Jason

@bloodraynes

Happily married child of the 70’s & 80’s with a love of all things retro technology. Gaming, photography, music, films, (especially horror) #EastCoastKin Arts Collective member

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Bluesky

¿Es tu perfil?Reclámalo y bloodraynes.dirty.social es tuyo.Reclamar perfil

Jason@bloodraynes· 24d

Evening #BlueSky 🫖 Just a relaxing shot of Ted at the front and Bill at the back taking a well earned chill out 🥰Have a relaxing rest of the day my friends ☺️ #ECK #Photography #Dogs #PhotographyOfBlueSky #BillAndTed #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Ireland #DogsOfBlueSky #Doggos #Relaxing #Cute #Pups

Our picture is taken from the side of a comfortable grey fabric sofa, creating the feeling that you are sitting right beside the dogs.

Soft golden sunlight pours in from a nearby window, bathing the scene in a warm, late afternoon glow and highlighting the rich colours of their fur.

Closest to the camera is Ted, lying completely on his back with the carefree confidence of a dog who feels utterly safe.

His fluffy chest and belly are exposed, his front paws curled gently towards his body, and his hind legs are relaxed.

His head hangs slightly over the edge of a cushion, upside down, with long, silky chestnut-and-cream fur spilling around his face like a soft mane.

His dark eyes are partly open, giving him a sleepy yet content expression, while his small black nose points upwards. The sunlight catches the edges of his ears and fur, creating a beautiful amber halo around him.

Further along the sofa lies Bill, stretched out comfortably in the background. Although slightly out of focus, he can be seen lying on his side with his body fully relaxed, enjoying the same peaceful rest.

His darker coat contrasts gently against the light grey throw covering the sofa. The soft blur makes him appear almost dreamlike, reinforcing the quiet atmosphere of the photograph.

The sofa is decorated with cushions in muted shades of grey and teal, adding gentle splashes of colour without distracting from the two dogs.

Beyond the sofa, large glass doors allow daylight to flood the room, with the outside world softly blurred into the background.

The overall feeling is one of complete tranquillity. Ted and Bill are clearly at ease in their home, sharing a lazy afternoon together.

It’s a scene filled with warmth, trust, and the simple joy of two beloved dogs finding comfort in each other’s company.

A quiet reminder that some of life’s happiest moments are the peaceful ones spent at home with those we love.

Finally, our picture is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· 25d

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ Taken in the growing light of a dawn sunrise in the streets of Carlow, Ireland. Have a golden day friends ☺️ #ECK #Ireland #BlueSkyArtShow #growing #Sunrise #Photography #GoldenHour #Street #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Dawn #Architecture #Streetphotography #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Carlow

Our picture captures a peaceful street in Carlow, Ireland, at the magical moment when the first golden rays of the rising sun have just reached the buildings, while the sky still belongs to the night.

The camera looks upward from street level, giving the buildings an elegant, towering presence. Dominating the scene is a handsome three-storey Georgian-style building painted in a rich navy blue.

Its crisp white decorative trim frames every window like carefully carved picture frames, creating a striking contrast against the deep blue walls. The building stretches diagonally across the image from left to right, drawing your eye naturally along the quiet street.

The sunlight is the true star of the scene. Low on the horizon, the dawn sun casts a warm amber glow across the front of the building.

Every column, window frame, cornice and ornamental detail seems to have been dipped in liquid gold. The light is soft rather than harsh, wrapping the architecture in warmth and giving the impression that the town itself is slowly waking from sleep.

Above, the sky is a deep indigo blue that gradually lightens towards the horizon, with faint patches of soft cloud lingering in the early morning air.

The contrast between the cool, tranquil sky and the warm golden light below creates a feeling of perfect balance, night reluctantly giving way to day.

The building’s many tall sash windows reflect the new light, while a small wrought-iron balcony sits above the main entrance like a decorative flourish.

On the right-hand side is a grand arched doorway with sculpted white stonework, its dark wooden door recessed beneath the elegant arch. Along the pavement, black wrought-iron railings run the length of the property, adding another layer of Victorian character.

The neighbouring buildings, painted in softer cream and pale ochre tones, also catch the sunrise.

The overall atmosphere is one of calm anticipation and finally our picture is finished with a white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· 28d

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & let me introduce you to two new family members, Bill & Ted (full story in the Alt) Have a beautiful day my friends ☺️ #ECK #Photography #RescuePups #DogsOfBlueSky #Dogs #Pups #Cute #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Ireland #PhotographersOfBlueSky #AltText #BillAndTed #ForeverHome #Adopted

Bill & Ted

My friends, please say hello to the two latest additions to our little family.

Bill (the darker one) and Ted ( the light cream and brown one) We picked these two beautiful boys up over the weekend from a local rescue centre.

