What does film mean to you as a client?

Film photography is something I have talked about A LOT as a San Diego Family Photographer, but just in case you're not quite sure what that means for you, let me shed some light on it. Film is an old-school method of photography that is making a big comeback. In the late 1990s, the digital camera started to enter the market, and film photography began to decline. Digital is fast and powerful, with the latest technology making it relatively foolproof to produce a good photo.

But where is the fun in that?

Over the past eight years or so, the community of film lovers has been growing. Despite the fact that film cameras are no longer produced and Kodak is the only major player still creating film, many photographers, including myself, are choosing to shoot exclusively on film.

So why do I limit myself to such a vintage way of photographing families?

Because it's an art form. The process is soulful and slow, offering a stark contrast to our fast-paced, throwaway society. Film is tangible, and the resulting images possess a unique, lovely quality that digital photos often lack. The colors, the grain, the depth—there's a certain magic to film that can't be replicated by digital means. It's about the journey as much as the destination, and for many of us, that journey is what makes film photography truly special.

The Tangibility of Film

One of the most significant aspects of film photography is its tangibility. In a world where digital files can be easily deleted or lost in the digital abyss, film offers a physical presence. Holding a developed negative or a printed photograph creates a connection to the moment captured. It's a keepsake, a tangible piece of history that digital files can never quite match. Each roll of film holds a series of moments, each frame a deliberate choice I make, adding weight and significance to each shot.

The Artistic Process

The artistic process of shooting film is markedly different from digital photography. With film, every shot counts. There's a limited number of exposures per roll, which makes you think carefully before pressing the shutter. This deliberation fosters a deeper connection to the subject and scene, encouraging you to slow down and truly engage with your surroundings. This slow, intentional approach can lead to more meaningful and artful images.

Additionally, developing film is a hands-on experience. Whether done in a darkroom or sent to a lab, the development process requires patience and care. Watching an image slowly appear on photographic paper in the darkroom is a magical experience that adds another layer of creativity and satisfaction to your family photos as art.

The Unique Aesthetic

Film photography is renowned for its distinctive aesthetic qualities. The color rendition, contrast, and grain structure of film create images that have a timeless, nostalgic feel. Different film stocks offer various looks, from the vibrant colors of Kodak Portra to the dramatic contrasts of Ilford HP5. The imperfections and variability of film—such as light leaks, grain, and occasional flaws—add character and a sense of authenticity to the photographs.

The Challenge and Reward

Film photography comes with its challenges, but that's part of the allure. From selecting the right film stock to mastering manual camera settings and perfecting development techniques, the learning curve is steep but rewarding. The satisfaction of overcoming these challenges and producing a beautiful image is unparalleled. Each successful photograph feels like a true accomplishment for me.

In conclusion, film photography is more than just a method of capturing images; it's a rich, immersive experience that combines artistry, craftsmanship, and a deep appreciation for the photographic process. For me, the choice to shoot film is about embracing these values and finding joy in the journey of creating something truly special for each of my clients.

Want to talk more about film, contact me here. If you’d like more information on what a photo session is like with me, hit the button below, my friend.

Alison is an award-winning San Diego, CA analog film photographer and photography educator. Her work has been featured in many online publications such as Shoot It With Film, 35mmc, and Heartful Magazine, social media features, and published works like The Front Steps Project Book.