I really liked the part about slowing down, I'm not going back to film however it's a lesson even digital photographers can learn from. Too often we shoot 50 subpar images and throw out all of them rather than focusing at the moment on the best composition. A deliberate approach cannot be underestimated. Totally enjoyed your video.
I love listening and watching Your movies. It calms me down. I do quite often landscape photography too and i think those movies (vlogs as u call them) captures the mood of that trips perfectly. An oasis of calm and relax in our crazy world. Great job.
Aleksander Domański I agree! I sent a friend a link to Steve’s TH-cam channel, along with a note saying that his videos are both relaxed and educational. It’s also a great way to plan a shoot trip in your own local area.
Here are the top five reasons I use film for landscape photography: 1. I already own the film photographic equipment. 2. I enjoy developing my own film. 3. I prefer shooting landscapes with a medium format camera and I have not yet found a medium format digital camera that I like or can afford. 4. When I want to slow down, I enjoy shooting landscapes with a 6x9cm medium format camera or a 4x5 inch view camera. 5. All my medium format and large format film cameras are battery-free manual/mechanical cameras. They do not have built-in light meters, motor drives, or electronically controlled shutters. I prefer manual/mechanical battery-independent cameras vs. automatic/electronic battery-dependent cameras.
I returned to film because I started watching a channel on TH-cam and I realised how much I was missing it. I forget the bloke's name...but I’ll be eternally grateful to you. I do use a darkroom for my black and white 35mm, and I love it. It’s an entire journey that I am physically in control of and can manipulate. Before doing my law degree I was a chef for over 20 years and I think the idea of recipes appeals to me. Some might say my cooking tasted the same and had the same impact if swallowed! Since I have started using film again my digital photography has improved and I would never one medium is better than the other. I never use film for wildlife or in a studio as I like to work tethered, but for landscape it’s my Bronica ETRSi and for urban photography it’s my Zorki 4K (cost £50 with a Jupiter 8 50mm f2) Thanks Steve, you have influenced my photography more than anyone on TH-cam. Brilliant video Steve, really enjoyed it and I can't find anything to argue with except doesn’t your Bronica have mirror lock up and continuous shooting?
Hehe. I should get the the Bronica SQAM then I can burn through a roll of film faster 🙂 I did miss my darkroom for a while but not the tight chest that I suffered with for days after each session. There is something satisfying about pulling a film from the developing tank and nervously holding it up to the light to see if the shots worked out. I also have a strange connection with the film itself as it was present at the scene when the shot was made. Thanks for your continued support Mark.
Steve O'Nions Strangly, even though I have a respiratory condition, using the darkroom has never affected it. No idea why, it must just not be one of my triggers.
I was out with my 1930 Kodak Number 2 box Brownie this morning with 120 Kodak Tri X. It has 3 apertures. I shot the film and developed the film in Rodinal 1 to 50 for 9 minutes and the results are excellent. I will print to 7x5 in my windowless bathroom darkroom with my 1950s Gnome rangefinder Alpha 6x9 condenser enlarger using a 100mm 5.6 Schneider Componon S lens enlarger lens. Old school. I have been doing this since I was 13. First real camera in 1958 was a Zenith C with a 50mm f3.5 Industar lens which I still have and use. You made things last in my day and I still do that.
Great video and very timely. In my late 50's and find myself going back to film more and more. Just love the simplicity of my old film cameras. Subscribed!
You could sum up this video as; you can't improve on perfection. Film is perfect in its imperfection. It is the more human means of recording an image. Because to relive a moment, flawlessly, you would have to be there. Film captures us, the human race, in all our flawless imperfection in a way 1's and 0's and any superstition can not. Love your work.
That’s well put Luke. I’d go as far as saying that most photography, even that using film does not represent situations the way our memory does. In my mind I often recall scenes as blurry or vignetted, there is emotion on there, not just a 2 dimensional representation. This is why I like to use the likes of pinhole cameras and also introduce texture, grain, tone as I feel an emotional connection with the. Image rather than admiring the technical abilities of the camera that produced it.
I totally enjoyed every second of this video. I agree 1000% about your 5 reasons to love film/ cameras. In number 2.... Film cameras i love that there is no menus to change or update. Film is a joy to use. It's like Christmas when you get a film developed and you then see your efforts and skill (or not) in front of you. Film does slow you down and teaches you to get it right in camera rather than relying totally on LR to save an image. Love your channel very much. Keep it coming please. ( 31/12/19.)
I'm glad I found your channel. I have recently gotten back into film and I am really enjoying it. I've got a bit of delay since my TLR rolled into a stream and it's off at Mark Hamas getting a CLA .
@@SteveONions I picked up a nice Yashica 12 with yashinon lens for under $100 US. Of course it's costing double that to get cleaned after it went for a swim. Looking forward to finishing a roll of HP5 in it since the last roll was ruined.
Couldn't agree more. I also enjoy the process of scanning, especially negative film. Still hunting for a relatively affordable medium format scanner though.
@@SteveONions I've started scanning medium format with an Canon 60d and Tamron 90mm Macro, converting with the Negative Lab Pro plug-in in Lightroom. Gives very reasonable results considering I only had to buy the plug-in and a light table. Worth giving a try!
I’ve also done some basic captures with a digital SLR (and also have a 90mm Tamron). Results have been impressive but I really need to sort out a proper rig so I can use it more easily and keep everything parallel.
