3 Things to Consider Before Buying Your First Film Camera

by Andy Day

If digital images feel a bit too clean and clinical, consider giving your photography some soul by shooting on film. Before buying your first analog camera, here are three things that you should keep in mind.

Experienced film photographer Kyle McDougall has put together a couple of thoughts for those getting into film photography with the intention of helping them avoid any disappointment or frustration that can be part of a process that has more variables and potential pitfalls compared to digital.

Regarding his first point, you could balance McDougall’s suggestion by embracing the attitude that film photography can be about making the most of imperfections. Obviously, it’s not ideal if your camera’s light leaks are ruining every photograph that you take, but sometimes, those unexpected elements can bring some character to your images.

If the idea of imperfect, low-quality images sounds appealing, consider having a look at the 110 format cameras made by Lomography. Strangely, the naming system is all over the place and 110 is nowhere near as big as 120. Instead, it's quite the opposite — around half the width of 35mm (a.k.a. 135). You can grab a camera and a couple of cartridges of film for as little as $45. (And if you’ve any idea why Kodak decided in 1972 to call this format 110, I’d be grateful if you could leave a comment below!)