If there is one hidden gem in the Epirus region of Greece that balances tranquility with modern luxury, it is Perdika. Tucked away between the bustling towns of Parga and Sivota, this area offers a serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.

But a destination is only as good as where you lay your head at night. During my recent trip, I checked into Ninemia Luxury Hotel, and it wasn’t just a place to sleep, it was the highlight of the trip.

If you are planning a trip to Thesprotia and wondering where to stay, here is why Ninemia deserves to be at the top of your list.

A View That Heals the Soul

The first thing that hits you when you enter your room at Ninemia is the view. The hotel is perfectly positioned to offer a panoramic look at the Ionian Sea.

The prompt for this trip was “relaxation,” and the scenery delivered exactly that. Sitting on the private balcony with a morning coffee, watching the blue horizon, was arguably the most calming experience of the year. The sunsets here are nothing short of breathtaking, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple that reflect off the water. If you are looking for an Instagram-worthy backdrop, this is it.

Immaculate Cleanliness & Modern Comfort

We’ve all had that moment of hesitation when opening a hotel room door, hoping it looks like the pictures. At Ninemia, reality was actually better than the photos.

The room was super clean, and I don’t use that term lightly. From the crisp, high-quality linens to the sparkling bathroom fixtures, the attention to hygiene and detail was obvious. The design is modern and minimalist, creating a clutter-free environment that helps you decompress the moment you walk in.

It is rare to find accommodation that feels this fresh and well-maintained. It felt less like a hotel room and more like a brand-new luxury apartment.

Hospitality That Feels Like Home

While the view and the room were five-star, what truly sets Ninemia Luxury Hotel apart is the host.

In an era of contactless check-ins and impersonal service, the host at Ninemia brought the warmth of genuine Greek hospitality. From the moment we arrived, we were treated with kindness and genuine care. The host went above and beyond to ensure we had everything we needed, offering excellent recommendations for local tavernas and nearby beaches (like the famous Karavostasi Beach).

It wasn’t just “good service”; it was a helpful, friendly presence that made us feel safe and welcome.

Why You Should Visit Perdika

Staying at Ninemia puts you in the perfect spot to explore the region. You are just minutes away from:

• Karavostasi Beach: Known for its deep, crystal-clear waters.
• Arillas Beach: A great sandy spot for families.
• Parga & Sivota: Both are a short drive away for a day trip, allowing you to return to the quiet of Perdika at night.

The Verdict

If you are looking for a chaotic party hotel, this isn’t it. But if you are searching for a luxury escape in Perdika where the rooms are spotless, the views are restorative, and the owners treat you like family, Ninemia Luxury Hotel is the only choice.

It is the kind of place you check out of and immediately start planning when you can return.

The post Ninemia Luxury Hotel Stay in Perdika, Greece appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

In the world of interior design, few trends have held their ground as firmly as the “Scandi” or Scandinavian aesthetic. Rooted in simplicity, functionality, and a deep connection to nature, this style turns homes into sanctuaries of calm. But how do you bring that sense of serene sophistication to your walls without cluttering the space?

The answer lies in the dramatic, moody landscapes of the North.

If you are looking to elevate your minimalist home, here is how a single, well-chosen print of an Icelandic landscape can act as the ultimate statement piece.

The Power of “Moody” Minimalism

Minimalism isn’t just about white walls and empty spaces; it’s about intentionality. It’s about choosing a few high-quality items that speak volumes. This is where fine art photography shines.

Iceland is a land of sharp contrasts—black sand beaches, white glaciers, and grey, fog-laden mountains. These natural elements are inherently minimalist. A photograph that captures the moody atmosphere of Iceland doesn’t scream for attention with bright, chaotic colors. Instead, it commands the room with a quiet, powerful presence.

The Statement Piece: Less is More

One common mistake in home styling is the “gallery wall” approach, which can sometimes feel cluttered in a truly minimalist space. Instead, consider the “One Wall, One Print” rule.

A single, large framed print acts as an anchor. It draws the eye and sets the tone for the entire room.

• For the Living Room: Imagine a large, black-and-white print of Vestrahorn Mountain. The sharp, dramatic peaks rising from the black sand dunes create a striking focal point that adds depth and sophistication. The moody shadows in the image complement neutral furniture (grey sofas, natural wood coffee tables) perfectly.
• For the Bedroom: You want a scene that invites rest. A long-exposure shot of Seljalandsfoss or Skogafoss waterfalls, where the water looks like silk and the surroundings are soft and misty, creates an immediate sense of tranquility.