Great video Steve. It is good that you are able to articulate the reasons why you prefer film over digital. It is not easy to mention objectively the subjective reasons we have when we say we like. But as you said it: it is a good feeling to master something and be able of going out and take what we intended. I work on IT so every 6 months I need to re-learn a few options, update some options that were renamed, discover what was missing, etc. Even the camera program I use to download photos has been updated regularly, so I have a computer where I disabled the updates. I like photography as a hobby, I don't want to relearn the new download photo program because I have to learn new programs as part of my work, and my recreation time with photos I want just to enjoy the photos. You make me think on buying film again, I still have my film camera and I check it once per month. Thank you for sharing your videos.
I don’t like things changing without my knowledge and this unfortunately is a common even with computer software. With my film cameras and darkroom the skills I learned all those years ago still work the same today.
Have to agree with the points you've raised, the point about the slowing down is without doubt one of the most significant points you've raised. Slowing down improves your output without doubt. Looking forward to seeing more of these types of videos Steve.
Totally agree with your thoughts. I love quality precision in a metal bodied film camera with just 3 things to adjust as you say. Also, the wonderful freedom from 'upgrades' is a joy.
I love that you are straight forward about why shoot film. Often the process and experience is more important than the technical merits of the medium you are using. You enjoy it and that’s enough. You did a fine job articulating all of the other reasons but the fact that you like it is all that really matters.
I don't think that now I am going to grab a film camera and rush out into the wild and start shooting. Maybe one day but for now I am just enjoying these videos. Nice to learn about these old equipments. The photos look great too. Thanks for uploading these videos.
This video popped up in my TH-cam feed Steve. I would add number 6 being the physical negative you get with every photo you take. No backing it up to future proof you images against tech upgrades. 35 mm is my preferred medium. All your other points are how I feel about film photography. I have a bit of an obsession with film cameras. I just love the fact they are built of metal and are simplistic in operation. I love loading film and that clunky shutter sound. As I’m getting older too now I just love the fact that as you say, it’s a static medium. I like digital cameras, but film cameras are on another level. I often will have a film in any one of my film cameras for up to a year. I always liked the anticipation of waiting to get my films back from the lab and I still do.
I have similar feelings Simon. When out shooting film I’m nowhere near as distracted as with digital. I also stop fretting over sharpness, depth of fields and dynamic range, it’s all about capturing the image and bringing it to life later in the darkroom or on the computer.
Five great great reasons to keep shooting film!!!!!!! For me it’s that feeling of first looking at my slides on a light box!!!! Nothing in photography compares to that excitement except being out there shooting it!!!!! Cheers 🍻 from USA!!!!
Lol.. the remote. There’s a remote for everything and I tend to throw everyone of them away. Ditched the tv during the 80’s, so you can imagine I enjoy shooting film for all the same reasons. Although the digital part of avoiding printing in the darkroom is what got me back into film too. I can develop in my kitchen sink but have avoided a formal darkroom for printing because of the chemical waste. Thanks for your brilliant work on your informative and meditative videos. They’ve been a joy to binge into during these stressful times.
Just back from a short break and doing my developing. I use a Sony A7S for inside shots in old churches for the low light capability but use old lenses. Comparing those with the ones shot on film and the difference is visceral. The former are excellent records, the film ones just have atmosphere and texture. There is no right or wrong in aesthetics, but I'll always shoot film if I can. I also love old cameras, but that is just a minor silliness!
I know what you mean Charles, I also find digital shots a bit too perfect whereas film seems alive and more 3 dimensional. There’s nothing silly about liking old cameras either 😀
To me, film seems to capture something that you can’t see when you’re there in person. But it also feels like it brings you into a place, instead of just looking at it like a perfect presentation of what the subject looked like. Enjoyed hearing your thoughts.
I agree Nick. When I open up a film image or project it on my enlargers baseboard I feel quite different to having a digital image in front of me. Film feels more like the real world to me, imperfect almost but that’s the appeal.
Yet again another fab video. I too love shooting with film for pretty much those same reasons as well. I don't think they will make cameras of such sturdy quality ever again - that still work! Thanks. Todor
Im in the process of deciding what gear I'm going to use going forward with my landscape photography. Im deciding between getting a medium format film camera or upgrading my DSLR. I know I can mimic the medium format look using post processing, but at the end of the day its just that - mimicry. I've shot 35mm film for a while, and I vastly prefer the process. I think you've convinced me in this video what route Im going to go down. Im new to the channel but I think ill be sticking around. Cheers Steve!
Tricky choice Michael but I don’t think you will regret getting a medium format camera. Another plus is that they are appreciating in price so it’s somewhat of an investment 😀
I shot film all the way up to my first digital the Nikon D1h, loved that babe then I drown it nowt lasts forever. Last month or so I'm steering back to film in my own time at least work still dictate I shoot digital (newspaper photographer etc) I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying film again, initially 35mm deving my own BnWs, but just lately I've dug out the old wedding cam my Bron ETRSi, I could say it's rekindled my love of photography but that's bull because I never need my photography rekindling it's when I'm at my happiest a camera any camera in hand, but this 120 film lark has got me fired up big time. Loads to remember far more to learn, but this channel and a few others I watch will see me right. Top work steve. Regards Paul
Glad to see you back out shooting film Paul, it’s not about technical quality for me, more the experience and natural looking results. Digital is fantastic and I love my micro 4/3 cameras but they just don’t excite me. All the best 🙂
@@SteveONions Yeah mate loving it and to be honest regarding the quality digital has gone crazy so technically perfect everything kinda looks a bit samey. I'm looking back at some of my pre digi work and loving the grain, and general feel of film true what they say it feels timeless. My latest efforts with 120mm are encouraging my latest vid was a nightmare tho trying to load my first roll of 120 onto the reel in the dark bag gotta practice a tad more me thinks. Fun tho and that's what it's all about.
