In an increasingly digital world where everything we see is curated; whether that’s the films we choose to watch on Netflix, or the posts we see on social media, and everything is available immediately, it’s easy to see why people are eager to experience something a bit more ‘real’.
There’s been a real increase in people wanting to use film in photography recently, with the global film camera market set to be worth £303 million by 2030, compared to £223 in 2023, and the hashtag #FilmPhotography on Instagram having 44 million photos. This comes as vinyl record sales have increased for the 16th consecutive year in the UK and other ‘retro’ products, such as fountain pens, are seeing a resurgence.
So why is this happening? Is it just about re-living our past, or is it about wanting something more sustainable and permanent and rediscovering something that has been lost in a world increasingly dominated by AI?
Let’s take a look at some of the reasons more and more of us are going analogue:
1. Film is more expensive
…so you have to think about the composition etc more. It forces you to focus (excuse the pun) and to get the best shot you can – as soon as you press that shutter the image is set in stone, so you have to make every frame count.
2. Digital photography can’t always reproduce film
The grain, the colours, even the imperfections make it unique in a way that digital can’t recreate. Think of it as the photo equivalent of the crackle of a vinyl record.
3. A well looked after camera can last for years
..decades even, without the need for constant upgrades. There’s even a chance that you might be able to fix a film camera if something goes wrong, unlike a digital camera with its complex circuitry. And you don’t need to charge a film camera.
4. There’s more of a ‘connection’ to the process
It’s more mindful. The mechanical act of taking a photo means you’re more engaged – the manual focusing, hearing the whirr and clicks, even the feel of the camera in your hands is so satisfying. And you can remain ‘in the zone’ without checking every shot as soon as you’ve taken it; it can be both scary and liberating.
5. There’s a sense of nostalgia
It reminds many of us of family albums. There’s something quite special about holding an old photograph in your hand, seeing the creases where it’s been held before, as opposed to looking at it on a screen.
6. It’s more of a challenge
You don’t just point and click, you have to hone your skills.
7. It’s not immediate
At a time when we have instant access to so much via our mobiles, there’s a whole generation who never got to experience the process of taking a roll of film to be developed, wait for it to come back, and then look through the photos, not really knowing what to expect – maybe even forgetting what you photographed!
8. You can experiment with different techniques
..for example you could try using expired film, manipulating the light, double exposure, cross-processing and getting the right angle.
9. There’s a real community out there
..offering tips, support and advice. There’s a real sense of connection and it tends to be more of a passion than a profession.
10. It’s fun!
At a time when people are feeling a bit of digital fatigue, it’s really nice to do something that makes us slow down and appreciate the journey, instead of just focusing on the end result. Film photography takes you back to basics and reminds you what you love about photography.
Whatever kind of photography you’re into, chances are you’ve built up quite a collection of kit along the way, and that doesn’t come cheap. This is where camera insurance comes in; just choose a policy type with the level of cover you need, then tweak it with some optional benefits to create a picture perfect policy that suits you and your budget. Take a look at the website, or give us a call for a free, no-strings quote today.
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