Why Black & White?

While the Northern Lights offer incredible color, there is something timeless about black and white photography for modern interiors. Prints like “Vestrahorn Mountain and Black Sand Dunes in Iceland in Black and White” strip away the distraction of color, leaving only texture, light, and form. This makes them incredibly versatile—they fit into almost any color palette while maintaining that sleek, high-end look.

Bring the Nordic Calm Home

You don’t need to travel to the Arctic Circle to find peace. By bringing the raw, unfiltered beauty of Iceland into your home, you create a space that feels open, breathable, and deeply grounded.

Ready to transform your space? Explore the full moody Iceland collection with black and white Iceland photos, featuring the dramatic mountains and ethereal waterfalls of Iceland.

The post Minimalist Wall Art: Using Moody Icelandic Landscapes as Statement Pieces appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

The most wonderful time of the year is almost here, and I am thrilled to announce my biggest wall art sale of the season!

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to bring the tranquility and majesty of the natural world into your home, now is your chance. From breathtaking mountain vistas to serene coastal scenes, my fine art landscape photography is designed to transform any space.

25% Off Wall Art Prints

Get ready to save big! This year, my Black Friday and Cyber Monday event gives you 25% off a wide selection of premium wall art products

Sale Dates

Black Friday: November 28th

Cyber Monday: December 1st

Enjoy 25% OFF the following wall art categories

Art Prints

Canvas Prints

Framed Prints

Posters

Wood Prints

Metal Prints

Acrylic Prints

Tapestries

This is the ideal opportunity to invest in a statement piece for your living room, find that perfect gift for a nature lover, or simply treat yourself to high-quality, inspiring art that will last a lifetime. Every print is created using the finest materials to ensure exceptional detail, vibrant color, and lasting durability.

Shop the Sale!

Mark your calendars and prepare to browse the entire collection of fine art landscape photography! The discount will automatically apply during the sale period.

Click here to explore the gallery and start planning your order:

https://alexios-ntounas.pixels.com

Thank you for supporting my passion for capturing the beauty of the world. Happy shopping!

P.S. Due to high demand during the holiday season, I recommend placing your orders as early as possible on November 28th to ensure the quickest delivery!

The post Black Friday & Cyber Monday Fine Art Print Sale! appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Photography isn’t just a hobby or art form—it’s a way to bring emotion, storytelling, and nature’s beauty into your everyday life. Whether you’ve just purchased a stunning landscape or astrophotography print, or you’re a collector building your gallery wall, knowing how to display photography prints can elevate your space and maximize their visual impact.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through professional techniques, framing options, layout strategies, and lighting tips so you can showcase your photography prints like a pro.

1. Choose the Right Space for the Right Print

Not every print fits every room. Choose locations based on the mood and subject of the image:

• Living Room: Large panoramic landscapes or celestial night skies as statement pieces.
• Bedroom: Serene nature scenes or soft-toned astrophotography for a calming ambiance.
• Hallways or Entryways: Gallery-style collections or a themed series.
• Office: Motivational or awe-inspiring views like mountaintops or the Milky Way.

Pro Tip: The size of your wall and available lighting will help determine the right print dimensions.

2. Select Professional-Quality Frames and Mats

Framing plays a crucial role in the presentation and preservation of your artwork. Look for:

• Materials: Use high-quality wood or metal frames.
• Matting: A neutral or contrasting mat adds depth and draws attention to the photo.
• Glass: Opt for museum-grade, UV-protective, non-reflective glass to reduce glare and fading.

If your print came from a premium shop or gallery (like ours ), you can often request framing as part of your purchase.

3. Plan Your Layout Before You Hang

Creating a visually pleasing arrangement starts with planning. Here are a few layout ideas:

• Single Statement Piece: Perfect for large wall spaces—hang one oversized print for a clean, modern look.
• Grid Gallery: Great for a set of similarly sized photos. Align prints in rows with equal spacing between frames.
• Salon Wall (Eclectic Gallery): Mix sizes and orientations. Trace frames on paper and tape them to your wall first to test different arrangements.

4. Use Proper Lighting to Make Prints Pop

Good lighting transforms a photo from decorative to museum-quality art. Here’s how:

• Natural Light: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
• Track Lighting: Adjustable spotlights are ideal for highlighting individual prints.
• Picture Lights: Mounted above or on frames for subtle, direct lighting.

