While the newest digital cameras may be tack-sharp and high preforming, film photography continues to stand the test of time. Film’s ability to immortalize the beauty and emotions of a wedding day is unmatched. It has a nostalgic and romantic look, one which digital cameras can’t fully replicate. As a Virginia film wedding photographer, I am passionate about sharing my love for the nostalgic images vintage cameras create.
Image taken on Pentax 645n with 105mm Cineluxe lens. Portra400
Image taken on Pentax 645n, 105mm Cineluxe lens, Portra 400
Image taken on Nikon AE1, Portra 400
Film’s romantic and nostalgic look lends well to wedding photography. It has a timelessness that will be enjoyed for years to come and, in my opinion, never go out of style. Trends come and go but the film look is here to stay, as evidenced by it’s on-going popularity. Film creates a look that is imperfect and unique- it has the ability to capture the emotions and aesthetic of a wedding day in a way no other medium can. Film captures softness, delicate tones, and a dreamlike quality that elevates wedding photographs into works of art.
Pentax 645n, Fuji400h
Pentax 645n on Fuji 400h
Once a roll of film is used, it then needs to be processed. I send my professional wedding film to a company that is capable of processing the rolls correctly (rather than using a consumer film service like CVS or Target). I mail my film rolls to Photovision Prints.
Unlike digital cameras or iPhones, there is no immediate preview of the image you just took on a film camera. This adds an element of surprise and anticipation to the use of film.
Once the film is processed, it is made into a digital scan and delivered to me via email. Receiving film scans back is like Christmas morning, truly! See a Virginia wedding reception that was photographed on film.
Image taken on Pentax 645n, 105mm Cineluxe lens, Portra 400
Image taken on Canon 1v, 50mm lens, Portra 400
Image taken on Holga with flash, double exposure, Portra 400
Image taken on Canon 1v, 50mm lens, Portra 400
I use a vintage Pentax 645N for wedding photography work, which is a medium format camera that takes 120mm film. I also photograph with a Canon 1V, which is a 35mm film camera. My favorite film stock is Fuji 400h, which has a bright, pastel look and Portra 400. All of the images you see here were taken on Fuji 400h or Portra 400.
Film requires a knowledge of how to use light, camera settings and proper exposure to create beautiful imagery. The best way to become a pro at film photography? Lots and lots of practice!
Image taken on Pentax 645N with 105mm Cineluxe lens, Portra 400 film
35mm film
Compared to a digital camera, which can take virtually unlimited photos, film forces the user to slow down and make every image count. Each roll of medium format film allows for 16 images to be taken (and 35mm allowing for 30+ images). I match my digital work as closely as I can to film with presets and editing.
Are you searching for a Virginia or destination film wedding photographer? Inquire about your wedding date
Film processed by Photo Vision Prints
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If you are looking for a film wedding photographer with an eye for detail and the ability to create artistic images on your most special day, you have come to the right place. Simply fill out the inquiry form linked below.