The Timeless Allure - Why Film Photography Is Still Relevant Today

In the age of digital cameras and instant gratification, film photography may seem like a thing of the past. However, this classic photography art continues to captivate photographers and enthusiasts around the world. In this blog post, I will explore why film photography is still relevant in today's digital era and why many artists and photographers choose to embrace its timeless allure.

AESTHETIC APPEAL

One of the main reasons film photography remains relevant is its unique aesthetic charm. Film captures light and colors in a distinctive way, resulting in a softness, depth, and richness that digital images often struggle to replicate. From the subtle grain to the beautiful tonal range, film photographs have a nostalgic and artistic quality that adds a touch of magic to each frame. This aesthetic appeal is often sought after by photographers looking to create a distinct mood or evoke a particular emotion in their images. My personal favorite film stock is Kodak Portra 160. It is great for studio strobe work and perfect for skin tones. The image on the side was taken with Kodak Portra 160 with Broncolor lighting.

MINDFUL APPROACH

Film photography encourages a more deliberate and mindful approach to the craft. With a limited number of exposures per roll, photographers must carefully consider each shot before pressing the shutter button. With 35mm film giving you thirty six exposures and even less with medium format 120 film. 120 film, depending on the camera can give you 10-16 exposures. This slower and more intentional process fosters a deeper connection with the subject and encourages photographers to refine their technical skills. The practice of shooting film encourages patience, attention to detail, and a heightened sense of anticipation that can lead to more thoughtful and meaningful photographs.

MASTERY OF TECHNIQUE

Mastering film photography requires a solid understanding of fundamental principles such as exposure, composition, and manual control of camera settings. Unlike the automatic features found in digital cameras, shooting film demands a greater level of technical expertise and knowledge. This pursuit of mastery can be a rewarding journey for photographers who enjoy honing their skills and embracing the technical aspects of the art form. There is the combination of lighting knowledge, developing knowledge, and how you digitize it as well. Once you hit every aspect of development, the results are so rewarding!

CREATIVE LIMITATIONS

While digital photography offers endless possibilities for post-processing and manipulation, film photography imposes creative limitations. The fixed ISO, choice of film stock, and manual control over exposure settings constrain photographers to work within specific parameters. These limitations can spark creativity and push photographers to think more deeply about composition, lighting, and storytelling. Embracing the constraints of film can lead to a more intentional and refined creative process. There are ways around these constraints. Some cameras have removable interchangeable film backs. It lets you alternate between two different film stocks. You can have one with black and white and the other back have color film.

TANGIBLE EXPERIENCE

Film photography provides a tangible and tactile experience that is often lost in the digital realm. The process of loading film, advancing the frames, and the anticipation of getting the roll developed creates a sense of excitement and connection to the physical medium. Holding a developed film negative or a printed photograph in your hands offers a sense of satisfaction and permanence that digital files cannot replicate. This tangible experience adds value and nostalgia to the practice of photography. I always tell clients, do you remember how your parent’s wedding photos were delivered? Probably on a DVD or CD. Do you have a disc drive on your computer? Most likely you do not! Technology will always keep advancing and it will be up to you to keep up and update the format yourself. With film, you just need a camera and a light source!

While digital photography has undoubtedly revolutionized the industry, film photography continues to hold a special place in the hearts of photographers. Its aesthetic appeal, mindful approach, mastery of technique, creative limitations, and tangible experience all contribute to its enduring relevance. Whether it's the love for its distinctive look, the desire for a more deliberate process, or the appreciation for its timeless charm, film photography remains a cherished medium for those seeking a unique and rewarding photographic experience.

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