1. What is film photography?

Film photography relies on a chemical rather than digital process to capture images. At the heart of this method is the use of photosensitive film coated with a silver emulsion. When you take a picture with a film camera, light enters the camera and exposes this film, creating a latent print of the image. However, this image only becomes visible after a chemical development process.

This process takes place in a darkroom or laboratory where the film is immersed in several chemical baths, thus revealing the image. Unlike digital photography where you can see your photos immediately, film photography requires patience and work in post-capture. It is precisely this anticipation and mystery that adds to its charm.

2. What is the difference between film and digital photography?

Digital and film photography differ primarily in how the image is captured and processed. Here's a look at the main distinctions:

• Medium Used: Digital photography uses an electronic sensor to capture light, while film photography uses photosensitive film.
• Instantaneity: In digital, images are immediately visible, modifiable, and transferable. In film, the film must be developed, which creates a time lag.
• Aesthetics: Film rendering often offers a specific grain, depth of color and contrasts that digital cannot fully reproduce. This explains why aesthetic lovers often prefer film.

3. Why choose film photography today?

Film photography still appeals to many photographers for several reasons:

• Unique Aesthetics: The film's natural grain and specific tones, especially in black and white, are unmatched in digital.
• Thoughtful creative process: Film requires a more methodical approach, forcing you to think about each shot. You typically have 24 or 36 shots per roll, which pushes you to optimize each release.
• Nostalgia and Authenticity: For some, film photography harkens back to a time when photography was less immediate, but more authentic. The hand-developing process brings a more tactile and personal dimension to the photographic experience.

4. What types of film cameras are there?

There are several types of film cameras, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

• 35mm point-and-shoot compact cameras: Easy to use, they are often fully automatic, perfect for spontaneous shots.
• 35mm SLR cameras: Offering full manual control over exposure (aperture, shutter speed, ISO), they are perfect for serious amateurs or those wanting to learn the basics of photography.
• Medium format cameras (120mm): They offer superior image quality with more detail and a shallower depth of field. They are ideal for professional photographers or those looking for a specific aesthetic.

BromureFilm offers a wide range of cameras, whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, with easy-to-use compact cameras or sophisticated SLRs.

5. How to choose your silver film?

The choice of silver film depends on several criteria, including the type of project, the lighting conditions and the desired aesthetic.

• Color vs. Black and White Film: Black and white films, such as Ilford HP5, are great for creating dramatic images with high contrast. Color films, such as Kodak Portra, offer a natural, soft color palette.
• ISO (sensitivity): A low ISO (100-200) produces images with little grain, perfect for sunny days. A high ISO (800-1600) is suitable for low light environments, but generates more grain.

Every movie has its own personality, so it's a good idea to experiment to find what best suits your style.

6. How to use a film camera?

Here are the basic steps to getting started with a film camera:

• Loading the film: Make sure the film is securely in place before you start shooting.
• Exposure Setting: Adjust aperture (f/stop), shutter speed, and ISO based on available light. Use a light meter or apply the Sunny 16 rule to properly expose your photos.
• Focus: Unlike modern digital cameras, many film cameras use manual focus. This takes practice, but also improves your accuracy.

7. How much does film photography cost?

Although film photography may seem more expensive than digital, there are ways to reduce costs:

• Used Cameras: Film cameras are available at affordable prices, often lower than digital cameras.
• Film: Film typically costs between $6 and $15, depending on the type of film. You can buy film in packs to reduce the unit cost.
• Developing: Lab developing costs around €10-15 per roll. However, with a little investment, you can purchase a developing kit and develop your films at home to save money in the long run.

8. How to develop film?

Film development can be done in two main ways:

• Professional laboratories: They guarantee fast and quality results, without handling chemicals.
• Home Developing: If you're a DIY enthusiast and want complete control over your images, you can develop your film at home. This requires a bit of equipment: a developing tank, specific chemicals, and a dark space.

9. How to digitize your film photos?

Digitization is essential for archiving and sharing your film photos. There are two main options available to you:

• Flatbed scanners: Versatile, they can scan prints, but offer limited quality for negatives.
• Dedicated scanners: Specially designed for film, these scanners offer optimal scanning quality to preserve the details and colors of your film images.

The simplest solution is still to have your negatives digitized by a photo lab.

10. How to maintain your film camera?

Proper maintenance is crucial to preserving the longevity of your film camera:

• Cleaning lenses: Use a blower and special wipes to avoid scratches.
• Proper storage: Store your device in a dry, dust-free place. Use suitable bags and cases.
• Regular servicing: Have your camera serviced by a professional, especially if you are using a vintage model. This will check the condition of the seals, mechanics and lenses.