Film photography has a certain allure. It attracts many people, despite the fact that it seems like a hassle, time-consuming, and expensive process. Curious to see if the effort, expense, and hassle are worth it, one photographer decided to embark on a similar photographic journey.
Coming to you from Rick BebbingtonThis fascinating video explores the realities of shooting on film. Bebbington discusses his Praktica TL1000, a fully manual SLR with a built-in exposure meter. He also talks about his Olympus XA2 point-and-shoot. Both cameras, which were purchased on the cheap, are an appealing entry into the world of film. The Praktica TL1000 comes with a 50mm f/1.8 lens, providing a versatile range for a variety of shooting conditions.
Bebbington needed film, so he chose Kodak Portra 160, Kodak GoldAnd Ilford HP5. Each film has its own characteristics. Portra 160 is known for its pastel colors, making it ideal for colorful scenes. Kodak Gold works well in sunny conditions, while Ilford HP5, a black-and-white film, produces great results in clear weather. However, these films cost almost as much as the camera itself, adding to the cost.
Using these film cameras in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks was an adventure. Bebbington found that his Praktica TL1000 ran out of film after a while, a frustrating but rewarding experience. His Olympus XA2 also ran out of film. Despite these setbacks, he continued, determined to shoot with the remaining film.
Shooting on film slowed Bebbington down, making each shot more intentional. Knowing that each shot costs money, you naturally think more about composition and timing. This deliberate approach contrasts with the instantaneous nature of digital photography. It provides a new, complete experience that he enjoys, even when he doesn’t know what the image will look like.
Bebbington completed his rolls of film in Denver’s colorful Five Points neighborhood, a stark contrast to the landscape he was shooting. He overcame the challenges of airport security with film, avoiding potential damage from X-ray machines. Developing and scanning the film took weeks, and the wait added to the anticipation.
When he received the developed film, Bebbington was delighted with the results. The personality of the Ilford HP5 stood out, providing a unique aesthetic that he appreciated. While some shots had issues with focus or composition, the overall experience was rewarding. Comparing the film footage to the digital versions highlights the differences between each medium. While film adds a certain personality, the essence of photography—subject and composition—remains central.
The trip taught Bebbington that film photography, while more cautious and slower, offers a unique sense of accomplishment. Each shot becomes a testament to careful planning and execution. Despite the costs and challenges, the joy of shooting on film and the unique results it produces make it worth pursuing. Bebbington plans to continue exploring film, experimenting with different types of film and refining his technique. The low cost of entry into film photography, combined with the immersive experience, makes this analog adventure worthwhile. Watch the video above for Bebbington’s full rundown.
