Film is my only vice. I don’t drink, smoke or eat out a whole lot. I love the slowness of film, lining that shot up & taking it. It’s just so enjoyable.
I went from shooting with my $4.5k mirrorless to shooting consistently with my $20 Pentax Spotmatic that i got at the Berryessa flea market. No regrets.
I call BS. sell me your mirrorless for $20 then. If you’re happy with your $20 point and shoot, no need to keep that other camera around and collecting dust.
@@howiejpeg exactly. So if your buddy asks you to snap some photos for his wedding, you’d show up with your $20 Pentax from the flea market with no regrets? Nope. I’m CONFIDANT you’re going to bring your mirrorless with all your lenses, filters and lights plus a fancy carry bag/backpack.
I shot film in high school and college in the early 1970's with my Dad's Tower 32B 35mm SLR from Sears (made by Mamiya), pretty fancy at the time, bought my first serious camera on the Ginza during a trip to Japan Summer of 1976 after graduating from Ga Tech, a Nikon Nikomat (not Nikkormat) FT2 with an f/1.4 50mm lens, flash, bag and film for three $100 American Express traveler's checks (serious dough at the time & a very heavy camera by today's standards) - the clerk spent THREE HOURS teaching me how to use it! Used it subsequently in Japan, for a two weeks in Hong Kong and a month in Thailand before returning to the USA to overhaul atomic submarines. Still have it though the top is dented from when my daughter dropped it in a airport 20 years later. As a technical operations officer for the CIA my go to was a Canon AE-1 and throughout my career with the government I had unlimited free film, they wanted us to stay in practice shooting and developing. Digital has spoiled me, would love to get back into film.
i love the feeling of physically capturing a moment in time, like, actually physically capturing. That exact moment has been chemically captured on a physical piece of film, its almost genuine magic, like im some sort of time wizard who collects parts of the universe
I am veteran film shooter and I am pleased to see how the young generation has embraced film. Film is a great medium to use which has fantastic colour rendering and grain. Cheers
The only downside is that because there is a lot more demand for film these days, but it still remaining pretty niche in the photography world, prices are going through the roof and it becomes really (and I mean really) expensive over time. In addition, in a lot of countries film is way harder to get and a lot more expensive because of that (in my country, the price of one 35mm Portra 800 roll costs 25$, it's insane), so it is hard not to get frustrated. I just hope that someday in the future, film photography won't be so niche so it will become a lot more accessible everywhere, basically making it sort of a 'necessity' and as a result, dirt cheap (like it used to be back in the day...), but there's a long way to go. Still, great video. You really stepping up the game with your content lately (the edits and storytelling...), good job! Love your channel, keep doing amazing work!
For folks new to film photography, I gotta clarify on the part where he says "you don't even need to edit them". There's this huge misconception, which I believed at one point too, that film has this naturally "baked in" look to it (although film stocks do have different characteristics. I know...I'm contradicting myself lol). It wasn't until I started scanning (and later developing) on my own, where I saw just how subjective it is. When you get lab scans, your images can look different from lab to lab, technician to technician, or even which scanner is used. Even before digital photos came around there was still "editing" in the sense of dodging/burning, push/pull, etc. Just want to temper people's expectations b/c I remember being disappointed w/my first few rolls after the images didn't look how I wanted them to (compared to what I saw on socials). But once I experimented with different scanning + editing methods it got the point where I achieved the "film" look (based on my own subjective view of it).
i got into film actually by watching this channel so hats off to you man for creating a community. I started 4 weeks ago with 0 film cameras, today I own; Minolta F, Pentax SP2, Canon autoboy 2, canon ae-1 and a mamiya sekor 528TL... i might have a slight GAS problem.
Oh dear, i got back into film when i got my first slr film camera back out of its box 18 months ago which i bought 48 years ago and the only one i kept, now ive got 17 and still looking for another
I've been binging your content for the past few days! I ordered myself an Olympus XA & a Nikon F3. I am excited for them to arrive and start messing around with some film. Keep the great content coming!
I just got started shooting film about a year ago! That bliss feeling when you mentioned getting your results back is 100% accurate lol. Nerves are bad just waiting for the the whole time 😂 like “man I sure do hope they come out good” or “I hope I got the shot I wanted”
I hope the momentum continues! I got back into shooting film a few years ago when I discovered how easy it was to develop at home - since that was the main reason I stopped (labs, lab cost, etc.) I took all my film cameras out of hibernation and have refilled the fridge with film. Been buying all the cameras I lusted after.
I have been shooting film for decades. I shot medium format film for about 15 years. Just before I began working at a newspaper, I started shooting small format film. When I worked at a photographic reproduction studio, I started using large format film. I no longer process E-6 color film, but I still process black & white 35mm roll film, 120 roll film, 4x5 inch sheet film, and 8x10 inch sheet film.
I am loving this! In 2003 I reluctantly started shooting digital after shooting film since the 70's! Love that this is a thing again and that my favorite film stock, TriX, is still available!
I just started film photography this year and just finished my first roll of film. Super nervous about the result, but the experience is non comparable with digital camera. I find myself thinking lot about composition, finding things worth photographing, and also actually want to shoot more. I strongly recommend all photographers to at least try shooting film once, even if it's with an exposable camera. The experience film offers is truly unique on its own.
If I didn't start shooting film, I would have quit photography by now. I shoot so much digital between college sports to city govt. I had to find something to slow me down and Film was that for me. I love it so much.
Film is special! I love the process. And to me the process is the reason to shoot film. My phone is my snapshot camera. The film camera lends itself to slowing everything down. I’m dusting off my Beseler darkroom enlarger to get that feel again for film. Great video!
All legendary black and white photographers did alot of editing in the darkroom. From dodging and burning to cropping. I'd love a Leica M6 but even if I had it but I could not afford using it. A 36 images 35mm film + developing and scanning etc is over 60usd where I live. The cost of 100 rolls would get me a 6 month roadtrip through europe instead.
