The Return of Film Photography
Looking back at the film photography revival
Is there a place for film photography in the digital darkroom? This article revisits the revival discussed in 2017. For a startup business, the useful question is how a photographic approach supports its imagery, production budget and intended audience.
By 2007, digital cameras had changed everyday photography, but film retained a dedicated following. Familiar names such as Ilford XP2 and Kodachrome belonged to a photographic culture that continued to interest enthusiasts. Lomography was part of that wider enthusiasm: its official history dates the founding of the Lomographic Society International to 1992, following the founders’ discovery of the LOMO LC-A in 1991. Taking pride in the imperfections of toy cameras like the Diana and Holga, the movement celebrated serendipitous photography. This is epitomised by their ‘don’t think, just shoot’ philosophy.
By 2017, apps such as Hipstamatic and Instagram had made film-inspired effects familiar to digital users. Instant cameras from names such as Polaroid and Fujifilm offered another way to enjoy a physical photograph. Interest in older Mamiya, Hasselblad, Leica and Rollei cameras also reflected the appeal of different formats and handling experiences, although used-camera prices and condition vary considerably.
What draws us to film photography? At one end, nostalgia; a hankering for simple times where your holiday snaps were processed in the chemist. Another is the character of the image: grain, colour and contrast vary with the film stock, exposure, processing and scan. The lens matters too. A simple plastic lens and a more complex optical design can produce different results, so the intended appearance should guide the choice rather than a blanket judgement about one brand.
The limitations of film photography can encourage a slower approach: considering the light, composition and exposure before using another frame.
Where digital meets analogue
Once film has been processed, a dedicated film scanner or compatible flatbed can turn negatives into digital files. Choose scan resolution for the film size and intended output: 300 dpi at the original negative size is usually insufficient for an enlarged print. Follow the scanner manufacturer’s resolution guidance, and retain both the original negatives and backed-up digital masters.
Film and digital methods can complement each other. A well-maintained older camera can still produce useful work, but check its condition, film compatibility and processing options before relying on it for a project. For business use, plan how the photographs will be cropped, edited and delivered across print and online formats. Our guide to bespoke website imagery explores how original photographs contribute to a distinctive presentation.
Contact Dreamkatcha today to discuss a web design or graphic design and branding project.