Why You Should Get a Film Camera
A few months back I bought my first film camera. It was hard to find what I wanted but after a suggestion from a fellow Lemon8 user I bought an Olympus Infinity Zoom 70. All you have to do is buy batteries for it and the camera does the rest of the magic! It has a zoom in feature and a flash. Here are some more in depth reasons on why I fell in love with film cameras.
1. The freaking quality. Film colors are incomparable; you buy a role of colorful film and once used it’s like mother nature had gifted you a rainbow. The amount of color I can see in each photo makes the films so much more beautiful and interesting.
2. Once I look back at my images I feel an immense sense of nostalgia. It’s like I am traveling back in time. Phones do have nostalgia too but not the same aura a film photo would have.
3. A lot of photographers use film cameras to spread a message or empower an individual. For example, I took a picture of a man playing a drum in Bimini. It moved me as I knew it wasn’t easy to live on the island. Other photographers use these powerful instruments to create artwork that can inspire and make change.
4. The first question I get after taking a picture is what it looks like; I would laugh a little and tell them to wait a week. It’s always worth waiting; you don’t know what they look like but you know it’s going to be worth it. And sure enough, every-time I get the photos it’s worth every second I had to wait.
5. Since a film camera limits you on how many shots you can take it gives you more creativity. You think about what angles you want to take or how you want to approach a subject. Whereas a phone you can snap a picture anytime you want (unless you run out of storage 😅). It makes you think a bit, which again, is the beauty of film photography.
Every-time I open the notification that my photos are ready to review I get emotional. Something about each photo makes me feel moved. With all these traits combined it feels powerful and beautiful. It may cost money to maintain and use but it’s worth every bit.
Film photography has witnessed a resurgence in recent years, captivating both novice and experienced photographers. The aesthetics of film, characterized by its unique grain and color depth, create images that digital cameras often struggle to replicate. Users appreciate the authenticity that film provides, as each frame taken becomes a thoughtful endeavor rather than a quick snap. Moreover, with limited exposures per roll, film photography encourages a deeper connection to the subject. Many photographers argue that film's slower process fosters creativity and patience, helping to refine one’s skills. Stories of empowering photography are abundant, illustrating how an image can promote social change or capture profound moments in life. While the digital age offers convenience, film offers a tactile experience where anticipation builds after every shot and every roll developed. So, if you're ready to dive into this vibrant world, the Olympus Infinity Zoom 70 could be your perfect companion on this artistic adventure.