They are senior pups, 10 years old and when it comes to bonded pairs and dogs of this age they often get looked over at these centres.

Quite a sad little back story with these two. Their owner had passed away and the family didn’t want to take either of these two on.

So, they took them to the vets to be put down!? Thankfully the vet saw that these two are in perfect health and refused the family’s request. He took them off their hands and down to the local rescue centre.

Fi my wife had been searching for a bonded pair of dogs for a good 3 months when these popped up on her radar. She was concerned that the timing for me wasn’t the best after the recent passing of my Dad but when l heard the back story, l knew we had to pick these fellas up.

They are so sweet, beautifully trained and super affectionate and we are delighted with them and they have adapted wonderfully to their new home.

I made a decent donation to the rescue centre with one condition that it would be in my Dads name as that goes up on their “Wall of rescue hero’s” and that brought a tear to my eye l must admit.

So, welcome to BlueSky Bill & Ted!! More of these cheeky boys to come ❤️☺️

Jason@bloodraynes· Jul 12

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ Taken a few weeks ago with a poem l wrote at the time in the Alt. Have a blessed day my friends ☺️ #Stunday #ImageAndVerse #ECK #AltText #Poem #Poetry #Photography #Gothic #Architecture #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Church #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Stone #Tower #Cathedral #Ireland

After the picture description, I have written a poem which is inspired by the scene.

Our photograph is taken from a dramatic low angle, looking almost straight up at the corner of a grand Gothic-style stone church.

This perspective makes the building appear immense and imposing, as though it is rising out of the earth and reaching into the heavens.

Dominating the scene is a tall central bell tower crowned with ornate pinnacles and intricate Gothic arches. Around it stand several smaller turret-like towers with pointed roofs, their narrow openings giving them an almost watchful appearance. The craftsmanship is remarkable, with carved stone details, decorative buttresses and elegant arches.

Halfway up the façade, a single circular window catches the eye. Unlike the dark stone surrounding it, the glass reflects a pale bluish light from the sky, becoming the only noticeably bright feature on the building. It feels almost like an unblinking eye gazing outward.

The sky above is perhaps the most dramatic part of the image. Thick charcoal-grey storm clouds churn overhead, creating an atmosphere heavy with tension.

The contrast between the darkness of the sky and the pale granite walls creates a haunting, cinematic mood.

It is a scene that evokes awe, mystery, resilience, and the enduring passage of time. And now for my poem…

I call it…”Stone That Remembers”

Beneath a sky of gathering night,
Where restless clouds conceal the light,
An ancient tower lifts its face,
A monument of silent grace.

Its weathered stones have learned to keep
The vows of centuries asleep;
Each arch and spire, each worn embrace,
Still holds the echoes of this place.

Though storms may cloak the heavens deep,
And shadows through the bell tower creep,
The steadfast walls refuse to bend,
For faith and time are oldest friends.

And in the silence, if you stay,
You’ll hear what winds alone can say:
That all things mortal fade and roam
But hope, like stone, can build a home.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jul 10

Hi my friends 😌 It’s been the busiest of weeks. Funeral was at the start of the week & l picked Dads ashes up this morning. Thank you to everyone for their kindness, l’ve missed you all ❤️ Here’s a picture of my parents on their wedding day in ‘66 & their 40th anniversary in ‘06 I’ll be back soon J x

Jason@bloodraynes· Jul 4

Good morning #BlueSky ☕️ A parents love is an arch that protects & binds a family together. Yesterday, l was gifted that arch to hold firm, to carry on. Taken a few days ago, this one is for you Dad ❤️ #BlueSkyArtShow #wide #ECK I will catch up with you all soon my friends,my unlimited love to all

Jason@bloodraynes· Jul 3

A final update for my Dad. Let me thank you all for your kindness, words and thoughts. Hold your loved ones close today ❤️

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 28

Good evening my friends ❤️ Please see below for an update on my Dad for those that have been following the situation. I can’t thank you all enough for all the positive thoughts and messages. I am doing as best l can and Fi has been her usual amazing self. My unlimited love to you all my friends ❤️

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 24

Evening my friends, l have an update regarding my Dad. My unlimited love to each and everyone one of you ❤️

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 21

Evening my friends and l had some better news about Dad and was able to visit him this afternoon. Today is the longest day and it has lived up to that name. My unlimited love to you all 🥰❤️

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 21

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ A simple bench, a thousand stories (poem in the Alt) Have a beautiful day friends ☺️ #ECK #Stunday #ImageAndVerse #Photography #Poem #Poetry #Urban #PhotographyOfBlueSky #AltText #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Ireland #ClassicMono #SelectiveColour #UrbanGaze #DepthOfField #TownScape

After the picture description l have written a poem about this scene.

At the centre of the image stands a modern public bench made of black metal. Rather than a traditional seat, it has a sculptural, contemporary design with circular arm-like loops and smooth curved surfaces.

