The prompt for this month was to define serenity in my own terms. Serenity means to be calm and peaceful. Standing still, is the meaning of that in my definition. When im standing still, I know im calm. Therefore this is shown in the image of my feet when Im standing still.
This photograph, taken at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, captures a fish moving gracefully through water, highlighting the beauty of water as a photographic subject. The clarity and movement of the water create a sense of calm and fluidity, while the way light filters through enhances its depth and texture. Rather than focusing on the water as a background element, this image emphasizes how water itself becomes part of the composition, shaping mood and movement. The interaction between the fish and its environment showcases water as a dynamic and visually captivating element, reinforcing its natural beauty.
Before White Balance Editing 50mm 1/60 F6.6 ISO 200 ShadowAfter White Balance Editing, higher White
Although not realistic, this editing of the white balance in Photoshop gives the photo a more intresting look to it, this prompt was to use white balance to alter the photo’s look, in a non-realistic way. I achieved this because either of these photos is realistic, but the alteration in white balance gives the photo more contrast in a unique way.
This photograph explores the concept of visual mass through the use of a single ornament as the main subject. Although the ornament is physically small and lightweight, its reflective surface, bold shape, and placement within the frame give it a strong visual presence. By isolating the ornament and controlling the surrounding negative space, I emphasized how an object can feel heavy or dominant based on composition rather than size.
The lighting and angle were intentionally chosen to draw attention to the ornament’s form and surface details, allowing it to visually anchor the image. The contrast between the ornament and its background enhances its perceived weight, making it appear more substantial than it actually is. This piece demonstrates how visual mass is created through balance, contrast, and focus, showing that an object does not need physical weight to command attention within a composition.
The goal of this photo was to tell a quiet story about the mood I was in – stressed and rushed. By photographing a clock, I used a simple subject to represent structure and reflection. The composition centers the clock to emphasize its importance, letting it symbolize routine, pressure, and the rushed movement of time. The image encourages the viewer to pause and think about how time shapes our emotions and daily mindset.
Personally, this photo reflects how I was feeling during the process: aware of responsibilities but also trying to stay grounded. Taking the photo made me slow down and notice something ordinary that we often ignore. The process reminded me that even simple objects can carry meaning and inspiration when connected to a feeling or moment in time.