Over the summer I came across an old film camera in my mom’s closet, and was eager to figure out how it worked. I quickly became obsessed with it, looking up everything about film and the process of shooting it.
In no time I had dozens and dozens of photos that I was truly proud of, and I couldn’t wait to shoot even more. Now, it’s a hobby I can’t live without, and here’s why:
1. You Get to Be a Part of a Process
Unlike digital cameras where you just adjust the settings to your liking, click a button to take the picture, then upload it to your computer, film cameras require a lot more effort and precision. With film cameras, you first need to purchase the actual film. There are tons of different ones to choose from, so I recommend looking up which one is best for the type of look you’re going for.
After loading the film, you might have to adjust the settings of the camera each time you take a photo. This all depends on the lighting and again, the type of look you’re going for. After you finish shooting a roll, you then have to either get them developed or develop them on your own.
Just like with a manual car, film cameras allow you to be a part of the process and really helps you to understand how the camera itself functions, which in my opinion, make the results that much more rewarding.
2. Surprises & Imperfections
One of my favorite things about film photography is how it incorporates the element of surprise. There is something about not knowing how your pictures will turn out that makes film so fun and addictive. I am always filled with anticipation after I drop off my roll of film to be developed. The 1 to 2 week wait always seems so long, but once I get the call that my photos are ready, it’s all worth it.
Another thing that I love about shooting film is how the photos will sometimes come out not how you expected. Whether the camera focused on something in the background, or somehow distorted or changed the color of the image, the imperfections tend to add to the overall effect and uniqueness of each photo.
3. That “Vintage Film Look”
I noticed that I would always edit my pictures to make them look more vintage and “film-like.” And I know I’m not alone on this. Whenever I scroll through instagram, I always come across pictures edited with more grain and other vintage effects to make normal photos look like old film ones. When I shoot with the film camera, there is no need to add any filters because the photos already have such a nice vintage effect to them naturally.
Film cameras are so inexpensive as opposed to digital ones, and you can find them practically anywhere. Always check your local thrift stores and antique shops to find the best deals! Even ask your grandparents, I’m sure they will be more than willing to give you an old camera they have lying around.
In a time in which advanced technology basically does everything for us, film photography helps bring the creativity and control back into taking pictures. It might seem like a lot of extra work, but the outcome is worth it every single time.
Rep Image, All other images are author’s own.