Film photography is about craft, patience, and a distinct visual quality that digital can’t replicate. The process, from selecting the right film stock to developing and printing, requires an attention to detail that rewards photographers with rich tones, unique textures, and an unmistakable aesthetic.
Whether shooting street photography, fine art, or commercial work, film photography in South Africa remains a respected medium. The country’s landscapes, cityscapes, and diverse cultural scenes provide endless opportunities for film photographers to create striking, timeless images.
What It Takes to Be a Film Photographer
Shooting film means slowing down and thinking through every shot. Unlike digital, where you can take hundreds of photos and delete the bad ones, film forces photographers to be intentional. To succeed in this field, a photographer must:
- Master Film Stocks & Formats – 35mm, medium format, and large format each offer different levels of detail and dynamic range. Choosing the right film stock (Kodak, Ilford, Fujifilm) affects contrast, grain, and color balance.
- Understand Manual Camera Settings – Film cameras don’t have auto modes. Photographers must manually control exposure, aperture, and focus for every shot.
- Develop & Print (or Work with a Lab) – Processing film is part of the art. Some photographers develop and print their own work in darkrooms, while others rely on professional labs.
- Work with Natural & Artificial Light – Without instant feedback from a digital screen, film photographers must read light correctly before pressing the shutter.
- Be Patient & Adaptable – Unlike digital, where you see results instantly, film requires waiting until development to see if an image worked. Mistakes can be costly, but they also teach discipline.
Key Considerations for Shooting Film
1. Choose the Right Film Stock
Different films produce different results. Kodak Portra is great for skin tones, Ilford HP5 is a go-to for black-and-white photography, and Cinestill 800T works well for night shots.
2. Get Exposure Right in Camera
Film has limited dynamic range compared to digital, meaning overexposed or underexposed shots can’t always be fixed in post-production. Shooting for highlights ensures a properly developed image.
3. Focus on Composition
Because film limits the number of shots per roll, every frame needs to be well thought out. Strong composition techniques—leading lines, symmetry, and framing—help create standout images.
4. Learn the Development Process
Developing film yourself allows for more creative control. Understanding how different chemicals and times affect contrast and grain can help photographers refine their style.
5. Embrace the Imperfections
Film photography isn’t meant to be flawless. Grain, light leaks, and slight imperfections add character to images that digital photography often lacks.
Hiring a Film Photographer in South Africa
If you need a film photographer for a project, look for:
- A Strong Portfolio – Their past work should showcase technical skills, creativity, and a clear understanding of film’s unique qualities.
- Experience with Film Formats – 35mm, medium format, and large format all offer different results. The right photographer will know which one suits your needs.
- Knowledge of Processing & Printing – Whether they develop their own film or work with a lab, their process should guarantee quality results.
- Ability to Work Within Constraints – Film photography takes more time and planning than digital. A good photographer understands how to work efficiently despite these limitations.
- Aesthetic Fit for Your Project – Every film photographer has a unique style. Make sure their work aligns with the look you want.
Larger Film Photography Productions
For commercial or editorial film shoots, a production team may be involved:
- Photographer – Frames and captures the images, ensuring proper exposure and composition.
- Lighting Technician – Controls the light setup to suit the film’s characteristics.
- Lab Technician – Develops and scans the film to maintain color accuracy and tonal depth.
- Stylist & Set Designer – Ensures the subject and environment complement the film’s aesthetic.
Film photography is slower, more expensive, and less forgiving than digital—but that’s exactly what makes it special. When done right, it delivers unmatched depth, character, and emotion in every frame.