Instagram Hikaye Kaydet

“I’m Mikael Gustafsson (F.S.C.), a cinematographer. I’ve worked as a cinematographer in various forms for around 20 years, both in Finland and internationally. Recently, my work has focused mainly on commercial productions, as everyday life with small children doesn’t always fit well with the schedules of long fiction productions.

The most important tools in my work are a mobile phone and practical workwear, they always come with me. An iPad and a Sigma fp recce camera are also often close at hand. I feel fortunate to work alongside professionals who take care of the camera equipment, allowing me to focus on what matters most: the work itself. In practice, that often means trying not to freeze, sweat, or get soaked during the day. Over the years I’ve probably become a little better at that too, although it’s still difficult to think about much else when your shoes are wet.

I believe pre-production is at the core of a cinematographer’s work. Whenever possible, I like to be involved early in the process, from location scouting to shot planning. Being part of those conversations from the start gives a clearer understanding of the director’s vision and the production’s direction before arriving on set. At its best, that collaboration makes this the best job in the world.

I wouldn’t describe myself as a particularly technical cinematographer. The equipment itself has never been the main interest, what matters is what you are trying to express or communicate with it. The script and visual arts are where my inspiration begins and what everything else is built upon.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve come across over the years comes from Robert Nordström: every production should contain at least one detail that interests, teaches or challenges you. That mindset helps keep curiosity and enthusiasm alive.

Even if you don’t want to focus too much on the technical side, you need skilled people around you and reliable tools to support the process. Professionals who take care of the gear that meets production standards make it possible for a cinematographer to focus on what truly matters: the story and how it’s told.”

Kristiina Werner will join Valofirma on May 18 in the role of Interim Director.

Kristiina brings extensive experience in the media and AV industry, with a strong background in growth leadership and business development. She has a long career in commercial television, broad international experience, and a solid understanding of production environments as well as equipment rental operations.

At Valofirma, Kristiina will focus on supporting the company’s strategic and operational development, as well as strengthening growth and sales development in both domestic and international markets.

Welcome aboard, Kristiina!

“I’m Tuomas Järvelä, a cinematographer and a recent member of the Finnish Society of Cinematographers (F.S.C.). I have worked in the film industry since 1998. In the early 2000s, I worked at P. Mutasen Elokuvakonepaja while freelancing as a video assistant and 2nd AC, and at the same time I shot as many music videos as possible. Although I also studied film and television, my greatest film school has probably been the more than one hundred music videos I have shot over the years.

Since 2005, I have worked full-time as a cinematographer. Most of my career has focused on commercials, music videos, and other short-form productions, alongside some long-form drama projects — hopefully more in the future.

Over the years, I have owned several cameras and built up a wide range of camera equipment. My interest in camera technology likely comes from my years working in a rental house. Having my own gear allows me to experiment, develop personal projects, and stay flexible on productions. I also tend to travel with more equipment than most cinematographers because unexpected situations are part of the job. For that reason, I put a lot of effort into keeping everything organized and efficient for both myself and the camera team.

At times, I dream about simplifying everything — selling the gear, buying elegant clothes, and working with nothing more than a light meter and a notebook in the trunk of a small sports car.

In practice, my most important tools are my phone, iPad, computer, light and color meters, and especially proper clothing for all weather conditions. It is difficult to concentrate on cinematography when you are cold and wet.

I enjoy planning, testing, and preparing for productions as thoroughly as possible, and I aim to communicate clear plans with the crew before shooting days begin. The applications I currently rely on most are Cadrage, Sun Surveyor, ShotDeck, and Scenario.”

This photo series highlights independent filmmakers and the personal gear they always bring to set. Is there someone you’d like to see featured — or would you like to take part yourself?

Drop a comment below or send us a DM! ✨

#valofirma #filmmaker #cinematography @tuomasjarvela

“I am Pia Mikkonen, a Makeup & Hair Designer. I have worked in the film industry since 1998. For many years, I worked as an assistant to several Finnish makeup designers. Those years taught me a great deal and helped me develop my own approach to makeup design — interpreting the script between the lines while listening closely to the director’s and actor’s ideas. Sometimes a character comes together easily; other times it takes a long search. Even the smallest detail can define how a person is perceived, and changes can be made right up until the first shot is filmed. The placement of a ponytail or even the shade of the hair tie can shape a character’s personality.
My most important tool is the script. During pre-production, schedules, chronologies, DOOD reports, and call sheet drafts are essential tools that must be carefully broken down from the perspective of the makeup department. On set important skills are following the flow of the production and maintaining a sharp eye for continuity.
Professionally, I am most inspired by the smallest details: the exact direction of a hair, the naturally uneven flush on cheeks, water droplets sparkling in a beard, sweat beading on a forehead, dirt stains splashed onto skin, smudges, tears, and blood splatter positioned just right. I carry the tools for all of this in my set bag.
Depending on the production, I travel with almost everything imaginable — beauty products, special effects materials, loose hair, false nails, sunscreen, toupee tape, tissues, hairspray, lip balm, hand fans, and countless other essentials. You have to be prepared for anything. The people I work with in the makeup department are also incredibly important to me. ❤️
When working in heat, freezing temperatures, snowstorms, rain, and harsh winds, the most practical set bag is actually a styrofoam cooler.”

This photo series highlights independent filmmakers and the personal gear they always bring to set. Is there someone you’d like to see featured — or would you like to take part yourself? Tell us! ✨

@pia_ilona #filmmaker #cinematography #muah

POV: You work at a cinema equipment rental house. Our technician Jaakko returning and doing some basic maintenance for an Arri Skypanel X. All our equipment is checked and tested by our staff after every single job to make sure everything is in tip-top condition for our clients.
Once cleaned, tested, and scanned, it’s sealed and stored in our warehouse, waiting for the next gig.

