Cinematic Editorial Portraits
Return to the Boulder Field
Returning to a familiar location years later is always an intriguing test for a photographer. Exactly two years ago, I shot portraits with Beata at the Matinkylä boulder field in Espoo, and now it was time to revisit the same rugged terrain for a new project with Hilla.
This time, the goal was to structure the composition so that the rough texture of the landscape and the vast field of rocks would play an even stronger role in the cinematic, timeless mood of the images.
Portable Cinematic Lighting in the Field
In location photography, natural light provides the base, but separating fine details often requires additional light. I brought along a nimble Aputure LS 60x light powered by a V-mount battery. This allowed us to move effortlessly across the uneven rocky terrain without messing with cables.
We directed the Aputure to create controlled rim light and separation — the goal was to add a beautiful glow to Hilla's hair and lift her out from the darker background for a cinematic effect.
Reverse "Uno Reverse" Approach: Sharp Modern Glass on Film & Vintage Optics on Digital
I am known for shooting on digital camera bodies paired with vintage optics from the 1960s and 70s to achieve a soft, soulful look. This time, I decided to flip the concept completely upside down — a bit of an "Uno reverse" mindset.
- Film Camera + Lens: Nikon F80 & Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art + Kodak Double-X.
- Digital Camera + Lens: Fujifilm GFX & Pentax Super-Takumar 55mm f/2 (1963).
Pairing razor-sharp Sigma Art series optics designed for modern digital sensors with traditional 35mm film created an exceptionally striking result. The images captured incredible depth and dynamic range without sacrificing the organic grain and tactile feel inherent to film.
Uncontrolled Light Leaks
Hilla and I managed to create a wonderful contrast in the photos between the static, rough stone and the movement of the fabric and hair. The wider framing left room for the environment, emphasizing the sheer scale of the boulder field.
One of the best (and most unpredictable) aspects of film photography is happy accidents. In this case, the film cassette let in a subtle amount of light during processing. This light leak introduced completely unique, glowing streaks and light pillars across the Kodak Double-X black and white frames.
Happy Accidents Make the Piece
The bright light sweeps and flares formed by the light leak complete the series in a way that would be impossible to plan or replicate digitally with the same authenticity. It was a perfect reminder of why analog photography continues to fascinate: you don’t need to control every detail, and those spontaneous moments are what make an image feel alive.
Visual Continuity and Digital Series
Revisiting the same location also showed how much a photographer's eye and composition evolve over time. This collection complements the work shot two years ago while demonstrating how one setting can tell entirely different stories depending on lens choice, visual direction, and interaction with the subject.
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