.png){kind=small}
For years, digital photography has reigned, offering convenience, instant results, and advanced editing capabilities. Yet, in an era where high-resolution cameras are more accessible than ever, an unexpected trend has emerged—film photography is making a remarkable comeback. From hobbyists to high-end commercial photographers, creatives are embracing film as a medium, bringing with it a renewed appreciation for imperfection, texture, and the magic of analog. But is this nostalgia wave a fleeting trend, or is film here to stay?
The Resurgence of Film Photography
In recent years, there has been a growing demand for film cameras, with vintage models skyrocketing in price and companies like Kodak and Ilford ramping up film production. The resurgence can be attributed to several factors:
The Unique Aesthetic – Film photography offers a depth and character that digital editing often struggles to replicate. The soft grain, rich tones, and organic imperfections create images that feel timeless and artistic.
A Slower, More Intentional Process – Unlike digital photography, where hundreds of shots can be taken and deleted instantly, film forces photographers to slow down, carefully compose each frame, and embrace the uncertainty of the final result.
Tactile Experience & Darkroom Magic – Shooting film is an immersive process, from manually loading a roll to developing negatives. Many photographers find joy in the hands-on nature of film that digital lacks.
The Appeal of Nostalgia & Authenticity – In a digital world, film photography represents a return to something real. For younger generations who grew up in an all-digital landscape, film offers a way to experience photography in its rawest form.
The Influence of Social Media & Pop Culture – Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have fueled the trend, with influencers and celebrities showcasing their love for film. Additionally, brands and fashion campaigns are increasingly embracing the film look to create a sense of authenticity and nostalgia.
How Film is Impacting Modern Photographers
The resurgence of film photography has influenced both emerging and established photographers in surprising ways:
Hybrid Shoots: Many professionals now incorporate both film and digital into their workflow. For example, wedding photographers offer film add-ons for clients who want a mix of crisp digital images and dreamy, nostalgic film shots.
Higher Demand for Film Scanning Services: With more people shooting film, labs are seeing an increase in business, and new film-scanning technology is improving hybrid workflows.
A Shift in Editing Styles: Even digital photographers are mimicking the film look through presets and editing techniques, proving that the aesthetic has a lasting impact.
Educational Revival: Workshops and online courses dedicated to film photography are growing, teaching a new generation how to meter light, develop film, and work with different formats.
Commercial Photographers Experimenting with Film
Several commercial photographers have embraced film for select projects, blending nostalgia with modern storytelling:
Dan Winters – Known for his celebrity portraiture and scientific photography, Winters incorporates film into his work to achieve a timeless aesthetic.
Jamie Hawkesworth – A prominent fashion photographer, Hawkesworth regularly shoots with a Mamiya RB67 medium format film camera, bringing a distinct cinematic feel to his campaigns for brands like JW Anderson and Vogue.
Lisa Elmaleh – Specializing in large-format photography, Elmaleh uses traditional film processes to capture rich, nostalgic images of American landscapes and culture.
American Folk," for instance, is an ongoing project in which the photographer journeys across the United States, using a large-format camera and the wet plate collodion process to capture intimate portraits of folk musicians and rural landscapes.
The Challenges of Shooting Film Today
While the romance of film photography is undeniable, it comes with challenges. Film and processing costs continue to rise, and the availability of certain film stocks remains unpredictable. Additionally, the learning curve for shooting and developing film can be steep, making it less accessible to those accustomed to the ease of digital.
Is Film Here to Stay?
Although digital photography isn’t going anywhere, film’s resurgence suggests it’s more than just a passing trend. It has carved out a niche within the creative industry, influencing artistic choices, storytelling techniques, and even commercial photography. As long as there’s a desire for authenticity, nostalgia, and craftsmanship in photography, film will likely maintain its place in the modern visual landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or someone looking to experiment with a vintage camera, film offers something digital can’t—an experience, a discipline, and a touch of magic that continues to inspire photographers around the world.
As photographers continue to explore the possibilities of both mediums, the question remains: Would you prefer to work exclusively with digital, or do you see the value in incorporating film into your projects? Do you envision a hybrid workflow that merges the best of both worlds?
No matter your creative approach, Historic Hudson Studios is dedicated to supporting artists in their endeavors. By staying attuned to the ever-evolving needs of the industry, we remain committed to adapting and growing alongside the creative community. Would you like to share your thoughts?