Photowalkcast x Simo Tolvanen: Own path, Metro & Inspiration

What happens when two passionate visual creators venture into Helsinki’s underground world, cameras in hand? I recently appeared on the Photowalkcast, hosted by Helsinki-based photographer and my close friend Tan Vuong (@tannwashere). Our conversation delves beneath the surface of photographic philosophy, street photography, and what it truly takes to establish your own visual path as a creative professional in the capital region.

The Photowalkcast is a Finnish photography podcast that brings the intriguing 'Talk with a Stranger' concept directly into the world of street photography. The show introduces local photographers, sharing genuine stories, insights, and the unique moments behind their images. In this episode, two friends walk together and discuss the themes of Finding Your Path, the Metro & Inspiration.

Underground Inspiration: How My Metro Project Began

In this episode, I share the story behind my widely noticed metro project. I have always been inspired by the atmosphere of Helsinki’s iconic orange trains, the architecture of the stations, and the distinctive soundscape of the capital region. Drawn to this nostalgic ambiance, I decided to undertake something unprecedented on this scale, dedicating two weeks entirely to documenting the metro network.

The core objective extended beyond merely photographing trains; it focused on capturing urban daily life, the interplay of light and shadow, and the fleeting moments of commuters. The project required a level of stillness and environmental observation that is easily overlooked in the bustle of daily life here in the south.

Are, Bure, Boke: The Aesthetics of Grain and Blur

During our photo walk, we discussed my visual style and the inspiration gathered from my travels in Japan. I have long been fascinated by the traditional Japanese Are, Bure, Boke photographic style, which translates to rough/grainy, blurred, and out-of-focus. I utilized this specific approach during the podcast recording, and the images illustrating this article were captured during that walk in Helsinki.

This style deliberately moves away from clinical, flawless digital perfection. Instead, it prioritises dynamic movement, atmospheric blur, and a raw grain that brings the image to life. The stark yet atmospheric environment of the Helsinki metro provided the ideal setting to put this aesthetic into practice.

Forging Your Own Path in Capital Region Photography

Ultimately, our conversation centred on what it takes to follow your own vision in a professional market. Whether focusing on urban street photography, personal art projects, or commercial brand photography and art direction for corporate clients across the Helsinki-Vantaa area, I firmly believe that the finest results stem from a distinct perspective and the willingness to stand out.

Trusting your own eye, whether by bringing the organic aesthetic of film photography into the modern era or spending two intense weeks documenting the metro, creates work that resonates deeply. Seeing that my approach and vision have connected with a community of over 10,000 people on Instagram (@stolvanen) offers incredible encouragement to continue along this chosen path.

My sincere thanks to Tan for the invitation and the brilliant conversation. I highly recommend following the podcast, as it offers wonderful inspiration for anyone interested in visual storytelling.