The Allure of 35mm Film: Why Analog Photography is Back in Vogue

The Nostalgia Factor

Many people, even those who never used film cameras before, are drawn to the romantic and nostalgic feel of analog photography. Compared to the sterile and perfect look of digital images, film photos have a unique, imperfect, and organic look that many find appealing. The imperfections and flaws of 35mm film, such as grain, blur, and uneven exposures, create an intimate, warm, and tactile feel that digital images cannot match.


Aside from the aesthetic appeal, using a film camera also encourages patience, creativity, and deliberation: because of the cost, the limited number of shots available per roll, and the lack of immediate feedback, photographers must be more mindful and deliberate in their approach, find and choose their subjects more carefully, and immerse themselves in the process. This approach often leads to more thoughtful and intimate images, with a stronger connection to the art of photography.



The Artisanal Movement

The resurgence of analog photography is part of a larger trend towards the handmade, the artisanal, and the tactile. In our fast-paced, technological world, many people crave experiences and objects that are authentic, unique, and physically tangible. Film photography allows photographers and enthusiasts to take their craft a step further, by not only creating unique images but also physically handling and processing film.


Developing and printing film can be an artistic and meditative process, from mixing chemicals to dipping the film in the developing liquid, to manually dodging and burning the prints. The hands-on nature of film photography also spurs experimentation and innovation: photographers can manipulate the film by cross-processing, choosing different emulsions, or using expired film to achieve unpredictable and personalized results.


The Renewed Interest in Analog Lifestyle

The resurgence of 35mm film is also part of a larger trend towards lo-fi, analog lifestyles. People are increasingly looking for ways to simplify, slow down, and connect with the world around them on a more visceral and authentic level. Analog photography fits this trend because it is a simple and timeless way of documenting the world around us, using a camera with few bells and whistles, achieving intimacy and immediacy that digital cameras may not offer.


Film cameras and film photography require a reduced reliance on screens, smartphones, and technology. The act of turning dials, opening film canisters, loading film, winding the film, knowing exactly how many shots one has left, and hearing the click of the shutter are all physical, tactile, and palpable experiences that engender a deeper connection with the act of photographing. In addition, taking pictures with film allows for photographers to be more present and focused on their surroundings, without the distraction of checking their phone or the screen of their digital camera.


The Economics of Film Photography

While many forms of vintage media are increasingly collectible and therefore expensive, film photography remains a craft that insists on thriftiness and simplicity. With the proliferation of vintage film gear and the ready supply of dozens of different emulsions in multiple formats, able to mimic the tones and colors of great films over the last few years. Film cameras are still practical and readily available even after years of not being produced, photographers can find classic and workable models for not much money.


That frugality becomes visible in the way pros work; not having to constantly upgrade hefty digital camera systems lifts some pressure, and the monetized zero-sum game of trying to sell photographs to pay for some cost. That means portrait, event, and stock photographers selling black and white and color film are allowed to query art directors under their love of creating prints without fear of losing the contract. The lightweight gear might come across as social distancing, not relying on retouching teams or photo assistant usually comes for digital photography.


Final Thoughts

The resurgence of 35mm film is the result of a confluence of factors, including nostalgia, a yearning for handicraftsmanship and the analog aesthetic, and a desire to simplify and slow down in a culture saturated by technology. Regardless of the reason, the revival of film photography reminds us of the simple joy of creating something tangible with our analog hands, experimenting with different mediums, honing our skill, slowing down and enjoying the world around us. In a digital world increasingly mediated by the algorithmic, impersonal, and inhuman, film photography allows us to connect with our creativity, our surroundings, and our humanity.

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