Digital cameras almost eradicated analog photography, but film is having a comeback, with analog cameras gaining popularity over the last couple of years. Film photography offers such a different experience from taking a photo with your phone or digital camera. It's less about instant gratification and more about being in the moment and truly considering the image you want to capture. Aside from instant film, which is used in cameras like a Fuji Instax or a Polaroid, you also have to wait for your film to be developed and the images printed. It can be incredibly rewarding and a satisfying process, especially if you're the one doing it all.
If you've never shot on film, it's well worth trying, whether you're a seasoned digital photographer or keen to take your first photos on a real camera instead of your phone. I've put together this guide to help you get started in film photography -- from selecting the camera and choosing the right film through to where to buy both.
I've been a professional photographer for well over a decade, and while I grew up using digital cameras, I've thoroughly enjoyed diving into the world of film. So I'm going to share what I've learned.
A beautiful scene I was happy to catch on film. I exposed for the brighter sky, wanting the shadows to appear deeper on the ground. Andrew Lanxon/CNET
Why shoot film?
Before digital cameras were common, film was the default way of taking photos, and while it has almost faded into nonexistence, popularity in film photography has soared in recent years -- as has the price of film.
Film has become increasingly popular on social media, thanks to its authentic retro look. I'm not immune to it either -- I love the tones I can capture in film. Andrew Lanxon/CNET
Many photographers have returned to film as a way to challenge themselves and seek authenticity in their images, while others simply like the old-school vibe in the same way that people collect and play vinyl records. For me, it's all the above.
So let's start in an obvious place: your camera.
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