Smart lighting systems can add dimmable, programmable lighting for galleries in home settings.

5. Maintain and Rotate Your Prints

Just like any art collection, photography prints need care:

• Dust frames regularly with a microfiber cloth.
• Avoid hanging in humid environments (e.g., bathrooms).
• Consider rotating prints seasonally to keep your decor fresh and protect prints from overexposure to light.

Looking for Stunning Prints to Display?

Explore our curated collection of landscape and astrophotography prints, professionally printed on museum-grade paper and available in custom framing options.

10% off my markup on all products! Visit alexios-ntounas.pixels.com and use coupon code RYFNXE

Final Thoughts

Displaying photography prints in your home like a pro is all about balance—between space, subject, frame, and light. Whether you favor bold, celestial nightscapes or peaceful natural vistas, how you present your photos is just as important as the art itself.

With thoughtful placement and a touch of creativity, your home can become a personal gallery that inspires you daily!

The post How to Display Photography Prints in Your Home Like a Pro appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Thessaloniki kicked off 2025 with a bang, transforming its iconic White Tower into a beacon of light and celebration for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve spectacle.

This year, the city opted for a breathtaking light show that illuminated the night sky and captivated onlookers. As the clock struck midnight, a symphony of vibrant beams, projected from robotic heads, danced across the tower and painted the harbor with a kaleidoscope of colors. The mesmerizing display, reflected in the tranquil waters, created a truly magical atmosphere.

This wasn’t just a fleeting moment of wonder. The light show continued to enchant residents and visitors alike on January 1st and 2nd, extending the New Year’s festivities and showcasing the city’s commitment to innovation and artistic expression.

A Symbol of Hope and Renewal

The dynamic movements of the light beams weren’t just for visual flair; they were designed to convey a message of optimism and new beginnings for the year ahead. The White Tower, a historical landmark and symbol of Thessaloniki, stood as a powerful reminder of the city’s resilience and its vibrant spirit.

Capturing the Magic

The breathtaking scene was a photographer’s dream, with countless individuals capturing the spectacle to share with the world. The image you see here perfectly encapsulates the energy and beauty of the event, showcasing the illuminated White Tower against the backdrop of the city’s skyline.

More than just a Celebration

This innovative New Year’s Eve celebration not only provided a memorable experience for all who witnessed it, but also highlighted Thessaloniki’s ability to embrace modern technology and artistic expression while honoring its rich history. It’s a testament to the city’s dynamic spirit and its commitment to creating unforgettable moments.

Have you ever witnessed a unique New Year’s Eve celebration like this? Share your experiences in the comments below!

The post Thessaloniki’s White Tower Rings in 2025 with a Dazzling Light Show appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

The night sky offers a breathtaking display of celestial events throughout the year. Whether you’re an avid stargazer, an amateur astronomer, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the cosmos, there are plenty of celestial phenomena to look forward to in 2025. Here are the top night sky events that you won’t want to miss.

January 3: Quadrantid Meteor Shower

The Quadrantid meteor shower is one of the most intense annual meteor showers, known for its bright fireball meteors. Because the Moon is in its last quarter, you might see several shooting stars on the evening of the 3rd. This year’s viewing conditions are ideal: the peak coincides with an 11% illuminated waxing crescent, so the moonlight will not interfere with the show.

March 4: Total Lunar Eclipse

This the first total Lunar Eclipse of 2025.

Regions seeing, at least, some parts of the eclipse: Europe, Much of Asia, Much of Australia, Much of Africa, North America, South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Arctic, Antarctica.

March 29: Partial Solar Eclipse

Regions seeing, at least, a partial eclipse: Europe, North in Asia, North/West Africa, Much of North America, North in South America, Atlantic, Arctic.

August 12 and 13: Perseid’s meteor shower

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the year’s most popular and abundant meteor showers. It is capable of producing up to 100 meteors per hour. The waning gibbous moon will block out all but the brightest meteors this year.

September 7: Total Lunar Eclipse

This is the second total Lunar Eclipse of 2025.

Regions seeing, at least, some parts of the eclipse: Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, West in North America, East in South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, Antarctica.

December 21: Geminids Meteor Shower

Many believe the Geminids to be the best meteor shower, with up to 120 colorful meteors each hour at its peak. It is caused by debris from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon, which was found in 1982. The shower takes place every year from December 7 to December 17. This year, it reaches its peak on the 21st night and 22nd morning. The thin, crescent moon will set early in the evening, leaving dark skies for what should be an impressive display.

