The Benefits of Using a Film Camera

The majority of new cameras sold in the United States today are digital. However, film cameras are still available, and are in fact the preferred method of taking pictures for many photographers. Film SLR cameras are often a little more expensive than comparable digital cameras, but if you are interested in the art of photography then the extra cost might be well worth it to gain a deeper understanding of your chosen hobby. Here are some of the benefits of choosing a film slr camera and accessories over a digital one.

Hands-On Process

Perhaps the biggest advantage of using a film SLR camera is that it allows you to become tech savvy about the photography process. While digital cameras automatically adjust to get you the shot you want, film cameras require manual adjustment to focus and zoom the camera’s lens. This allows you to get a better feel for the elements that make up a good photograph. In addition, film photography allows you the opportunity to develop your own shots in a home darkroom, an experience that many dedicated photographers cherish.

Higher Resolution

The higher resolution available with film cameras is generally most apparent when you make physical prints of photos. Unless the digital camera you are using is of fairly high quality, it simply does not contain enough picture information to make prints as detailed as the ones that come for even low-end models of film camera.

More Ability to Fine Tune Shots

The adjustment dials on film cameras give you more opportunities to make minor corrections to shots and get exactly the picture that you want. This is especially noticeable when you are taking zoomed shots of something far away, or macro shots of a very detailed subject up close.

Better Color Quality

Film cameras also often have better color quality and depth than their digital counterparts. Digital cameras subtly distort color information that is transferred to the camera, but film cameras have more accurate color sensors that allow for truer color when recreated in a photo print. Additionally, film cameras are often better at capturing the dynamic range between light and shadow. In other words, they make lit areas appear brighter, and shady areas darker.

No Shutter Lag

Shutter lag refers to the amount of time that the camera shutter remains open to take the picture. Film camera shutters stay open for only a split second, while digital cameras sometimes take a second or two to focus and record the picture. This can make all the difference when you are photographing a fast-moving object.

Initial Cost

Film cameras cost less to buy than digital cameras of comparable quality. However, keep in mind that buying film will probably make the costs even out over the camera’s lifetime.

Longevity of Images

Properly stored and preserved film photographs will generally last longer than digital prints made on a photo printer. Film prints are more resistant to decoloration and deterioration, and they are less likely to fade or become corrupted over time.

Taking pictures with film SLR cameras is something of a dying art form. However, dedicated photographers around the world are still keeping the tradition alive.