The bench appears sturdy and functional, yet its unusual shape gives it an almost abstract appearance, like a piece of modern art placed on the pavement.

Our photograph is predominantly black and white, creating a moody and somewhat melancholic atmosphere.

The shallow depth of field keeps the background soft and indistinct, drawing the eye firmly toward the bench in the foreground.

A tall white pole rises along the left side of the frame, adding a strong vertical element.

The only vivid colour in the image comes from two discarded green glass bottles lying on the ground. One bottle rests near the left side of the bench, while another lies in the foreground.

Their bright emerald green stands out dramatically against the otherwise monochrome scene.

The sky visible in the upper left corner is cloudy and grey, reinforcing the subdued mood.

Overall, the image feels quiet and contemplative a portrait of an ordinary urban corner. Finally, our picture is finished with a white border frame. Now for my poem….

I call it….The Bench at Dawn

A circle of steel on a silent street,
Watching the city through rain-washed feet.
Apartments stand guard in a softened haze,
Their windows recalling forgotten days.

Two green bottles gleam like emerald light,
Fragments of laughter left after night.
No voices remain, no footsteps stay,
Only echoes lingering into the day.

The bench keeps watch where stories end,
A patient listener, a steadfast friend.
In concrete shadows and silver skies,
It gathers the moments that drift and rise.

And though the street seems still and bare,
A thousand unseen lives have passed there.
Leaving behind, in glass and stone,
A reminder that no place is ever alone.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 20

Evening my friends For those that follow what’s been happening with my Dads health these past few months l have an update: My unlimited love to you all ❤️

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 20

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to the dramatic skies & sweeping curves of a river scene taken during the week. Have a great day friends ☺️ #ECK #BlueSkyArtShow #curve #Photography #ClassicMono #Ireland #PhotographyOfBlueSky #RiverWalks #PhotographerOfBlueSky #Clouds #Bridge #DramaticSky #Urban #Nature

Our dramatic black-and-white photograph of a broad stretch of water of the River Barrow viewed from a low vantage point near the water’s edge.

The foreground is dominated by dark, gently rippling water that fills more than half of the image. The surface is textured by countless small waves, reflecting patches of light from the sky above.

Across the middle of the scene spans an elegant pedestrian bridge made of dark metal latticework. The bridge stretches horizontally from left to right, connecting two landscaped banks. On the right-hand side, a gently sloping ramp leads up to the bridge, bordered by matching railings.

The left bank is lush with mature trees and dense shrubs. Some of the taller trees bend slightly, suggesting a breezy day. The vegetation creates a soft contrast against the rigid geometry of the bridge.

On the right bank, a curved stone or concrete embankment follows the edge of the water. A series of tall, modern lamp posts rise above the walkway.

Their distinctive Y-shaped tops resemble the masts of sailing boats, adding a contemporary sculptural element to the scene. A couple of tiny human figures can be seen near the path, emphasizing the scale of the bridge and landscape.

The most striking feature is the sky. Huge, layered clouds roll across the entire horizon, ranging from bright white highlights to deep charcoal shadows.

The cloud formations appear heavy and dramatic, as though a storm may be approaching. Their sweeping shapes create a sense of movement and grandeur, drawing the eye upward and giving the photograph a powerful, almost cinematic atmosphere.

Overall, the image conveys a mood of quiet reflection and natural drama. A peaceful waterside setting beneath an imposing sky, where the calm river and graceful bridge stand in contrast to the turbulent clouds overhead.

Finally, our picture is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 19

Evening #BlueSky 🫖 & this week for the #ECK #PostProcess challenge we have a first. With me & my Step Son Dan (graphic artist) collaborating to make this for #EmotionShift with our emotion being pride (Full details in the Alt on how we pulled this week long project together) Enjoy your evening☺️

11th #PostProcess challenge details

This week l went for a collaboration between myself and my Step Son who is a graphic design whizz.

I took my original imagine into Lightroom for IPad and went into fiddle mode and did pretty much the same post process l did for wood carving edit last week but this time with the gold effect.

While l was swearing and doing that, l asked my Step Son to create the image we see here in something called “Unity” which is 3D photorealistic modelling software.

Once l was happy with the gold etched photograph, he took that into his image that he built and positioned it as shown with the wording and blended it all in.

I asked for his post process and his answer was “unity, my genius and the beers you supplied” lol 😂 (so modest eh?)

I then took the entire new image back into Lightroom for a slight vignette and my usual white border frame.

