Introduction:
Film Photography Beginners Must Know
While the wave of film photography has been ongoing for some time, it has recently been overshadowed by the trend of CCD cameras, leading to a slight decline in its popularity. However, as a former novice in film photography who has navigated through many pitfalls, I still want to document this article to help everyone achieve a smoother and happier journey in film photography!
Every shot in film photography comes at a price. If you find it costly, take a moment to think before you shoot.
As of 2024, the price of a roll of film is approximately $300 NTD, and with processing included, it totals around $400 NTD.(This is my experience in Taiwan) Many people consider film to be expensive, mainly because they are used to digital camera methods. If you are a beginner in film photography, start by learning the basics of the exposure triangle, meticulous metering, and double-checking before pressing the shutter. If you treat each photo seriously, the final results won't turn out too bad.
Film photography is not the same as digital photography, so please do not open the film carelessly.
Many beginners in film photography do not realize that film must not be exposed to light. If the film is exposed to light before it is developed, it will be ruined (this refers to the film itself, not the film canister). If your film camera breaks down or the film gets stuck halfway through shooting, do not open the film compartment of the camera. The safest approach is to take it directly to a place that specializes in repairing film cameras.
There are many options when it comes to choosing a film camera, and it’s a good idea to start with one that is easy to use.
Just like digital cameras, film cameras come in a variety of models for both professionals and beginners. As a newcomer to film photography, you can look at recommendations from others on beginner-friendly film cameras (you can refer to the article I wrote for some suggestions).
In general, film cameras from around the 2000s tend to be more electronic and automated, making them easier and quicker to use with less risk of ruining your shots. It's important for beginners to take others' recommendations as a reference but ultimately decide for themselves after handling the camera to see if it suits them. Don't choose a difficult and hard-to-use camera just for its looks.
Conclusion: The Most Important Thing is Not to Give Up on Film Photography
Many people start as complete novices in photography before they get into film photography. Without any prior experience, it's easy to have overly idealistic and romantic notions about film photography. Some even believe that new film cameras are still being made (although recently, there was the release of the Pentax 17, but that's an exception). Due to the many uncertainties in film photography, I've seen many beginners feel discouraged and upset over ruined photos, to the point where they give up on film photography entirely.
However, I must say that the charm of film photography lies precisely in these uncertainties. I often feel joy and surprise when I see the photos I took weeks earlier after developing them.
I think this might be the greatest allure of film photography!
Whether you’re into photography or not, capturing the highlights and the most beautiful moments of life is always valuable.
Feel free to send me a message. Dr. WiD offers comprehensive imaging services to meet your needs.
Dr.WiD | Video Shot/Photography Studio | Professional Film Photographer
I have been taking on projects since I was a student. In addition to two-dimensional photography such as product photography, event records, wedding records and food photography, I'm also good at video shoting and editing. Because I love film photography, so I often shoot videos on YouTube and Instagram to share my experiences.
The training in design and aesthetics allows me to quickly observe and start shooting. From video shot to film photography, events to product photography, when I faced with challenging cases and content, I always face them head-on and insist on doing my best.
Photography is not only a job or career, that is my attitude and my lifestyle!
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