As a photographer, my journey began in the dim glow of a darkroom in london’s Covent Garden. There was something magical about the process: the click of a film camera, the anticipation of developing a roll, and the smell of chemicals as an image slowly emerged on paper. For years, film photography was the only medium I knew, and while digital photography eventually swept me away with its convenience, I’ve found myself returning to film with a renewed appreciation for its unique charm.
The Beginnings: Falling in Love with Film
When I first picked up a film camera, I was captivated by its simplicity. Unlike digital cameras with endless menus and settings, film cameras demanded a thoughtful approach. Each frame mattered, each click intentional. I learned the basics of photography—composition, lighting, and exposure—not through instant feedback on an LCD screen, but by trial, error, and patience.
The darkroom became my sanctuary. Watching an image appear on photographic paper felt almost alchemical. It was in that quiet space that I developed not just photos, but a deep respect for the craft.
The Shift to Digital and Why Film Took a Back Seat
When digital photography exploded onto the scene, it was revolutionary. Suddenly, I could take thousands of photos without worrying about the cost of film or developing, which is liberating in a way. Editing software offered unprecedented control, and the immediacy of seeing results on a screen was undeniably convenient. Like many photographers, I embraced digital wholeheartedly and packed away my film cameras.
But as the years went by, I began to feel that something was missing. Digital photography, for all its advantages, sometimes felt too clinical. The imperfections and unpredictability of film—the very things that had frustrated me as a beginner—were now what I longed for.
Rediscovering Film: A Nostalgic Revival
A few years ago, I dusted off an old 35mm camera and loaded it with a roll of film. From the first frame, it was as though I had stepped back in time. The process was slower, more deliberate. I found myself reconnecting with the roots of my craft.
What struck me most was the nostalgia. Film has a way of capturing not just an image, but a feeling. The grain, the colour tones, the way light renders—it’s imperfect and organic, and that’s where its beauty lies. But having said all that, although I love the whole film experience , when it comes to client work, I still largely shoot digital , because clients expect a lot more photographs than pretty film allows. But because I am so drawn to the beauty of film, I try my best to recreate a filmic look.
What if I were to tell you that all the images I took on this blog, were all shot by me using a digital camera but edited to look like I remember film?
Why Film Photography Still Matters
In a world dominated by high-resolution digital images, film photography offers something profoundly different. Here’s why it’s worth revisiting:
- Tactile Experience: From loading the film to winding the roll after each shot, the physicality of film photography is deeply satisfying.
- Intentionality: With only 24 or 36 exposures per roll, each shot requires thought and care.
- Unique Aesthetic: Film renders colours, light, and grain in ways that digital filters struggle to replicate.
- Connection to History: Shooting on film connects us to the traditions of photography and the masters who came before.
Tips for Starting (or Restarting) Your Film Photography Journey
If you’re thinking about exploring film photography, here are some tips to get started:
- Choose the Right Camera: Start with a reliable 35mm SLR like the Canon AE-1, Nikon FM, or Pentax K1000. These are beginner-friendly and widely available.
- Experiment with Film Stocks: Different films offer different looks. Fujifilm’s Provia is great for vibrant colors, while Ilford HP5 is perfect for classic black-and-white.
- Learn to Develop Your Film: Home development kits are affordable and give you a hands-on connection to your work.
- Embrace Imperfection: Light leaks, scratches, and grain are part of the charm. Lean into them.
- Digitize Wisely: Scanning your negatives bridges the gap between analog and digital, allowing you to share your work online.
The Future of Film Photography
Film photography is enjoying a renaissance, driven by a desire to slow down and create more meaningful work. Many companies are reintroducing classic film stocks, and younger generations are discovering the joys of analog photography for the first time.
For me, film photography is more than a technique—it’s a mindset. It’s about slowing down, embracing imperfections, and reconnecting with the heart of the craft. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, I encourage you to pick up a roll of film and see where it takes you. You might just fall in love with photography all over again, or at the very least, also pursue a film like look for your digital work.