The Struggles of Using a Film Camera in the Digital Age

The digital age has taken over almost every aspect of everyday life. From communication to entertainment, work, and education, digital technology transforms how people live and interact with the world. It’s a good thing in many ways, as it has led to greater efficiency, more accessible information, and increased connectivity. [caption id="attachment_4885" align="alignnone" width="740"] The Struggles of Using a Film Camera in the Digital Age (Image Credit Pexels)[/caption] However, the digital age has also had adverse effects, particularly on photography. Film cameras are slowly becoming a thing of the past as digital ones become more prevalent. Read on to understand the struggles of using a film camera in the digital age.

It's Harder to Safely Store The Photos

With a film camera, you get photos printed on physical film. You must adequately store the film to prevent damage and loss of the images. It's easier to misplace, lose or damage a film roll and photos than to lose a digital file. Moving houses, water damage, and even a cluttered drawer can all lead to lost or damaged photos. However, all is not lost. Convert your old film reels into digital files to store on your computer or in the cloud, where they're safer.

The Process is More Involving

Taking photos with a film camera is generally more involved. With a digital camera, you can take as many pictures as you want and delete the ones you don't like. With a film camera, every photo counts since you only have a limited number of shots per roll of film.  [caption id="attachment_4887" align="alignnone" width="656"] Photo Credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-sony-dslr-camera-on-green-grass-in-front-of-brown-and-green-mountain-225157[/caption] It forces you to be more selective with your photos and carefully think about each shot. It’s sometimes frustrating, especially if you make a mistake or want to experiment with different angles. Not forgetting, developing the photos takes some time, depending on the quality you're looking for.  The steps include removing the film from your camera, taking it to a photo development lab, waiting for the photos to be developed, and finally picking them up. If you want to do it yourself, invest in a darkroom and the necessary equipment.

The Equipment's Weight and Size

One of the main reasons digital cameras have become so popular is their portability. Most are small and light enough to fit in a pocket or purse, making them easy to carry around. On the other hand, film cameras can be pretty bulky and heavy, especially true for professional-grade cameras. Lugging around a heavy camera all day is tiring.

The Costs

The cost of film cameras has also increased over the years as they've become more niche. Professional-grade film cameras can cost several thousand dollars. Even entry-level film cameras are more expensive than many digital cameras. In addition, the cost of film and development is also a factor to consider. A single roll of film may not cost much, but it quickly adds up if you take many photos.

It’s Still a Choice to Consider

Despite the challenges, some photographers still prefer film cameras for their unique aesthetic and the level of control they offer. If you're considering making the film switch, go for it. Just be aware of the challenges you may face and choose a digital way of sharing and preserving your photos. However, digital cameras have many advantages over film cameras, such as being smaller, lighter, and more affordable. In addition, the cameras allow users to see their results immediately. They're an excellent choice for those who want to try photography as a hobby.