Rhythm to Groups - Photography Workshop in Studio Kuutio, Oulu
Two weeks ago I had a photography workshop in Oulu. Studio Kuutio organized a workshop where we concentrated in shooting groups in a studio. One of our participants had organized almost all the models, just because "these kind of groups I usually shoot and I want to learn more". Great way to work. Thanks to Riikka Holappa :)Read more
Some action in Studio Kuutio's photography workshop just before next one
I enjoy traveling to Oulu. People of Studio Kuutio are filled with enthusiasm. I visited Oulu last time just before Christmas when I was a photography trainer in a workshop: "Shooting people in locations". I'm on my way again – today we'll begin a workshop called: "Rhythm to the Groups".
Storytelling
In previous workshop our model was local rock-manager Jarkko Soronen. Before demonstration he shared with us he would appreciate if storytelling in the picture is a "mixture of rock glamour in Nightwish style and northern spirit".
I think our demonstration showed everyone how important is to find out before shooting all the details and needs of the model or client. When we have crystallized storytelling before shooting we can make all the expressional choices based on that. Storytelling is a foundation to composition, cropping, lighting, props, location etc are
In demonstration we positioned Jarkko foreground and chose to shoot from below the eye level. Jarkko was wearing those clothes and accessories he's known in promo events. As props he wanted to add one of his band's T-shirt and some CD's of others.
David LaChapelle and few other reasons to visit Fotografiska
Stockholm, Fotografiska ja David LaChapelle. Finally two weeks ago I was heading to Stockholm with my dear friend Terhi and her lovely daughter Iris.Read more
Making of – Spring Update of Finnish Professional Photographers Association
I got a great opportunity to participate to create something new for Finnish Professional Photographers Association. I just couldn't say no (have to admit, it didn't even occur to my mind...) Premier will be in 8th of April and I'm looking forward to that!
We wanted to promote Spring Update in a different way than earlier. In the era of sharing, participating etc. One Wednesday morning I met Sami Reivinen at his studio KLIK and we made a video-teaser.
CHECK YOUTUBE, WHAT'S COMING UP!Read more
Mastesclass - Results of enthusiasm and cooperation
At the beginning of September our Masterclass gathered in Porvoo for a workshop. When I'm watching the results of the workshop, I can only think of one thing: the power of enthusiasm and cooperation.
I was amazed of the way of working during the workshop. I think you can see it too when you look at the results. What could be more improving way of collegiality than gather together, assist one another, learn from each other and do it together. I think it's beyond than just professional progress. I think it's passion.Read more
This time in Photokina – about everything else
Photos were the highlights in Photokina once again. Even though I had seen some of the pictures earlier, they were fascinating again. In Photokina Hall 1 was this year Leica Hall of Fame and it was full of photo exhibitions and many interesting presentations.
Leica Hall of Fame
My personal favourite was Elliott Erwitt. I've seen his pictures first time in Kuopio VB-Centre in 2001. I've been fascinated his way of seeing surroundings and capture the moments. His pictures are funny, clever, universal and simple. I could go on the list further more.. you just have to see for example his book: "Elliott Erwitt: Snaps", so you understand what I mean. Those pictures are the results of continuous observation of human nature and behavior. One of the the most interesting and rewarding way of doing pictures.
Introduction in Elliott Erwitt's Exhibition.
This Time in Photokina - About Light

Two years ago I thought I'm not going to visit Photokina -then one week before the fair I changed my mind and went. And enjoyed my time there. This time I didn't do same mistake. Köln is a great city and I always find something new from there. You just have to to visit "Belgian Quarter" -what a low key, bohemian atmosphere. I really liked the restaurants, cafés and boutiques there. But back to Photokina... what did I find...Read more
Finally ready -Translation of Lighting Photos
I've been holding for sometime a paperback of the book I translated into Finnish. The book is called "Lighting Photos" and it's written by Fil Hunter and Robin Reid. Such a long time the book was only InDesign files and occasional phone calls and emails between me and the publisher. Finally the book is in my hands and it feels great! I got such a great help from Armo and Kari, who explained me some technical terms. Thanks for Matti from Docendo too –who guided me through the process.Read more
There's no tulips in Amsterdam
When I visited first time in Netherlands at the 90's my local friend told me not shoot any pictures of tulips or wooden shoes. She forgot to mention bikes. Last weekend in Amsterdam.
People in interiors
I had a course in Oulu which was organized by Studio Kuutio. We had a great possibility to have the course in one of the most historical buildings: an old provincial goverment building.
Demonstration in a Green Hall. Working with available light and flash.