Started making photos with my phone, then a Sony a6000, and then my best friend let me borrow his Nikon F3 to shoot with and i’ve been hooked since. I have an OM-1 now and love learning how photography works, and man it’s just hella fun to go out with a mini time capsule. Not seeing the result right away honestly lowers my stress when shooting too. If it’s that important then i’ll take a few before moving on. Will say, the cost is crazy though, you really gotta ask if each photo’s worth it lol. Keep up the channel and the photos!
Love you channel. Watch every video. The one thing I would really love to see is an updated video about film developing and scanning. Specifically for those just getting into film,,, many will be sending out film for processing. Do you typically pay for high res scans or just regular scans? Do you still mostly send out to DarkRoom? Do you home scan? Do you specify which scanner to use? Do you customize your scans through the lab? Seems like so much info out there on which film stock to buy, camera to use and approaches to taking the photo but not that much content on what to do with your film when then the roll is completed.
I haven't done it on a full time basis. But I just picked my 3rd and 4th rolls this last weekend. Though I still shoot with my Zf and D800 when I feel like going back to DSLRs.
I love shooting film, just got back into it and love the feeling, everything slows down. I tried shooting film about 6 years ago and it didnt work, i loved each and every photo from those roll of film but it was pricy.
Let’s be real, film photography is all about the feel but comes with a steep cost. You can hone your photography skills just as well on digital and produce some stunning work. That said, shooting film is like listening to a vinyl record… it has a reminiscent feel (at least for me). Shooting film reminds me of my childhood the same way I listened to my parents records on the weekend. I don’t have the budget to own a fridge full of 35mm Portra stock and make do with self rolled hp5. I also have switched to developing at home (fairly easy with b&w), which also keeps down the cost. Do I shoot film every day? Heck no, but when I do, It’s a treat that feeds my nostalgia and geek interests, the rest of the time I’m behind my mirror less full frame.
My wife bought me a Canon AL 1 for less than $40.00. 🤩 It's in mint condition, battery compartment is intact, light meter is working, the 50mm f1.8 lens is clean. I'm not selling it, just saying that there are still great items out there at your local thrift store. 😊 Stay broke, happy shooting! 📸📸📸
Spot the fad. You need to shoot on the best camera. You need to shoot on a new camera. Megapixels. You need a Leica. A bigger Leica. No, get a Fuji. A newer Fuji! A Fuji with a fixed lens. No, get a camera with a CCD sensor. A different CCD sensor. A Kodak sensor! A junky old digicam. Hurray for digicams! No, you should shoot film. Real film. Film from a company you never heard of. Get a film camera. An old one. Old ones are better than new ones. Buy a Nikon film SLR. Don’t be seen in public with a Nikon DSLR. People will laugh at you. Film is everything. 35mm film. No, the new 110:film from Lomography. Film. We need a new fad. Quick, what’s left. Medium format. You need a Kowa. Or a Mamiya. Old East European cameras. What else can we plug to get clicks? Large format! And on it goes…..
Nice video. I’ll never not shoot film but the shit is expensive. Even disposable cameras are $27 each. 😭😭 Developing at a lab is another $15-$20. And where I live, you never find cameras in thrift stores like your vids. They’re ALL in camera shops going for $200+. It’s tough outchea but I’mma stick beside it. 😅😅
Interesting video. I take my film to a photo lab. They develop , print and scan so I don't have to do it. And they can do a way better job than I ever could.
If film photography gets more popular, it will be cheaper to produce film due to economies of scale. Demand will increase the price, but it will also incentivize competition, driving the price down.
I think we should think of shooting film like a fine meal out. You don't do it all the time, but when you do it's special and memorable. I love shooting film and agree it has a different feel. There is something about the sound and pull of winding for a new shot and thinking about the f stop, speed, focus and composition; knowing I won't even see how I did for a while. Maybe it's also like driving a manual sports car on a mountain road - it's not the family hauler, but it feeds the soul!
Lol. This. Back in the 90s I had a bulk loader because it cost me a few bucks a roll to develop. Now there's no more drop-off stores around the corner it's over 25 a roll. That's nuts.
@@damo42315fg at least you’re honest about the “feel” of film cameras being such a draw. Many people insist that colors on film can’t be reproduced in Lightroom, which I strongly disagree with. I think 99% of the reason folks shoot film is because of emotion or feel, not the end results of the photos themselves.
It can get expensive but like film and processing isn't very expensive. Honestly the most expensive part might be the cost of shipping the film somewhere which even then is like 6 bucks. Although you can just batch send it in instead of individually to save. Edit: some film can cost alot, however I always use the Fuji 400 from Walmart which is like $24 for a pack of 3 rolls with 36 shots each which is like 2 cents a picture. I get my photos developed at Dwayne's because it's pretty close to me and a local store sends it in for me but even then it's $6 / roll to develop. Cost then ends up being like 40 cents a photo. Overall as a hobby, film photography definitely isn't as much of a money pit as some people make it out to be if you don't fall into the trap of gear collection.
I've been debating getting back into film but the choice is between either a Nikon F3 or a Voigtlander Bessa R3A for a cheaper entry to try Leica glass .
Yes and no, unless you have a darkroom your negatives are processed by a machine. Which means the results are consistent. Not entirely a bad thing, but the processing affects the contrast and grain of the negative. (I'm talking B&W as I grew up processing that in my parent's basement darkroom) That is only the first step of the process however. You talk about people scanning the negatives, but that's missing a large part of film photography. The choice of paper, the length of exposure, the dodging and burning of the image. Blowing it up to increase the grain. The time in the developer, the time in the fixing agent. Even how you choose to dry the photos after washing. Just about every process in photoshop and similar programs comes from the dark room working on prints from negatives. If you are shooting film and then scanning the film, or allowing a machine to process the prints, you're wasting your money. And talking about wasting money, I travelled to the UK and Germany in 1992. I prepaid for the film for the trip spending a few hundred dollars to have enough film to last 18 days. I still needed to buy film there and pay for developing (I didn't have access to a lab and I was shooting colour). That's in 1992, I spend hundreds on photos of my trip, most of which went into a shoebox never to be seen again. I have 50,000 plus photos on my computer. I can search them to find the one I want almost instantly. I edit them with the same kind of tools I used in the dark room and have photos I'm happy to put in a photography show at the local gallery. With film the least expensive part of your hobby is the camera. And of all the money you spend on film, only a small fraction of the photos are keepers. I'm not knocking it. I'd love to have a working darkroom again, but the computer is the next best thing.
I don't know man, I mean I LOVE film, I have 2 film cameras, but lab developing is low quality and has gotten expensive where I live, plus environmental laws don't even consider developing chemicals anymore, you're just not allowed to pour them down the drain, so no home developing. I had to switch to digital, adapting my vintage lenses. I love shooting this way, but it's sad to leave my old cameras gathering dust because basically all odds are stacked against economically and environmentally sustainable film shooting. Love your videos btw, I'm just a frustrated european lol
It's like this in America too. I live in CO, and influencers can't fathom that most of us are 100 miles away from a camera store PERIOD, much less a store you could trust
One lab I dev my stuff from has an asking rate of 22 dollars a roll for dev and scan in new york city... However, while I was in Thailand. I had gotten 120 or 35mm a roll to be for 250 baht or 7 dollars for dev, scan, cloud upload, and delivery of the film strip..... What!?
I shoot on film too, but I'm only taking pictures of events that are exceptional and rare or that I want to remember those moments with pictures too. Why? Because 35mm is SOOO expensive. I get it that in the west you just grab whatever change you have in your rear pockets and buy a 3 pack portra 400 in the next photo shop, but it's not like that here. Also encouraging film with a Leica in the thumbnail is not begginer friendly to younger generations who don't even know what film is, let alone an analogue camera.
I find the debate between film and digital ridiculous, shooting on film doesn't make any picture better. I couldn't afford to shoot on film everyday as I do digitally. Many "big" photographers that made it in the peak of photojournalism shoot digitally today, because they have nothing to prove and simply look for the more convenient way to achieve their vision, given by the technical advantages of digital cameras.
You're right on the point the whole "film is better" or "film shoots better pictures" idea being BS. The only thing that makes film or digital better than each other is if it is inspiring to the photographer. Because at the end of the day, the only way you'll get the better photo is if your camera makes you want to get out there and shoot that photo in the first place. The process of experimenting with film stocks, the feeling of shooting on an old film camera, developing and scanning negatives, and waiting to see how your photos turned out - if that is inspiring to a photographer, they are likely to shoot better photos as a result. If a different photographer places more value in the convenience and affordability of digital, being more free with taking as many shots as they want, being able to view their images more quickly, enjoys experimenting with editing and color grading, etc - If that is inspiring to someone, they will shoot better photos. I personally lean more towards film, but I love both. Wanting to get a fuji camera with film simulation so I can sorta get some of both worlds. While I LOVE shooting on my film camera, I don't love how expensive it is The result is that I just don't shoot that often, because I wouldn't be able to afford it.
Agree with this. Unless you're doing your own darkroom post processing, you lose half of the control over the appearance of your photographs to your local film developer. you might squabble with the percentages, but 50% of a photograph is capturing the moment with your camera - the other 50% is post production in lightroom.
It's not about being better, it's about the process. Sure, I can buy a coffee table from a store, but making my own from a living oak tree in my backyard is so much more satisfying and uniquely mine.
HOW CAN ONE CONNECT WITH MORE LIKEMINDED PEOPLE WHO SHOOT FILM? I FEEL THERES PEOPLE EVERYWHERE BUT NOT HAVING A BIG FOLLOWING I KINDA FIND IT HARD EVEN THROUGH FB GROUPS. ANY SUGGESTIONS ?
I understand the affirmative arguments, however, if taken literally, a substantial increase in film consumption would quickly cause supplies of film to exhaust. Further, it would overrun processing services, as new film shooters are not going to be in the DIY class. At the same time, it would cause inflation in the cost of both film and processing. No matter how supply increases, that inflation is not likely to be rolled back. Given that film photography has been a contracting industry for nearly thirty years, suppliers are not doing to immediately launch massive reinvestment into production of new films. They will ramp up production marginally over time to avoid what might well prove to be over spending on a temporary fad, so the shortages and high prices will persist. None of these producers have any vested interest in seeing inflated prices on their products fall. (Not sure where his comment that Fuji is expanding film production is coming from. As far as I know, Fuji is just paying Kodak to repackage a couple of its second-string consumer color negative film in Fuji labels.) Part of the film stock expansion problem here is that Kodak and Fuji literally closed their product development labs in their film divisions many years ago, planning to coast on production of existing products and withdrawing products from the market as demand contracted. If now they wanted to reverse course, their problems are that they fired the highly skilled staffs, sold off the equipment, and in Kodak's case, pulled down the building and made it into a parking lot at their Rochester complex. Fuji complains that they withdrew films because they couldn't source chemicals critical to the manufacturing process. While I personally doubt the truth of that statement, it's clear that if true, Fuji long ago abandoned its research facilities and ability to work around such issues.
Interesting opinons. I don't agree with most of them but interesting nonetheless. I'm sorry but digital can look just like film (most film). Inexpensive? Disposable cameras are one thing but if you get serious about shooting film it then becomes expensive. Very expensive. I came of age shooting film. Loved shooting Kodachrome (probably the most unique color profile of them all and the one that actually CAN'T be replicated by digital). But I started shooting digital when it become a serious tool, along with film. And now just mostly digital and very rarely film and that's not just the expense it's mainly because of enviormental impact which is the real danger to the recent film renaissance. The manufacturing and processing of film is an old, dirty, toxic business and that will certainly kill the film industry’s resurgence quicker than film's new found fans losing interest.
Shooting film is fun, except when you need to buy your film stock, and paid for it to get developed and scanned (or buy the dev kit by yourself). I love shooting with film, really do. But the prices... man...
I’m 12 camera bodies, multiple lenses, two tripods, 3 monopods , 6 bags and a mini fridge full of film in…. And we will not talk about the flash units or Pocket Wizards….🤫😄 But I do not have GAS…
I shoot film in 2024 because I did in 84, and all decades after that! But that said, I shoot digital too. I like to see it all as tools, you get the tool out of the toolbox to get the job done. Film is not a higher force.
4:48 "Film photography is the future..." In what ways? As much as I like shooting film (for fun), I think this is way too optimistic. How many companies manufacture new film camera? Practically zero, except Leitz and some large format camera shops. Both are kinda smaller niches, typically occupied by deep pocketed enthusiasts or seasoned pros. Not exactly beginner friendly. We are practically stuck with 30, 40, 50 years old gears which are not supported anymore. And no new spare parts. Films are getting expensive these days. For color film, we use the modified version of Kodak Vision. Good luck if you want to shoot slide. Fortunately, BW films typically are priced lower. Not every company has the capabilities like Kodak/Fuji to manufacture films.
Shooting film for web applications is like riding horses indoors on a treadmill. People spend all this money on film only to get digital scans so they can post it on IG. Most people don’t print and when they do its from a digital scan using digital printers. I know the magical feeling of shooting film I did it for years but I’m happy to no longer get custied for rolls and development/scans just for the “feel”.
Everyone should??? Quite a few of the fim era ones are happy with digital ... negative, positive, color and b&w in every exposure. No film cost, no harmful chemicals... 😊
Unless one does analog prints either themselves or with a lab, there is no real film look. Once you scan your negs or transparencies you have digital files, just like digital capture
Film is dead, everyone who thinks otherwise is delusional, and lot of this video is serious cope. "Can't replicate film", yes, yes you can. The only way film makes sense is 6x9 MF, or large format. A roll of film costs anywhere between 10 - 30$, with 36 exp. You can't seriously believe this is in any way cheaper than buying a used APS-C camera and just practicing with zero dev or scanning costs. Also please comment how; shooting, developing, scanning, fixing in post, is in any way faster than just sharing to social media, where a vast bulk of your audience will be. No one besides other camera nerds care you shot on a Hasselblad x-pan with E4 slide film. I say this as I also was a coping fool clinging onto film for about 15 years. It's simply impractical outside of being a hardcore artist.
100% agree, I don't get this hype. But whatever I just enjoy my time while people have to remove their skinflakes and cat hair from their scanned film in lightroom
Film is experiencing a renaissance phase, which explains the high demand for it. However, claiming it to be the future, as mentioned in the video? I highly doubt that.
The cost is too high for me to shoot primarily film at $36 a roll from start to the end negative. And if I want prints like I did get back in the day that would be an extra $9. So I will be shooting my digital camera. I don't create any revenue from my photography it is just a hobby form me.
If I had unlimited money, and unlimited storage capacity, I'd constantly be shooting medium format film with a great rangefinder camera such as the Mamiya 6.
Are you kidding dude - what planet are you on? When I shoot a gig or event for my clients, I usually take over 1,000 images. If you were shooting with film and were careful, you could maybe bring it down to half of that. Everything is fast moving and I barely get a chance to change a battery. How could I stop every 36 shots to change a cartridge. Here in Australia one 35mm 36 ex is nearly 50 bucks. After scanning and processing, you are looking at nearly 70 bucks. Divide that into say 500 images, and I'd be broke on my first shoot. Young people who weren't brought up on film like me, think it's all warm and fuzzy and nostalgic. The great Steve McCurry summed it up perfectly when he said "....I have no feelings of nostalgia about film, it was hard work dragging around 250 rolls on a Nat Geo assignment. I was very happy to say goodbye to film and embrace digital". Thanks Steve - well said!
Did ChatGPT write this? Really, there are no other downsides to film other than cost and "it's addicting?" Film photography is alive and well, but Film Photography RUclips is deader than dead
Film Photography remains pretty relevant and looking at google trends and other stats. Not much has change since 2022. Also, half my suggested youtube videos are just alone on film photography alone.
At this point film RUclipsrs are just lifestyle influencers who happen to shoot film. Cameras are an accessory. I want to see more videos about artistic approach, composition, and personal expression. But I guess the "thrift hauls", "what's in my camera bag" or "top 10 film cameras of all time" get clicks and views.
I think film is for photographers who think very highly of themselves as artists. Notice how film photographers always brag about their equipment, but never about their photographs? That’s because the end result is the same as digital - it’s just the process of taking photos and the feeling it imparts that’s different. There’s really no practical reason to use film anymore.
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Film is my only vice. I don’t drink, smoke or eat out a whole lot. I love the slowness of film, lining that shot up & taking it. It’s just so enjoyable.
ikr
I went from shooting with my $4.5k mirrorless to shooting consistently with my $20 Pentax Spotmatic that i got at the Berryessa flea market. No regrets.
love this, just got a spotmatic aswell!
I call BS. sell me your mirrorless for $20 then. If you’re happy with your $20 point and shoot, no need to keep that other camera around and collecting dust.
@@1970rsc tf??
@@1970rsc ima let it collect dust. Cry about it
@@howiejpeg exactly. So if your buddy asks you to snap some photos for his wedding, you’d show up with your $20 Pentax from the flea market with no regrets? Nope. I’m CONFIDANT you’re going to bring your mirrorless with all your lenses, filters and lights plus a fancy carry bag/backpack.
I shot film in high school and college in the early 1970's with my Dad's Tower 32B 35mm SLR from Sears (made by Mamiya), pretty fancy at the time, bought my first serious camera on the Ginza during a trip to Japan Summer of 1976 after graduating from Ga Tech, a Nikon Nikomat (not Nikkormat) FT2 with an f/1.4 50mm lens, flash, bag and film for three $100 American Express traveler's checks (serious dough at the time & a very heavy camera by today's standards) - the clerk spent THREE HOURS teaching me how to use it! Used it subsequently in Japan, for a two weeks in Hong Kong and a month in Thailand before returning to the USA to overhaul atomic submarines. Still have it though the top is dented from when my daughter dropped it in a airport 20 years later. As a technical operations officer for the CIA my go to was a Canon AE-1 and throughout my career with the government I had unlimited free film, they wanted us to stay in practice shooting and developing. Digital has spoiled me, would love to get back into film.
ive been using film since 1990
havent stopped will not stop!
#k1000 #6x7
i love the feeling of physically capturing a moment in time, like, actually physically capturing. That exact moment has been chemically captured on a physical piece of film, its almost genuine magic, like im some sort of time wizard who collects parts of the universe
This is exactly the confirmation bias I needed today. Thank you brother
I am veteran film shooter and I am pleased to see how the young generation has embraced film.
Film is a great medium to use which has fantastic colour rendering and grain.
Cheers
I love the film community! It’s been very inclusive and encouraging. I pick up my film kits more than my digital for my personal work
The only downside is that because there is a lot more demand for film these days, but it still remaining pretty niche in the photography world, prices are going through the roof and it becomes really (and I mean really) expensive over time. In addition, in a lot of countries film is way harder to get and a lot more expensive because of that (in my country, the price of one 35mm Portra 800 roll costs 25$, it's insane), so it is hard not to get frustrated. I just hope that someday in the future, film photography won't be so niche so it will become a lot more accessible everywhere, basically making it sort of a 'necessity' and as a result, dirt cheap (like it used to be back in the day...), but there's a long way to go.
Still, great video. You really stepping up the game with your content lately (the edits and storytelling...), good job! Love your channel, keep doing amazing work!
Ugh the production value on this video is SENDING ME
Sending you where?
For folks new to film photography, I gotta clarify on the part where he says "you don't even need to edit them". There's this huge misconception, which I believed at one point too, that film has this naturally "baked in" look to it (although film stocks do have different characteristics. I know...I'm contradicting myself lol). It wasn't until I started scanning (and later developing) on my own, where I saw just how subjective it is. When you get lab scans, your images can look different from lab to lab, technician to technician, or even which scanner is used. Even before digital photos came around there was still "editing" in the sense of dodging/burning, push/pull, etc. Just want to temper people's expectations b/c I remember being disappointed w/my first few rolls after the images didn't look how I wanted them to (compared to what I saw on socials). But once I experimented with different scanning + editing methods it got the point where I achieved the "film" look (based on my own subjective view of it).
I genuinely felt goosebumps at that photo reveal at 3:48. Damn.
i got into film actually by watching this channel so hats off to you man for creating a community. I started 4 weeks ago with 0 film cameras, today I own; Minolta F, Pentax SP2, Canon autoboy 2, canon ae-1 and a mamiya sekor 528TL... i might have a slight GAS problem.
Oh dear, i got back into film when i got my first slr film camera back out of its box 18 months ago which i bought 48 years ago and the only one i kept, now ive got 17 and still looking for another
I've been binging your content for the past few days! I ordered myself an Olympus XA & a Nikon F3. I am excited for them to arrive and start messing around with some film. Keep the great content coming!
I just got started shooting film about a year ago! That bliss feeling when you mentioned getting your results back is 100% accurate lol. Nerves are bad just waiting for the the whole time 😂 like “man I sure do hope they come out good” or “I hope I got the shot I wanted”
I hope the momentum continues! I got back into shooting film a few years ago when I discovered how easy it was to develop at home - since that was the main reason I stopped (labs, lab cost, etc.) I took all my film cameras out of hibernation and have refilled the fridge with film. Been buying all the cameras I lusted after.
I have been shooting film for decades. I shot medium format film for about 15 years.
Just before I began working at a newspaper, I started shooting small format film.
When I worked at a photographic reproduction studio, I started using large format film.
I no longer process E-6 color film, but I still process black & white 35mm roll film, 120 roll film, 4x5 inch sheet film, and 8x10 inch sheet film.
I am loving this! In 2003 I reluctantly started shooting digital after shooting film since the 70's! Love that this is a thing again and that my favorite film stock, TriX, is still available!
I just started film photography this year and just finished my first roll of film. Super nervous about the result, but the experience is non comparable with digital camera. I find myself thinking lot about composition, finding things worth photographing, and also actually want to shoot more. I strongly recommend all photographers to at least try shooting film once, even if it's with an exposable camera. The experience film offers is truly unique on its own.
I finally found justifications for embracing "the negatives". Thanks, King 👑
If I didn't start shooting film, I would have quit photography by now. I shoot so much digital between college sports to city govt. I had to find something to slow me down and Film was that for me. I love it so much.
Film is special! I love the process. And to me the process is the reason to shoot film. My phone is my snapshot camera. The film camera lends itself to slowing everything down. I’m dusting off my Beseler darkroom enlarger to get that feel again for film. Great video!
Digital is a technical event, film is emotional
All legendary black and white photographers did alot of editing in the darkroom. From dodging and burning to cropping. I'd love a Leica M6 but even if I had it but I could not afford using it. A 36 images 35mm film + developing and scanning etc is over 60usd where I live. The cost of 100 rolls would get me a 6 month roadtrip through europe instead.
Can’t say I miss the film experience . My I phone is a monster . Never going back to film .
Printing photographs on paper is a
possibliity .
Started making photos with my phone, then a Sony a6000, and then my best friend let me borrow his Nikon F3 to shoot with and i’ve been hooked since. I have an OM-1 now and love learning how photography works, and man it’s just hella fun to go out with a mini time capsule. Not seeing the result right away honestly lowers my stress when shooting too. If it’s that important then i’ll take a few before moving on. Will say, the cost is crazy though, you really gotta ask if each photo’s worth it lol. Keep up the channel and the photos!
I've been a little down on film lately. Thank you for the inspiration.
I like it because it’s fun. That’s all the reason I need
Love you channel. Watch every video.
The one thing I would really love to see is an updated video about film developing and scanning. Specifically for those just getting into film,,, many will be sending out film for processing. Do you typically pay for high res scans or just regular scans? Do you still mostly send out to DarkRoom? Do you home scan? Do you specify which scanner to use? Do you customize your scans through the lab?
Seems like so much info out there on which film stock to buy, camera to use and approaches to taking the photo but not that much content on what to do with your film when then the roll is completed.
Okay. You got me. I am convinced. Will be taking the plunge this month. I have an old medium format camera that needs dusting off first...
I haven't done it on a full time basis. But I just picked my 3rd and 4th rolls this last weekend. Though I still shoot with my Zf and D800 when I feel like going back to DSLRs.
I love shooting film, just got back into it and love the feeling, everything slows down. I tried shooting film about 6 years ago and it didnt work, i loved each and every photo from those roll of film but it was pricy.