The idea of the edit was to create a scene of a library within the church with a book of everyone’s wonderful edits this week that would show the emotion shift of pride in their work.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 19

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ Can l interest anyone in a slice or two of some home made cheeseburger bacon meatloaf? 🤤 Have a tasty day friends ☺️ #ECK #FoodOnFriday #Photography #Food #PhotographyOfBlueSky #MeatLoaf #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Ireland #HomeMade #CheeseBurger #Bacon #BlueSkyFood #BlueSkyCooking

Our picture shows a freshly baked home-made bacon cheeseburger meatloaf resting on a light wooden chopping board. The loaf is rectangular in shape, about the size of a small loaf of bread, with slightly rounded edges and a rich, golden-brown crust.

The top is covered with a thick layer of melted cheese that has baked until glossy and caramelised in places, creating an appetising golden-orange sheen.

Scattered generously across the surface are chunky pieces of crispy bacon, ranging in colour from pinkish-red to deep mahogany brown. The bacon pieces look slightly curled and crisp, adding texture and a rustic appearance.

Along the sides of the meatloaf, the minced beef mixture is visible beneath the cheese. The edges are browned and slightly crisp, while small pockets of melted cheese appear to have seeped down the sides during cooking.

Near the bottom corner, a little cheese has dripped and browned against the board, hinting at the richness of the dish.

The chopping board itself is marked with the faint knife scratches of regular kitchen use and sits on a dark countertop that contrasts beautifully with the warm colours of the meatloaf. The background is softly blurred, drawing all attention to the food.

The overall impression is one of hearty comfort food. A substantial bacon cheeseburger concept transformed into a loaf, with layers of savoury beef, melted cheese, and crispy bacon combining into a dish that looks rich, indulgent, and deeply satisfying.

Finally, our picture this morning is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 18

Evening #BlueSky 🫖 & welcome to a good book down by the riverside here in Ireland. Have a wonderful rest of the evening my friends ☺️ #ECK #HumansOfBlueSky #Photography #ClassicMono #Riverside #Reading #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Ireland #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Nature #NegativeSpace #Calming #Books

Our picture has a quiet, contemplative atmosphere, rendered in muted monochrome tones that give it the feel of an old film photograph or a memory preserved in time.

In the foreground, at the lower left corner, a solitary person sits on a sloping concrete embankment beside a river. They are dressed in dark clothing and sit with their head bowed over an open book, completely absorbed in reading.

A light-coloured jacket lies beside them on the ground, suggesting they have settled in for a while. Their posture is relaxed and inward-looking, creating a sense of peaceful isolation.

Immediately behind the reader rises a sturdy stone structure, built from dark rectangular blocks. At its top is a viewing platform or riverside terrace edged with curved black metal railings.

The platform projects slightly over the water, adding a strong geometric shape to the composition. The river occupies the right side of the image.

Its surface is dark and gently rippled, reflecting the subdued light from the overcast sky. The water appears calm and slow moving, enhancing the tranquil mood.

Beyond the river stands a dense wall of mature trees. Their leafy canopies form a dark, textured mass that stretches upward and fills much of the right side of the photograph.

In the distance, glimpses of open countryside can be seen through breaks in the foliage, with soft rolling fields fading into the horizon.

Above everything hangs a dramatic sky filled with layered clouds. The cloud cover is heavy and textured, creating a sense of depth and movement overhead.

The subdued light filtering through the clouds casts a gentle, diffused glow across the landscape.

Overall, the image conveys a feeling of solitude, reflection, and escape. The lone reader beside the water seems removed from the bustle of everyday life, immersed in both the book in their hands and the quiet beauty of the riverside setting.

Finally our picture is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 18

Morning #BlueSky & welcome to Carlow,Ireland & the Liberty Tree captured yesterday. Have a great day friends ☺️ #PalacesAndGardens #WaterPlays #ECK #Photography #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Carlow #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Fountain #Sculpture #LibertyTree #Summer #UrbanGaze #PhotographersUnited #Ireland

Our picture shows The Liberty Tree sculpture and fountain rising dramatically from the centre of a town square in Carlow, Ireland. The image is taken from a low angle, making the sculpture appear tall and monumental against a brilliant summer sky.

The sculpture itself resembles a fantastical tree cast in bronze. Its trunk is rugged and textured, dividing into two sturdy legs that support a series of large, circular rings spiralling upward around a central stem.

Each ring is formed from intricate metal leaves and branches, creating the impression of a tree whose foliage has been caught in motion by a strong wind. The bronze has weathered over time to a rich green patina, giving it the colour of aged copper.

The tree rises several metres into the air, narrowing as it climbs until it ends in a curled tip at the very top. Sunlight shines from directly behind it, creating a glowing halo around the sculpture and outlining its delicate leaf shapes against the sky.

The sculpture stands on a large cylindrical fountain base made of grey concrete. Around the top edge, a circle of white water jets shoots upward, their spray sparkling in the sunlight.

Water spills gently down the sides of the cylinder into a pool of vivid turquoise-blue water below. Behind the fountain is the heart of Carlow town. A row of low-rise buildings lines the square, their grey roofs and shopfronts stretching across the background.

