Contributions of the group Lomo / Toy cameras

H?

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:27:28 +0000

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While “letter catching” again (as explained here), I accidentally trapped something that wasn’t quite the intended target — this frame. It technically breaks my own rules — the “H” only appears on the sides — so maybe it doesn’t really count. Maybe it’s just a one-step ladder… or something in between. Anyway, at least there’s some nice bubble bokeh to save the day!

Blurred camera streetphoto

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:28:15 +0000

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A lively glimpse of Delhi street life, with people commuting by rickshaw and on foot in the busy city centre. Despite the limitations of a less-than-ideal camera and a few technical imperfections, the image captures the authentic atmosphere of the street and the everyday rhythm of the city.

A view on Seoul from Itaewon

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 08:43:19 +0000

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This view is special because it links several “Seouls” in one frame, from the everyday streets to the distant skyline. It is taken from a hotel on the hillside above Itaewon in Yongsan‑gu, on the northern side of the Han River, looking down on Seoul’s famous international quarter with its foreign restaurants, bars, clubs and mixed expat–local crowd. We chose this hotel to be just a short walk from Itaewon, known for its energy, yet high enough to see how the city fits together. From the window you look out over central‑north Seoul, with the dense neighbourhoods of Yongsan and nearby districts in the foreground, then, across the Han River, the tall blocks of Gangnam and other southern business areas stretching into the distance. Beyond the city, low mountain ridges close the horizon and show how Seoul sits in a broad basin of hills.

Conquering the Universe

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 08:28:55 +0000

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The “Conquering the Universe” mosaic on the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava stands as a visionary piece of public art. Created by academic painter Dezider Castiglione in 1962, this bold work forms the front of one of four projecting lecture halls on the main facade facing Freedom Square. Each of these protruding volumes features its own monumental mosaic, highlighting a different theme from the technical and scientific ideals of the time.

This mosaic dedicated to space exploration presents a stylised satellite, reminiscent of Sputnik, moving along its distinctive orbit. The composition places the sun in the centre, with a blue segment indicating the Earth on one side. These elements capture the era's excitement about cosmic discovery and reflect the immense pride in scientific achievement prevalent in 1960s Central Europe.

Thousands of coloured stone tesserae were meticulously set into the concrete surface to compose the mosaic, blending artistic innovation with the era’s engineering ambitions.

The building itself is a hallmark of 1960s Slovak modernism, designed under the direction of architect Martin Kusý. It stands out for its clear, rational layout and its crisp, balanced forms — qualities emblematic of the modernist drive for efficiency and harmony. The rhythmic projection of four lecture halls breaks up the facade’s geometry, providing a dramatic architectural setting for the mosaics and reinforcing the building’s civic and educational significance within Bratislava’s urban landscape.

#HWW

Maritime Museum

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 18:44:20 +0000

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The Maritime Museum of Barcelona offers visitors a journey through centuries of seafaring history, all set within the breathtaking Royal Shipyards—a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture built in the 13th century for the construction of naval fleets. Inside its soaring stone naves, guests can explore a treasure trove of ship models, historical maps, navigational tools, and the stunning full-scale replica of the Royal Galley used at the Battle of Lepanto. The grandeur and craftsmanship of the vaulted halls make the building itself as impressive as the exhibitions, immersing guests in the legacy of Barcelona’s maritime power.

But those expecting the same warmth from the museum’s bar and restaurant may be surprised. The service here is best described as memorably unfriendly—a true contrast to Barcelona’s usual hospitality.

L'Arc de Triomf

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sun, 14 Sep 2025 13:57:11 +0000

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A rather striking memorial arch situated at the northern end of the grand Passeig de Lluís Companys, the Arc de Triomf was erected in 1888 as the gateway to the Barcelona World Fair. Conceived by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, it is fashioned from reddish brick in the Neo-Mudéjar style — a nod to the Moorish architectural influences found throughout Spain. This flourish of design distinguishes it from Barcelona’s predominantly modernist and Gothic buildings.

Unlike traditional triumphal arches commemorating military victories, the Arc de Triomf represents openness and progress. Its main façade features a sculptural frieze entitled “Barcelona welcomes the nations,” while the rear displays “Recompense,” symbolising the recognition of participants in the fair. Ornamental details include carved bats on the pillars (emblems of King Jaume I) and shields representing every Spanish province, prominently topped by Barcelona’s own crest. The arch leads directly to Ciutadella Park, serving as both an historic monument and a gateway to one of the city’s most popular green spaces.

Giant lanterns 연등

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 19:29:11 +0000

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These photos showcase modern lantern sculptures displayed at a Korean Buddhist temple during the annual Lotus Lantern Festival, celebrated around Buddha’s Birthday in May. The scene blends cultural tradition with contemporary creativity: large effigy figures, such as children on bicycles and stylized trees, pair playful everyday motifs with classic Buddhist symbolism.

