Film photography holds a very special place in my heart. For me, it offers a deep sense of nostalgia and timelessness. I love adding film photography to weddings and portrait sessions because, in this era of instant gratification, I truly believe that people long for something to hold on to and to look back at, which is exactly what film photography does.
In this day and age, with everything so readily available at our fingertips, indulging in things that remind us of simpler times can offer a sense of contentment that is so necessary in this fast-paced digital world we live in.
Another reason I love the imperfect images created by film photography is that it offers a deep sense of authenticity, which I think people crave in response to the overly curated social media feeds we were taught to create and consume. To be honest, I’m here for this shift!
Keep reading to learn more about whether film photography is right for your wedding!
Why Should You Add Film Photography to Your Wedding or Portrait Session?
The first thing that I want to say is that film simply isn’t for everyone, and if it’s not your vibe, that’s totally okay too. But if you do choose to add it to your wedding, just know that you’ll receive back photos that look and feel truly unique, as film photography is a skill that truly takes a lot of practice to master.
Also, film photography will capture your love story in a different way – one that feels vintage, timeless, and cinematic. You’ll have a collection of images that tell a story that is intentional and can’t be replicated.
How my love of film photography developed
I had the privilege of growing up in a household where our family’s events were all regularly documented. My Lolo (grandpa) would always take photos during family trips and holidays.
Looking back, I can confidently say that my profound love for photography was influenced by my Lolo. Now, when I visit my dad’s house, I love to spend time flipping through the stacks of photo albums my Lolo had curated (sometimes haphazardly). But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
When my Lolo passed in 2019, he left behind his Nikon EM, which ended up inspiring me to try out film photography. I took it with me on a trip to Greece, along with my DSLR. I took photos with both, but there was something that felt so magical about the images I produced with the film camera.
I feel like the experience of having to wait until you are able to have the film processed adds to the sense of magic.
With film photography, you’re typically limited to 24-36 exposures per roll. Shooting with this limitation has forced me to learn how to shoot more intentionally when photographing weddings and portrait sessions.
I’ve learned to observe more, have more patience, focus on composition, and not overshoot. It’s something that has become so valuable in how I have approached my wedding photography these past several years.
Why don’t I offer only film coverage for weddings and portrait sessions?
I get this question a lot! So, I offer hybrid digital / film photography because I think of the digital photos as insurance. I know sometimes film camera malfunctions happen or the film doesn’t develop (this has only happened once or twice, and with personal photos *knock on wood*), and with weddings being so fast paced, it’s important to cover all your bases and be prepared just in case something happens.
Questions to ask to find the perfect film photographer for your wedding
If you are considering film photography for your wedding, here are some important questions I would encourage you to ask before hiring your film photographer:
What type of film do you photograph with?
Not all film stocks are the same! For example, I only offer 35mm film photography coverage. Some other photographers might only offer Polaroid or 120 mm, or maybe a mix of all three! For color, I typically like to shoot on Kodak Portra 400, Kodak Ultra Max 400, and a recent fave for my point and shoot has been Fuji Film 400. For b&w, I like Ilford HP5 Plus.
Can you share examples of your film photography work?
This question is so important! Ask the photographer you’re considering to send over examples of their work so you can get a better idea of what your own film images will look like. Every photographer has a different style, so it’s important to get a good understanding of what style you gravitate towards when searching for the right photographer.
Is Film Wedding Photography Right for You?
I hope you found all this info on film photography helpful and that it’s made the decision easier on whether it’s right for you or not.
And… if you’re still looking for a San Francisco wedding photographer with a documentary style approach who values inclusivity and authenticity (and of course who loves film), then let’s connect! I offer 35 mm film photography as a special add-on to any wedding or portrait package of your choice.
When you work with me, you can add partial 35mm film photography coverage to your full wedding day for $600. With this, you will also receive at least scans from 3 rolls of film taken with a 35mm film camera. For SF City Hall or smaller elopements, partial coverage can be added for $400 for 1 roll of film. The film scans will be uploaded to the same gallery as your digital photos.
Also, partial 35mm film photography coverage can be added to any engagement or portrait session for an additional $400 as well, which includes 1 roll of film. Additionally, I offer the option to choose either color or black and white film stocks!
You can learn more about my wedding services here or get in touch with me here.
And, if you’re interested in adding 35mm film photography to your wedding or session, be sure to mention it in your inquiry form, that way I can send you more details and answer any questions you may have!
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