I just found your channel and am enjoying catching up on your videos. I love my old OM-2. I’ve never enjoyed digital photography . (I’ve only ever bought a couple of cheap point and clicks, and have only recently bought a M43 camera - yep, an OM-D E10ii). But I would love to see your process for getting from film to print. Please show.
Thanks Claire, I also owned OM cameras in the past and love their bright viewfinders. I’ve a video coming in the next few weeks that goes right through the process of shooting, scanning and printing 👍
always dope to find fellow youtubers that shoot film! thanks for sharing this with us never shot landscapes on film. but def want to try it now loved watching this
Totally agree! I'd personally add 2 reasons: 1. With film you can get a lot of variation from one camera/lens combination by using different films, different developers, pushing/pulling film etc. 2. (Not really a reason, as it is not quite rational): It feels more of an achievement, and gives you more satisfaction, when the picture is your own effort and work because you developed it yourself. BTW: Not all film cameras are "old technology". My Canon EOS 3 has multi-spot metering, depth of field AE, and even eye control auto focus. Features you don't find in Canon's digital cameras, but it works with the newest lenses.
Absolutely love your philosophy behind your photography! I have been growing tired of constant updates, buggy software, and new gear every month. I am making the transition to a Pentax 6x7 within the next few weeks and I am over the moon excited to get out and slow down!
I, for one, would be very interested to see more videos like this. You spoke about learning from those who came before, about that weight of history and knowledge passed down. I would love to hear your own knowledge on scanning, workflow etc etc so that I might learn from it in the same spirit.
I agree. At age 70 I started using film in the 1950's because my parents were both into photography as a hobby. My father bought me my own 35mm film camera about 1961, with a Seconic light meter, which still works BTW. However, I do use digital. I have a Nikon D810, with only 2 lenses. 14mm for stars and the Nikon 17-35 F/2.8. For film I used a Hasselblad 503cw, with 3 main lenses. 50mm, 80mm and a 135 Hasselblad bellows lens with a H. bellows for close up work. In-fact, after posting this I am going out to the local botanical gardens (Corpus Christi, Tx) and use my bellows for flower work. I would one day like to use 4x5, but have never tried it.
Sounds like a good setup Mike, I had a 501CM for a few years and also use a D61 along with Micro 4/3 cameras. 4x5 is fun but quite limited compared to medium format when it comes to speed of operation and working in adverse conditions.
Your commentary certainly resonated with me, I like to develop my own skills and photographs without having the 'game' changed by strangers with all of their updates to my digital photographic environment. Film puts me in control and that is really important to me. I agree with each of your 5 points. I have recently subscribed and will catch up on your content.
I'm an old fart Steve, I still have my film cameras but my pension doesn't go far enough for me to afford film. I do have a digital camera now, a Lumix GX-80 which I must be honest I love it, but I don't bang away and take hundreds of pictures each time I go out. I restrict myself to the equivalent of one roll of film (36 shots). I use the Lumix in manual mode, auto focus turned off and no other bells and whistles used. I also don't look at the shots on the LCD screen, I do check them when I get home and usually I print every shot because lets face it, they are moments in time that will never happen exactly the same way again. Loved this video my friend and I have now subscribed to your channel.
I like micro 43 cameras too, I’ve got an EM5 Olympus and Panasonic G80. I’m less disciplined than you though and get trigger happy so films stops all that!
Love the videos Steve. You've inspired me to enjoy film again.I am eagerly awaiting the return of a Yashicamat 124G that I have sent away to be repaired. It won't be cheap but I can't wait to get a roll of HP5 in it and get out there.Keep up the good work, Paul Summers ,
Well worth getting old cameras serviced Paul as you can count on years of trouble free use. I picked up a spotless Minolta Autocord TLR last year and sent it off for a CLA anyway, it is so much smoother and easier to use now.
Steve I absolutely loved this video on film. I loved taking the photograph processing the film and finally printing on my Kaiser Enlarger. Lovely 6×7 size Mamiya 67 pro ii images and 35mm too
Well done! Five key, on-target points clearly explained and supported. I started shooting SLRs with Nikon bodies in the mid-1980s and still, to this day, prefer to use the Nikon circa-1980s prime lenses even on my digital cameras (currently D750). As you said, the lenses are "built from proper material," in-fact have lower geometric distortion than today's lenses (did not rely on software to correct distortion), but also render the image somewhat differently than "modern" lenses. They have a somewhat different color spectrum than today's lenses, use fewer glass elements and overall produce an image that looks more natural to me. Perhaps this is nostalgia, don't really know. I look forward to each of your new posts. Please continue your fine work!
Thanks Frank. Your point about the rendering of modern lenses is true, it’s not just nostalgia. Older lenses, particularly those from over 50 years ago are far more sympathetic and less contrasty than modern ones which shows particularly well with the larger formats and B&W film. Shadows are more detailed and everything looks smoother. It is no surprise that manufacturers are starting to make some lenses with a lower element count and less highly corrected which benefits the image quality for my type of photography.
I shoot a Pentax 67, Graflex Crown Graphic (with a 6x6cm and 6x7cm roll film backs), and soon an Intrepid 4x5. I love film and the process, and would love to see how an experienced photographer does things.
Steve another great video and worthy discussion. 2-1/4 is a great learning tool. Sure they are slow but what's the hurry unless professional job,, and even then it can be made better by slower. When i began seriously in the 60's I was advised by a pro to use medium format. I knew better! My new Pentax S1a and 58mm Zeiss Biotar lens was the top for me. A few years down the road I was thoroughly sick of small contacts (35mm) and choosing! I moved to Mamiya C series, do a fashion model (headshots) in 12 images. Contacts big enough for model to keep one set! I shot way less and way more effective. Perhaps best tool to learn with. Go well.
I have to agree completely. I've gravitated back to film as of late, and just finished a roll of Portra 160 in my 6x17 camera. Now comes the "waiting game" to get the negatives back from the lab. Unlike the "instant results" that come with digital, there's always the "anticipation" of results with film. But as long as your metering is good, its worth the wait. Meant to ask: have you done much shooting with Ilford's Delta 100? How does it compare to Pan-F?
Good luck with the 6x17 and Portra, I’m sure it will come out fine. I have shot a reasonable amount of Delta 100 and would favour it over Pan F generally. It is extremely sharp with very fine grain and that extra stop of speed makes quite a difference. It is also available in sheet film sizes unlike Pan F.
I think I've noticed in your videos that you definitely have joy for film. I've always enjoyed your patience and process of working with film. I know the type of film gives you different emotions you are able to draw from film and you are able to take advantage of that as you work. Your 5 Reason adds a bit of clarity and high passion. Your pano shots really caught my eye. How did you create them? Maybe a episode on that someday would be really great to see. Thanks for sharing your passion.
Thanks again Glen. I certainly have a passion for film photography and get excited before each outing when selecting what gear to take with me. Those panoramic shots were made with a converted Holga pinhole 6x12 that I fitted with. 65mm Super Angulon then foolishly sold when I moved to digital. I’m on the lookout for another one (or a 120 pan version which would be fun).
I could not agree with your thoughts more Steve. I went digital about ten years ago believing it was so wonderful. I eventually realised most of my images were unsatisfactory, but luckily I kept all my old gear and negative files. I have now returned to the joy of film photography (I hate the word 'analogue'). Out the other day with my 1979 Nikon FE, some people commented with with great interest, others were giving me digital advice. My grand-children think I'm so 'old fashioned' but I don't care, it makes me happy being a dinosaur and I'm back to making decent images. Thanks again Steve for another fine presentation. At least you make me feel I'm not alone !
Thanks Brian and good to see you using an FE, I’ve had a few and currently use an FE2. I wish I’d kept all my film gear when I went digital in 2012, I have ended up buying it all back!
Brilliant! Reason 3 (slowing down) is probably influences me the most to shoot film. With my DSLR, I end up with so many nearly identical images I am discouraged from ever “finishing” the processing - and when I do process them, I never delete the second through 37th matching pics for fear one day I’ll discover a flaw and need to switch which is best. With film, if I shoot a subject a second or third time, it’s because I know I missed something or remembered to I need to make a substantive change. Worse case, I’ll have three images, one of which is clearly better, and I don’t even scan the rejects. Your reason 5 is intriguing. I never thought about this from the standpoint of being able to master a static technology. I work in IT, and this reason resonates with me. Having invested so much time and energy learning a technology, only to have Microsoft rearrange all the controls is frustrating. More discouraging and depressing though is seeing my 20 years of experience being dismissed as ‘worthless’ because at least 15 years was with obsolete technology. Now I compete for jobs with recent high school graduates who have as much current experience as I do. The situation makes me feel like I wasted my life. By contrast, experience shooting with film has a more timelessness quality. Whether shooting with a 1936 Leica II, a 1962 Nikon F, a 1975 Olympus OM-1, or a 1988 Olympus OM-4, I’m gaining experience with composition, aperture, shutter speed, and focal length that translates well to better photography on any camera. Thank you very much for such thoughtful reasons.
I think we have a lot in common. I have been in IT since 1984 and during that time have seen most of what I’ve learnt disappear. I used to dream about the time computers would make photography easier and less messy but now I’m convinced it has taken the fun and excitement away. I do think digital has enabled everyone to take great shots and this is fantastic but when it comes to considered work and creating something that will last I’m increasingly disillusioned. With film I don’t strive for sharpness and detail but rather go for a look that is timeless and subtle. If it wasn’t for using film I’d end up being tied to a computer 100% of the time.
I agree with all the points here. Point 5 is expecially true to me, I work in software by trade and I really didn't want to turn my photography in to a software struggle. That's why I first picked film and when I wound up getting my drum scanner it became pretty clear the late 90s software for it was good enough for me. I love it never changes and I know every little kink and bug there is to it at this point. When absolutely needed I might bring an image in in to Photoshop CS6. I am never upgrading that copy either, I know where everything is and I will keep it that way. I'm considering bringing in some digital photography with the same qualities to most film photography and that would be to get an older digital back for my RZ67. That way I keep all the qualities of the camera system but get the option for direct digital capture when desired. These are luckily a lot more spartan than the full on game console on the back of a current digital camera. These aren't changing anymore either and I hope they'll last for years to come.
Good point on the digital backs Jan, I considered one for my Hasselblad a few years ago but they were very expensive. I wish there was an easy way to use my Bronica lenses on a good digital body.