Conclusion

So, these are some of the best dates to stay out late, enjoy the night sky, and possibly photograph these spectacular celestial events! Here’s a selection of my favorite astrophotography photos. Check it out! And clear skies!

The post Top Night Sky Events of 2025 appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

This full moon 2025 calendar will assist you in scheduling the upcoming full moons in 2025. A full moon occurs when the Earth is directly between the Sun and the Moon, causing the moon to appear completely illuminated when viewed. It occurs about once a month, or every 29.53 days on average.

How many full moons are there in 2025?

There will be 12 full moons in 2025. Each month will have one full moon. There will be three supermoons in October, November and December.

When are the full moon dates and names for 2025?

Here are the dates and names for each full moon for 2025.

• January 14, 2024: Wolf Moon
• February 12, 2024: Snow Moon
• March 14, 2024: Worm Moon
• April 13, 2024: Pink Moon
• May 12, 2024: Flower Moon
• June 11, 2024: Strawberry Moon
• July 10, 202: Super Buck Moon
• August 09, 2024: Super Sturgeon Moon
• September 07, 2024: Super Harvest Moon
• October 07, 2024: Hunter’s Moon
• November 05, 2024: Beaver Moon
• December 5, 2024: Cold Moon

Full moon names and meanings

January, Full Wolf Moon

Hungry wolf packs howled throughout January.

February, Full Snow Moon

The most snow usually falls in February in the Northern Hemisphere.

March: Full Worm Moon

Earthworms emerge from the soil in spring.

April, Full Pink Moon

The full moon coincides with the early spring blooms of the eastern North American native wildflower, Phlox subulata. The moon does not become pink!

May, Full Flower Moon

The flower moon represents the flowers that bloom this month.

June, Full Strawberry Moon

The strawberry moon denotes the ripening of “June-bearing” strawberries, which are ready for harvest.

July, Full Buck Moon

In July, male deer (or bucks) that shed their antlers each year begin to regrow them.

August, Full Sturgeon Moon

August was the best month to catch sturgeon in Northeastern America.

September, Full Corn Moon

The moon shines brightly and rises early near the September equinox, allowing farmers to continue harvesting into the night.

October, Full Hunter’s Moon

October is an excellent month for hunting because animals begin to fatten up in preparation for winter hibernation..

November, Full Beaver Moon

In November, beavers begin to hide in their lodges, having stored enough food for the winter..

December, Full Cold Moon

The temperature drops significantly in December.

What is a Super Full Moon?

A super full moon occurs when the moon is at its closest approach to the Earth. It appears larger and brighter than a typical full moon (although you can hardly distinguish it with naked eye).

How many Lunar Eclipses are there in 2025?

Year 2025 has 2 lunar eclipses.

A total lunar eclipse on March 14, 2025. Regions seeing, at least, some parts of the eclipse: Europe, Much of Asia, Much of Australia, Much of Africa, North America, South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Arctic, Antarctica.

A total lunar eclipse on September 7, 2025. Regions seeing, at least, some parts of the eclipse: Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, West in North America, East in South America, Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Arctic, Antarctica.

Conclusion

So you now know when every full moon occurs in 2025. Mark your dates and start planning your photoshoot! If you want to take a look, here are some of my favorite moon photos.

The post Full Moon 2025 Calendar appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

In early 2024, skywatchers were excited about the prospect of a bright comet, C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS), gracing our night skies. This comet offered a fascinating celestial spectacle, especially for astrophotographers. I had the opportunity to photograph Comet ATLAS in October 2024 from Thessaloniki, Greece.

The Challenge of Urban Astrophotography

Thessaloniki, with its bustling city lights, presents a significant challenge for astrophotography. Light pollution can significantly diminish the visibility of celestial objects, including comets. Despite these obstacles, I managed to capture a few stunning images of Comet ATLAS setting behind the mountains, viewed from Nea Paralia in Thessaloniki shortly after sunset.

Planning the Shoot with Stellarium

Meticulous planning is crucial for successful astrophotography. I utilized Stellarium, a free planetarium software, as an essential tool in my preparation. By visiting Stellarium’s web interface, I was able to pinpoint the comet’s exact position in the night sky at my chosen time and location. While in the field, I relied on Stellarium’s augmented reality feature to locate the comet. This real-time guidance was invaluable, especially since the comet was barely visible to the naked eye.

