5 Helpful Tips


1. Use a light meter to properly expose your images. In older film camera the light meter battery could be dead, which most beginners might not know. Make sure to look at your film camera manual to get the right battery. This will make it much easier to let the camera take in the right amount of light and speed the process of printing your photo.

2. Learn how to develop your own film. This will give you more control over the final image and allow you to experiment with different development techniques. If this option isn’t convenient, develop film at a store that allows you to keep your negatives, so you can keep reprinting the film in the future.

3. Film Photography supplies are expensive, so buy in bulk when you can.

4. Film and film paper are light sensitive materials. NEVER open film paper in the open, it will permanently ruin the paper. Open the paper in the dark room. Similarly, never open the film from the back of your camera in daylight. Only open the film in a dark bag. If film is stuck in your camera when winding, put it in the dark bag to remove to minimize risk of a light leak.

5. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Film photography is a learning process, and mistakes can sometimes lead to unexpected and beautiful results. Just like with any hobby, skill, or job, patience is the key to becoming better.

5 Helpful Products

Glass Cleaner

Amazon Stars: 4.7/5

Description:

I would recommend using this glass cleaner spray for cleaning the lens of your camera. Scratching the lens can be very harmful for the camera. The individual glass wipes will scratch your lens, but won't if you use a microfiber towel and this spray.

Film

Amazon Stars: 4.8/5

Description:

T his film is black and white film, and works great. Film is always expensive, but this brand is reliable.

Film Paper

Amazon Stars: 4.7/5

Description:

This film paper is the same brand as the above.

Lens Brush

Amazon Stars: 4.4/5

Description:

While shooting pictures, you may not have the time to clean your lens. Using a lens brush will quickly rid debris without smudging with your fingers.

film camera

Film Camera

Description:

Obviously, you will need a film camera. Cameras are expensive, so I would suggest researching online and finding used cameras, on Ebay, Facebook Marketplace, etc. Or, you could ask your grandparents/parents if they have an old camera lying around.