We’re providing film camera equipment alongside our digital selection! Through us you can access a range of film cameras in 8mm, 16mm, and 35mm formats. Whether you're shooting your first roll or returning to film, our team offers hands-on guidance backed by years of on-set experience. Give us a call and let’s make it happen! 🎥

Photos: Jouko Piipponen @josifsurma

We’re providing film camera equipment alongside our digital selection! Through us you can access a range of film cameras in 8mm, 16mm, and 35mm formats. Whether you're shooting your first roll or returning to film, our team offers hands-on guidance backed by years of on-set experience. Give us a call and let’s make it happen! 🎥

Photos: Jouko Piipponen @josifsurma

POV: You work at a cinema equipment rental house. Our technician Jaakko showing how it’s done. 😎 Did you know all our equipment is checked and tested by our staff after every single job? When cleaned, tested and scanned, it’s sealed and stored to our warehouse, waiting for the next gig! #cinematography #filmmaking #filmlight

Members of the Cutting Edges project from @turkuamk visited Helsinki-based camera rental company @valofirma to meet with two seasoned professionals: Antti Ahokoivu and Karri Takala. Representing TurkuUAS were Marko Luukkonen and Tommi Lehtonen.

The goal of the visit was to hear thoughts on virtual production (VP) from these two industry leaders, both of whom have been exploring VP possibilities from the early days.

Read the details of this visit on the Cutting Edges website.

#CuttingEdges #TurkuUAS #VirtualProduction #UnrealEngine #TechnoDolly #Filmaking

Members of the Cutting Edges project from @turkuamk visited Helsinki-based camera rental company @valofirma to meet with two seasoned professionals: Antti Ahokoivu and Karri Takala. Representing TurkuUAS were Marko Luukkonen and Tommi Lehtonen.

The goal of the visit was to hear thoughts on virtual production (VP) from these two industry leaders, both of whom have been exploring VP possibilities from the early days.

Read the details of this visit on the Cutting Edges website.

#CuttingEdges #TurkuUAS #VirtualProduction #UnrealEngine #TechnoDolly #Filmaking

Members of the Cutting Edges project from @turkuamk visited Helsinki-based camera rental company @valofirma to meet with two seasoned professionals: Antti Ahokoivu and Karri Takala. Representing TurkuUAS were Marko Luukkonen and Tommi Lehtonen.

The goal of the visit was to hear thoughts on virtual production (VP) from these two industry leaders, both of whom have been exploring VP possibilities from the early days.

Read the details of this visit on the Cutting Edges website.

#CuttingEdges #TurkuUAS #VirtualProduction #UnrealEngine #TechnoDolly #Filmaking

Members of the Cutting Edges project from @turkuamk visited Helsinki-based camera rental company @valofirma to meet with two seasoned professionals: Antti Ahokoivu and Karri Takala. Representing TurkuUAS were Marko Luukkonen and Tommi Lehtonen.

The goal of the visit was to hear thoughts on virtual production (VP) from these two industry leaders, both of whom have been exploring VP possibilities from the early days.

Read the details of this visit on the Cutting Edges website.

#CuttingEdges #TurkuUAS #VirtualProduction #UnrealEngine #TechnoDolly #Filmaking

Members of the Cutting Edges project from @turkuamk visited Helsinki-based camera rental company @valofirma to meet with two seasoned professionals: Antti Ahokoivu and Karri Takala. Representing TurkuUAS were Marko Luukkonen and Tommi Lehtonen.

The goal of the visit was to hear thoughts on virtual production (VP) from these two industry leaders, both of whom have been exploring VP possibilities from the early days.

Read the details of this visit on the Cutting Edges website.

#CuttingEdges #TurkuUAS #VirtualProduction #UnrealEngine #TechnoDolly #Filmaking

Our technician Jaakko showing you how it's done in his POV. 😎Did you know all our equipment is checked and tested by our staff after every single job? When cleaned, tested and scanned, it’s sealed and stored to our warehouse, waiting for the next gig!

The Finnish Society of Cinematographers has honored our beloved gaffer, Timo Haapasaari, with its annual technical award. Their citation reads as follows:

“The board of the Finnish Society of Cinematographers (F.S.C.) grants the 2025 technical award to Timo Haapasaari for his progressive dedication to lighting design, both creatively and technically. His knowledge of new technology and mastery of equipment has pushed Finnish lighting toward the international cutting edge.”

Congratulations Timo on this well-earned recognition! ✨

@fscfinland @timohaapasaari @iclsociety

POV: You work at a cinema equipment rental house. 🎥

Did you know all our equipment is checked and tested by our staff after every single job?

Once cleaned, tested, and scanned, it’s sealed and stored in our warehouse, waiting for the next gig! The product tested in this video is called the Smoke Genie by PMI Gear.

Award season continues! Together with the Audiovisual Producers Finland and the Finnish Society of Cinematographers, we once again had the honor of presenting the Commercial Cinematographer of the Year award at Voitto Gala.

This year, the award was presented to Jean‑Noël Mustonen — a seasoned cinematographer with an impressive career and a highly respected body of work in commercial filmmaking.

Congratulations on the well-deserved win, Jean! 🎉📽️

Photo: Miikka Varila

@jeannoelmustonenfsc
@fscfinland
@apfi_ry
@voittokilpailu