When planning your dream wedding, every detail reflects your style and personality. One question many couples face is whether to include film photography on their wedding day. No, we’re not talking about videography—this is the timeless, fine art photography shot on actual film, a medium making a beautiful resurgence. But do you need it?

Let’s explore the pros and cons of choosing film photography to help you decide if it’s right for your big day.

What is Film Photography?

Film photography captures images on photographic film rolls, creating a soft, luminous quality with rich colors and depth that only film can deliver. It’s renowned for producing timeless, romantic, and elegant photos, making every shot feel like a classic painting. In the world of wedding photography, film is often closely associated with fine art photography, offering a unique aesthetic that stands out.

Reasons NOT TO Choose Film Photography

1. You’re Just Following a Trend
   If you’re considering film photography just because it’s trendy, it may not be worth the investment. Your wedding should reflect your personal style, not a passing fad.
2. Your Budget is Tight
   Film is a luxury choice—it comes with additional costs for film rolls, processing, and expert handling. If you’re working with a tight budget, you may want to allocate funds toward other aspects.

Reasons TO Choose Film Photography

1. You Love the Look and Feel of Film
   Film photography offers a unique, soft, fine art aesthetic. Its bright colours and softer details create an unmatched elegance. You’ve been browsing photographers, trying to choose the one that fits your style, and there’s just something about the film photos that you love. You can’t quite put your finger on it, but it resonates deeply. If this feeling speaks to you, film photography will elevate your wedding gallery in a way that digital can’t quite replicate.
2. You Want a Nostalgic, Timeless Quality
   Film photos carry a sense of nostalgia and timelessness. Decades later, your photos will still feel elegant and classic, giving your wedding gallery a cohesive and enduring charm.
3. You’re Willing to Invest in Something Memorable
   If you have the room in your budget, film photography is a great investment. It’s an artistic touch that will make each photo feel like a work of art, ensuring your wedding photos stand out and age beautifully over time.

What Other Elements Do You Need To Consider When Saying Yes to Film?

If you’re saying “yes” to film, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. Film photography is a more intentional, slower process, so allowing extra time in your wedding photography schedule is essential. If you have a tighter timeline or moments where time is limited, I recommend bringing in a second photographer. This is something I encourage for couples who want a lot of film coverage, as my second photographer can capture key moments digitally while I focus on shooting with film. This way, we ensure nothing is missed, and your timeline stays on track.

Did You Know There Are Two Main Types of Film? Don’t Get Caught Out with the Wrong One!

When choosing film photography for your wedding, it’s essential to ask your photographer what type of film they’ll be using—and why. Different types of film deliver varying results, and understanding these options can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision.

1. 120mm Film – The Choice for Portraits and Fine Art
   120mm film is the gold standard for wedding portraits and those fine art shots that capture the essence of your day. With larger film negatives, this format produces incredibly detailed and higher-quality images with that dreamy, soft aesthetic you see in my portfolio. The depth, colour richness, and subtle textures you get from 120mm film are unmatched, making it perfect for capturing those timeless, elegant moments like your couple portraits or any other key details that deserve extra attention.

1. 35mm Film – Ideal for Candid, In-Between Moments & Cocktail Hour
   35mm film has a smaller format, making it ideal for capturing candid moments but offering slightly less detail than 120mm film. I often use 35mm during cocktail hour, mingling moments, and other in-between parts of the day where spontaneity is key. It’s quicker to shoot and perfect for capturing those natural, unposed interactions. While the quality may not be as high as 120mm, it adds a sense of charm and nostalgia to the candid, everyday moments that bring life to your wedding day.

Why I Chose Film Before It Became a Trend

I introduced film into my workflow over seven years ago, long before it became the trend it is today. Why? Because I fell in love with the colours, the timeless look, and the unique feel it delivered—something I couldn’t quite replicate with digital alone. Now, I use the best digital gear that mimics the look of film, giving my couples the best of both worlds. My digital images are carefully edited with my signature look to match the film, ensuring that your entire gallery feels cohesive. I didn’t choose film because it’s trendy; I chose it for the lasting beauty it brings to every moment.

So, Do You Need Film Photography?

The real question is not whether you need film photography, but whether you want it. Your wedding day is a reflection of who you are as a couple, and if the timeless, dreamy quality of film resonates with you, then it’s worth considering.

Ultimately, film photography is a luxury, but one that brings unparalleled beauty and emotion to your memories. If it speaks to you, it’s an investment worth making.

REACH OUT HERE to discuss your wedding day and film experience.

Key Takeaways:

• Film photography offers a nostalgic, fine art look that digital can’t replicate.
• It’s perfect for those who love the soft, bright, and elegant quality film delivers.
• Film is a luxury investment, so if your budget is tight, it may not be the best option.
• Ultimately, film photography is about creating timeless, emotional art that will last a lifetime.

FAQs:

Q: Is film photography more expensive than digital?
Yes, film photography tends to be more expensive due to the cost of film rolls, processing, and the expertise required.

Q: Can I mix both film and digital photography at my wedding?
Absolutely! Many photographers, including myself, offer hybrid packages that combine the timeless quality of film with the versatility of digital photography.