Why You Need To Shoot Film For Boudoir Photography In 2023

Everything that is old becomes new again

In recent years, film photography has seen a resurgence in popularity. This is likely due to a number of factors, including the increasing availability of film cameras and the growing interest in retro and vintage aesthetics.

There are many reasons why people are choosing to shoot film photography. For some, it is a way to connect with the past and to create images that have a timeless quality. Others appreciate the challenge of working with film and the sense of accomplishment that comes from developing their own prints. And still others simply enjoy the unique look and feel of film photography. For me it is all of these reasons. That is why I recently started offering boudoir photo shoots on film to my customers who prefer this look and style.

Below is a behind the scenes video I created from a boudoir photo shoot shot on Fujifilm color 200 35mm film. The video also features all of the photos from the photo shoot.  

​Here are some of the reasons why film photography is becoming popular in 2023:

The increasing availability of film cameras - Film cameras have become more affordable and easier to find in recent years. This has made it possible for more people to experiment with film photography. Some of my favorites include the Canon Elan 7E 35mm film camera, Olympus Pen FT half-frame film camera, and the Rolleiflex TLR 120 medium format film camera.

The growing interest in retro and vintage aesthetics - Many people are drawn to the unique look and feel of film photography. The graininess and imperfections of film can add a sense of nostalgia and warmth to images. I prefer how elegant the images look because you don't have 43 megapixels picking up every detail in your skins pores like digital cameras do.

The challenge of working with film - Film photography is a more hands-on process than digital photography. This can be a challenge for some people, but it can also be a rewarding experience. I enjoy how shooting boudoir photography on film really makes you slow down and trains your eye to focus on all details before snapping the photo. I want to get the shot perfect because each roll of film is limited to a set number of photos.

The sense of accomplishment that comes from developing your own prints - Developing your own prints is a rewarding experience. It allows you to take control of your creative process and to see your images come to life in a new way. A long time ago developing your own photos at home was nearly impossible. You had to have a dark room set up with chemicals everywhere. Today the process is somewhat the same, but it's easier than ever to do it. I also made a video on my YouTube channel showing an easy way to develop black and white film at home.

The unique look and feel of film photography - Film photography has a unique look and feel that is not possible to replicate with digital photography. This is one of the reasons why many people are drawn to film photography. Even with digital filters most phones of photo editing apps use, there is a beautiful, raw look to film boudoir photography.

If you are interested in trying film photography, there are a few things you need to do.

First, you need to find a film camera. You can find film cameras at thrift stores, online, and in some camera stores. I have found that buying old or vintage film cameras on eBay to be the best option, specifically from sellers in Japan. They thoroughly inspect the camera and will describe its condition. I have found the most sellers in the United States do not give a complete description because they are likely trying to hide problems with the camera. If the price is very low, expect something to be wrong with the camera.

Second, you need to buy film. Film is available in a variety of formats and speeds. 35mm will be most common to find. Black and white film will be less expensive to purchase than color film.

Third, you need to develop your own prints. You can develop your own prints at home or at a local photo lab. It may be easier, but more expensive to have a lab develop your film. Most labs will offer to print your photos as well as digitally scan them. 

Film photography can be a rewarding experience. It allows you to create unique images with a timeless quality. If you are interested in trying film photography, there are a few things you need to do. But with a little effort, you can be taking amazing film photos in no time. However, i would advise to practice on manual mode with your phone or an inexpensive digital camera, because film is expensive and mistakes can add up!

To schedule your very own film boudoir photo shoot with us, pleas click on the book a shoot button below.

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