Enjoyed the video Steve and I really enjoy your channel. You've helped to inspire me to give film photography a try after shooting with a Canon 6D for the last 4-5 years. I've no intention of giving up digital, but for the reasons you listed here I wanted to give film a shot. I recently got a great deal on a Pentax 645 with 3 lenses and can't wait to give it a go.
Thanks Kevin, there’s no reason anyone has to be exclusively film or digital, both have their place. I think you’ll enjoy the 645 format as it feels well balanced and offers a significant increase in quality over 35mm.
“I think I’ve got on top of how to use the remote control” - brilliant, I almost choked on my cup of tea when you said that. A very honest appraisal on the joys of shooting film. Nice one Steve.
Yes, I concur. I have a DSLR and I use it, but I like the look of film and the feel of film cameras. There's a certain pride I get from getting the whole process right, and viewing an image I produced from start to finish.
I know what you mean Robert, the enjoyment is a result of the effort it takes to get the shot in the first place. Whilst I can take good pictures with a digital camera I just don’t love them.
My oldest c amera is 100 years old and my oldest daily shooter is 70 years old. i love shooting black and white out of a argus c3. its a fantastic little cheap camera that is completely manual and really a good camera to learn analog photography on because you have to know more than you do with other film cameras.
Thoroughly enjoyed this vid Steve. As an old fart who also shot film in the dark ages I would now never go back to it, though I do hanker after it occassionally. However, your Point 5 is just so true, well at least I relate to it. Maybe its just us oldies that feel that way. Maybe a vid idea in the future could be you going from initial idea all the way through the travel, shooting, developing, scanning and any post-processing of a large format shot. Anyway, keep 'em coming! Thanks, Joe
Hi Steve! I like your movies and they give me much inspiration and joy. And your quiet way of photographing and searching subjects is great fun to see. I'm glad to see you using film this time.. Best regards.
Great video Steve. I haven't shot film for many years but have fond memories of my Yashica 6x6 TLR. Shooting Fuji and Kodak slide film it produced some of the best images I have ever shot. I totally agree with your comments about the evolution of digital cameras. As soon as you bring a camera home it seems outdated and you have to upgrade. I used my 35m and Yashica film cameras for years without a though about upgrading. Now I am in a mood for reminiscing I might have to go dig my slide albums out...Smiling.
Thanks John, I also used a Yashicamat many years ago and still like the images. I really hate getting a camera and finding it ‘bettered’ within 18 months but with film it doesn’t really matter. Slides look amazing!
I agree with your 5 reasons Must admit over the years I have acquired to many film cameras Got the 301 and 501 I remember when I first used one For got to take it out of c mode pressed the shutter nearly used a whole roll of film. keep doing what your doing really enjoy your Videos.
I agree with all of your points but to my eye nothing beats a silver gelatin print on fiber paper printed in a darkroom. Black and white printing is still accessible but it makes sense to scan color neg and transparency.
Keep doing this Steve! I enjoy your channel, your movies are very inspirational for me. Im also shooting on film for the same reasons as well, also with Bronica and lenses as you.
This was great! I like the different film style too, interesting change. Also interested in your reasons for shooting film. I know that's a thing everyone explains at some point, but I never tire of hearing about it and actually you brought up some points I hand't considered (that film does change, namely).
Fantastic Steve. Me too, but I do shoot digital for color. I still have a darkroom with 2 5x4 enlargers. I have not scanned a single sheet of film because the Ilford Classic paper sliver process is a step above ink, in my opinion. Also, it is more of a artistic craft to work with analog media. By the way, #6 on your list: analog equipment is cheaper than digital. Lots of bargains still out there in the analog world.
The gear is indeed cheap Steve and I only wish I’d bought more of it when it was at its lowest point about 2009. Glad you still have a darkroom too, I developed such a severe reaction to the chemicals I had to give mine up in 2012, I can just about manage film development but need to be very careful.
Nice video on why I use film still, I have been shooting since the early 70's and agree with you 100%. Might I add it was fun to have your own darkroom and experiment withe the processing and printing of negatives even though the process is more complicated and time consuming than digital. plus all the great photo magazines such as Peterson Photographic, Peterson Darkroom and Kodak books, Times Photo books that took us deep into understanding photography of another time and place. In High School for the early 70s' for the Class Yearbook my goto film was Ilford 120 and 35mm with a Yaschia Mat 124 and a Pentax 500. For me the Ilford film gave me better negatives / prints than Kodak Plus X or Tri-X. My medium format camera is Mamiya 645 with a metered pentaprism since its negatives are in relationship to an enlarged 35 mm frame format and 15 exposers per 120 roll or 30 with 220 film. I also shoot digital using my vintage lenses on my mirror-less cameras, and enjoy using the post processing software available on computers.
I'm going on with film, my old Nikon FE and Nikkormat FT2 work well and I bought a beautiful Rolleiflex and a superb Hasselblad. I couldn't afford these cameras, specially the Hasselblad before, (I remember it's was the price of a small car in the 80's), but know you can get them for almost nothing. I also have a Sinar P2 4x5 that an old friend gave to me, so heavy, it's difficult to take it for landscape so I'm waiting for 4x5 Intrepid camera. I like the idea that you have to "think" about your picture and not just take multiple views, hoping one will be good. Digital is great, yes, especially for colors and so easy for panoramic pictures, but for B&W pictures I prefer films.