Let’s be real, film photography is all about the feel but comes with a steep cost. You can hone your photography skills just as well on digital and produce some stunning work. That said, shooting film is like listening to a vinyl record… it has a reminiscent feel (at least for me). Shooting film reminds me of my childhood the same way I listened to my parents records on the weekend. I don’t have the budget to own a fridge full of 35mm Portra stock and make do with self rolled hp5. I also have switched to developing at home (fairly easy with b&w), which also keeps down the cost. Do I shoot film every day? Heck no, but when I do, It’s a treat that feeds my nostalgia and geek interests, the rest of the time I’m behind my mirror less full frame.
These clips had me feeling nostalgic 🥲
Great Video! Long Live Film Photography!
The process of shooting Film just hits different. It’s more of an experience 🤌🏼.
That’s the thing - there is absolutely no practical reason to shoot film. Only emotional ones like the “feeling” you mention.
Toyota is running A commercial where people and the spokeswoman are taking pictures themselves with FILM cameras !
My contention is that there is no need to archive or keep the negatives if you have scanned them. Fight me! :). Nice presentation KJ.
I really hope that's just sarcasm
My wife bought me a Canon AL 1 for less than $40.00. 🤩 It's in mint condition, battery compartment is intact, light meter is working, the 50mm f1.8 lens is clean. I'm not selling it, just saying that there are still great items out there at your local thrift store. 😊 Stay broke, happy shooting! 📸📸📸
Spot the fad. You need to shoot on the best camera. You need to shoot on a new camera. Megapixels. You need a Leica. A bigger Leica. No, get a Fuji. A newer Fuji! A Fuji with a fixed lens. No, get a camera with a CCD sensor. A different CCD sensor. A Kodak sensor! A junky old digicam. Hurray for digicams! No, you should shoot film. Real film. Film from a company you never heard of. Get a film camera. An old one. Old ones are better than new ones. Buy a Nikon film SLR. Don’t be seen in public with a Nikon DSLR. People will laugh at you. Film is everything. 35mm film. No, the new 110:film from Lomography. Film. We need a new fad. Quick, what’s left. Medium format. You need a Kowa. Or a Mamiya. Old East European cameras. What else can we plug to get clicks? Large format! And on it goes…..
yeah man i started filming like a year ago love it!
Nice video. I’ll never not shoot film but the shit is expensive. Even disposable cameras are $27 each. 😭😭 Developing at a lab is another $15-$20. And where I live, you never find cameras in thrift stores like your vids. They’re ALL in camera shops going for $200+. It’s tough outchea but I’mma stick beside it. 😅😅
Interesting video. I take my film to a photo lab. They develop , print and scan so I don't have to do it. And they can do a way better job than I ever could.
Rip to affordable film roll prices 😭
If film photography gets more popular, it will be cheaper to produce film due to economies of scale. Demand will increase the price, but it will also incentivize competition, driving the price down.
@@Datdus92😅😅😅😅😅
@@Datdus92 Economics meets film photography. I am in heaven.
thoroughly enjoyed this! thanks for keeping the dream alive 🫡
My dad have nikon f4 and f5, maybe its time for the comeback!
awesome video, a new style in your channel. Ihope more videos like this to come!!!!!!!!!!
Nah, I like eating and not living on the street.
Agreed. I love the feel of a mechanical and manual camera but I can’t afford to just shoot film so I went with a digital with m mount lenses.
I think we should think of shooting film like a fine meal out. You don't do it all the time, but when you do it's special and memorable. I love shooting film and agree it has a different feel. There is something about the sound and pull of winding for a new shot and thinking about the f stop, speed, focus and composition; knowing I won't even see how I did for a while. Maybe it's also like driving a manual sports car on a mountain road - it's not the family hauler, but it feeds the soul!
Lol. This. Back in the 90s I had a bulk loader because it cost me a few bucks a roll to develop. Now there's no more drop-off stores around the corner it's over 25 a roll. That's nuts.
@@damo42315fg at least you’re honest about the “feel” of film cameras being such a draw. Many people insist that colors on film can’t be reproduced in Lightroom, which I strongly disagree with. I think 99% of the reason folks shoot film is because of emotion or feel, not the end results of the photos themselves.
It can get expensive but like film and processing isn't very expensive. Honestly the most expensive part might be the cost of shipping the film somewhere which even then is like 6 bucks. Although you can just batch send it in instead of individually to save. Edit: some film can cost alot, however I always use the Fuji 400 from Walmart which is like $24 for a pack of 3 rolls with 36 shots each which is like 2 cents a picture. I get my photos developed at Dwayne's because it's pretty close to me and a local store sends it in for me but even then it's $6 / roll to develop. Cost then ends up being like 40 cents a photo. Overall as a hobby, film photography definitely isn't as much of a money pit as some people make it out to be if you don't fall into the trap of gear collection.
I’ve been trying to stick to 1 maybe 2 rolls a month.
I've been debating getting back into film but the choice is between either a Nikon F3 or a Voigtlander Bessa R3A for a cheaper entry to try Leica glass .
Yes and no, unless you have a darkroom your negatives are processed by a machine. Which means the results are consistent. Not entirely a bad thing, but the processing affects the contrast and grain of the negative. (I'm talking B&W as I grew up processing that in my parent's basement darkroom) That is only the first step of the process however. You talk about people scanning the negatives, but that's missing a large part of film photography. The choice of paper, the length of exposure, the dodging and burning of the image. Blowing it up to increase the grain. The time in the developer, the time in the fixing agent. Even how you choose to dry the photos after washing.
Just about every process in photoshop and similar programs comes from the dark room working on prints from negatives.
If you are shooting film and then scanning the film, or allowing a machine to process the prints, you're wasting your money.
And talking about wasting money, I travelled to the UK and Germany in 1992. I prepaid for the film for the trip spending a few hundred dollars to have enough film to last 18 days. I still needed to buy film there and pay for developing (I didn't have access to a lab and I was shooting colour). That's in 1992, I spend hundreds on photos of my trip, most of which went into a shoebox never to be seen again.
I have 50,000 plus photos on my computer. I can search them to find the one I want almost instantly. I edit them with the same kind of tools I used in the dark room and have photos I'm happy to put in a photography show at the local gallery.
