Finland, the land of thousand lakes and also the home of ViewBug member Marjo (marjonatalielaitakari). Marjo captures the stark differences between the Finnish seasons. The dark Arctic winters with the mesmerizing Northern Light and the natural phenomena Midnight sun during summer. She wants to show nature’s feelings and allow others to experience Scandinavian nature in odd hours and weather.
What inspired you to be a photographer?
I have always had a need to take photos of what I see and experience, but the biggest inspiration for me is nature and the ability to show people the beauty of it in different forms.
What is it that you love about photography?
Ability to learn new things drives me forward. I am a passionate photographer and spend all of my free time outdoors with my camera. I also love finding new places. This keeps my mind fresh and interested. I love mountain ranges and the fjords within them. Water and mountains are very close to my heart.
How do you describe your style?
As I am young in the photography field my style is still evolving. I am really interested to see where this road will lead me.
If you had to choose one lens which one would it be and why?
Currently based on my latest work I need to say my ultra wide Samyang 14mm lens as it is wide enough to capture both the landscape and the sky above including large portion of the milky way.
What are your 3 tips for others who want to become better photographers?
1. The more hours you put the better you will become.
2. Study a lot of pictures taken by other photographers and think about how they could of been taken.
3. Try new things and techniques to broaden your view and to widen your opportunities to capture something different than what others have. Take some of the techniques as ideas for your own pictures and develop them further.
Have you received negative feedback from your work? What did you do about it?
I cherish all the feedback, positive or negative. I always try to learn from it and this attitude has taken me further than anything else. I really try to learn from others who are older and wiser than I am in this business. Each of us see the same picture from our own perspective and experience, and all feedback gives me the opportunity to see my pictures through the eyes of others.
What do you carry in your camera bag?
My camera bag is a very heavy one. I always go out with my Samyang 14mm f/2.8, Voightländer 20 & 40mm lenses and with my old Nikkor 35-70mm lens. From time to time, I also carry my Sigma 70-200mm lens coupled with a 2x extender. On top of these, I have multiple different ND filters up to 400. The most critical components I always carry are my remote controller and a very sturdy Sirui R-4203 tripod. And of course I have my camera.
Where did you learn to take photos?
I took my very first basic level photography course in fall 2012. Since then I have taken many photography courses mainly in the area of landscape photography. I have also had a privilege to have a professional photographer as my mentor during my journey. He's shown me how to look at my photos in different ways and pushed me to go even further.
If you could have the gift of a great photographer who would it be and why?
Nick Brandt -- I had an opportunity to see his work in an art exhibition this summer. I just love his ability to show the essence of what is being featured in a particular picture - it's simple but powerful.
What is the most common mistake you see photographers making these days?
Taking pictures of one object without thinking of the other elements in the picture - background is extremely important for your story.
How do you come up with locations to shoot?
First I need to have an idea. Then, I start searching for places that will fit my idea. I use Google to search for pictures and then I check the locations using street view in Google maps. Once I have identified a possible location I check the times when the picture should be taken and to which direction the location is pointing from TPE (The Photographers Ephemeris) on top of the local weather service. Then I drive to the spot and check it over before I shoot. Other times, I just drive around to see if I can find something that would inspire me. That also serves as a way to find new ideas.
Follow Marjo and get inspired!
