Welcome to the enchanting realm of film photography! If you’ve been captivated by tales of this timeless art form, whether whispered by a friend or lovingly shared by a family member, then you’ve arrived at the perfect destination. Prepare to embark on a journey where we unravel the intricacies of analog photography and embrace its delightful challenges.
In the pages that follow, we shall delve into the essence of this mesmerizing craft. We will navigate the path to acquiring your very own film camera, carefully guide you through the process of setting up your gear, and reveal the secrets behind capturing photographs that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers.
If your previous photographic escapades have solely involved digital cameras, fear not, for this compendium promises to be a valuable resource on your quest.
So, gather your curiosity and join us as we blend education with the art of storytelling, igniting your passion for film photography and igniting a flame that will illuminate your artistic endeavours. Let us embark on this exhilarating odyssey together!
Key Takeaways
- Finding a suitable film camera is the first step in shooting film photography, and options range from vintage SLRs to modern point-and-shoot cameras.
- Prime lenses, such as 35mm or 50mm, are recommended for beginners due to their reliable focus and versatility.
- When it comes to film stock, beginners often start with color negative film, which produces true-to-life colors and is processed using C-41 chemicals.
- Color positive film, also known as slide film, results in a transparent positive image and uses E-6 chemicals for processing.
- Black and white film is perfect for capturing images with striking shadows and highlights, but it’s not suitable for color photography.
- Expired film can produce interesting effects, offering opportunities for creative experimentation.
- Proper exposure and handling of shadows are crucial in film photography, often requiring slightly higher exposure settings compared to digital photography.
- Soft, diffused lighting enhances the quality of film-based images, and a light meter is essential for accurately assessing available light.
- Film speed, indicated by the ISO value, determines a film’s sensitivity to light, and beginners should generally follow the recommended ISO setting.
- Developing film can be done either by relying on a professional photo lab or through a DIY method using a film developing kit and proper equipment.
- Practice and patience are key to improving as a film photographer, and learning from failures and mistakes is an integral part of the process.
Shooting Film Photography – Our Tips
As a budding film photographer, it’s important to make sure you’ve wrapped your head around the basics before spending any money. Many of the fundamentals that you’ve learned from digital photography still apply here. It’s just important to know what the differences are and why they matter.
Check out our tips below.
Your Film Camera
It’s a no-brainer, but before you can start shooting film photography, you’ll need to find a half-decent film camera. The equipment needed here is a little different to when you’re working with digital photography. You’ll likely be using the following bits of gear:
- A film camera body
- Some film stocks
- A lens
More modern point-and-shoot style cameras also exist that come with everyday conveniences like advanced automatic settings. The option you should go with will depend on your experience level and access to second-hand options.
If you’ve already got a family member with a film photography setup, this will probably be your best bet. Complete newcomers to the hobby may prefer the ease and convenience of a point-and-shoot, however. These newer cameras are usually easier to use for beginners.
Get a Decent Lens
When first starting out with film photography, it’s best to stick with prime lenses. The static, reliable focus of either a 35mm or 50mm is usually a good way to go. When buying vintage or second-hand equipment, apply an extra level of scrutiny.
It’s easy for lenses and shutters to get jammed up with dust and other gunk over the years.
Film for Film Cameras
Next up on your equipment list is film stock. You’ll almost definitely be using a 24 or 36 exposure pack.
This means that when you shoot film, you’ll usually have either 24 or 26 shots available per roll. You’ll be adopting a more measured, intentional style of shooting to make every last exposure count!
We explore the most common types of film below.
Color Negative Film
This is by far the most commonly used film for beginners. It uses C-41 chemicals for its processing and offers ‘true-to-life’ colors. After processing your color negative film, you’ll get back a darker negative image and your ‘correct’ photograph.
Color Positive Film
Color positive film results in a transparent, positive image that can be mounted to backing paper or used as a slide. For this reason, it’s also referred to as slide film. This kind of stock uses E-6 chemicals for processing. As a newcomer, however, you’ll be best off with color negative stock.
Black and White Film
No points for guessing what this one is for – black and white film is perfect for capturing images with stunning shadows and brilliant highlights. For color film photography, though, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
A Note on Expired Film
If you want to start producing ‘happy film accidents,’ expired film can be a great way to go. The chemicals used for most film stock have a shelf life. This means that after a certain amount of time, they stop being quite as effective for their intended purpose.
However, expired film can produce some really interesting shots if you know what you’re doing. Once you’ve got a bit of experience, it’s well worth experimenting with some old stock
Analog Photography Tips
Many of the fundamentals of photography apply here. If you’re experienced with a digital camera, plenty of your skills are transferrable.
However, film photography offers several unique obstacles that many photographers struggle with when first starting out. We explore a few basics below.
Exposure and Shadows
When shooting digital photos, most photographers like to err on the side of caution when it comes to how much they expose their shots. When shooting film, however, the opposite should be your default.
