From our clients to seasoned photographers, more and more people are turning back to film photography and discarding the digital camera for a more nostalgic form of preserving memories.  Kodak even came out with their new 35mm camera this year.  Film photography is an art form that has been around for over a century.  With the advent of digital cameras, film photography became even more of a rarified art form. As someone who worked in photography before digital cameras were readily available, I started as a film photographer and still use this medium to create art to this day. 

Advantages of film photography

One of the main advantages of film photography is the unique look it provides. Film has a different color palette, contrast, and grain structure than digital, giving it a vintage, timeless feel. This look is hard to replicate with digital technology, and it is one of the reasons why film photography is still popular today.

Another advantage of film photography is the process of shooting. With digital cameras, you can take hundreds of photos in a matter of minutes. With film, you have a limited number of frames per roll, and you need to be more intentional with your shots. This process of slowing down and thinking more carefully about each shot can lead to more thoughtful and intentional photographs.

Film photography also has a unique dynamic range. It handles highlights and shadows differently, creating a more natural-looking range than digital cameras can achieve. This gives film photography a look that is closer to how the human eye sees the world. To see more of our team’s work in film check out our gallery here.

Getting started with film photography

If you’re interested in trying your hand at film photography, there are a few things you need to know before you get started. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the right camera: There are many different types of film cameras available, from point-and-shoots to professional SLRs. Consider your needs and budget and choose a camera that works for you.
2. Buy film: There are different types of film available, each with its own unique look. Some popular brands of film include Kodak, Fujifilm, and Ilford. Try different types of film to see what works best for you. Our preference is for Potra 400 for color film and Ilford when it comes to black and white images.
3. Learn how to load and unload film: This may seem simple, but it can be tricky to get right. Make sure you know how to load and unload film properly, or you may end up with ruined shots.
4. Take your time: As mentioned earlier, shooting with film is a slow and deliberate process. Take your time to compose each shot and think carefully about the exposure.
5. Use a light meter: With digital cameras, you can usually rely on the camera’s built-in light meter. With film cameras, you will need to use an external light meter to ensure you have the correct exposure.
6. Find a good lab: Developing film can be tricky, so it’s best to find a good lab that can do it for you. Look for a lab that has experience with film and can provide high-quality prints. I love Indie Film Lab.
7. Practice: As with any art form, the more you practice, the better you will become. Experiment with different types of film and shooting conditions to see what works best for you.

Want more Film Photography

Film photography is a beautiful and unique art form that is still popular today. The process of shooting with film is slower and more deliberate than digital photography, and it requires a different set of skills. However, the unique look and feel of film photography make it a worthwhile endeavor for anyone interested in photography. If you’re interested in trying your hand at film photography, start by choosing the right camera, buying film, and simply practicing.  For more on getting started in film check out our in-depth series on The Restart Specialist here.