35mm film has a unique way of capturing colors that can’t be replicated by digital sensors. The tones are warm and soft, with a depth and subtlety that make skin tones look radiant and the surroundings feel romantic. If you’re envisioning vintage-style or classic photos, film is a perfect choice.
1. Rich, Natural Colors:
35mm film photography offers a classic, nostalgic look that many couples find appealing. There’s something about the grain, the colors, and the unpredictable nature of film that makes it feel like a piece of art rather than just a photo. Here’s why many couples choose film for their wedding day:
When I am shooting your wedding day, one of the most exciting decisions is choosing between 35mm film and digital cameras to capture a moment. Both formats have their unique advantages, and understanding the differences can help you decide which will best capture your special day and which one to invest more into when picking your wedding package. Whether you're drawn to the timeless feel of film or the convenience of digital, each format offers its own charm. Here’s a look at the benefits of both so you can make an informed choice for your wedding.
35mm film
Film has a slight unpredictability to it—whether it's a touch of grain or a slightly faded hue. These imperfections give your wedding photos a nostalgic, organic feel that digital photography can’t always emulate. For many couples, this "flaw" is exactly what makes the images feel more personal and intimate.
2. The Magic of Imperfection:
There’s an enduring quality to film that often feels more timeless compared to the crisp, sharp clarity of digital photos. When you look back at your wedding album in 10, 20, or even 50 years, the photos taken with film will evoke the same emotions you felt on your wedding day, thanks to the subtle grain and vintage look.
3. Timeless Aesthetic:
Because shooting with film requires careful attention and a limited number of exposures (typically 36 frames per roll), there’s a greater sense of intentionality in every shot. Photographers using film tend to take their time and be more mindful of composition, lighting, and moments, resulting in truly thoughtful, artistic images.
4. The Slow, Intentional Process:
Digital cameras allow photographers to immediately review their shots, ensuring that nothing important is missed. This is particularly beneficial during your wedding, as it’s a fast-paced event, and moments like your first kiss or cutting the cake are fleeting. With digital, photographers can adjust settings on the fly to capture every moment perfectly.
1. Instant Gratification & Flexibility:
While 35mm film photography offers beauty and nostalgia, digital photography has become the industry standard, and for good reason. Here are the key benefits of digital for your wedding day.
The Practical Perks of Digital Photography
Digital photos offer incredible sharpness and detail, especially when shot with high-end cameras. If you’re planning to print large-format canvases or create photo albums with intricate details, digital can provide the crisp clarity needed for those extra-large prints.
2. Higher Resolution & Detail:
One of the most significant advantages of digital photography is the post-production process. Photos can be edited for exposure, color correction, retouching, and even creative effects. Whether you want to enhance colors or create a particular mood, digital photos are easier to tweak to match your vision.
3. Editing Power:
Unlike film, which requires the purchase of rolls, processing, and scanning, digital photos come at no additional cost for each shot taken. Plus, there’s no need for film developing, which can add time and expense to the process. If you’re on a budget but still want high-quality wedding photography, digital is a practical choice.
4. Cost-Effective & Efficient:
Hybrid Photography:
The Best of Both Worlds for Your Wedding Day
Why choose one when you can have both? I offer hybrid photography in all of my wedding packages because I see the incredible value in both 35mm film and digital. I believe each format brings something unique to the table—film’s timeless, artistic quality and digital’s flexibility and precision. By combining both, I can capture your wedding day in a way that’s truly reflective of your style and vision.
Here’s how my hybrid approach works:
1. Film for Special Moments:
I use film for intimate moments like your ceremony and couple portraits, where its warm tones and rich textures create timeless, artistic images.
2. Digital for Key Events:
Digital is perfect for the high-energy moments of your reception or group photos, allowing me to capture every detail quickly and with crystal-clear resolution.
3. Creative Blending:
I blend both formats throughout the day, using digital for efficiency and film for those truly special, emotive shots. The result is a wedding album that combines the best of both worlds, offering a variety of textures, styles, and memories.
4. Film-Inspired Digital Editing:
After your wedding, I take extra care to edit the digital photos to closely resemble the true-to-color warmth and natural tones of film, giving your entire collection a cohesive, nostalgic look that mimics the beauty of 35mm photography.
Whether you opt for the nostalgic beauty of 35mm film or the sharp precision of digital, both formats have their place in your wedding photography. It’s all about finding the style that best suits your vision for your wedding day. Consider the mood you want to evoke, your budget, and the types of photos that will best reflect your personality and style. Whichever you choose, make sure your wedding photos capture the emotions, moments, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Conclution:
The Film-Lover All-Day Coverage Package
For couples who want it all! My Film-Lover All-Day Coverage package (the deluxe option) offers an unparalleled experience. This package is designed for those who appreciate the artistry of both film and digital photography, capturing every moment of your wedding day in a way that feels timeless and personal. With full-day coverage, including 2-3 rolls of 35mm film and 2-3 packs of Polaroid film, you’ll have authentic, vintage-inspired images that will transport you back to your special day for years to come.
The package also includes a complimentary engagement session and bridal session, each with a roll of film, ensuring that you have beautifully styled portraits in the same nostalgic, filmic style. From multiple outfit changes to various stunning locations, these sessions offer ample opportunity to capture your love story before your wedding day. Also included in this package is a handcrafted memory box filled with prints, Polaroids, and a 22-page 8x6 wedding album—beautifully printed and designed to showcase your special moments.
To help you plan and make the most of your wedding day, I also include a 50-page wedding guide packed with tips and advice, plus a private online gallery and a sneak peek of 24-48 hours post-wedding. This comprehensive experience ensures that every moment, from the quietest intimate exchanges to the most joyful celebrations, is captured with the care, artistry, and attention it deserves.
If you’re a film lover at heart and want your wedding photos to be as timeless and beautiful as your memories, the Deluxe Package is the perfect choice for you. Let’s work together to make your wedding day unforgettable!