Timo Jarvinen, longtime surf photographer and one-time staff snapper for Quiksilver, having worked with many of their top athletes over the years, including Kelly Slater, has died. He was 60 years old.
Hailing from Helsinki, Finland, Timo wasn’t born into the surf world. But once he found his love for photography, paired with a fateful snowboard trip, he soon started snapping photos of surfers. He came from a family of photo lovers, too. Both his father and grandfather were dark room techs.
And when news of his death dropped, the surf world clamored to pay their respects.
“Oh my. Heartbroken to see this. So much love Timo. Miss your sense of humor brother.” – 3x world champion, Mick Fanning
“Our Panama trip had some funny dynamics glad you were there to keep everyone level. Rest in power Timo.” – freesurfer, Balaram Stack
“Always be in our hearts Timo. Rest in peace.” – World Tour surfer, Leo Fioravante
“So sad to hear this. Love you brother Timo. Thanks for all the laughs and good times over the years.” – big wave surfer, Jamie Mitchell
A few years back, in partnership with Nikon, Timo’s work was spotlighted, and folks got a glimpse behind the lens. In an interview for the Nikon collaboration, he expounded upon his shooting style:
“I understand there’s a need for it but I’m not the biggest fan of showing poverty or sorrow. I like to shoot positive images. Most of us love to see images which are out of reach and then try to put ourselves into those situations. I want to show people something they would love to experience themselves.
“I get inspired by light and water – the shades, shapes and reflections in it. That said, although my main subjects are in and around the ocean, I don’t want to put myself into corner and label myself as just a surf photographer. I love to shoot action but sometimes it’s good to slow down and focus on steady subjects.”
Rest in peace.
More must-reads: