35mm film has long been the standard for analog photography, beloved for its rich texture, vibrant colors, and timeless aesthetic. Whether you're a seasoned photographer looking to explore film or someone new to the medium, 35mm offers an authentic, tactile experience that digital simply can’t replicate.
Here’s a brief guide to help you understand the essentials of capturing stunning 35mm images you love!
1. Understanding 35mm Film
35mm is the width of the film strip, which has been used in both photography and cinematography for decades. The small but mighty size provides excellent resolution and is widely available in a range of different stocks! Each frame is full of character and feeling, delivering beautiful grain and a distinct look that's impossible to replicate on digital.
2. Choosing the Right Camera
When choosing your 35mm camera, think about the features that will help you get the shots you want. SLR cameras offer more control over exposure, while point-and-shoot cameras are great if you're looking for simplicity and ease. Popular options include cameras from Nikon, Canon, Pentax, and Olympus. Each brand offers a wide variety of various models, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your shooting style and budget!
3. Selecting Your Film Stock
Film stock is what gives 35mm photos their distinctive look. Some films are better suited for certain light conditions, while others deliver unique color profiles or grain textures. For example, Kodak Portra is known for its soft, warm tones and is ideal for portrait photography, while Fujifilm's Pro 400H is known for its vibrant greens and blues, making it perfect for nature shots, and Cinestill offers a unique, bold touch unlike any other! Whether you choose color or black-and-white film, there’s a stock for every creative vision.
4. Exposure and Lighting
Exposure is one of the most crucial aspects of shooting 35mm film. Unlike digital cameras, film requires careful manual adjustments. You’ll need to balance your aperture (how much light enters the camera) with your shutter speed (how long the light is exposed to the film). Learning to "read" light is key to getting the perfect shot, and using a light meter can help you achieve accurate exposure in tricky lighting conditions.
5. Composition and Framing
35mm film cameras often have a small viewfinder, so composing your shots requires a keen eye. Take your time to frame each shot thoughtfully, considering the elements in the scene and the story you want to tell. Film encourages intentionality, as each frame costs you a shot. Focus on capturing the moments that feel meaningful and authentic, trusting that imperfections add to the beauty.
6. Developing and Scanning Your Film
After shooting your roll of 35mm film, you’ll need to have it developed. Many online labs offer both development and scanning services, so you can digitize your images for editing or sharing. Once scanned, you can edit your image scans digitally in Lightroom or other photo editing app, or leave them as-is to maintain their organic feel. A note that scanning is inherently an editing process, so there is no right or wrong way - just what is right for you.
Ready to Dive Deeper?
Shooting 35mm film is all about embracing the process—taking the time to get each shot just right and allowing the medium's beautiful imperfections to shine through. If you're ready to dive deeper into the world of 35mm photography, our complete guide offers all the tips, techniques, and expert advice you need to perfect your skills.
