5 Important Things New Film Photographers Need to Know
I’ve been shooting film exclusively for 2 years now and have made my fair share of assumptions and mistakes. These mistakes have led to blank film rolls and wasted shots. From those mistakes came very hard lessons that I wish I had known before diving into film head-on. With that in mind, I want to help you NOT make the same mistakes I made and let you in on 5 important tidbits to help you if you’re just getting into film.
1. Get to Know Your Camera and Film Stock
Film cameras are known to have a bit more personality, style, and quirks. Whether you’re into old-school SLRs, a sleek point-and-shoot, or a rangefinder, take some time to familiarize yourself with your camera. Learn how to set the aperture, shutter speed, and focus manually if needed. You can most likely find a video on YouTube or the manual online. And don’t forget about film stock! Some rolls give you warm, dreamy tones, while others deliver crisp, punchy colors. Try different ones and find what suits your vibe.
2. Light Metering is Your Best Friend
Since you won’t get instant feedback like on a digital camera, nailing your exposure is key. Some cameras have automatic metering and some do not. If your camera doesn’t have a built-in light meter, grab a handheld one or use a smartphone app. A simple trick? Expose for the shadows—film is super forgiving in highlights, but underexposure can be a real headache. When in doubt, err on the side of overexposing just a little to get those dreamy film tones. If you’re completely new to photography you’ll need to get a basic understanding of the exposure triangle.
3. Find a Good Film Lab (or Try Developing Yourself!)
Your film journey doesn’t end when you press the shutter. Finding a solid lab is crucial because processing and scanning can seriously affect your final images. If you’re up for it, developing black-and-white film at home is easier (and cheaper) than you might think. Plus, there’s nothing quite like pulling a developed roll out of a tank for the first time!
4. Slow Down and Be Intentional
One of the biggest shifts from digital to film is learning to slow down. With only 24 or 36 shots per roll, you start thinking more carefully about each frame. Instead of firing off a bunch of shots, take a moment to frame your subject, check the light, and make sure everything feels right. Not only will this make you a better photographer, but it also makes each shot feel more special.
5. Embrace the Imperfections
Here’s the thing—film isn’t about perfection. It’s about character. Light leaks, grain, color shifts, and even happy accidents like double exposures can add personality to your photos. Instead of stressing over little mistakes, learn to love them. Some of the best film shots are the ones that feel raw and real.
Final Thoughts
Shooting film is an adventure, and like any good adventure, it comes with surprises. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or planning a photo walk with a fresh roll, the beauty of film photography lies in the process. So load up your camera, take your time, and enjoy the journey—one frame at a time!