Slightly to the right stands a clock tower with four clock faces, rising above the rooftops. Green trees soften the urban scene, while fluffy white clouds drift across a deep blue Irish sky.

The overall mood is uplifting and celebratory. The combination of flowing water, bright sunlight, moving clouds, and the soaring tree-like sculpture creates a sense of freedom, growth, and resilience, qualities reflected in the monument’s name, The Liberty Tree.

Finally our picture is finished with a white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 17

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to a community mural nestled next to the River Barrow near the village. Have a vibrant day friends ☺️ #ECK #ArtYear #WackyWednesdayArt #ColorADay #RedWed #Photography #Ireland #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Mural #PhotographersOfBlueSky #RiverWalk #UrbanArt #FramedByNature

Our picture captures a tranquil riverside scene, likely in early summer, where nature and community art meet in an unexpected and beautiful way.

In the foreground, a gently flowing river curves from the lower left corner toward the centre of the image.

The water is dark blue-grey, textured with small ripples that catch the light. Clumps of lush green grass and reeds grow along the river’s edge and on a small tongue of land that extends into the water.

The scene is framed on both sides by dense vegetation. On the left, a wall of greenery covered in clusters of tiny white blossoms creates a soft, blurred border.

On the right, the long trailing branches of a willow tree hang down like a green curtain, partially veiling the view beyond. The rich foliage gives the impression of looking through a natural window.

Across the river, a narrow strip of vivid green grass lines the opposite bank. Beyond it stands a low concrete wall decorated with colourful murals.

The artwork bursts with bright blues, yellows, oranges, and greens, featuring stars, planets, a rainbow, cartoon-style characters, and imaginative cosmic themes.

The mural provides a striking contrast to the surrounding natural landscape, bringing a sense of joy and creativity to the scene.

Behind the mural, mature trees in various shades of green and deep burgundy rise into the background. A few houses peek through the foliage, while utility poles and wires stretch across the upper part of the image.

Overhead, dark grey clouds gather, hinting at an approaching shower, though the landscape below remains vibrant and full of life.

Overall, the photograph conveys a peaceful Irish riverside atmosphere where wild greenery softens the edges of a colourful piece of public art, creating a scene that feels both serene and uplifting.

And finally, our picture today is finished with a white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 16

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to a spring morning as light & shadow play in an Irish woodland. Have a great day friends ☺️ #ECK #Ireland #Photography #ThickTrunkTuesday #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Woodland #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Nature #DappledLight #Light #Shadow #AlphabetChallenge #WeekXForXyloid

Our picture captures a quiet, sunlit corner of an Irish woodland in late spring rich with deep greens and natural textures.

At the centre of the image stand two tall tree trunks growing side by side, almost like a pair of companions.

Their bark is rugged and furrowed, coloured in shades of grey-brown and silver. Thin vines and tangled woody stems climb and wrap around the trunks, creating intricate patterns that resemble nature’s own lacework.

Near the middle, a curved branch stretches between the two trees, giving the impression that they are gently reaching towards one another.

The woodland around them is dense and vibrant. Thick undergrowth fills the foreground, with layers of ferns, shrubs, grasses, and leafy plants creating a carpet of lush green.

The vegetation is so abundant that very little of the forest floor can be seen.
Sunlight filters through the canopy above, illuminating parts of the trunks and patches of foliage.

This creates a striking contrast between bright, glowing greens and the darker, shaded areas of the woodland. The play of light and shadow gives the scene depth and a sense of mystery, as though there may be hidden paths or secret clearings just beyond view.

In the background, more trees rise into the distance, their leaves softly lit against a vivid blue sky peeking through gaps in the branches.

Fine twigs and delicate leafy shoots hang from the upper branches, framing the scene and adding an airy, almost delicate quality to the otherwise dense woodland.

Overall, the photograph conveys the feeling of a secluded Irish forest sanctuary. Peaceful, ancient, and untouched, where the only sounds might be birdsong, the rustle of leaves in a gentle breeze, and the distant murmur of a nearby stream.

Finally our picture is finished with a white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 15

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ As our week begins, let’s explore the Irish countryside in Summer together. Have a beautiful day friends ☺️ #ECK #BlueSkyMonday #Photography #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Ireland #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Nature #Countryside #NaturePhotography #Landscapes #CloudFormations #Summer

Our photograph captures the richness and drama of an Irish summer landscape beneath a sky that seems almost alive with movement.

In the foreground, a broad expanse of lush green grass stretches across the scene like a natural carpet.

The meadow is vibrant and healthy, its deep summer greens suggesting recent rain and fertile soil.

Along the edges of the field, wild grasses and hedgerow plants grow freely, adding texture and a sense of untamed countryside beauty.

