ELINA SIMONEN
From the countryside of Karelia to the London fashion scene, Elina Simonen has established herself as one of Finland’s most remarkable photographers. She excels in infusing advertising with the human connection of portrait photography.
Simonen’s grounded confidence, recognizable artistic flair, and high-class delivery have captivated audiences for 20 years, both at home and abroad.
From cows to couture, Simonen dove headfirst into the vibrant tapestry of London city life in her early twenties. Her Finnish work ethic, fierce determination, and trademark wit didn’t go unnoticed. Navigating the complexities of the fashion elite with all the grace of a newborn calf on ice, the country girl quickly found her balance.
Simonen’s path to mastery began with the timeless allure of film photography. Immersing herself in its intricacies, she honed her craftswomanship in the guidance of seasoned professionals. She ascended to the top the old-school way: through hands-on experience and hard work as an assistant. Today, her journey sets her apart in an industry crowded by digital natives.
Coming from the North where daylight is limited, Simonen’s mastery over lighting is a remarkable forte – a solid proof of her creative genius and technical prowess. In Simonen’s hands, artificial light turns into a vivid force of nature, creating iconic moods.
As one of Finland’s most celebrated portrait photographers, Simonen has captured the hearts and souls of countless subjects. With her unique blend of elegance and profound emotional insight, Simonen doesn’t take photographs she gives them. Her portfolio has graced the pages of all the leading Finnish magazines, evidence to her exceptional skill and widespread acclaim.
Beyond her technical expertise, Simonen serves as an inspiring mentor to her junior colleagues. Like her approach to capturing subjects through her lens – with warmth, wisdom, and her signature sophistication – she guides aspiring talents in her field.
Today, Simonen celebrates her two decades of photography with her anniversary book “20 years of Photography”. The book stands as a testament to her visionary creativity and her enduring legacy in photography. She continues to light up the world with her brilliance, one captivating image at a time.