that could use a little more attention, and the skills I’d love to learn. I believe it’s not just about changing everything at once, but about celebrating the little … More New Year’s Resolutions: Loving What I Do, Improving What Counts, and Finding Better Ways to Grow.
After writing about magpies and sparrows, it’s time to shine the spotlight on my favorite visitor—the charming blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus). Every time I catch a glimpse of one at my feeder, I can’t help but feel a spark of joy. They’re tiny, colorful, and full of character, making them the ultimate highlight of my … More The Birds at My Feeder: The Delightful Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus)
While I wrote about the bold magpies last time, I completely forgot to mention the real stars of my bird feeder—the Eurasian tree sparrows (Passer montanus). It’s almost funny because they’re the most common visitors here, hopping and chirping like they own the place. How could I overlook them? I couldn’t help but chuckle when … More The Birds at My Feeder: Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus)
At this time of year, the sun feels like a rare guest—always hiding behind a curtain of clouds, leaving the world dark and gray. But today, nature surprised me. Just as the sun dipped below the horizon, it was accompanied by a flurry of big, beautiful snowflakes, creating a scene so magical I couldn’t help … More A Magical Sunset Amidst Snowflakes
Great Tit (Parus major) is the first and most frequent to arrive. Its familiar black-and-yellow plumage, framed by a bold black head, is a cheerful sight against the duller tones of the season. I’ll admit, the Great Tit feels a bit predictable—its visits so routine that I sometimes catch myself dismissing it as boring. But … More The Birds at My Feeder: The Great Tit…boring
So, there I was, driving through the forest, when suddenly—mushrooms! Right there, smack in the middle of the dirt road. It looked like someone had carefully arranged them, like a little mushroom art installation. I had to stop and check if this was real or some kind of prank. But nope—it was real! These mushrooms … More Unexpected Road Mushrooms! 🍄
How did that happen? The week flew by, and I can’t believe it’s already Friday! Between being sick and feeling exhausted, I barely noticed the days slipping by. I’m still not 100%, but I’m hoping next week brings some much-needed rest and a fresh start! On a brighter note, I upgraded to the latest iPhone. … More Feeling Better… Wait, is it Friday already?
Just got my dream lens, the Canon 100-500mm, and I couldn’t be more excited! I hadn’t been so into photography for the last few years, but now, I can feel that old spark coming back. Getting this lens wasn’t easy. With all the house renovations, I’d been saving up and was close to putting the … More Five minutes outside with my dream lens in hand..
Yesterday’s challenging walk transformed into a delightful adventure when 9-year-old Helmī found joy in photography with my old Canon. Despite a rough start, she blossomed with curiosity, capturing Latvia’s beauty through her eyes. It’s heartwarming to witness her potential as a budding photographer for our blog! … More Seeing the World Through Helmī’s eyes
This weekend was extra special as we had Linna’s friend over! They’ve been best friends since kindergarten. Things changed a bit when Linna chose German as her third language and her friend opted for Russian. They are not in the same classes anymore. Despite the shift, their bond remains strong, and I hope it continues … More A Weekend with Friends and Golden Autumn in Latvia
Waking up on the last day of September to a brisk, chilly morning was quite the experience! The sun was shining brightly, and at first, I didn’t even notice the frost, as the sun had melted most of it away. The steam rising from the ponds created a magical, ethereal atmosphere that took my breath … More A Chilly Surprise: First Frost on a Sunny Morning
As October arrives, Latvia transforms into a vibrant autumn wonderland. The air turns crisp, the days shorten, and nature’s colors come alive in gold, amber, and crimson hues. Birch trees glow with yellow leaves, while maples blaze in fiery reds and oranges. Leaf peeping is at its finest, with fallen leaves creating a rich carpet … More Embracing October: The Enchanting Transformations of Autumn in Latvia
Last night’s sunset at Chestnut Manor was nothing short of breathtaking. There’s a certain magic in the way the light kisses the land here, as if the day itself is softly saying goodbye before slipping into night. In the midst of this golden glow stood our caravan—our cozy hideaway throughout the renovation. It’s almost time … More A Bittersweet Sunset: Reflecting on Our Journey at Chestnut Manor
Nelle captured Marley’s final days indoors with beautiful photos, showcasing his restlessness on the balcony and longing for the countryside. Marley’s return to familiar surroundings brought immediate joy and contentment. Despite missing the initial return moment, Marley’s thriving in his beloved countryside home brings comfort to Ilze and Nelle. … More Marley’s Last Days in the Flat: A Return to the Countryside
Amazing! I had a long day in the studio today with a client! Loved it! When I arrived realise my studio is dusty and messy! Yesterday I was with my apprentice in the studio and prepared for her exam. We left without cleaning. I was so worn out and didn’t want to do anything, but … More A Long long day after a long long break!
When apple trees bloom I feel summer is near! It’s getting warmer and warmer and the grass is growing inch per day! Apple trees are in bloom now in Latvia! This year orchard looks like a blanket of light pink flowers full of bees and other insects. Still a lot of dandelions 🙂 But I … More When apple trees bloom
It seems that I’ve been living in the studio lately… Well, I love it! I don’t mind spending time in my own special world. It’s amazing how my days have changed ever since I open up the studio. I loved to blog and share “a day in the life of Latvian mom” but now I … More Living in the studio!
I’m learning to let go and be me behind the camera. Plan, direct, shoot, edit and learn. Repeat. The internet is full of pictures, the world is full of cameras and Gulbene is full of photographers… Still, this is my dream and will be a reality for upcoming few years. Dream big! Even you think … More Photoshoot #3
Busy is a strong name I don’t like to use! Usually, I would say – in hurry, don’t know how to prioritize, need to set my goals, deal with this/that… I’m never busy! Busyness kills and won’t give joy and certainly not an inspiration! Yesterday I had to sit down and plan my day, cause … More Busy!?
Yesterday I spend whole day capturing baby Freija! She is so adorable when sleeping. The problem was she wasn’t sleeping! She cried or ate. I was there for pictures but she didn’t want to model :). I hope one day we will meet again! Sweet dreams, Freija! Ilze
Sunday we were at a birthday party for Linna’s kindergarten colleague Lizabella. That was fun! Girls enjoyed inflatable attractions while I took my camera out and start to capture kids and moms with kids… Loved it so much Ilze
Beautiful full moon tempted me to go outside at night (I’m a bit afraid of the dark, if alone outside) with a camera in hand. Is it just me or are there more mosquitoes this year? I bet Mosquitoes number hasn’t changed. That is because so many people have left Latvia to work in UK, Ireland, … More Full Moon & Mosquitoes!
Working on my business plan… taking it to the next level. Adding history of the photography! Ilze
I wanted to capture the beauty of tulips in an old enamel jug. This old enamel jug is from my grandma… It’s special! I did few shots and Marley jumped in. And I used it! What do you think!? Ilze
Each of the seasons is special with something different. Coldest months of the year are usually January and February when temperature sometimes fall even to -30° C, but usually no longer than a few days and average temperature in Latvia winter is around -6° C. -Discover Latvia This is what Discover Latvia says about winter in … More Winter in Latvia
I woke up and opened my eyes.I couldn’t believe what I saw!I got up and walked to the window…And there it was — a foggy winter morning. The girls were still asleep, so I grabbed my camera and rushed outside. Okay… not before putting on my down coat, scarf, hat, and mittens! 🙂 Today reminded … More Foggy Winter Morning