We’re talking about my deep, deep love today.. no not coffee, my kids, or my husband LOL, - f i l m! If you know me, you know I’ve been obsessed with film for a very long time (before it was trendy, LOL). I would always look at my grandparents' photos in awe. The nostalgic, warm and fuzzy feeling it gives is truly unlike anything digital could produce. It has been on my bucket list for a very long time to learn film and really hone in on my film style, however with two littles, it’s easier said than done. I put it on the back-burner for a long time with a new little babe and told myself it wasn’t the time. I won’t lie, analog photography is hard. You have to learn a completely different camera, manual focus, not to mention- the trillions of film options you can choose from. It all seemed extremely overwhelming to me and I had no idea where to even begin. I finally just decided to… start. I shot everything on film that I could in the beginning. It was such a learning curve, but I promise you, it was well worth it. Film photos are so incredible that I’ve decided to start offering film add-ons to all of our clients. Let me give you a few reasons I love film, and why you should too.

The Nostalgia

When you look at film photos, I feel like you can’t help but smile. They are not only nostalgic, but they truly withstand the test of time. Even 50 years later, I still look at film photos in complete awe, forever chasing not only that style of photography, but the feelings that come with it. I have a lot of appreciation for everything antique and nostalgic, if you’re also in this boat, absolutely consider adding on a few rolls of film to your package, I promise you won’t be disappointed.

The Art of Staying Present

One of the main reasons I’ve grown to love film so much, it helps everyone stay present in the moment. It helps not only me, but our clients as well. With film, you only get so many shots. When I shoot film, I am constantly looking at my subjects and how they’re interacting, the lighting, the location, the positioning, the interaction, the emotion. I am concentrated less on shooting non-stop and setting up the perfect moments, but more so letting the moments unfold and taking my time to observe. This helps my subjects stay focused on each other, and helps me be a very observant fly on the wall, which in-turn, creates more authentic moments.

Pittsburgh Film Photography Hartwood Acres

The Wait

Unlike digital, film is not instant. In the age of everything being available the second you want it to be, it can be so refreshing and stinkin’ exciting to have to wait on something you’re really looking forward to. There are not many feelings that match the feeling of getting your film back after it’s developed. It really takes you right back to that moment. I truly geek out when those film scans hit my inbox.

The Imperfections

One of the main reasons I love film so much- the imperfections. In 2023 we are all about sharp images and mirrorless cameras, however, with film, you learn to embrace the imperfections. There can sometimes be light-leaks, overexposure, underexposure, blurriness, some grain, and they are all somehow… stunningly beautiful.

The Way That These Photos Are Art

Not much to say here, I consider photography in general to be art. However film photographs , in my opinion, are next level. The emotion and presence in the photos are really hard to match on any other medium. Film is such beautiful work of art and I believe it shows in every photograph.

All that to say, if you are a film enthusiast, admirer, or even just want to add something different to your package, do it. I will absolutely do a happy dance, and you will be happy-dancing right back when you get your film scans back.

Happy Friday
xx

Kellie