While I am slowly getting my photography career on track, it is always freshening to see other photographers' interpretations, either by reading good photo books/magazines or seeing exhibitions. I especially get inspired by those images that somehow or other seem to be 'out-of-this-world'. Images that capture a reality different from that which we see every day.

Arno Rafael Minkkinen: Foster's Pond

Over Easter time, while visiting my sister, I got to see what I consider THE photography event of the year in Finland: Arno Minkkinen's exhibition 'SAGA' in Salo. More than 120 of his photographs from a period of 35 years were exhibited at the Veturitalli museum.

It was simply breathtaking. The way he has taken full control of his body, positioning it in ways that it becomes a part of the landscape, at times as a surprising element, at others almost melting into the scenery.

Included was a short videoclip showing some of his methods, his pondering about using his body in sometimes dangerous ways (sinking himself in deep snow, hanging off edge of cliff) and his explanation as to why he has chosen to use traditional photography means rather than digital manipulation.

Arno Rafael Minkkinen (sorry, did not find image name)

Unfortunately, the exhibition has moved on but the book is still available. And if you fancy a trip to Italy in November, seeing this exhibition is a pretty good justification ;-)