If you’re new to film photography, welcome to the exciting world of capturing moments with a touch of nostalgia. As a photographer, I love the unique qualities that film brings to an image. Today, I’m going to share some essential tips on film photography for beginners to help you get started on your journey.

The Intentional Process of Film Photography

The first thing I want to discuss about film photography for beginners is that film is a more intentional process than digital. You can’t just snap away and check your results instantly. You need to think carefully about each shot you take. This slower approach can help you become a more thoughtful and deliberate photographer.

Brothers hugging during family photos | NKB Photo

Shooting Often

When you’re learning how to use film, it’s important to shoot often. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at understanding how film works. You’ll start to get a feel for the nuances of different lighting conditions and how they affect your images.

Understanding Film Aesthetics

Film photography has a distinct aesthetic that many photographers love. Film images are often more grainy and nostalgic, giving them a timeless quality. Depending on the type of film you use, the colors can be either contrasty or muted. Experiment with different films to see which ones you like best.

Metering for Light

Properly metering for light is crucial in film photography. I use a special light meter to help me get the right exposure. When I’m using a certain F-stop and speed (ISO), my light meter tells me if I need to adjust. For instance, I typically use Porta 800 film, which I rate at 200 and shoot at 2.8 or 4.0.

Adjusting Film Speed and Shutter Speed

You’ll need to adjust your film speed or shutter speed based on the light meter's reading. I usually shoot at 125, 400, or 1000, depending on the light. If you’re shooting backlit, you might want to stop down one to highlight your subject better.

Metering Techniques

I recommend metering below your subject’s chin, both facing outward and back towards the photographer. This helps you ensure that you’re getting the right exposure without blocking your subject. This technique works well to balance the light and shadow on your subject’s face.

Choosing the Right Lighting Conditions

I love shooting on overcast days because the light is flat and there are no harsh shadows. Film handles highlights better than digital, so you don’t have to worry as much about bringing down the highlights in post-production. On sunny days, film captures the details of the sky beautifully, making the clouds prominent and adding depth to your images. With digital photos, the sky can seem white or there may be a halo around the clouds because you’ll have to pull back the highlights.

Mom holding baby during family photos | NKB Photo

Embracing the Learning Curve

With film photography for beginners, there’s definitely a learning curve but don’t let that discourage you. The more you practice, the more comfortable you’ll become. Embrace the mistakes and learn from them. Each roll of film you shoot will teach you something new and help you improve.

Film photography for beginners can be a rewarding and enriching experience. It encourages you to slow down, think about your shots, and appreciate the unique qualities of film. By understanding the basics, experimenting with different films, and practicing regularly, you’ll soon develop your own style and love for this timeless art form. So grab a roll of film, get out there, and start capturing those beautiful moments! If you’d like additional information about film photography, I offer mentoring sessions where we can discuss the process so reach out today!