Film photography was a staple in our lives about twenty years ago. As the world progressed, so did cameras. That’s why most of us have ditched film cameras, favoring its digital counterpart.
However, they’re making a comeback. This is for good reason. We’ll discuss whether it can earn a permanent place in the mainstream once more. So, read ahead.
Why Are Film Cameras Becoming Popular?
Blast From The Past
Owning something from the past is cool. So, why shouldn’t people flock to film cameras?
Social Media Loves Film Cameras
Pictures captured with digital cameras are boring. We live in the age of the internet which is why polaroids and other “instagrammable” things are very common.
Thankfully, the photographs film cameras produce fit the bill. That’s why you might see musicians utilizing them as well.
For example, pop icon Taylor Swift had polaroids all over her 1989 album.
Artistic Appeal
The pictures produced on film cameras are unique in appearance. They come with a specific hue and a way of capturing light. If you’re an artist, this can be very appealing.
Since the majority of social media users accept that polaroids and other film photographs are ‘aesthetic” in nature, this propels artists’ use of it.
Moreover, the older the camera is, the more ‘grainy’ the photograph will be. No matter how much you try to achieve this with a digital camera, you won’t be able to replicate such a look.
Better Control
If you’re a camera lover, you’ll enjoy having as much control of your subject as possible. This won’t happen with digital cameras as it’s governed by sensors. They monitor light levels of the room you’re in, adjusting the camera’s resolution.
What’s more is, the sensors have to process low light conditions. Here, it tries to overcome the lack of lighting, making a lot of digital noise in the picture. This can ruin your shot completely.
Such a situation can be very frustrating which is why many are directing themselves to film cameras.
Have Your Loved Ones Near
With the film camera by your side, you can store your favorite pictures and take them with you when you’re traveling. Over the years, collecting memories could become a hobby of yours. This is one of the many reasons people are starting to use the cameras again.
What’s more, once you have your pictures developed, they’re going to last a long time. Although the photograph will always be with you, the condition won’t always be the same.
Your only chance of getting a physical copy of a photograph from a digital camera is a printout.
It’s Technical
During the latter part of this article, we’ll be discussing how shooting with film cameras are quite technical. This is a benefit as the technical aspect makes even the most amateur photographers feel like professionals.
As they learn so much from using it, many have them just for practice.
They’re Cheap
At the end of the day, film cameras are quite cheap. This is especially true if you compare them to their digital counterparts. With the demand increasing, you can easily get hold of one, helping you find the cheapest choice.
Be Different
Everyone wants to stand out. Many of us use digital cameras which is why many opt for their film counterpart. This uniqueness has spread and has made film cameras a fad.
Why Film Cameras Won’t Become Mainstream
The above has catapulted its popularity into the mainstream. That’s why it’s unlikely that film cameras will disappear anytime soon.
That being said, there are a few obstacles in its path, limiting its reach.
Photographs Are Hard To Produce
Once you’ve captured pictures with a film camera, you have to develop your shots. This is easier said than done.
Why? Although film cameras are increasing in popularity, shops that develop your pictures aren’t abundant. If you live in the city, you’re lucky as you may find someone to help you.
Otherwise, the pictures would be locked away in the film, never getting developed.
Film Decomposes
Once it’s on a digital camera’s memory, the picture is permanent. While there, its quality is maintained. Although the photograph you produce with a film camera can last long, its quality will change.
The film you produce the pictures on can easily fade. Not just this, but there are also countless ways you could damage it. So, you need to be extra careful, especially when they age.
Thankfully, this isn’t a death sentence. There are many services that bring the oldest, most damaged photos to life. Names like instarestoration are known for this.
Film Is Hard To Get A Hold Of
Although you could easily come across a film camera, getting your hands on film can be difficult. It may be hard to find a seller near you so you’ll have to look online.
What’s more, each film camera uses a specific type of film. So you’ll have to go on the hunt for it. This makes owning the camera a real hassle.
The Pictures Aren’t High Quality
Taking pictures on a film camera is a great experience, but when the pictures are developed you’ll notice they’re not great quality. The camera doesn’t have smart sensors to enhance the pictures. That’s why it can look grainy and washed out. (As mentioned above, this could be a benefit as it’s a specific style choice.)
Over time, the lack of quality would overcome the appeal of owning a film camera for many people.
Where’s The Light Hitting?
As there are no sensors doing the job for you, you need to study the light in the room. You should be able to place your model in a way that the light would illuminate them perfectly.
For the most part, this is a pain. However, it has benefits as this allows you to become a more seasoned photographer.
Conclusion
Considering what we’ve discussed, it’s easy to see that there are many factors contributing to the rise of film cameras. Because of this, they’ve become a fad. Hopefully, they stick around.