Brand photography through an Art Director’s lens
With over a decade in commercial graphic design, every frame is crafted to integrate flawlessly into brand identities, web layouts, and marketing materials.
Simo Tolvanen
Photographer • Art Director
Simo Tolvanen
Photographer • Art DirectorI am a Finnish professional photographer, Art Director, and graphic designer originally from Kuopio, now based in Vantaa with a studio in Helsinki. I started taking photography seriously in 2010 and have been working commercially since 2016. My work has reached tens of millions of views on Instagram, and I've also had the privilege of hosting a takeover on Visit Finland's official channel. Photography is my way of observing the world and connecting with people genuinely.
My work is fundamentally grounded in safer space principles. It is essential to me that everyone I photograph feels valued, comfortable, and completely safe. There is no need to perform or pretend in front of my camera—simply being yourself is more than enough.
Working for over a decade in commercial graphic design—both as a freelancer and in-house designer—gives me a sharp editorial eye as an Art Director. I understand intuitively how imagery integrates into cohesive brand identities and larger publications.
My visual signature is defined by a timeless, cinematic quality. I frequently capture images using original 1960s and 1970s vintage lenses, intentionally bypassing harsh digital sharpness in favor of organic depth, character, and soul.
Comprehensive visual design and photography
Combining expertise in photography, art direction, and graphic design allows me to act as a complete creative partner. Whether crafting commercial brand imagery, editorial portraits, artist promotional kits, or documentary wedding stories, I design every frame to evoke genuine emotion and complement its final context effortlessly.
While operating primarily in the Helsinki metropolitan area (Helsinki, Vantaa, Espoo), I travel frequently for assignments across Finland, Europe, and Japan. In my free time, I dedicate myself to travel, street photography, and self-published photo zines.
WORK & ACHIEVEMENTS
1000+
Portraits and clients photographed
- PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITIONS • 5/2025 Hesari 13, Helsinki: Group Exhibition • 12/2025 Hesari 13, Helsinki: Group Exhibition • 1/2026 Helsinki Central Station: Group Exhibition • 6/2026 IPI Kulmakuppila, Helsinki: Solo Exhibition
- PUBLICATIONS Published four independent photography zines
- POSITIONS OF TRUST Founder & Chairperson of the Finnish Street Photography Collective (SPCF / Katuvalokuvauskollektiivi ry, 12/2025–)
- IN THE MEDIA Featured on Canon: Read the exhibition article →
Professional Photographer & Art Director
5 Reasons to Trust My Work
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Safer space principles and authentic human connection
Stepping away from forced posing, my work is built on safer space principles. I cultivate a calm, welcoming environment where you can comfortably be yourself.
Cinematic portraits with character and vintage optics
For portraits and editorial fashion shoots, I utilize original 1960s–70s vintage optics. This delivers organic depth and cinematic character.
Documentary wedding photography rooted in real moments
Documenting wedding stories across Finland with an honest, observational lens. A street photographer’s eye ensures that spontaneous emotions are captured with subtle elegance.
Over 15 years of artistic expertise
As Chairman of the Finnish Street Photography Collective and with over 15 years behind the camera, you can rely on rigorous technical expertise and artistic vision.
Simo Tolvanen • Art Director & Photographer
Helsinki Metropolitan Area • Kuopio Region • Worldwide
At the intersection of commercial vision and fine art
Looking for a photographer who sees beyond the surface? Originally from Kuopio and now based in Vantaa, I am a professional commercial photographer and Art Director with over 15 years of visual storytelling experience. I bridge the gap between ambitious commercial advertising and uncompromised artistic expression.
To infuse distinct character into my imagery, I pair modern digital medium-format sensors with rare 1960s–70s vintage optics. These heritage lenses impart an organic, cinematic soul and timeless contrast that modern, clinical glass simply cannot replicate.
My expertise spans cinematic brand imagery, technical industrial photography, contemporary product catalogs, and documentary coverage of corporate events and international summits. I operate primarily across Helsinki, Vantaa, Espoo, Porvoo, Tuusula, and Kirkkonummi, as well as in Kuopio, nationwide across Finland, and internationally.
Art Direction & Visual Identity
Comprehensive brand design (AD & Graphic Design)
My creative process extends far beyond pressing the shutter. Operating simultaneously as a photographer, Art Director, and graphic designer gives me a holistic view of how imagery functions within web design, print layouts, and overall brand architecture. I synthesize individual visual elements into cohesive, high-impact identities.
Services cover end-to-end brand refreshes, publication typography, investor Pitch Decks, structured social media systems, and targeted campaign design.
SPCFinland Chairperson • Fine Art & Community
Street photography, exhibitions, and human connection
Following an extensive freelance career, I transitioned to full-time entrepreneurship in late 2025. My dedication to visual culture is deeply embedded in the creative community: I serve as Chairperson of the Finnish Street Photography Collective (Katuvalokuvauskollektiivi ry / @spcfinland), directing non-profit initiatives and leading street portrait workshops.