To the left, mature trees frame the view, their dense leafy branches creating a dark natural border.

Beyond them sits a small farmstead with several agricultural buildings and sheds, nestled quietly into the landscape.

A farmhouse stands among clusters of trees, giving the impression of a long established family farm.

The middle distance opens into gently rolling farmland. Fields glow in shades of green and yellow, separated by hedgerows and lines of trees.

A row of mature trees stands proudly near the horizon, their rounded canopies breaking up the open countryside and adding depth to the scene.

What dominates the image, however, is the magnificent summer sky. Towering white and grey clouds billow across the heavens like great mountains of cotton.

Some clouds are bright where sunlight catches them, while others are dark underneath, hinting at passing showers.

Above them stretches an intense, almost sapphire-blue sky, creating a striking contrast with the brilliant white cloud tops.

The dramatic cloudscape gives the impression of a constantly changing Irish day, where sunshine and rain are never far apart.

The overall feeling is one of freshness, openness, and abundance. A classic Irish summer scene where rich pastureland, ancient trees, and ever-changing skies combine to create a landscape that feels both peaceful and powerful.

Finally, our picture today is finished with a white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 14

This week on #ECK in #PostProcess we explore #EmotionShift What emotions does this image give you? drive.google.com/file/d/1PaGU... Will it be positive, negative or something in between? You decide!! Editing wise, the sky is the limit my friends so let those creative skills flow!! Good luck ☺️🤞🏻

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 14

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to automotive grace & beauty (poem in the alt text) Have an elegant day friends ☺️ #Stunday #ImageAndVerse #Photography #ClassicCars #Vintage #PhotographyOfBlueSky #RollsRoyce #PhotographersOfBlueSky #AltText #CarPhotography #Poem #Poetry #VintageCars #SpiritOfEcstasy

After the picture description, l have written a poem inspired by today’s capture

Our picture is a striking close-up of the famous Rolls-Royce bonnet ornament known as the Spirit of Ecstasy.

The small winged figure, cast in gleaming gold-toned metal, stands proudly at the very front of the car’s hood.

Her body leans forward as if carried by the wind, while her flowing wings sweep upward on either side, forming a graceful V-shape that dominates the frame.

The polished metal catches the light beautifully, creating warm amber and golden reflections across every curve and contour. The figure appears almost alive, poised between flight and motion, embodying elegance and speed.

Beneath the ornament, the long bonnet stretches away into the background. Its highly reflective surface mirrors the surrounding buildings and sky in soft, distorted shapes.

Near the bottom of the image, the iconic Rolls-Royce badge can be seen mounted on the front of the hood, its interlocking “RR” initials standing out against the rich metallic finish.

The background is deliberately blurred, drawing the eye toward the ornament. Faint outlines of people stand on either side of the car, while the front of another vintage vehicle appears beyond, its details softened into a wash of dark blues and warm reds.

The shallow depth of field gives the image a sense of intimacy, making the Spirit of Ecstasy seem almost monumental despite its small size. Finally our picture is finished with a white border frame. And now my poem…

I call it….Spirit of the Road

Golden wings embrace the air,
Balanced lightly, proud and fair.
Silent guardian, gleaming bright,
Catching fragments of the light.

Through years of journeys, rain and sun,
Watching countless miles be run,
Still she leads with timeless grace,
A shining dream in metal’s face.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 13

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to a small country Church deep in the heart of rural Ireland as the steeple pierces the sky. Have a peaceful day my friends ☺️ #ECK #Photography #BlueSkyArtShow #sharp #Ireland #Church #Architecture #Steeple #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Gothic #PhotographersOfBlueSky

Our picture captures a striking view of a Gothic-style church from a low angle, making the building appear tall, dignified, and commanding against the sky.

The church walls are built from rough-textured grey stone, their surface catching the sunlight and creating a warm contrast with the deep blue sky above.

Along the side of the building, a row of tall, narrow pointed-arch windows breaks up the long wall. Their pale stone surrounds stand out against the darker masonry, drawing the eye along the length of the church.

The most dramatic feature is the church steeple. Rising from a square tower near the centre-left of the image, the steeple ascends in a slender stone spire that seems almost impossibly sharp.

Its apex narrows to a fine point, and from this viewpoint it appears to spear directly into the rich cobalt-blue sky.

The contrast between the pale stone and the intense blue backdrop makes the steeple feel even taller and more elegant. It stands like a stone needle, guiding the eye upward and giving the scene a sense of aspiration and reverence.

Around the roofline are smaller pinnacles and decorative Gothic details, echoing the shape of the main spire. Their pointed forms create a rhythm of upward-reaching lines, reinforcing the impression that the entire building is striving toward the heavens.

Soft white clouds drift behind the church, their rounded shapes contrasting beautifully with the sharp geometry of the spire and windows.

