In today’s digital world, where phone cameras capture every fleeting moment, there’s a resurgence of something truly special at weddings: the beauty and artistry of 35mm analogue film. As a photographer who embraces both the crisp precision of digital and the soulful charm of vintage cameras, I’m witnessing firsthand the unique magic that film brings to these celebrations of love.

There’s an undeniable romance to film. It’s not just about capturing an image; it’s about capturing a feeling. The subtle grain, the nuanced tones, the way film handles light – it all contributes to a depth and texture that digital often struggles to replicate. It’s a look that evokes nostalgia, a timeless quality that perfectly complements the enduring nature of marriage.

The Magic of 35mm film wedding photography

Think about it: the soft glow of the bride’s dress, the rich shadows in the groom’s embrace, the vibrant yet gentle hues of the floral arrangements. Film renders these details with an almost painterly quality, transforming ordinary moments into cherished works of art.

And it’s not just the aesthetic. Shooting with 35mm film wedding photography requires a different approach, a slower, more deliberate process. Each frame is precious, demanding careful consideration of composition, lighting, and emotion. This intentionality translates into images that are imbued with a sense of artistry and purpose. It encourages me to connect with the couple and their guests on a deeper level, seeking out those authentic, unscripted moments that truly tell the story of their day.

Beyond the visual appeal, using vintage cameras adds another layer of magic. These beautifully crafted machines, often older than the couples themselves, carry a history and charm that’s hard to resist. They become a conversation starter, a tangible link to the past, and a unique element that adds to the overall experience. Imagine capturing the first dance with a camera that’s witnessed decades of celebrations, or preserving the joy of the cake cutting with a lens that’s seen countless smiles. It’s a truly special way to honor the tradition of marriage and create images that will be treasured for generations to come.

Of course, digital photography has its place at weddings too. Its speed and versatility are invaluable for capturing those fast-paced, fleeting moments, ensuring that no detail is missed. But for me, the combination of digital and analogue offers the best of both worlds. Digital provides the reliability and flexibility needed to capture the entire day, while film allows me to create those truly special, artistic images that will become cherished heirlooms.

So, if you’re planning your wedding and looking for something truly unique, consider the timeless beauty of 35mm film wedding photography. It’s a way to capture the magic of your day in a way that’s both gorgeous and enduring, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And if you’re looking for a photographer who understands the art of analogue photography, and who can blend it seamlessly with the advantages of digital, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s talk about how we can create something truly special together.

CAPTURING YOUR WEDDING DAY WITH 35MM FILM

My career began in film. I learned the art of film photography at college and university developing my own black and white film in the darkroom. From there I was using 35mm film in my music photography. I still remember capturing live shows with 3-4 rolls of film and having to wait at the lab, to see the results. Digital became the mainstream and film was lost to history. Or so I thought.

Film is back!

Film has made a huge reassurance, and I’ve incorporated it into my wedding photography, mixing digital + film into my final galleries. How does it work at weddings? I’ll give you a brief rundown as to how I incorporate this magical medium into my workflow.

I bring with me 1-2 films per wedding. I load the films into 1-2 vintage cameras and get them prepared for the day, making sure the ISO accurately reflects the film stock I’m using.

Then throughout the day, I will capture moments/details on film, mixed with the professional digital versions.

Once the day is done, the films get stored in a cool and dry place awaiting transit to the lab, where they are processed and scanned in. The lab then sends an email with the high-resolution scans, which are then added to your final gallery.

I can tell you, even now, even after 12 years of photographing weddings, I still get super excited when that email drops from the lab, to see the reults.

TIPS ON BOOKING 35MM FILM WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

Booking a 35mm film wedding photographer requires a bit more research and consideration than booking a digital photographer. Here are some key tips to help you find the perfect artist to capture your special day on film:

1. Understand the Aesthetic:

Look at their portfolio: Film has a distinct look. Make sure you love the photographer’s style. Do you prefer soft, dreamy images, or something more grainy and moody? Pay attention to how they handle light and color in their film photos.
Ask to see full galleries: Don’t just look at the highlights. Seeing a full gallery from a wedding will give you a better idea of the photographer’s consistency and how they capture the entire day on film.
Discuss your vision: Talk to the photographer about your expectations and the overall feel you want for your wedding photos. Make sure they understand your vision and can deliver it with film.

2. Experience and Expertise:

Film-specific experience: Not all photographers who shoot digital are proficient in film. Ask about their experience with film photography, specifically at weddings.
Camera and equipment: Inquire about the cameras and lenses they use for film. Make sure they have reliable equipment and backups in case of any issues.
Lab and processing: Ask about their film processing. Do they work with a professional lab that specializes in developing and scanning film? This is crucial for the final image quality.

3. Communication and Personality:

Meet in person or virtually: It’s important to connect with your photographer on a personal level. You’ll be spending a lot of time with them on your wedding day, so make sure you feel comfortable and confident in their presence.
Clear communication: Discuss your wedding day timeline, key moments you want captured on film, and any specific requests you have. Make sure the photographer is responsive and communicates clearly.

4. Packages and Pricing:

Film vs. digital packages: Some photographers offer separate packages for film and digital, while others may offer a combined package. Understand what’s included in each package, such as the number of film rolls, digital images, and deliverables (prints, albums, etc.).
Cost of film: Film photography can be more expensive than digital due to the cost of film, processing, and scanning. Be prepared for potentially higher prices compared to digital-only photographers.
Transparency: Make sure the photographer’s pricing is clear and transparent, with no hidden fees. Get everything in writing in a contract.

5. Questions to Ask:

“What type of film cameras and lenses do you use for weddings?”
“Do you have experience shooting in various lighting conditions with film?”
“How many film rolls do you typically shoot at a wedding?”
“What is your process for developing and scanning film?”
“What is your turnaround time for delivering the final photos?”

6. Trust Your Gut:

Choose someone you connect with: Ultimately, choose a photographer whose work you love and who you feel comfortable with. Trust your gut instinct and choose someone who you believe will capture the essence of your wedding day in a beautiful and timeless way.

By following these tips, you can find a talented and experienced 35mm film wedding photographer who will create stunning and unforgettable images that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.