With film the least expensive part of your hobby is the camera. And of all the money you spend on film, only a small fraction of the photos are keepers. I'm not knocking it. I'd love to have a working darkroom again, but the computer is the next best thing.
nice new video style. I like. at the moment im waiting for my fuji 800 scans. film was expired in 2002. oooOOOO ; )
What camera did you use?
I don't know man, I mean I LOVE film, I have 2 film cameras, but lab developing is low quality and has gotten expensive where I live, plus environmental laws don't even consider developing chemicals anymore, you're just not allowed to pour them down the drain, so no home developing. I had to switch to digital, adapting my vintage lenses. I love shooting this way, but it's sad to leave my old cameras gathering dust because basically all odds are stacked against economically and environmentally sustainable film shooting. Love your videos btw, I'm just a frustrated european lol
It's like this in America too. I live in CO, and influencers can't fathom that most of us are 100 miles away from a camera store PERIOD, much less a store you could trust
One lab I dev my stuff from has an asking rate of 22 dollars a roll for dev and scan in new york city...
However, while I was in Thailand. I had gotten 120 or 35mm a roll to be for 250 baht or 7 dollars for dev, scan, cloud upload, and delivery of the film strip..... What!?
im shooting film bcuz of kingJvpes
I've been shooting Polaroid most of the time, does that count? 😀
I shoot on film too, but I'm only taking pictures of events that are exceptional and rare or that I want to remember those moments with pictures too. Why? Because 35mm is SOOO expensive. I get it that in the west you just grab whatever change you have in your rear pockets and buy a 3 pack portra 400 in the next photo shop, but it's not like that here. Also encouraging film with a Leica in the thumbnail is not begginer friendly to younger generations who don't even know what film is, let alone an analogue camera.
How did u get the pictures in the video
Obvious analog propaganda. Love it.
I find the debate between film and digital ridiculous, shooting on film doesn't make any picture better.
I couldn't afford to shoot on film everyday as I do digitally.
Many "big" photographers that made it in the peak of photojournalism shoot digitally today, because they have nothing to prove and simply look for the more convenient way to achieve their vision, given by the technical advantages of digital cameras.
You're right on the point the whole "film is better" or "film shoots better pictures" idea being BS. The only thing that makes film or digital better than each other is if it is inspiring to the photographer. Because at the end of the day, the only way you'll get the better photo is if your camera makes you want to get out there and shoot that photo in the first place.
The process of experimenting with film stocks, the feeling of shooting on an old film camera, developing and scanning negatives, and waiting to see how your photos turned out - if that is inspiring to a photographer, they are likely to shoot better photos as a result. If a different photographer places more value in the convenience and affordability of digital, being more free with taking as many shots as they want, being able to view their images more quickly, enjoys experimenting with editing and color grading, etc - If that is inspiring to someone, they will shoot better photos.
I personally lean more towards film, but I love both. Wanting to get a fuji camera with film simulation so I can sorta get some of both worlds. While I LOVE shooting on my film camera, I don't love how expensive it is The result is that I just don't shoot that often, because I wouldn't be able to afford it.
Agree with this. Unless you're doing your own darkroom post processing, you lose half of the control over the appearance of your photographs to your local film developer. you might squabble with the percentages, but 50% of a photograph is capturing the moment with your camera - the other 50% is post production in lightroom.
It's not about being better, it's about the process. Sure, I can buy a coffee table from a store, but making my own from a living oak tree in my backyard is so much more satisfying and uniquely mine.
Y’all, ask your parents. My dad has a ton of old Olympus and Leica film cameras that were like $150 bucks in the 90s. Just use those
HOW CAN ONE CONNECT WITH MORE LIKEMINDED PEOPLE WHO SHOOT FILM? I FEEL THERES PEOPLE EVERYWHERE BUT NOT HAVING A BIG FOLLOWING I KINDA FIND IT HARD EVEN THROUGH FB GROUPS. ANY SUGGESTIONS ?
Bring back kodachrome64 and lets talk. Haha!
But yea we need new film cameras
Man called me broke with a youtube video title
Does anyone know where to get film cameras repaired in the Bay Area?!?! Desperately need my Nikon F2 looked at
I understand the affirmative arguments, however, if taken literally, a substantial increase in film consumption would quickly cause supplies of film to exhaust. Further, it would overrun processing services, as new film shooters are not going to be in the DIY class. At the same time, it would cause inflation in the cost of both film and processing. No matter how supply increases, that inflation is not likely to be rolled back. Given that film photography has been a contracting industry for nearly thirty years, suppliers are not doing to immediately launch massive reinvestment into production of new films. They will ramp up production marginally over time to avoid what might well prove to be over spending on a temporary fad, so the shortages and high prices will persist. None of these producers have any vested interest in seeing inflated prices on their products fall. (Not sure where his comment that Fuji is expanding film production is coming from. As far as I know, Fuji is just paying Kodak to repackage a couple of its second-string consumer color negative film in Fuji labels.) Part of the film stock expansion problem here is that Kodak and Fuji literally closed their product development labs in their film divisions many years ago, planning to coast on production of existing products and withdrawing products from the market as demand contracted. If now they wanted to reverse course, their problems are that they fired the highly skilled staffs, sold off the equipment, and in Kodak's case, pulled down the building and made it into a parking lot at their Rochester complex. Fuji complains that they withdrew films because they couldn't source chemicals critical to the manufacturing process. While I personally doubt the truth of that statement, it's clear that if true, Fuji long ago abandoned its research facilities and ability to work around such issues.
Hey would like a review of the new $199 Instax...they say it is more like a film camera.
Interesting opinons. I don't agree with most of them but interesting nonetheless. I'm sorry but digital can look just like film (most film). Inexpensive? Disposable cameras are one thing but if you get serious about shooting film it then becomes expensive. Very expensive.
I came of age shooting film. Loved shooting Kodachrome (probably the most unique color profile of them all and the one that actually CAN'T be replicated by digital). But I started shooting digital when it become a serious tool, along with film. And now just mostly digital and very rarely film and that's not just the expense it's mainly because of enviormental impact which is the real danger to the recent film renaissance. The manufacturing and processing of film is an old, dirty, toxic business and that will certainly kill the film industry’s resurgence quicker than film's new found fans losing interest.