The installations hold deeper significance in today’s Korea. They echo traditional Buddhist ritual—lantern-lighting as a symbol of wisdom and enlightenment—while also serving as vibrant, accessible public art. By portraying relatable themes like childhood and nature alongside sacred figures, they invite a broader audience, especially families and the younger generation, to engage with Buddhist heritage in a joyful, communal setting. Such displays exemplify how Korean Buddhism has transformed its visual culture to foster inclusivity and dialogue with urban society, bridging ancient practices and contemporary life through festive art and shared experience.

Seoul Shadowed Horizons

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sat, 09 Aug 2025 13:48:35 +0000

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This panoramic black-and-white photograph captures the remarkable scope of contemporary Seoul, where a dynamic urban expanse climbs over rolling hills. The Han River carves through the frame, continuing its age-old role as the city’s lifeline—now paralleling high-speed trains and cutting-edge neighborhoods.

In the distance, Namsan Seoul Tower rises as a symbol of the city’s blend of modernity and tradition, perched above one of the world’s most vibrant metropolises. Despite being a megacity with over 9 million residents, Seoul surprises with its green oases, like Namsan Park, interwoven among dense skyscrapers and bustling districts.

Snapshot of K-Pop: The Gangnam Style Landmark

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Tue, 05 Aug 2025 20:07:13 +0000

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The Statue of Gangnam Style is a large bronze sculpture at 524 Bongeunsa-ro in Seoul’s upscale Gangnam district, right near the COEX Mall and exhibition center. This striking monument celebrates PSY’s 2012 global sensation “Gangnam Style” with two oversized golden hands frozen in the song’s iconic horse-riding dance pose.

Visitors often gather here to pose for photos, and the atmosphere is lively—music from “Gangnam Style” plays regularly, turning the spot into an interactive tribute for fans and tourists. The area around the statue is bustling, featuring modern Seoul at its trendiest, with luxury shopping, eateries, and the famed Starfield Library nearby. The exuberant, contemporary design of the statue fits perfectly with the neighborhood’s chic energy and commemorates K-pop’s worldwide influence in a playful and memorable way.

The 'UFO'

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sat, 02 Aug 2025 19:00:46 +0000

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Previously published photo showing a night view from this iconic bridge. Towering above Bratislava on the SNP Bridge, the UFO tower’s flying-saucer design has symbolised modern Slovakia since 1972. Its circular dome at 95 meters hosts a café and an observation deck offering views up to 100 km—on clear evenings, Austria and Hungary are visible. An elevator whisks visitors to the top in 45 seconds; an emergency staircase inside the pylon boasts 430 steps. Originally built for both function and flair, the UFO’s distinctive form was practical for bridge assembly—not planned as a “spaceship”, but the nickname quickly stuck. Today, the UFO glows over the city at night, linking the Danube with Bratislava’s skyline and futuristic spirit.

The port seen from La Barceloneta

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 20:29:54 +0000

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Forged in Iron, Bound by History

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 14:56:52 +0000

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Step inside the History Museum of Catalonia and you’ll find yourself surrounded by the preserved fabric of Barcelona’s last remaining industrial port building. The lofty brick arches, sturdy cast-iron columns, and exposed beams visible in this photograph are anything but mere decoration—they are original features of Palau de Mar, constructed between 1881 and 1902 as the General Warehouses of Commerce. Designed by the engineer Maurici Garrán and inspired by English dockside architecture, the robust style was selected to withstand the immense flow of goods arriving at the city’s busy harbour.

Its practical, industrial layout — generous spaces, resilient materials, and technical innovations such as early lifts — made the building a landmark of Barcelona’s maritime trade. This is why the museum’s interior retains such a strong sense of its industrial origins.

When Palau de Mar was restored in the 1990s to house the History Museum, particular care was taken to honour its industrial heritage. As the sole surviving warehouse from Barcelona’s old port, it stands as both a monument to the city’s industrious past and a significant piece of architectural heritage—mirroring the pioneering English warehouses that once lined docks across Britain and Europe.

Today, these historic walls and ironwork house the narrative of Catalonia. As you wander through, you are not merely exploring the region’s history—you are standing within a rare example of 19th-century industrial design, a silent witness to both Barcelona’s transformation and Catalonia’s enduring identity.

The Dragon and the Sword: Gaudí’s Rooftop Tale in Stone

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:25:25 +0000

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On the roof of Casa Batlló, you’ll spot a long, curved structure covered in gleaming tiles. This striking feature is meant to evoke the back of a dragon—one of the most enduring figures in Catalan legend. Antoni Gaudí, the celebrated architect, used vividly colored ceramics so the “scales” shimmer in the sunlight, giving the dragon a lifelike, magical appearance.

