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It all started with a passion for and the art of storytelling through the lens.
Tommi began taking photographs in the 1990s as a way to relax and explore life through his personal lens. Over time, photography gradually became a deep passion, closely intertwined with his life. With over two decades of experience in the creative industry, he skillfully combined this experience into photography, delivering emotionally resonant and meaningful visual stories.
Most of Tommi's work is created in Helsinki, where he finds a perfect blend of light, shadow, and the tranquil rhythm of urban life. Quiet streets, early morning light, and modern architectural lines all become endless sources of inspiration. However, not limited to Helsinki, Tommi also explores other cities like Paris and Budapest, where the rich culture and vibrant pace of life encourage him to view the world from multiple perspectives. These places, he believes, are not only visually beautiful but also strongly emotionally resonant.
"Light is like a key to discovering the hidden beauty in every scene."
In street photography, challenges are always present. Tommi shares that he faces many unpredictable elements, from weather and lighting to capturing natural moments without disturbing the subjects. Sometimes, to find a worthy frame, he has to spend hours walking, observing, and waiting. However, it is this patience that helps him create authentic and emotionally rich works. In particular, immersing himself in the surrounding space and context is also a crucial skill, as it allows him to capture authenticity without interrupting the moment. These "ordinary" moments in daily life are Tommi's greatest source of inspiration.
Tommi's photographs often evoke a sense of peaceful contemplation, prompting viewers to pause and reflect.
He believed that beauty lay in the constant transformation of light – how light illuminates, casts shadows, and brings depth to an otherwise ordinary scene. Beyond light, he was also drawn to contrast in both imagery and emotion. According to him, it is the most seemingly ordinary things that contain extraordinary stories. Finnish culture, particularly the concept of "Finnish melancholy," also played a significant role in his photographic style.
For Tommi, light and composition are the two most important elements in photography. He sees light as a key to unlocking the hidden beauty in every scene. Light creates depth, highlights details, and brings emotion to the photograph. Meanwhile, composition plays a role in organizing all elements together, helping viewers easily grasp the message he wants to convey. The strong contrast between light and dark, as well as the subtle geometric arrangement in Tommi's photographs, creates a sense of balance and order. Even the simplest scenes, under his hand, become vibrant and full of emotion.
A distinctive feature of Tommi's work is the imagery of "lonely subjects." According to him, this is not merely an artistic theme but also reflects a universal aspect of human experience. In the context of Finland's long winters and majestic natural landscapes, loneliness often possesses a quiet beauty. "The 'lonely subjects' in his photographs often don't have a specific story. Instead, they act as metaphors, inviting viewers to reflect on themselves and connect with the deeper aspects of their souls," he shares. Loneliness, from Tommi's perspective, is no longer a negative thing but becomes a meaningful and artistic state.
From Tommi's perspective, loneliness is no longer a negative thing but becomes a meaningful and artistic state.
Tommi recounts a memorable experience from his career: one early morning in Helsinki. The city was quiet as the sun began to rise, casting long shadows on the streets. As he observed, a pedestrian stepped into the light, perfectly blending with the surrounding architecture. The moment lasted only a few seconds, but it felt as if it were orchestrated by fate. For Tommi, it is precisely these unexpected moments that he loves photography. It's the interplay of randomness, luck, and keen observation – elements he always seeks in each photograph.
Tommi Vitala has proven that photography is not just about capturing images, but also about storytelling. He offers viewers new perspectives on everyday life, where beauty lies not in glamour but in simplicity and authenticity. With his unique style and dedication to his craft, Tommi not only leaves a lasting impression on viewers but also powerfully inspires those who love photography and the art of storytelling through light.
Some additional images were provided by the subject:
For Tommi, light and composition are the two most important elements in photography.
His photographs offer viewers new perspectives on everyday life, where beauty lies not in glamour but in simplicity and authenticity.