What a great watch this was. Lots of these kinds of videos are all "Top Ten Reasons FILM is BETTER!?" with a crazy thumbnail. You don't throw digital under the bus, you keep it adult and civilized and personal, it's all very refreshing, very adult. You made a really good point about the upgrade cycle. As a millennial, having to learn a new phone every two years is just part of the lifestyle, and it's just as irritating as you make it out to be. I never thought about that as a reason why I like film cameras, but you hit the nail on the head.
Yeah, the camera should never be in the way, just like any creative tool. Imagine if every year they came out with a new neck for guitars where all the frets were in different places and you had to buy that neck every year to keep up with the other guitar players.
I shoot film and digital. And I love film. Although in dark scenes, digital is superior. but in day light , film experience is by far better. and tonal rendering is great. thanks for the great video !!!
Great vid Steve! I collect the old film cameras excess of 100 in all sorts of condition and although don’t shoot with them these days I often wonder what they have seen and captured ! Maybe just me haha. Thanks anyway and keep them coming! 😊
Love your videos, your videos and some other channels are really putting the art back into photography and teaching others along the way. And not talking about gear. Thank you !
Great video Steve, I couldn't agree more. There is one little limitation in film usage I 'd like to add. I like the looks of Kodachrome 64 . Just take a look a the great work of Saul Leiter or Fred Herzog. So in order to achive at least similar colour rendition, I am forced to use a digital camera and apply the appropriate filter. Other than that, I always wondered why people use emulations for still existing film, if they could use the " Real Mc'Coy " in the first place. Thanks for sharing your thoughts !
Thanks Klaus. Even though I didn’t shoot Kodachrome (except one roll of 25 back in 1978) I now look at images made with it and absolutely love the colours. If they ever brought it back I think it would be very popular but sadly the processing is far too complex. I also dislike film simulations and equally I do not attempt some of the older darkroom effects I used to like such as lite printing. I tend to go with the native look of a camera/film and if I don’t like it I see little point in spending time manipulating it later.
Hi Jean. I usually buy my Rollei infrared from either Firstcall Photographic or Ag Photographic in the UK. It has a decent shelf life too, even when expired although I allow a bit more exposure if it is more than 3 years out of date.
That was a funky little episode Steve.. that intro was a bit too *modern* for the subjective matter in my opinion, lol. :) Great conversational piece and as this episode came out I had to dash up to my 84 year old mate's house to collect something - only to engage him in what your latest vlog was about - I am sure he will watch it later himself. Anyway, apart from his digital set up he too has a film collection that he enjoys, so much so he is getting right back into it. Whilst I was there he showed me a mint copy of a 1952 Zeiss Ikon (and when I say mint I mean it!) and it was one I had not seen him take out so I encouraged him on our next outing to bring it along so I look forward to that. Not a film shooter myself but I so enjoy watching him use them and love watching you do these vlogs - it's difficult to say why but there a different feel and mood to images captured. TFS your thoughts .
Thanks Alan, those Zeiss Ikon’s are lovely cameras and still deliver excellent results. Film is just different, not better in the same way that acrylic paints aren’t better or worse than oils or watercolours.
Good summary, esp. #5. As you say, every time you have finally gotten the steps down, things are changed (often for no apparent reason- the button lower left is now upper right with Shift key. I did find the B-roll cuts jarring, and would have been better to have better composition (part of head missing)- better angle might have been 45 degrees, not 90. In any event, a proper good show.
Hey Steve, thanks for sharing your work and your experience. After 10 Years of digital i just get into analog with a Bronica SQ-A and a Canon AE-1. Already in love with the very different feeling while taking pictures. So much more relaxing an satisfying. Actually waiting for the FIRST! developt roll from the Bronica. I'm so excited to see the results. In the future i plan to develop an scan by myself so i'm looking forward to Videos about you " analog postproduction". Greetings from Solingen .... Timo
So glad you are taking the film route, it can be challenging at times but also very rewarding. It is less about absolute technical quality and more the image itself which is something people seem to forget.
Great video Steve, I sat watching it & glancing in the display cabinet at the SQA's I used to use when I shot weddings in the late 80's & 90's. In fact, I've not used them since. I think I'm going to have to get one of them out of retirement for a run round the Peak District ;-)
![Relaxing 3 Color Changing: White-Black-Red Screen Led Lights [1 Hour]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Xary2Af9PWs/mqdefault.jpg)
I really liked the part about slowing down, I'm not going back to film however it's a lesson even digital photographers can learn from. Too often we shoot 50 subpar images and throw out all of them rather than focusing at the moment on the best composition. A deliberate approach cannot be underestimated. Totally enjoyed your video.
Thank you.
Must agree with you Steve - I adore the 'feel' of mechanical film cameras and the look of the images.
I love listening and watching Your movies. It calms me down. I do quite often landscape photography too and i think those movies (vlogs as u call them) captures the mood of that trips perfectly. An oasis of calm and relax in our crazy world. Great job.
Thanks Aleksander, I’m really pleased you like them.
Aleksander Domański I agree! I sent a friend a link to Steve’s TH-cam channel, along with a note saying that his videos are both relaxed and educational. It’s also a great way to plan a shoot trip in your own local area.
Here are the top five reasons I use film for landscape photography:
1. I already own the film photographic equipment.
2. I enjoy developing my own film.
3. I prefer shooting landscapes with a medium format camera and I have not yet found a medium format digital camera that I like or can afford.
4. When I want to slow down, I enjoy shooting landscapes with a 6x9cm medium format camera or a 4x5 inch view camera.
5. All my medium format and large format film cameras are battery-free manual/mechanical cameras. They do not have built-in light meters, motor drives, or electronically controlled shutters. I prefer manual/mechanical battery-independent cameras vs. automatic/electronic battery-dependent cameras.
