There’s something special about capturing your vacation memories on film. The tangible prints and the imperfections that come with film give your photos a unique charm that digital photography just can’t replicate. If you’re considering shooting 35mm film on your next vacation, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your film camera.
Plan ahead
Before you head out on your trip, there are a few things you’ll want to consider. First and foremost, make sure you have enough film to last you the duration of your trip. It can be hard to find film while traveling, so it’s best to stock up before you leave.
You’ll also want to think about the type of film you’ll be using. Different films have different characteristics, so choose one that will suit the type of photos you’ll be taking. For example, if you’ll be shooting a lot of landscapes, you might want to opt for a film with a high dynamic range. If you’ll be shooting portraits, you might want to choose a film with a softer, more subtle grain structure.
Take your time
One of the best things about shooting film is that it forces you to slow down and really think about each shot. Since film is a limited resource, you can’t just snap hundreds of photos in the hopes of getting the perfect shot. Instead, you have to take your time and carefully compose each frame.
This slower, more methodical approach can actually be quite liberating. It allows you to really think about what you want to capture and how you want to capture it. So don’t be afraid to take your time and really experiment with your shots.
Be mindful of lighting
Lighting is especially important when shooting film. Since film has a limited dynamic range, it can be more challenging to capture a scene with a wide range of tones. To get the best results, try to avoid shooting in harsh, direct sunlight and instead opt for softer, indirect light.
If you do find yourself in a situation where the lighting is less than ideal, there are a few things you can do to compensate. One option is to use a neutral density filter to reduce the amount of light entering the lens. This can help you capture a wider range of tones in a high-contrast scene. Another option is to use a film with a higher dynamic range, such as Kodak Portra or Fuji Pro400H.
Develop and scan your film
Once you’ve finished shooting your film, the next step is to get it developed and scanned. Once your film is developed, you’ll get your scans so you can view and share your photos digitally.
Shooting 35mm film on vacation can be a rewarding and memorable experience. It’s a great way to slow down and really think about your shots, and the tangible prints and imperfections of film add a unique charm to your vacation memories. So next time you’re planning a trip, consider packing a film camera and giving it a try.
You might just fall in love with the medium all over again! Happy shooting!
