Ah, the good old days of film photography. The smell of developer, the satisfaction of loading film into the camera just right, and the anticipation of waiting for the prints to develop in the tray. While digital photography has certainly taken over the mainstream, there’s still something special about shooting with film. Here’s why film isn’t dead and why you might want to give it a try.
There’s something about the way film captures light that just can’t be replicated with digital. Film has a natural grain and tonality that adds depth and character to your photos. The variety of film available can change the overall look of the final image and even how that film is exposed can add to the uniqueness of the look.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the aspect of nostalgia. Shooting with film can transport you back in time. Whether it’s using a classic camera that’s been passed down through generations or discovering a roll of old film in a thrift store, there’s something about the process that brings back memories and creates new ones.
Shooting film also has certain limitations: Shooting with film requires a bit more thought and intentionality. You have a limited number of exposures on a roll of film, which means you have to be more selective with your shots. This can lead to more thoughtful and intentional photography.
With film, you have a physical print that you can hold in your hand. There’s something special about seeing your photos in print form and being able to display them in your home or give them as gifts. For some people, this physical aspect throughout the process makes it worth while.
Shooting with film can be challenging, but that’s part of the appeal. Learning how to properly expose film and develop it can be a rewarding process that can lead to stunning results.
Film isn’t just for artistic or nostalgic purposes. There are still professional photographers who prefer film for certain types of subjects, such as landscapes or black and white portraits. It all depends on the look you’re going for. Even today, there are still famous photographers who prefer film, such as Sally Mann and William Eggleston.
Let’s be real, not every roll of film is going to turn out perfectly. But that’s part of the process. Embrace the failures and learn from them. Shooting with film allows for experimentation and creativity. Try out different types of film, push or pull your exposures, or use expired film for unique effects.
Lastly, shooting with film can create a deeper connection with your subject. Because you have to be more intentional with your shots, you might find yourself more engaged with what you’re photographing. Despite all these challenges, people still opt to shoot in film at least part of the time.
