What is a film camera?

Long before there were digital cameras and iPhones connected to the cloud, there were film cameras.  Anyone wanting to take a photograph had to use a film camera.  These cameras are based on technology developed in the late 1800s and require a much different workflow than our current instantaneous digital cameras that save images onto memory cards or hard drives.

Film photography is based on an analog technology in which rolls of transparent, flexible film are covered with a light sensitive coating.  These rolls of film are run through a camera that exposes the film to light when you hit the shutter button.  Once the full roll of film has been shot, it must be taken to a lab where they run the film through chemical solutions that develop and fix the image on the film.  There are no visible images on the film until this chemical process happens.  The film remains sensitive to light until it runs through the fixing chemicals at the lab.

At this point the film can either be used to make prints or it can be scanned to digital files.  Film labs use high end equipment to carefully scan your film into a computer, remove dust and debris, and adjust the colors for accuracy.  They then will e-mail a link to download your images.  This multi step process of developing the film and scanning it are why some film labs can take several days or weeks to get a roll of film back to you!

Why Shoot Film?

This is obviously different for everyone, but many people feel that shooting photos on film instead of digital is a more meaningful process full of intentionality and skill.  Instead of being able to shoot an infinite stream of photos on a phone, a film photographer is limited to the 24 or 36 shots on their roll of film.  Since each image costs money and time, they feel like they matter more.  It takes skill to get a perfectly exposed and focused image.  Each roll is an opportunity to hone your craft and improve from your last roll.

Beyond the technical aspects of film photography being a more rewarding shooting process, there are also the aesthetic benefits.  There is a depth and warmth to film photos that just can't be replicated digitally.  It is creatively rewarding to try out the different types of film.  Some types of film create warm and colorful images, while others can create striking black and white images.  Finding the perfect roll of film for your subject matter is an art unto itself.

There is also an inherent mystery to each roll of film since you are unable to see the photos until you have finished the roll and taken it to the lab.  Did they turn out?  What else did I shoot on the roll?  Each combination of different camera and film can produce unique results.  The buildup to getting even one excellent film photo on your roll is unmatched!