In a world full of motion, Ulf Finndahl photographs time. With masterful geometry as his language and light as his muse, he has redefined street photography through breathtaking composition and poetic precision.
An Exclusive Interview with Pure Street Photography
Discover how Finndahl invites us to see without a camera, practice daily — even in smallest of moments, connect deeply with people, and let light and geometry shape every frame.
Interview by Dimpy Bhalotia and Kamal Kumaar Rao
09/05/2025
(c) Ulf Finndahl
(c) Ulf Finndahl
We would love to know more about you! Who you are and where you're from? When did you start street photography?
Hello, my name is Ulf Finndahl. I live on the west coast of Sweden in Europe with my family. I work as an Art Director in the advertising industry. I started with street photography 10 years ago but then I had more focus on urban photography without people. Then, the challenge was to create a personal and interesting interpretation of an everyday scene that no one else would stop to look at. I guess I do the same thing today, but with focus on ordinary people and all their everyday stories combined with an exciting composition and light. For me the composition is everything but the photograph is not complete without a strong emotion or a story. All ingredients must be included. That’s the challenge with street photography!
What inspired you to become a street photographer?
The possibility to freeze time in a certain spot of the world and to apply my way of seeing ordinary life and see how people interact in a certain environment.
How would you describe your work in terms of style and/or approach?
My work is very graphic due to my work as an Art Director. I primarily shoot in BW and I prefer a classic timeless grainy look (the look of: Hard agitated Tri-X film in Rodinal developer). I have a strong focus on shape, line, geometry and of course the quality of light. I’m more into fine art street photography than documenting a certain story. That said I shoot both candid and more planned photos. But I love magic morning light and finding an interesting scene and wait for the perfect person to enter the frame for both a compelling composition and an interesting story.
(c) Ulf Finndahl
(c) Ulf Finndahl
What is your photography routine like? Do you photograph every day?
I tend to go out with my camera on early morning or afternoon walks almost every day, short walks on the weekdays (30 min to 1 hour) longer walks on the weekends 5-6 hours. I’m very involved in photography every day either in my work as an Art Director or by making fine art street photos.
What camera or mobile device do you use for photography? Do you shoot digitally, on film, or a mix of both?
Nowadays i shoot primarily digital with a Fujifilm X-T5 but occasionally I go out and shoot film with my Leica M6 and a summicron 50mm. I really prefer the analogue look even with modern digital cameras.
What challenges do you face when photographing on the street?
The timing of moving people, finding an interesting scene and finding good light.
Arranging it all to a balanced composition with a compelling story.
Do you ever wonder what happens to the people in your photos?
Certain photos make me come back and fantasize about what happened after I took the photo. Who were they? Their life situations? Some photos raise more questions than others.
(c) Ulf Finndahl
(c) Ulf Finndahl
(c) Ulf Finndahl
In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception people have about street photography?
That it’s not entirely an egoistic act, you got to be interested in other people and other people’s lives to be a good street photographer. It’s a fine balance. You must often enter people’s private zone to get a good photo but still show great respect if they dislike what you are doing
What are your favourite elements to capture in a street photograph? (light, colour, composition, human interaction, etc.)
For me it’s a combination of capturing both a strong composition and a story or a strong emotion. I see the world in shapes combined with people and a story/feeling.
What is your take on social media influence on street photography?
We have never had so much help as we have right now with digital technology and social media. But on the other hand It’s very crowded and it’s easy to be just another copy of someone on Instagram. You must stay true to your personal voice and aesthetic and not letting Instagram algorithm fame factors take over. It's easier said than done!
Are your prints available for purchase? If so, where can art buyers and collectors contact you to purchase them?
You can buy my prints by sending a dm on Instagram. @ulf.finndahl
You can also buy my prints on Saatchi.com I’m also selling prints at various events and exhibitions.
(c) Ulf Finndahl
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?
Listen to your inner self and take photos of whatever interest you. Try to ignore social media in the beginning. Instead practice every day and read good photobooks when building up your own creative voice. Use simple gear and focus on the outcome more than technical stuff. Learn to see a good photograph without a camera. Walking around without a camera is a fantastic way to learn photography!
A huge thank you to Ulf Finndahl for sharing his incredible journey.
In Frame : Ulf Finndahl