Capturing shadows accurately can be a bit harder when using a film camera. You’ll probably have to set the exposure higher than you’re used to to give your color negative film the best possible chance of capturing your scene properly.
Lighting
The following is true of basically all types of photography – make sure there’s plenty of soft, diffused light, and your image will probably come out looking at least half-decent. That said, what things do you need to consider when using film-based equipment?
Light Meter
Most modern cameras come with a light meter built in. This probably isn’t true of your friend’s camera from the 80s. Pick up a light meter or download a light meter app when using film cameras.
In short, a light meter tells you how much light you have available in your scene. This knowledge empowers you to choose the right settings for your camera. If you go into this process blind, it can be very easy to under or over-expose your shot.
Unless you’re very experienced, this kind of accessory is basically a must-buy.
Find yourself without the right tools but need to take a shot? If it’s a nice sunny day, use the ‘sunny 16‘ rule. This rule dictates that in a well-lit environment, you should do the following:
- Set your aperture to f16
- Set your shutter speed to the opposite of your ISO value
This should result in an image that is reasonably well exposed!
ISO Value
This one depends on the film speed of the film stock you’ve bought. In general, it’s best to set your ISO to the advertised speed on your film’s packaging. Once you’ve been shooting film for a long time, you can afford to experiment and ‘push’ the limits of your gear.
Until then, though, it’s best to play it safe.
What is Film Speed?
The speed of a pack of film determines its sensitivity to light. A more sensitive film will react much more quickly when exposed to light. The higher the number you see on your packaging, the faster/ more sensitive your film is.
Remember to Go Slow
Keep in mind that Rome wasn’t built in a day; the learning curve associated with film photography can feel significantly steeper than its digital counterpart. Don’t let this put you off, though. With some patience and perseverance, you’ll be up and running in no time.
The best way to improve as a photographer is to practice. The more often you can get out there and actually use your gear, the better you’ll become. Don’t be afraid to fail – accidents and mistakes are what help us to learn after all!
Getting Your Film Developed
So, you’ve poured hours and hours into taking your photos and shot through a few rolls. It’s now time to process it all and get some lovely developed film. There are two main options here – a photo lab or a DIY method.
Option One – Photo Labs
A photo lab is probably the safest bet if you’re a newbie. You’ll be giving your film to a trained professional who has everything they need to process your work perfectly. They’ll use the right chemicals and equipment. Reliable photo labs deliver very good results at a consistent level.
Just make sure you choose options in your area that are worth the money!
Option Two – DIY
Don’t feel like you have to go the DIY route, but just know that it can be relatively straightforward if you use the right technique.
This video from Willem Verbeeck on YouTube covers the topic well.
In general, you’ll need the following to develop film at home:
- Some C-41 film that you’ve taken some photos with
- A completely dark room
- Alternatively, use a changing bag
- A film developing kit like this one
- Some dark chemistry bottles
- A developing tank
- A temperature control system (TCS) to maintain a constant temperature for your chemicals (this is an optional extra)
The process involved with developing your film will depend on the chemical kit you’ve bought. In short, however, you’ll be following the instructions provided on your kit. These are usually super easy to follow and walk you through every step of the process.
An oversimplified version of this process might look like this:
- Make sure your development chemicals are at the right temperature by using a TCS or by running them under warm water and checking them with a thermometer.
- Mix your developing powders using the right amount of water. Check your manufacturer’s instructions for this.
- Use filtered water if possible for best results.
- Load your film into your developing tank in either a fully dark room or your changing bag.
- Follow the instructions on your developing kit to develop your photos!
More: Best way to scan negatives
Shooting Film – Last Word
As you journey through the realm of film photography, we hope the tips shared on this page have served as guiding stars in your creative pursuits. Embracing the intricacies of a film camera may initially present challenges, as you bid farewell to the comforts of modern conveniences like automated settings and light meters. But fear not, for with perseverance, you shall conquer the unknown and capture breathtaking moments that transcend time itself!
If you seek the path of least resistance, we suggest embracing the simplicity of a modern, high-quality point-and-shoot camera. Allow your creative spirit to soar as you entrust your film to the capable hands of a photo lab, eagerly awaiting the moment your precious memories are unveiled.
Whichever path you choose, may the joy of exploration and self-expression be your constant companions. Let the journey itself be your muse, and with each click of the shutter, allow your artistic vision to unfold in magnificent splendor.
Remember, in this vast tapestry of film photography, every frame tells a story. From the gentlest whisper of a nostalgic breeze to the resounding crescendo of vibrant hues, your photographs hold the power to transport hearts and ignite emotions.
So, embark on this creative adventure, armed with your newfound knowledge and unyielding passion. Explore the depths of light, shadows, and the interplay of moments frozen in time. And above all, savor the exhilarating experience of capturing fragments of life’s beauty, woven delicately onto the canvas of film.
We bid you farewell, fellow adventurer, and may your journey be forever filled with wonder, joy, and the magic of film photography.