Navigating the imperfections, limitations, and anticipation inherent in film photography
I love shooting on film for three main reasons:
The Imperfection
The grains and the occasional over or underexposure give pictures a nostalgic, "memory-like" quality. A friend smiling with eyes closed on film is far more captivating than the one perfect shot out of 30 digital photos where everyone looks flawless. It feels authentic.
The Limited Frames
With digital cameras and smartphones, it's easy to take hundreds of photos in a weekend, often capturing multiple shots of the same subject without much thought. This abundance can lead to a lack of special moments. In contrast, film typically limits you to 36 frames or fewer, making each shot count. This limitation encourages you to be more deliberate and mindful with your photography.
The Waiting
Waiting for your film to be developed, whether it takes a week or longer, adds a sense of anticipation and excitement. You might even forget some of the moments you captured. When you finally see the developed photos, it feels like rediscovering those moments all over again. This delayed gratification enhances the joy of seeing your memories come to life.
I share my favorite film shots in my Instagram profile.