Through my personal street photography project (@stolvanen), which connects with a global audience, I have published independent photo zines documenting urban subcultures from Tokyo to Helsinki. My fine art work has also been featured in large-scale exhibitions, including a solo installation at Helsinki Central Railway Station.
My practice is guided by safer space principles and genuine empathy. Whether on a complex industrial site, a styled studio set, or during one of over 200 portrait sessions, I cultivate an unhurried, welcoming environment where authentic presence emerges naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ – Answers to Common Questions
How long have you worked as a photographer?
I have over 15 years of versatile experience in photography and more than 10 years in visual design. Over the years I have photographed thousands of portraits, dozens of companies, and worked as an Art Director as well as chairman of the Street Photography Collective.
What if I get sick before our photoshoot?
No worries! If you get sick, we can reschedule your portrait or branding shoot for a new date free of charge. The most important thing is that you arrive healthy and feeling like yourself. We will agree on the details case by case.
What happens if you, as the photographer, get sick before our wedding or event?
I have an extensive professional network. In case of an unexpected emergency, I will find a qualified replacement with a matching style to make sure your day is covered. For larger bookings over 1000 euros I always prepare a written contract with you that specifies all backup arrangements. You are fully covered, so there is no need to worry.
What if I, as the client, am not happy with the results?
Your satisfaction is essential to me. We review style and expectations carefully together before the shoot. You will have reviewed my portfolio beforehand and know the exact quality to expect. If you need small adjustments to color tones, I am happy to fine tune them during editing. In my 15-year career I have never had a client who was not pleased with the final photos!
What if our wedding is cancelled or postponed?
If your wedding is postponed, we will try to find a new date from my schedule without extra fees. In case of cancellation, the terms of our contract apply where the booking fee covers the reservation and preparation already done.
What if the weather is bad or it rains on our photoshoot day?
Rain is nothing to worry about because it often creates a great cinematic mood for your photos. We can use stylish umbrellas, move to a sheltered location, use my studio in Meilahti, or reschedule your outdoor portraits.
I feel nervous in front of the camera, what if I don't know how to pose for you?
Most of my clients feel nervous at first. I will guide you through the shoot in a relaxed and natural way. You do not need any previous experience because my role as your photographer is to create a comfortable atmosphere where you can be yourself.
What if we want to keep you at our wedding longer than originally agreed?
My full day wedding package already covers everything from morning preparations until midnight. If you would like me to stay even longer, we can simply agree on extra hours on the spot.
What if your camera breaks or a memory card gets corrupted during the shoot?
Reliability is guaranteed because I always carry multiple professional camera bodies. Each camera saves your photos to two memory cards simultaneously for real time backup. Analog film always brings a bit of extra excitement, but I have shot hundreds of film rolls for portraits and the images have always turned out great.
Can we receive or view the unedited RAW files?
I deliver finished, carefully selected, and color graded photos only. RAW files are unfinished material, and my expert editing is an essential part of my visual style.
How many finished photos will you deliver to us?
The number of photos depends on your project. Portrait sessions typically include 10 to 25 polished images for you, while full day wedding coverage usually yields 300 to 500 or more photos.
What is the delivery time for our photos?
Your portrait and branding photos will be delivered in about 1 to 2 weeks. Wedding galleries and highlight videos take around 2 to 4 weeks depending on the season.
How do usage rights work between us?
As a private client, you receive unlimited rights for personal use, printing, and sharing. For corporate and branding shoots, I always include commercial usage rights for agreed marketing channels.
How do you charge travel expenses for my shoot?
My travel expenses are included within the capital region (Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa) as well as central Kuopio. For other locations in Finland, travel costs are charged based on actual distance: 1 kilometer = 0,20 €.
Is a joint planning consultation included in our booking?
Yes! Larger projects such as weddings and commercial shoots always include a planning meeting either online or in person to go over your ideas, schedule, and visual style.
What should I wear for our photoshoot session?
You will receive practical guidance from me on wardrobe options and color choices before the shoot. Thanks to my Art Director background, I can help you select outfits that complement the overall style of your photos.
Where will our shoot take place? In studio or on location?
Both options work well! My studio is located in Meilahti, Helsinki, but I am also happy to photograph you on location, at your corporate premises, or using a combination of both.
Can we include real analog film in our photoshoot?
Yes! You can choose 35mm film photography as an add-on service for your shoot. Film adds a timeless and authentic character to your image gallery.
What happens if we do not want our photos published in your portfolio or social media?
I always respect your privacy. If you prefer your photos not to be shared in my portfolio or on my social media, we can simply agree on that without any additional charge.
How do I book a photoshoot with you or check your availability?
You can reach out to me using Instagram DM, vie email, WhatsApp or just call me. I will respond promptly so we can set up an initial consultation or confirm your booking.