A vivid green lawn surrounds the building, while dark evergreen trees frame the left side of the scene and leafy branches edge the right, creating a natural border around the church.

Overall, the image conveys a feeling of permanence and quiet grandeur.

The church stands steadfast on the earth, yet the steeple’s razor-sharp apex appears to pierce the brilliant blue sky, creating a powerful visual symbol of faith reaching upward from stone into light.

Finally, our picture is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 12

Evening #BlueSky 🫖 Sometimes it’s the simply things that provide the most wonder & amazement. Have a relaxed rest of the day friends ☺️ #ECK #Scape #SkyScape #Clouds #Photography #CloudFormations #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Ireland #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Sky #QuiltedSky #MotherNature #Cobalt #SkyArt

Our picture is an evocative study of the sky itself, filling the entire frame with a dramatic blanket of clouds. There is no horizon, landscape, or man-made object visible, just an expansive view looking upward.

The cloud formation resembles hundreds of small, rounded puffs clustered closely together, creating a textured pattern often compared to fish scales or ripples across water.

The clouds vary in size, with larger, softer patches toward the upper left and tighter, more densely packed formations toward the lower portion of the image.

The colour palette is striking. Deep shades of navy and cobalt blue dominate the sky, giving the scene an almost twilight or artistic appearance.

Against this dark blue backdrop, the clouds glow in soft whites and pale creams, as if illuminated by sunlight filtering through from behind or below.

The contrast between the bright cloud tops and the rich blue sky creates a strong sense of depth and movement.

The clouds appear to sweep diagonally across the image, flowing from the lower left corner toward the upper right, drawing the eye upward. Their texture is highly detailed, resembling a vast quilt of cotton wool spread across the heavens.

Overall, the image conveys a sense of wonder and scale. It feels as though the viewer is lying on their back, gazing into an immense celestial ocean where waves of cloud drift endlessly overhead, creating a mood that is both peaceful and slightly dramatic.

Finally, our picture this evening is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 12

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ Would anyone like some freshly baked Parmesan cheese and Parma ham palmiers? 🤤 Have a tasty day my friends 😌 #ECK #FoodOnFriday #ShowHeart #Baking #Photography #BlueSkyBaking #Yum #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Palmiers #PhotographersOfBlueSky #French #Pastry #BlueSkyFood #HomeMade

Our picture shows a black dinner plate piled high with homemade Parmesan cheese and Parma ham palmiers, resting on a dark kitchen countertop.

The pastries are arranged casually in a small mound, with around a dozen individual palmiers overlapping one another. Each pastry has the classic palmier shape, resembling a pair of curled scrolls meeting in the centre, creating a heart-like silhouette.

Their surfaces are a rich golden-brown, with darker toasted patches where the Parmesan has melted and crisped during baking.

The flaky puff pastry layers are clearly visible along the edges, forming delicate, paper-thin folds that suggest a wonderfully light and crisp texture.

Tiny specks of seasoning and finely chopped Parma ham can be seen embedded within the swirls of pastry, while the Parmesan has baked into a glossy, slightly blistered crust that catches the warm light.

The lighting gives the pastries an inviting glow, highlighting their buttery layers and crunchy exterior. The dark plate and countertop provide a dramatic contrast, making the golden pastries stand out even more vividly.

In the softly blurred background, a dark kitchen appliance and part of a blue bowl are visible, but they remain secondary to the plate of freshly baked treats.

Our picture conveys the comforting feeling of homemade savoury baking. Crisp, buttery pastry infused with salty Parma ham and nutty Parmesan cheese, fresh from the oven and ready to share. The scene feels warm, welcoming, and deliciously indulgent.

Finally, our picture is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 11

Evening #BlueSky 🫖 & welcome to our watchful river guardian as the competitors take part in the local triathlon. Have a great rest of the day friends 😌 #ECK #HumansOfBlueSky #Photography #Triathlon #PhotographyOfBlueSky #PhotographersOfBlueSky #AlphabetChallenge #WeekWForWater #ColorADay #YellowThu

Our picture captures a dedicated member of the safety team patrolling the River Barrow during a local triathlon swim event.

In the centre of the image, a lone kayaker sits in a bright yellow kayak, which stands out vividly against the dark blue water of the river.

The paddler wears a yellow safety vest, a dark bucket hat, and sunglasses, giving the impression of someone focused and alert while monitoring the swimmers.

Their paddle is raised mid-stroke, suggesting steady movement through the water as they keep watch over the competitors.

The river surface is textured with small ripples and gentle waves, reflecting shades of deep blue, teal, and hints of gold from the low sunlight.

Across the upper part of the image, a line of orange-and-white marker buoys stretches from one side of the river to the other, helping define the swimming course.

In the background, several triathletes can be seen swimming through the water. Only their heads, arms, and brightly coloured swim caps are visible as they make their way along the course.

