2019 © Caroline Viitanen
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Julio Corbacho was a Peruvian taxi driver, living and working in Cusco in 1952. One fateful day, he discovered an abandoned camera on the backseat of his car. Without any possible way of returning it to its owner, he decided to teach himself how to use it and started taking photos. He had unearthed a hidden talent, and his lens would later take him to some of the most beautiful places on the planet – culminating in the establishment of his publishing house that would go on to print most of Peru’s postcards at the time.
Julio was my grandfather. I never had the pleasure of meeting him, nor did I know his story. But in 2015, although I didn’t quite know why, I knew I needed to go visit my distant family in Peru. For the very first time, 67 years after it happened, I heard about his accidental discovery of photography. I immediately felt a calling for visual storytelling. Following in his footsteps, I taught myself how to take photographs. This time, on his old analogue camera. Born was my love for shooting on film.
My grandfather’s postcards were, quite literally, visual invitations that would help people share their stories. Today, I create imagery that invites the people and brands I collaborate with to do the same.
I shoot people and places and stories that evoke a sense of authenticity.
I use photography as a medium to help inspire a higher consciousness. Because of this, I enjoy collaborating with brands that resonate with contributing to a better world.
Fully skilled in shooting film and digital.
I use natural light wherever possible.
My name is Caroline Viitanen and I'm a photographer based in Cape Town, South Africa. Through my camera lens, I tell stories and if you'd like to tell one with me, you can reach me on
studio@carolineviitanen.com