Conclusion

Photographing comet C/2023 A3 from Thessaloniki was a challenging but rewarding experience. By understanding the limitations of urban astrophotography and employing the right techniques, it’s possible to capture stunning images of celestial objects even from light-polluted areas. So, the next time a bright comet graces our skies, don’t hesitate to grab your camera and start shooting!

The post Photographing Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) from Thessaloniki appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

In photography, we’re often drawn to capture everything – the grand landscapes, the bustling cityscapes, the intricate details. But sometimes, the most powerful images come from embracing emptiness. Negative space, the area surrounding your subject, can be a photographer’s secret weapon in creating compelling and impactful images. While it may seem empty at first glance, it is a powerful tool that can enhance the composition and visual impact of a photograph.

Understanding Negative Space

Negative space is not just empty space; it is an essential element that helps to define the main subject and draw the viewer’s attention to it. By carefully composing a photograph to include negative space, photographers can create a sense of balance, harmony, and focus that elevates the image from a simple snapshot to a work of art.

The Power of Negative Space

• Emphasizes the Subject: By giving the subject room to breathe, negative space can emphasize the main subject, making it stand out and capturing the viewer’s attention.
• Creates Mood and Atmosphere: Negative space can convey a sense of solitude, vastness, or minimalism, depending on how it is used in a photograph. It can evoke emotions and set the tone for the entire image.
• Enhances Composition: Negative space can help balance the elements within a photograph, creating a visually pleasing composition that guides the viewer’s eye and creates a sense of harmony.
• Encourages Creativity: Working with negative space challenges photographers to think outside the box and explore new ways of composing their images. It encourages creativity and experimentation in the pursuit of creating impactful photographs.

Tips for Using Negative Space in Photography

• Simplify: Use negative space to simplify the composition and focus on the main subject. Eliminate distractions and clutter to create a clean, uncluttered image.
• Balance: Pay attention to the balance between the main subject and the negative space. Experiment with different compositions to find the right balance that enhances the overall impact of the image.
• Use Light and Color: Negative space can be used to showcase light and color in a photograph. Pay attention to how light interacts with the negative space and how different colors can influence the mood of the image.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with negative space in your photographs. Try different compositions, angles, and perspectives to see how negative space can transform your images.

Conclusion

In conclusion, negative space is a valuable tool in photography that can elevate your images to a new level. By understanding the role of negative space and experimenting with its use, photographers can create compelling and visually striking photographs that captivate viewers and tell powerful stories. So next time you raise your camera, don’t be afraid to leave some room to breathe. Remember, a little less can often say much more!

The post How Negative Space Can Transform Your Photos appeared first on Alexios Ntounas Photography.

Meta, the company that owns and operates Facebook, Instagram, Threads and WhatsApp, is updating its Privacy Policy to include information on how they use their users’ information to train their AI. In other words it is going to use your posts, your photos and their captions to train their AI models. The updates go into effect on June 26, 2024.

Can you opt out?

Meta is allowing users to object to their information being used in this way. Although it isn’t as simple as checking a box you can do so by filling a form.

Opt out via Instagram

You can also access it via the Instagram app. Go to Settings > About > Privacy Policy. At the top of this page you will find a link to your right to object.

This form is also available on Instagram’s help center.

Opt out via Facebook

You can also opt out from Facebook Privacy Center. Log in to your account and go to Settings and Privacy > Privacy Center. Scroll down and select: ‘What is the privacy policy and what does it cover?’ At the top of the page there is a link about your right to object. 

Application Form

You have to fill in your Country of residence, your email address and let them know that you don’t want them to use your posts and photos to train their AI models. When you press submit an email with a verification code will be sent to you in order to complete the process.

GDPR, an EU and UK rule enforced in 2018, provides individuals greater control over their private information. Living in Europe, I had no problems, and my request was accepted right away. However, I’m not sure if this applies to users in the United States or elsewhere in the world.

Nevertheless, even if you object, Meta may still use your information to develop and improve their AI models. For example, this could happen if you or your information:

• Appear anywhere in an image shared on our Products or services by someone who uses them
• Are mentioned in posts or captions that someone else shares on our Products and services

Conclusion

So, here’s how to prevent Instagram and Facebook from using your photographs to train their AI models. Do you intend to opt out, or are you okay with it? Let me know in the comments section below. Oh, and here’s my Instagram account if you want to follow me and see my pics!

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