Saturday, January 12, 2013

High Noon in Joensuu, Finland




This is what high noon looks like at 66 degrees north.  It's cold enough that I need wool to cover my mouth and nose and it's so bright I don't dare to look anywhere in the direction of the sun; the reflection off the snow is blinding. Even though my legs were aching I made myself get out to take another long walk so I could see it.  I was curious to see how high the sun would be this far north and it's actually higher, and brighter, than I anticipated.  It's so lovely!

For comparison sake, Dennis Grice ventured down to Laguna Beach, CA to photograph "high noon" at a lower latitude on the same weekend.  (Thanks, Dennis!) Here's the difference:




I've been asked why I haven't been taking pictures of people - and the question made me pause.  I love taking pictures of people!  The best answer I can give is that it is out of respect for this kind and gentle people - they seem quiet and shy - and for me to take pictures of them seems overtly bold and unkind unless I ask them first.  I will bring you pictures of these wonderful people soon, but I will do so the right way, after I get to know them, and with their permission.

8 comments:

  1. Wow! I can think of no better person to show another country an American teacher. I love reading your observations Janet.

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  2. Surprised at the amount a sunlight at noon - I really thought it would be much more subdued - great pictures!

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    1. The winter light has been a great surprise. Lucky us!

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  3. What a difference.

    Are those your tracks in the snow? Or is it sand? Someone walked a long way!

    Marilyn

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    1. Hi M;
      Those aren't my tracks because I've been waiting to walk out on the ice. They test it in a few weeks and then I'll go. It's probably safe at this point but I really didn't want to arrive and promptly fall into the cold water - that would be poor form. :) I started to get the itch to walk out to that island today....

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  4. Hi,
    i am from Singapore and will be moving to Joensuu to pursue my masters with the University of Eastern Finland in August. Chanced upon your blog while doing my research on the place and i am really glad i did! Love your entries + pictures, really makes me look forward to gg :) Thanks for updating, hope to know more about Joensuu in you next few entries!

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