You're likely here because you might be interested in hiring a film photographer for your engagement photos, for your wedding or for both! You are certainly in the right place because I am a wedding photographer who spends my free time (which I don't have a lot of to be honest) educating couples about their options when hiring a film photographer for the biggest moments of their lives. So if you are here, feel free to check out all our other film resources under the "35mm Film" category of this blog.
There's truly something magical about film photography. The way the light hits the grain, the richness of the colors, that vintage feel that just can't be replicated by a digital preset—it all adds up to create images that feel timeless and alive. And when it comes to capturing the most special moments leading up to your wedding day (and the day-of), there's honestly nothing quite like having your engagement photos made on film. If you stick around and follow us on Instagram or follow the blog, you'll see just how much we love educating soon-to-be brides about all the good things film photographer have to offer.
The Pros of Choosing Film for Your Engagement Session
Here are just a few of the perks of hiring a film photographer for your engagement shoot:
1. Film has a unique look and feel.
One of the biggest draws of film photography is its unique aesthetic. While digital photography can certainly produce beautiful images, film has a certain quality that's hard to replicate. The colors are often richer and more vibrant, and the grain gives the images a tactile, almost painterly quality. Film photographers are experts at using the medium to create images that feel authentic and timeless.
2. Film encourages intentionality.
When you shoot on film, you can't just fire off a hundred shots and hope that one of them turns out. Film is expensive and finite, so each shot counts. This encourages both the photographer and the subjects to slow down and be intentional with each frame. As a result, the images feel more deliberate and thoughtful.
3. Film captures light in a unique way.
Film responds to light differently than digital sensors do. While digital cameras can often struggle with high-contrast scenes or low light, film has a wider dynamic range that allows it to capture a wider range of tones. This means that film photographers are able to create images that feel more natural and true to life.
4. Film is a tangible medium.
There's something special about holding a physical print in your hands. With film photography, you have something that you can touch, frame, and display in your home. Plus, since film has been around for over a century, you can be sure that your images will stand the test of time.
What are the Cons of Shooting Film?
Of course, there are also some downsides to shooting on film. For one, it can be more expensive than digital photography, both in terms of equipment and materials. It also requires more skill and experience to get the most out of the medium. However, for those who are willing to invest in the process, the results can be truly stunning.
When it comes to comparing 35mm film to digital photography, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. For one, 35mm film has a unique look and feel that's hard to replicate digitally. Film also has a wider dynamic range, which allows it to capture more detail in highlights and shadows. However, digital cameras have come a long way in recent years, and they offer several advantages over film, such as the ability to shoot in low light and the convenience of instant feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between film and digital comes down to personal preference. If you're looking for images that feel timeless, authentic, and full of character, then film might be the way to go. And if you're lucky enough to find a talented film photographer who can capture your love story on film, you're sure to cherish those images for years to come.
Film Engagement Photos
Hiring a Film Photographer for Your Memories
Fingers crossed that after this post, you realize how impactful using film can be for the biggest moments of your life! If you'd like to read a little more, you can check out our main film info page here. Or you can follow us on Instagram, where I share all kinds of film photos and tips!