Totally agree 😊
I returned to film because I started watching a channel on TH-cam and I realised how much I was missing it. I forget the bloke's name...but I’ll be eternally grateful to you.
I do use a darkroom for my black and white 35mm, and I love it. It’s an entire journey that I am physically in control of and can manipulate. Before doing my law degree I was a chef for over 20 years and I think the idea of recipes appeals to me. Some might say my cooking tasted the same and had the same impact if swallowed!
Since I have started using film again my digital photography has improved and I would never one medium is better than the other. I never use film for wildlife or in a studio as I like to work tethered, but for landscape it’s my Bronica ETRSi and for urban photography it’s my Zorki 4K (cost £50 with a Jupiter 8 50mm f2)
Thanks Steve, you have influenced my photography more than anyone on TH-cam. Brilliant video Steve, really enjoyed it and I can't find anything to argue with except doesn’t your Bronica have mirror lock up and continuous shooting?
Hehe. I should get the the Bronica SQAM then I can burn through a roll of film faster 🙂
I did miss my darkroom for a while but not the tight chest that I suffered with for days after each session.
There is something satisfying about pulling a film from the developing tank and nervously holding it up to the light to see if the shots worked out. I also have a strange connection with the film itself as it was present at the scene when the shot was made.
Thanks for your continued support Mark.
Steve O'Nions Strangly, even though I have a respiratory condition, using the darkroom has never affected it. No idea why, it must just not be one of my triggers.
I’m pretty sensitive to a lot of stuff to be honest, if a diesel car in front of me has visible smoke I feel the effects for at least 24hrs.
I was out with my 1930 Kodak Number 2 box Brownie this morning with 120 Kodak Tri X. It has 3 apertures. I shot the film and developed the film in Rodinal 1 to 50 for 9 minutes and the results are excellent.
I will print to 7x5 in my windowless bathroom darkroom with my 1950s Gnome rangefinder Alpha 6x9 condenser enlarger using a 100mm 5.6 Schneider Componon S lens enlarger lens. Old school.
I have been doing this since I was 13.
First real camera in 1958 was a Zenith C with a 50mm f3.5 Industar lens which I still have and use.
You made things last in my day and I still do that.
Nice one Neil, love the simple setup and the fact you’ve been using this approach for years - respect.
Looking forward to more about how you develop and process images
Superb again !
“It’s nice to be in charge of something in your life”.... classic line teaching more than just photography. Loving your videos. Thanks Steve!
Great video and very timely. In my late 50's and find myself going back to film more and more. Just love the simplicity of my old film cameras. Subscribed!
Thanks Andrew, hope you enjoy shooting film again.
STEVE, what can I say, kudos for another sublime video :)
Thanks Carmine.
You could sum up this video as; you can't improve on perfection. Film is perfect in its imperfection. It is the more human means of recording an image. Because to relive a moment, flawlessly, you would have to be there. Film captures us, the human race, in all our flawless imperfection in a way 1's and 0's and any superstition can not.
Love your work.
That’s well put Luke. I’d go as far as saying that most photography, even that using film does not represent situations the way our memory does. In my mind I often recall scenes as blurry or vignetted, there is emotion on there, not just a 2 dimensional representation. This is why I like to use the likes of pinhole cameras and also introduce texture, grain, tone as I feel an emotional connection with the. Image rather than admiring the technical abilities of the camera that produced it.
Honestly one of the most honest and most enjoyable photographers to watch :). Hope you're around for a while Steve
Thanks Nicholas 🙂
They would be my five reasons too! A hybrid workflow is great, I do both, love to print. Satisfaction level is huge. Thanks for the video.
Thank you 🙂
Pretty refreshing change Steve to hear someone talk film and not digital. Please do more.. :)
Will do Mike.
I totally enjoyed every second of this video. I agree 1000% about your 5 reasons to love film/ cameras. In number 2.... Film cameras i love that there is no menus to change or update. Film is a joy to use. It's like Christmas when you get a film developed and you then see your efforts and skill (or not) in front of you. Film does slow you down and teaches you to get it right in camera rather than relying totally on LR to save an image. Love your channel very much. Keep it coming please. ( 31/12/19.)
I'm glad I found your channel. I have recently gotten back into film and I am really enjoying it. I've got a bit of delay since my TLR rolled into a stream and it's off at Mark Hamas getting a CLA .
You have reminded me that I must get out with my Autocord TLR soon 👍
@@SteveONions I picked up a nice Yashica 12 with yashinon lens for under $100 US. Of course it's costing double that to get cleaned after it went for a swim. Looking forward to finishing a roll of HP5 in it since the last roll was ruined.
That’s a very good camera/lens combination and HP5+ is the ideal film.
Couldn't agree more. I also enjoy the process of scanning, especially negative film. Still hunting for a relatively affordable medium format scanner though.
If you find a good one Toby then let me know 👍
@@SteveONions I've started scanning medium format with an Canon 60d and Tamron 90mm Macro, converting with the Negative Lab Pro plug-in in Lightroom. Gives very reasonable results considering I only had to buy the plug-in and a light table. Worth giving a try!
I’ve also done some basic captures with a digital SLR (and also have a 90mm Tamron). Results have been impressive but I really need to sort out a proper rig so I can use it more easily and keep everything parallel.
Great video Steve.
