My name is Targo Miilimaa, but I’m also known as Tarx. You could also say I’m a former punk who still listens to punk and metal and works as a lighting technician in a theatre.

How did you get into photography?

I got into photography a few years ago when I bought a camera from a friend. I went out shooting with it for a while, but then I sold it and things went quiet. About a year or two ago, I found my way back to photography again. 

How did you discover street photography? 

About a year ago, I happened to watch a documentary about Vivian Dorothy Maier. You could say that was the moment I arrived at street photography, and from there I started experimenting. 

Where do you find inspiration for shooting? 

Mostly from books I’ve bought and from online communities. I walk a lot, so simply observing my surroundings also gives me plenty of inspiration.   

Do you have a favourite photographer or photo that has influenced you the most? 

I don’t have a specific favourite, since street photography is still quite new to me. Vivian Maier has definitely given me ideas and influenced me. Among contemporary photographers, I’ve followed Alan Schaller’s work. 

What are you looking for or hoping to find when you go out with your camera?

Of course, a good catch — an interesting situation. Generally, I look for intriguing people or places that seem ordinary at first glance, but after taking the photo you smile, knowing you captured something good.  

Do you have any tips or advice on how to become a better street photographer? 

I’m still very green to be giving advice, but I definitely recommend reading books, watching videos, following different social media groups, and taking part in street photography walks.  

What kind of technique do you use when shooting on the street? 

I’m still experimenting and trying different approaches, so I don’t yet have my own defined technique. When I decide to wander the streets, I simply go with the flow of the city and try to stay present in the moment.  

Please choose one of your street photographs and tell the story behind it. 

This photo was taken on 17 March 2019 during a Pelgulinn photo walk with Ingrid Nielsen. We were walking around the streets when I noticed a man working in his yard. What caught my eye was his blue jacket and the wall in the same colour, which somehow perfectly suited the background of his activity. 

If you found this interesting, you can explore more of Tarx’s work on his Instagram page @wierdtarx