EN | FI

Fine Art Photographer

Salla Vesa-Tikkanen

Artist Statement

I work with human-centred photography at the intersection of documentary and artistic expression. In my practice, I explore stillness, presence, and subtle transitions between a person and their surrounding environment. I am particularly interested in the inner state of a human being — what is not immediately visible, yet can be sensed within an image.

In my photographs, the human figure often exists in relation to space or landscape: a small presence within a powerful environment, a gaze that does not meet the camera, a gesture that is almost imperceptible. Within these moments, a quiet tension emerges — one that carries the image.

Photography is not merely something I do; it is an internal necessity. When I am not creating images, I feel their absence both physically and emotionally. Making photographs is a way of staying connected — to the world and to myself — which is why I return to it again and again.

My working method shifts according to the situation. It can be slow and observant, or intuitive and immediate. Often the image reveals itself only in the moment, rather than through a predetermined outcome. The process itself holds meaning for me, and sometimes the full significance of an image unfolds only afterwards.

The gaze within my work is gentle yet honest. I do not aim to explain or impose emotion; instead, I leave space for the viewer’s own interpretation. Openness and duration — the act of lingering — are central to my practice.

Bio

Salla Vesa-Tikkanen (b. 1984) is a Finnish fine art photographer who has worked with photography since 2010. Photography has been present in her life long before her professional career and her early works were published online during the 2000s.

Vesa-Tikkanen works in both commissioned and artistic contexts. Over the years, her practice has evolved toward the intersection of documentary and artistic photography, where a human-centred approach, light and the relationship between the individual and their environment are central elements.

She holds a professional diploma in photography from Helsinki Design School and is currently completing a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Vesa-Tikkanen works in Finland and carries out projects internationally.

CV

Salla Vesa-Tikkanen
b. 1984

  • 2025–
    Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Lapland University of Applied Sciences

    2015–2016
    Professional Diploma in Photography, Helsinki Design School

    2014–2016
    Studies in Fine Arts (UAS), Lahti Institute of Design

  • 2021–
    Fine Art Photographer and Entrepreneur, Salla Vesa-Tikkanen Photography

    2010–
    Professional work in photography in various roles (freelance and commissioned work)

  • 2017
    Four Female Photographers, group exhibition, Turku

    2016
    Helsinki Design School Graduate Exhibition, Helsinki

  • 2022
    Prowed Award – World’s Top 50 Wedding Photographers, 2 Honorable Mentions

    2022
    Vuoden Hääkuva Competition, Finalist (Top 10)

    2021
    Prowed Award – World’s Top 25 Wedding Photographers, 4 Honorable Mentions

Selected Works