Light is the essence of everything, yet its strength and beauty are conditioned by the accompanying shadows and its shine is defined by the contrast of the darkness. The most beautiful light has its grounding in the dark undertones, similar to joy, which is rendered stronger with slightly melancholic memories. In the darkest of shadows and sorrow, the light can always be accessed via the recollection of a past luminous memory. Each happiness contains a small disillusion, whereas each sorrow has hope built in.
Originally from Finland, Merja Varkemaa is a Paris based fine art photographer. A keen observer of urban life, she draws her inspiration from timeless street photography whilst not being a traditional street photographer herself. She also enjoys portraiture and capturing the moodiness of empty beaches off season. Merja’s photography is based on her pursuit of light and shadows, using both their contrast and complementarity to enhance the beauty of every instant.
Awards AWARDS
2023
PX3 - Prix de la Photographie Paris 2023 - Honorable Mention in category Architecture/Cityscape
2022
VOICE 2022 - 2nd place in the category “Neighbourhood’ and honorable mention in the categories “From above”, “Light play” and “neighborhood”
2021
Lensculture Street Photography Awards 2021 - Finalist
Paris International Street Photography Awards 2021 - Honorable mention
VOICE 2021 - Finalist in the categories “Color Theory” and Minimalism”
2020
PX3 - Prix de la Photographie de Paris 2020 - Gold in category Special/Street photography (non-professional)
PX3 - Prix de la Photographie de Paris 2020 - Honorable Mention in category Fine Art/People
VOICE 2020 - Finalist in the category “Her”
2019
VOICE 2019 - Finalist in the category “Weather”
2018
PX3 - Prix de la Photographie Paris 2018 - Gold in “Advertising/Architecture” category (non-professional)
VOICE 2018 - Finalist in the category “Beautiful Light”
VOICE 2018 - Finalist in the category “Womanhood”
2017
Monochrome Awards 2017, International Black & White Photography Contest, honorable mention in “People” category (amateur)
VOICE 2017 - Finalist in the category “Culture & Travel”
2016
VOICE 2016 - Best in the category “Street”
VOICE 2016 - Finalist in the category “Color”
VOICE 2016 - Finalist in the category “Night & Low Light”
2015
VOICE 2015 - Best in the category “Street”
