My Window Sill

I was just sitting at the table fiddling about with my camera, taking some test shots, and happened to focus on some of the plants on the window sill nearby. I'm not someone with green fingers at all, but I like having plants about, and am delighted that these ones have enjoyed life in my flat for several seasons. The sun was shining and I was struck by the brightness of the light passing the red bottle and glass ornament – and by the cheerful optimism of all these colours. It wasn't a planned shot, just a moment captured – sometimes (just occasionally) these can be the most effective of all. Location: Oslo, Norway

A Bicycle in Berlin

I was struck by how relaxing an image this is – a bicycle parked nonchalantly by a potted flower-bush, people relaxing by a fountain, lush green grass, perfectly clean cobblestones, a great musuem to be discovered in the background. It is Berlin in the summer. It is also a trusting picture – the bicycle is not locked, but its owner is nowhere to be seen. And it’s also a picture about potential: ”Come and ride me,” the bicycle seems to be saying. ”Come and visit me” says the musuem. ”Come and step on to me” says the grass. ”Come and smell me” say the flowers... Location: Berlin, Germany

Birds on Deck

A couple of the numerous helicopters and other aircraft on display on the deck of USS Midway - the famous aircraft carrier that is now berthed at San Diego as part of its maritime collection and open to visitors. It's one of the most absorbing "museums" I have ever visited and fabulously exciting to explore, and there are few areas that cannot be accessed. It was also a great place for photography, especially outside on the vast deck. The usually blue skies of southern California were on this particular occasion somewhat moody, but I found this an advantage in capturing the silhouettes of the assembled aircraft; the clouds give the picture a sense of magnitude, reflecting what these vessels are actually meant for; yet there is sunshine too, reflecting hope and a patch of pale blue - an appropriate window for these helicopters to head for. It is the mood of the picture that I like most- Location, San Diego, USA

Greek Street

On dull days like today, with rain and cloud one's thoughts easily wander to sunnier climes, to possible locations for the next holiday, to places where one has found tranquility and peace and warmth in the past. Greece naturally comes to mind – the Greek islands in particular. I have visited many of them over the years and returned to several time and time again. Each has its distinct characteristics but all have Greek charm – which flourishes and continues despite the country's financial problems. I like to explore backstreets rather than busy tourist trails and am frequently struck by how organic the buildings and the streets themselves seem to be – and how pleasantly colourful. This picture captures all that. I love the plants, the blue table, the frayed chair, the coloured lights, the steps, the coziness of this little house. I want to go there right now, feel the warmth of a Greek sun and the atmosphere of this street. A dog is barking somewhere a little way off, but not very energetically.. otherwise, all is quiet... Location: Samos, Greece

Venice Story

Today I was supposed to be in Venice, spending the entire day taking photographs, and catching a night train to Munich in the evening. But sadly the German rail strike that is now on its fourth day disrupted all my travel plans earlier in the week, forcing me to retreat to Denmark instead of heading for Bavaria and Italy. I have been blessed with good fortunate in the past when travelling, so I am not too peeved by the disruption, but I am sad at missing out on Venice, and am therefore posting a picture from last time I was there – way back in 1984! It was taken with my nifty pocket-110 camera (long gone) and, though a little faded, captures much of what I am sure Venice is still like today – it seems to be a timeless place altogether. I will make it there again one day though. I must! Location: Venice, Italy