Are you tired of taking digital photos that look like everyone else's? Practise the mindful art of film photography
With its timeless quality and charming aesthetic, film photography is a perfect way to capture your memories, express your creativity, and a chance to slow down and practise stillness.
Whether you’re a budding photographer or just looking for a fun new hobby, here are some photography tips to help you on your journey.
Why film photography?
Film photography often captures more details in shadows and highlights, creating natural-looking images, and offers a unique texture and grain that digital photography cannot replicate. Plus, developing and printing your photos is an exciting experience that lets you see your work tangibly come to life! Shooting with a film camera also forces you to slow down and think more carefully about each shot, which can result in more thoughtful compositions.
How does a film camera work?
When you press the shutter button, the camera exposes the film to light, creating an image on the film’s surface. The film then goes through a developing process where chemicals are used to make the image visible.
The right film
Choosing the right film is an important part of film photography as each has unique characteristics. Some film stocks are better suited for lighting conditions, while others offer a particular aesthetic.
Film stocks
- Black and white film offers a timeless and artistic quality to images. It comes in different ISO ratings and has a range of grain sizes.
- Colour negative film produces vivid, realistic colours. It also comes in different ISO ratings and has varying grain sizes.
- Colour reversal film (slide film) produces bold, vibrant colours perfect for landscape and nature photography.
Film sizes
- 35mm film is the most popular size. It’s relatively small and portable, making it ideal for travel and street photography. As a beginner photographer, 35mm is the most appropriate film for you.
- Medium Format film is larger than 35mm and produces higher-quality images with more detail and resolution. It’s commonly used for portrait and landscape photography.
- Large Format film produces the highest quality and detail in images. It’s commonly used for studio and landscape photography.
Film stock brands
When choosing a film stock brand, consider the type of photography you’re interested in. Each brand has unique characteristics, and some photographers prefer certain brands for specific types of photography.
Some popular film stocks for beginners include Kodak Tri-X, Ilford HP5 Plus, and Fujifilm Superia, which you can find at most photography stores.
Film speed
Also known as ISO, film speed measures the film’s sensitivity to light. Film speed also determines how quickly the film reacts to light, affecting the image’s brightness and graininess. For low-light situations, a higher film speed may be necessary, while for well-lit scenes, a lower film speed may be preferred for a cleaner and smoother look.
Capturing the moment
- Get to know your camera: Read the manual and practise loading and advancing the film.
- Pay attention to lighting: Look for interesting light sources, such as sunlight filtering through trees or dramatic shadows.
- Practise patience: Take your time and think carefully about each shot before you press the shutter button.
- Experiment with different film stocks: Develop your style and find the best film.
Life’s best moments
Film photography is a way to explore your creativity, express yourself, and an opportunity to slow down and practise mindfulness.
So grab a camera, load up some film and with practise and persistence, you’ll create beautiful and timeless images you can cherish for years.
THIS GUIDE TO FILM PHOTOGRAPHY WAS PROVIDED BY TED’S CAMERAS
Explore Ted’s Cameras’ full range of top-quality cameras, camera lenses, filters and accessories, and printing services at www.teds.com.au