According to local legend, the brave knight Sant Jordi (Saint George), patron saint of Catalonia, defeated a dragon to save a princess—a story cherished across the region. The most distinctive feature on the roof, however, is the unusual four-armed cross. This isn’t just a religious symbol; it was crafted to resemble Sant Jordi’s sword. Look closely and you’ll see that Gaudí positioned the cross so it seems to pierce the dragon’s back, capturing the legendary moment the hero vanquished the beast. Through this subtle yet clever detail, Gaudí transforms the roof into a dramatic scene from Catalan folklore.

The dragon’s shimmering scales are made from scraps of ceramic, using a mosaic technique called trencadís, which Gaudí favored for its vibrant texture and playful sparkle. As a final touch, some say the tiles are so numerous you could count one for each day of the year—a whimsical nod from the architect himself.

Bubbles & the street

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 17:22:50 +0000

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There’s something universally magical about bubbles floating through the air on a busy street. Children, especially those traveling through new, unfamiliar places, light up at the sight, laughter chasing after each rising, shimmering sphere. In that moment, all the novelty and uncertainty of travel fade away, replaced by pure awe and giddy excitement.

What makes it so special is its simplicity. Bubbles need nothing but breath and a little soap, yet bring an instant playground to life right there on the sidewalk. Kids forget they’re strangers in a strange town. Each bubble is an invitation to jump higher, to run faster, to forget homesickness and language barriers and just play. Their joy is infectious... smiles spread among parents, passersby, and anyone who stops to watch.

Family & Friends

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sat, 05 Jul 2025 06:55:54 +0000

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Rajasthan / Thar desert

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 16:56:51 +0000

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Here’s what happens when your photo lab scans your negatives with all the enthusiasm of a Monday morning commuter: my Holga’s “artistic” clicks and light leaks are now immortalised with an extra layer of digital indifference. Yes, it’s a cheap Chinese toy camera, and yes, I loaded it with expired film on purpose—because I like to live dangerously, or at least unpredictably. Still, you’d expect a medium format to look less like it was developed during a sandstorm.

But the real story is the night under the stars in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. If you ever find yourself in the Thar Desert, do try sleeping outside—there’s nothing like spicy campfire curry and the company of fellow wanderers, all swapping tales of “finding themselves” and how little they’ve showered.

Best of all was our guide’s favourite legend: the Japanese tourist who, armed with a camera and boundless optimism, took a million photos of the desert, the stars, and the moon. He was so determined to capture every grain of sand that he wandered off, only to be found at dawn, blissfully asleep under a solitary tree—camera still clicking away, probably hoping for that perfect shot.

So, even if my scans look like modern art, the memories—and the stories—are worth every pixel.

Defend the Fort

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Tue, 15 Apr 2025 09:11:12 +0000

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Jaisalmer Fort, known as the Golden Fort, is a highlight for any traveller exploring Rajasthan. Perched above the Thar Desert, its golden sandstone walls seem to glow at sunrise and sunset. Inside, you’ll find a maze of lively streets lined with colourful shops, rooftop cafés, and centuries-old Jain temples, all still very much part of daily life. Staying within the fort is a unique experience, with charming guesthouses tucked among the historic havelis. Be sure to wander up to the ramparts, where you’ll discover old cannons and some of the best panoramic views of Jaisalmer and the surrounding desert.

Ethno & punkrock

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 18:59:06 +0000

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Credits: Roko

Gori fortress

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 13:34:13 +0000

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Gori Fortress is a medieval citadel located in the city of Gori, Georgia, standing atop a rocky hill overlooking the city. Archaeological evidence indicates the area had been fortified since at least the last centuries BCE, but the fortress first appears in written records from the 13th century. Its strategic location along important trade routes meant that controlling Gori Fortress was critical for maintaining political and military control over the Shida Kartli region of Georgia. As a result, it was continually fought over and captured by Georgians, Ottomans, Persians, and Russians over the centuries

The fortress underwent major renovations and rebuilding numerous times, most significantly in the 17th century under King Rostom and in the late 18th century under King Erekle II, giving it much of its current structural form. Key surviving structures today include the western-facing Tskhra-kara ("Nine Gates") walls and a small church in the southeast section. However, the fortress suffered major damage in a 1920 earthquake and remains largely in ruins.

Visitors can access the fortress by a short walk up the hill from Gori city center. Despite its dilapidated state, it offers impressive views of Gori and is an interesting glimpse into Georgia's medieval military history for travellers.

Ska & ethno

nobody@ipernity.com (m̌ ḫ) — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 18:59:12 +0000

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Credits: Hero