Last Updated on March 10, 2024 by gregor
The digital era has ushered in unparalleled ease and efficiency for photographers, transforming photography into a discipline of rapid consumption and seemingly limitless possibilities.
As we snap hundreds, if not thousands, of images with our smartphones and DSLRs—particularly during travels—the sheer volume can overwhelm us, making it challenging to fully appreciate each moment captured. Amidst this digital abundance, film photography is experiencing a renaissance, attracting a new generation to its tangible charm and deliberate pace.
The allure of vintage aesthetics, amplified by social media platforms like Instagram with their nostalgic filters, has reignited interest in film’s unique texture and warmth. For many, the practice of shooting film transcends mere image-making; it becomes a form of mindfulness, compelling photographers to consider each frame thoughtfully due to the finite nature of film rolls. This stark contrast to the virtually unlimited shooting capacity of digital cameras offers a refreshing discipline in an era of mass digital consumption, encouraging photographers to refine their vision and technique.
Let me share the five Top tips to dive into analog film photography
1. Purchase an analog camera
Good News! To start with film you do not need to spend a lot of money!
Actually, you can buy used film cameras for a relatively low price on the web through eBay or willhaben.at (Austria). Search for well-known brands who used to build solid 35mm cameras, like Canon AE-1 or AV-1, Nikon FM Series, Minolta X-700 , Pentax K 1000, Olympus OM System 1-4, Yashica FX-3. Prices range from 50.- to 250.- Euro for analog cameras including lens(es) Very important is that you have a closely look at the camera before you buy. There might be some scratches and even mold in the camera and lens that you would not always spot online. I was fortunate to purchase recently on the web for under 80,- Euros a used Canon AV-1 (introduced in 1979) including two amazing Canon lenses a 50mm 1,4 and a 135mm 2,8. If you want to be on the very save side, look for a used camera store in your area. These stores provide you consulting and most of them have a broad selection of used tested cameras. Some shops even offer a limited return guarantee.
2. Get used with the 35mm camera
Now you have purchased the analog camera, you need to get familiar with it. There are several ways to do for that. For nearly every 35mm camera, you can search on the internet (“brand and model number in google”) for the instructions manual to download. Another easy way of learning is by looking for videos on YouTube that explain the functionalities of the camera. Even the fact that these cameras are sometimes more the 40 years old there are numerous Videos out there to show the best handling tips and tricks
3. Choose a reputable print Lab and make a relationship with them
The next question is probably where to develop the film and prints. There are several possibilities. Many retailers offer you via self-service booths the possibility to send in the film to the labs and in a couple of days when you return to the store you find a package including your developed negatives and the printouts. The costs are for developing the negatives about 4-5 Euros and the price per picture print vary from quality level and size you want to print out. The cheapest possibility is probably a couple of cents for a standard printout in 9x13mm format. This can go up to several Euros for Premium quality in much larger print size. The other more recommended possibility is to look for a professional print lab in your city. These labs specializing on printing offer you for sometimes a very little premium uplift exceptional printouts (much better quality). The differences to the retail-mass printouts are that small print labs have less volume so the specialists in these labs usually have better control of each individual film and if necessary they do manual alterations for each film to make them look much better. In addition, you get personal service, consulting, and recommendations.
4. Experiment with different film stocks
Each type of film reproduces colours and tones slightly differently and hence provides you with that special signature look. The aesthetics of a film can hardly be reproduces or simulated by digital processing. VSCO Film Filter packs for Lightroom come quite closest by my opinion to old these old Film looks. Please find a list of nearly all photographic films available. Which one to recommend is difficult as it based on your personal photographic style and preferences.
5. Last but not least NO EDITING
Last but not least there is no way of editing film photography, which is in some way very different to digital photography. You can fully concentrate all your efforts on the shoot. Whatever you get on the film will be there, no need to think about all the post-processing possibilities that might distract your concentration to the most important thing the subject, the circumstance, the composition, and the story you want to tell on that picture.
So my advice is just to buy a bunch of film rolls and get out and shoot. The more you practice, the more you get acquainted with your analog camera and which film type you love the most. It is surprisingly modest to buy a used good good-quality 35mm camera and once you sorted out a print lab you will enjoy the whole film photography process too.
So, do you have to shoot a film? Please share your experience in the comments below. Many thanks!
Frequently Asked Questions about Starting Film Photography
1. What are the essential tips for someone starting with film photography?
- Understand Your Equipment: Get familiar with your film camera’s settings and mechanics, such as loading film, adjusting focus, aperture, and shutter speed manually.
- Choose the Right Film: Experiment with different types of film to find the one that suits your aesthetic. Consider film speed (ISO), color (color or black and white), and brand.
- Learn to Meter Light: Since film cameras often lack the advanced light metering of digital ones, learning to read light and properly exposing your film is crucial.
- Embrace the Process: Film photography slows you down, encouraging a more thoughtful approach to composition and subject matter. Enjoy the learning curve and the unique outcome of each photo.
- Develop and Scan: Decide whether you’ll develop your film at home or take it to a lab, and whether you’ll scan negatives to digital files for sharing online.
2. How do I choose a film camera as a beginner?
Start with a user-friendly, fully manual or semi-automatic camera that’s known for reliability and ease of use. Popular starter models include the Canon AE-1 Program, Pentax K1000, and Nikon FM series. Research and consider what type of photography you’ll be doing (street, landscape, portrait) to find a camera and lens that best suits those needs.
3. Can I use my digital camera skills in film photography?
Absolutely! Composition, lighting, and subject are universal concepts across digital and film photography. The main difference lies in the shooting process and limitations of film, which can actually enhance your skills by fostering intentionality and patience.
4. What is the cost of film photography?
The cost includes the initial purchase of a camera and lens, the price of film rolls, and developing and scanning expenses. Film photography can be more expensive per shot compared to digital, but many find the unique results and tactile experience well worth the investment.
5. Is it difficult to find film and developing services?
While not as readily available as digital services, film and developing labs are experiencing a resurgence. Many cities have at least one lab, and numerous online services offer mail-in development and scanning. Film can be purchased at photography stores, online retailers, and even some drugstores.
6. How does film photography impact a photographer’s growth?
Film photography encourages a disciplined approach to shooting, as each frame costs money and cannot be instantly reviewed. This limitation fosters a deeper understanding of composition, exposure, and the importance of making each shot count, ultimately refining a photographer’s eye and skills
Recommended Print Lab in Vienna Cyberlab