Introduction

In the depths of the 2020 lockdown, I found myself yearning for a spark of inspiration. As a portrait photographer, the isolation and restrictions had begun to incredibly stifle my creativity and to be honest it really began to bum me out. So I pondered what could I do to get out of this rut.  I didn’t really have any definitive answers at the time.  I spent a lot of my hours doing the thing that is often not recommended, playing video games and watching random YouTube videos haha.  Luckily the all powerful and ever knowing internet was feeling my vibes and the algorithm on YouTube started to become more populated with content creators and photographer videos.  I started learning about the process of other creatives and being put on to some I still follow to this day. The ones that stood out the most were the creatives that exclusively worked with film.  That’s when I decided to explore the world of film photography, a move that not only reignited my passion but also transformed my approach to capturing images.

Film photography, with its tactile nature and deliberate process, offered a new avenue to explore, a new skill to unlock. Over the next year, I gained more XP, and experimented. I Also bought several film cameras. I won't lie, it was also a form of retail therapy that I’m still addicted to this day (insert face palm emoji here).

Inspirations

My journey was guided by the works of several film photographers and YouTube content creators. Vuhlandes and Willem Verbeeck, in particular, had a profound impact on my approach to film photography. Their work, their passion, and their unique perspectives were a constant source of inspiration as I navigated my way through the nuances of film.  Still take everything you hear with a grain of salt. End of the day your journey and discovery should be your own.

A New Toy

My entry into film photography began with the Mamiya RB67, which quickly became one of my favorite cameras. There was a bit of a learning curve, but it wasn't too steep, especially with the wealth of resources available online to guide me. I had always been intrigued by medium format, and the Mamiya RB67 seemed like the perfect starting point. Admittedly, I could have started with something simpler, but it was lockdown, and all I had was time. In hindsight, for those starting in film photography, I would suggest going with a 35mm camera. But hey, where's the fun in taking the easy route, right?

Since then, my collection has grown to include the Pentax km, Fuji gw690 ii, and an Olympus Stylus. Each camera, with its unique features and quirks, has added a new dimension to my photography. I'll delve deeper into these cameras in future posts.

Favorite Film Stocks

Choosing a favorite film stock is like choosing a favorite child, but if I had to, I'd pick Kodak Portra 800, Fuji 400h Pro, and Cinestill 800T. The grain of the Kodak Portra 800 adds a beautiful texture to the images, the Fuji 400h Pro offers stunning color reproduction, and the Cinestill 800T brings a cinematic quality that's hard to resist.

The Impact of Film Photography

Film photography has been more than just a new medium for me. It has taught me patience, made me more mindful of my compositions, and deepened my understanding of the technical aspects of photography. The anticipation of waiting for the film to develop, the joy of finally seeing the images, the surprise of discovering an unexpected shot - these are experiences unique to film photography. And they have greatly enriched my work and my approach to photography.

Why Film Photography?

In this digital age, film photography may seem like an anachronism. But its resurgence among photographers around the world is a testament to its everlasting appeal. It can be a little…well VERY expensive spending on how much you shoot, but he pros in my humble opinion are the tactile experience, the unique aesthetic, the deliberate process - these are aspects of film photography that digital just can't replicate. I believe that anyone who is passionate about photography should explore film. It's not just about creating images; it's about experiencing the process of creation, and for over thinkers like me this is a welcomed moment for focus and meditation.

Conclusion

My journey into film photography has been a revelation. It has not only reignited my passion for photography but also reshaped my perspective. It has taught me to slow down, to be more deliberate, and to truly appreciate the art of creating images. And for that, I am grateful.

Until Then,

O