Choosing the Right Film Based on Conditions

Unlike digital photography, where pretty much all the style is added in the editing process, in film photography, you are making a significant creative decision the moment you choose which film to put in your camera. So, how do you know which to choose? This interesting video follows a photographer as he discusses shooting the same area with several different films and some of the decisions that go into each shot. 

Coming to you from Steve O'Nions, this great video follows him discussing the choices of different films for the same location. The choice of film in your camera is a major creative decision, as you are committing to a certain tonal response, color palette, and more before you even take a shot. And of course, the even tougher part is that you have to make it through that entire roll before you can swap it out for something different. If you are newer to working with film, I highly recommend buying a variety of films (maybe 5 or 6 to start), shooting a subject with a roll of each, and taking the time to compare what you like and do not like about each film to help you develop your creative tastes. Check out the video above for the full rundown from O'Nions. 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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That's one of the beauties of shooting with film. In essence, you change your "sensor" by the film selection. I've never stopped shooting film.