Have you ever thought of hosting a Photowalk in the Bay Area? 🤗
Shooting film is fun, except when you need to buy your film stock, and paid for it to get developed and scanned (or buy the dev kit by yourself).
I love shooting with film, really do. But the prices... man...
I’m 12 camera bodies, multiple lenses, two tripods, 3 monopods , 6 bags and a mini fridge full of film in….
And we will not talk about the flash units or Pocket Wizards….🤫😄
But I do not have GAS…
No GAS maybe. But definitely add to that list … a Partridge in a Pear Tree.
I shoot film in 2024 because I did in 84, and all decades after that! But that said, I shoot digital too. I like to see it all as tools, you get the tool out of the toolbox to get the job done. Film is not a higher force.
4:48 "Film photography is the future..."
In what ways?
As much as I like shooting film (for fun), I think this is way too optimistic.
How many companies manufacture new film camera? Practically zero, except Leitz and some large format camera shops. Both are kinda smaller niches, typically occupied by deep pocketed enthusiasts or seasoned pros. Not exactly beginner friendly. We are practically stuck with 30, 40, 50 years old gears which are not supported anymore. And no new spare parts.
Films are getting expensive these days. For color film, we use the modified version of Kodak Vision. Good luck if you want to shoot slide. Fortunately, BW films typically are priced lower. Not every company has the capabilities like Kodak/Fuji to manufacture films.
...long live film...
Shooting film for web applications is like riding horses indoors on a treadmill. People spend all this money on film only to get digital scans so they can post it on IG. Most people don’t print and when they do its from a digital scan using digital printers. I know the magical feeling of shooting film I did it for years but I’m happy to no longer get custied for rolls and development/scans just for the “feel”.
Everyone should??? Quite a few of the fim era ones are happy with digital ... negative, positive, color and b&w in every exposure. No film cost, no harmful chemicals... 😊
Unless one does analog prints either themselves or with a lab, there is no real film look. Once you scan your negs or transparencies you have digital files, just like digital capture
❤❤
Digital cameras are just so bulky and the photos they take have no soul, that’s why I’ve mostly stuck with instant film and reel film
Film is dead, everyone who thinks otherwise is delusional, and lot of this video is serious cope. "Can't replicate film", yes, yes you can. The only way film makes sense is 6x9 MF, or large format. A roll of film costs anywhere between 10 - 30$, with 36 exp. You can't seriously believe this is in any way cheaper than buying a used APS-C camera and just practicing with zero dev or scanning costs. Also please comment how; shooting, developing, scanning, fixing in post, is in any way faster than just sharing to social media, where a vast bulk of your audience will be. No one besides other camera nerds care you shot on a Hasselblad x-pan with E4 slide film. I say this as I also was a coping fool clinging onto film for about 15 years. It's simply impractical outside of being a hardcore artist.
100% agree, I don't get this hype. But whatever I just enjoy my time while people have to remove their skinflakes and cat hair from their scanned film in lightroom
Film is experiencing a renaissance phase, which explains the high demand for it. However, claiming it to be the future, as mentioned in the video? I highly doubt that.
Bought a Leica MP because of you and others. I will never financially recover...
(it was worth it)
Nah. Film stocks are too expensive.
Nah. Mirrorless, fast primes, computers, external hard drives, uhs2 cards, batteries, ps/lr subscriptions are too expensive.
@@Brando90198 I’m not a professional to need all that gear.
Send me a few thousand dollars and yeah sure, I’ll shoot film all summer long! :)
Even 20 y. ago film was too expensive. No - I am not going back to film.
Tell us you were born this century without telling us.
Hate to be that guy, but since it’s my name, acquisition with a Q. 😊
Poquito a poco.
Your parents? Dude. Please realize that not all of your channel fans are under 30. 😂 this video made me feel very old.
With film being $5 to 10 above inflation, it’s not realistic.
Film takes away all my digital GAS.
Nah mate. All about Polaroid
The cost is too high for me to shoot primarily film at $36 a roll from start to the end negative. And if I want prints like I did get back in the day that would be an extra $9. So I will be shooting my digital camera. I don't create any revenue from my photography it is just a hobby form me.
expensive especially if youre not earning dollars or euro
No, but thanks. Cool video though.
If I had unlimited money, and unlimited storage capacity, I'd constantly be shooting medium format film with a great rangefinder camera such as the Mamiya 6.
Are you kidding dude - what planet are you on? When I shoot a gig or event for my clients, I usually take over 1,000 images. If you were shooting with film and were careful, you could maybe bring it down to half of that. Everything is fast moving and I barely get a chance to change a battery. How could I stop every 36 shots to change a cartridge. Here in Australia one 35mm 36 ex is nearly 50 bucks. After scanning and processing, you are looking at nearly 70 bucks. Divide that into say 500 images, and I'd be broke on my first shoot. Young people who weren't brought up on film like me, think it's all warm and fuzzy and nostalgic. The great Steve McCurry summed it up perfectly when he said "....I have no feelings of nostalgia about film, it was hard work dragging around 250 rolls on a Nat Geo assignment. I was very happy to say goodbye to film and embrace digital". Thanks Steve - well said!
Did ChatGPT write this? Really, there are no other downsides to film other than cost and "it's addicting?" Film photography is alive and well, but Film Photography RUclips is deader than dead
Film Photography remains pretty relevant and looking at google trends and other stats. Not much has change since 2022. Also, half my suggested youtube videos are just alone on film photography alone.
to say film photography youtuber is deader than dead is just plain wrong :p
At this point film RUclipsrs are just lifestyle influencers who happen to shoot film. Cameras are an accessory. I want to see more videos about artistic approach, composition, and personal expression. But I guess the "thrift hauls", "what's in my camera bag" or "top 10 film cameras of all time" get clicks and views.
I think film is for photographers who think very highly of themselves as artists. Notice how film photographers always brag about their equipment, but never about their photographs? That’s because the end result is the same as digital - it’s just the process of taking photos and the feeling it imparts that’s different. There’s really no practical reason to use film anymore.
Nothing against shooting film, just feel this video is cringy