A splash on the left side of the image marks the powerful stroke of one swimmer, adding a sense of energy and movement.

The riverbanks are lined with reeds and vegetation, creating a natural green backdrop.

The overall atmosphere is one of quiet vigilance and teamwork. While the swimmers are the competitors, the kayaker plays a vital role behind the scenes.

Providing reassurance, guidance, and immediate assistance if needed, helping to ensure that everyone can compete safely in the open water.

The scene conveys the spirit of a community sporting event: athletes testing themselves in the river, supported by volunteers and safety crews whose presence allows the race to unfold with confidence and care

Finally this evening, our picture is finished with a white border frame

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 11

Good morning #BlueSky & welcome to the Queens garden (Fi’s Mum 👸🏼) and one of her many beautiful roses. Have a colourful day friends ☺️ #ECK #PalacesAndGardens #Photography #QueenOfFlowers #FloralPhotography #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Roses #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Pink #Summer #Nature #Ireland #Flower

Our picture is a close-up portrait of a fully opened rose in brilliant shades of deep pink and magenta.

The flower fills almost the entire frame, drawing the viewer into its intricate layers of soft, velvety petals that curl and fold around one another in a spiral pattern.

Tiny droplets of water cling to the petals, catching the sunlight like scattered crystals. Some droplets gather along the edges of the petals, while others rest in the folds, adding a fresh, just-after-rain feeling to the scene.

The sunlight is strong and direct, illuminating the rose from above and making the vibrant pink colour appear almost luminous against the darker background.

Behind the flower, the garden fades into soft focus. Dark green leaves and hints of other pink blossoms create a rich backdrop, while a shadowed structure, part of a garden trellis appears indistinctly in the upper left.

The blurred background helps the rose stand out dramatically, making it the unquestionable centre of attention.

Overall, the image conveys a sense of beauty, freshness, and summer abundance.

The combination of vivid colour, sparkling water droplets, and bright sunshine creates an impression of a rose at the peak of its bloom, proudly displaying its delicate petals to the world.

Finally, our picture is finished with a white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 10

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to a stark industrial display of light and shadow. Have a secure day my friends ☺️ #ECK #Photography #WallsOnWednesday #ClassicMono #Light #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Shadow #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Urban #Silhouette #Architecture #ConcreteJungle #industrial #Stark #Ireland

This is a striking black-and-white photograph taken from very close to a metal fence or protective wire mesh running along the side of a building.

The camera is positioned low and close to the fence, creating a strong sense of depth. The wire mesh fills much of the right-hand side of the image and stretches away into the distance, gradually becoming softer and more blurred.

Beneath it is a dark wall, possibly painted metal or concrete, with a slightly glossy surface. Light from outside falls through the grid of the fence, casting a repeating pattern of shadows and highlights across the wall.

These shadows form long, wavering stripes and geometric shapes that ripple along the surface, creating an almost abstract design. The contrast between light and dark is dramatic, with deep blacks dominating much of the frame.

The left side of the image fades into soft focus, suggesting a narrow passageway or alley running alongside the building. The blurred background gives the scene a sense of mystery and isolation. There are no people, vehicles, or signs of activity visible.

Overall, the photograph feels moody, industrial, and contemplative. The repeating lines of the metal mesh and the interplay of shadow and light create a strong visual rhythm, transforming an ordinary section of fencing and wall into something artistic and atmospheric.

Finally, our picture is finished with a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 9

Evening #BlueSky ☕️ Inspired by Native American wood carvings For challenge #PostProcess #Surface #ECK Original photo by @rjrock.bsky.social Achieved using SnapSeed, LightRoom for IPad and lots of swearing lol 😂 with info in the #AltText Have a great rest of your day my freinds ☺️

Rock’s 10th #PostProcess challenge details

I took a stock image of a light wood grain effect panel from Google images.

I then put one on top of the other and used the double exposure effect in Snapseed with Rocks original photography. I then dropped all the colour out of both images and then exported all that into Lightroom for iPad.

This is where l went into “fiddle mode” to trying and get the image to a reliable wood colour and added detail and sharpening to mimic a wood carving effect.

Multiple free hand masks to get the various shadow effects which had me swearing a lot lol.

The idea of the edit was to see Rocks original image as though it was carved out of wood in the Native American style.

I finished the edit with a light vignette and also a simple white border frame.

Jason@bloodraynes· Jun 9

Morning #BlueSky ☕️ & welcome to a wonderful natural cathedral of autumn light. Have a golden day friends ☺️ #ECK #Nature #ThickTrunkTuesday #Photography #PhotographyOfBlueSky #Golden #PhotographersOfBlueSky #Canopy #NaturePhotography #Autumn #Tree #DappledLight #PhotographersUnited #Ireland #Trees