When Veikko Somerpuro began studying at the University of Helsinki in 1989, he had a career as a biochemist in mind. Early on in his studies, however, it became clear that biochemistry was not his thing. His passion for natural sciences, which had been sparked when he was in upper secondary school, did not thrive in the laboratory.

– My interests lay in reflections and worldviews based on natural sciences. Living in the small municipality of Suonenjoki, I had been unaware of all the possibilities that the University of Helsinki had to offer. In my first year at university, I noticed that there was a subject called theoretical philosophy.

Somerpuro switched majors in 1991, and the learning methods found within the humanities, particularly the study circles, felt better suited to him than studying chemistry in a laboratory. It also felt natural to discuss philosophy with his friends in his spare time.

– Together with Jakke Holvas and Herman Raivio in particular, I would read up on philosophers who were not part of the curriculum. Of particular interest to us were French philosophy, structuralism and poststructuralism, whereas the departmental teaching was heavily focused on analytic philosophy.

Somerpuro wrote his Bachelor’s dissertation on the philosopher Jean Baudrillard’s concept of simulation, and he graduated as a Master of Arts in 1997.

During his studies, Somerpuro worked in catering at Finnair: packing food and doing the dishes. Cheap airline tickets were a considerable perk.

– Travelling inspired me to take photographs, and I wanted to take better photos when I was abroad. I discovered Ylioppilaskamerat (‘University cameras’), the Helsinki University student photography association. That was where I learned the techniques of photography, and pretty soon I was teaching photography to other students. For several years I was also the chairman of the association.

When one of Somerpuro’s fellow students started working as a freelance photographer, he realised he could do the same.

– I really did not think about making photography a career for myself.

By the end of his University studies, Somerpuro began to have so many gigs that they could support him financially. He became an entrepreneur without ever having given it much thought. Now, more than 15 years later, he is happy with his choice.

– Someone with a background in the humanities should not be afraid of being a freelancer. Everyone has the opportunity to find a niche where they can do what they know best. I like the independence of what I do: everything is in my own hands. I am also genuinely pleased when my clients are happy with the photos I have taken. It is also satisfying to notice that I am constantly improving as a photographer.”