More reasons why I love film photography

Film photography isn’t just a hobby – it’s an experience that goes beyond the click of a button. From learning the fundamentals to the unique character of each shot, there are endless reasons why film keeps drawing me back. Whether you’re new to analog or already hooked, here’s a look at what makes film photography so captivating.

📚 Learning experience

Photography has always been a hobby of mine, but even when I had DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, I never bothered to learn much about the technical side. My knowledge of photography was mostly the result of trial and error – something you can afford to do with digital. With film, though, every shot counts (and costs), so you’re more intentional about understanding exposure, aperture, and lighting. Learning these essentials actually makes me feel like I’m practicing a craft, not just pressing a button.

💰 The price of gear

Film cameras are relatively inexpensive, especially since most are used, and demand isn’t what it once was. You can get a functional film camera for around $50, a lot cheaper upfront than DSLRs or mirrorless cameras (although, I wouldn’t mind owning a Fujifilm camera), which can start at $700 – and that’s just for the base kit.
Of course, there’s an ongoing cost with film: a 36-shot roll can run about $15, plus another $15 for processing. But in a way, that makes it more manageable because the expense is spread out. Plus, if you’re into DIY, you can cut costs by processing and scanning film at home.

🎞️ The vintage look

There’s something about the way film captures light and color that digital just can’t replicate. Film has this raw, textured feel – like each frame has a personality. Colors are rich but not over-saturated, and there’s a natural grain that adds character without needing filters. It’s not just nostalgic; it’s distinct and tangible.

🔋 No batteries included (kind of)

Film cameras don’t require constant charging or battery swaps. Many vintage models rely on mechanical parts, so you don’t need to worry about batteries dying on you mid-roll. There’s a charm in using something purely mechanical – you’re directly involved with every click, wind, and snap. The camera becomes an extension of you, not a piece of tech.

Just note that some cameras require batteries to operate the flash or power the built-in light meter – but these can be easily purchased on Amazon.

📸 The character of the photos

Each roll of film has its quirks, and that unpredictability gives film photos a unique character. Different films have different color tones, grain structures, and contrasts. Even with the same camera, two rolls of film can produce totally different results. This variability adds a kind of magic to each shot; you’re not always certain what you’re going to get, but that’s part of the appeal.

🏆 The sense of achievement

There’s nothing quite like holding a physical photo that you worked to capture. With digital, you snap hundreds of shots, delete the bad ones, and move on. With film, every frame is intentional, and you wait to see the results. It takes effort, patience, and sometimes trial and error. But when you finally see those images come to life, the feeling of accomplishment is on another level.

🤝 The community

Film photography has its own dedicated, tight-knit community. Fellow film enthusiasts are often just as passionate and are willing to share tips, talk cameras, or discuss the latest film stocks. There’s a sense of connection and shared experience that goes beyond just taking pictures. From online forums to local meet-ups, the film community is full of people who get why we keep coming back to analog – and who are more than happy to welcome others into the fold.