It is good that you are able to articulate the reasons why you prefer film over digital. It is not easy to mention objectively the subjective reasons we have when we say we like. But as you said it: it is a good feeling to master something and be able of going out and take what we intended.
I work on IT so every 6 months I need to re-learn a few options, update some options that were renamed, discover what was missing, etc. Even the camera program I use to download photos has been updated regularly, so I have a computer where I disabled the updates. I like photography as a hobby, I don't want to relearn the new download photo program because I have to learn new programs as part of my work, and my recreation time with photos I want just to enjoy the photos. You make me think on buying film again, I still have my film camera and I check it once per month.
Thank you for sharing your videos.
I don’t like things changing without my knowledge and this unfortunately is a common even with computer software. With my film cameras and darkroom the skills I learned all those years ago still work the same today.
Have to agree with the points you've raised, the point about the slowing down is without doubt one of the most significant points you've raised. Slowing down improves your output without doubt. Looking forward to seeing more of these types of videos Steve.
Thanks Dan.
Totally agree with you. Point 5 is 100% correct. Good luck, Steve!
Thank you 🙂
I never looked at it that way! What a nice video. Especially the last point is new to me, but very important at the same time.
Thank you 🙂
Totally agree with your thoughts. I love quality precision in a metal bodied film camera with just 3 things to adjust as you say. Also, the wonderful freedom from 'upgrades' is a joy.
Can’t argue with your views and commentary. I absolutely agree.
I love that you are straight forward about why shoot film. Often the process and experience is more important than the technical merits of the medium you are using. You enjoy it and that’s enough. You did a fine job articulating all of the other reasons but the fact that you like it is all that really matters.
Thanks John, it does really come down to just liking film regardless of technical merits, it makes me happy 🙂
I don't think that now I am going to grab a film camera and rush out into the wild and start shooting. Maybe one day but for now I am just enjoying these videos. Nice to learn about these old equipments. The photos look great too. Thanks for uploading these videos.
Glad you like them 👍
Thanks, I enjoyed that. There is nothing like the feeling that you get when you develop your own negatives.
This video popped up in my TH-cam feed Steve. I would add number 6 being the physical negative you get with every photo you take. No backing it up to future proof you images against tech upgrades. 35 mm is my preferred medium. All your other points are how I feel about film photography. I have a bit of an obsession with film cameras. I just love the fact they are built of metal and are simplistic in operation. I love loading film and that clunky shutter sound. As I’m getting older too now I just love the fact that as you say, it’s a static medium. I like digital cameras, but film cameras are on another level. I often will have a film in any one of my film cameras for up to a year. I always liked the anticipation of waiting to get my films back from the lab and I still do.
I have similar feelings Simon. When out shooting film I’m nowhere near as distracted as with digital. I also stop fretting over sharpness, depth of fields and dynamic range, it’s all about capturing the image and bringing it to life later in the darkroom or on the computer.
Five great great reasons to keep shooting film!!!!!!! For me it’s that feeling of first looking at my slides on a light box!!!! Nothing in photography compares to that excitement except being out there shooting it!!!!! Cheers 🍻 from USA!!!!
Thanks Rick.
Amen. amen, amen! I'm bookmarking this video and sending it to anyone who asks me why I still shoot film. Absolutely perfect.
Lol.. the remote. There’s a remote for everything and I tend to throw everyone of them away. Ditched the tv during the 80’s, so you can imagine I enjoy shooting film for all the same reasons. Although the digital part of avoiding printing in the darkroom is what got me back into film too. I can develop in my kitchen sink but have avoided a formal darkroom for printing because of the chemical waste. Thanks for your brilliant work on your informative and meditative videos. They’ve been a joy to binge into during these stressful times.
Thank you 😊
Wow ! reason number 1, you have a lot of attention to detail and seem to really know the differences between different grades of film.
Just back from a short break and doing my developing. I use a Sony A7S for inside shots in old churches for the low light capability but use old lenses. Comparing those with the ones shot on film and the difference is visceral. The former are excellent records, the film ones just have atmosphere and texture. There is no right or wrong in aesthetics, but I'll always shoot film if I can. I also love old cameras, but that is just a minor silliness!
I know what you mean Charles, I also find digital shots a bit too perfect whereas film seems alive and more 3 dimensional.
There’s nothing silly about liking old cameras either 😀
To me, film seems to capture something that you can’t see when you’re there in person. But it also feels like it brings you into a place, instead of just looking at it like a perfect presentation of what the subject looked like. Enjoyed hearing your thoughts.
I agree Nick. When I open up a film image or project it on my enlargers baseboard I feel quite different to having a digital image in front of me. Film feels more like the real world to me, imperfect almost but that’s the appeal.
Thanks Steve. Another wonderful video.
Thanks Kent.
Yet again another fab video. I too love shooting with film for pretty much those same reasons as well.
I don't think they will make cameras of such sturdy quality ever again - that still work! Thanks. Todor
Couldn’t agree more.
Im in the process of deciding what gear I'm going to use going forward with my landscape photography. Im deciding between getting a medium format film camera or upgrading my DSLR. I know I can mimic the medium format look using post processing, but at the end of the day its just that - mimicry. I've shot 35mm film for a while, and I vastly prefer the process. I think you've convinced me in this video what route Im going to go down. Im new to the channel but I think ill be sticking around. Cheers Steve!
Tricky choice Michael but I don’t think you will regret getting a medium format camera. Another plus is that they are appreciating in price so it’s somewhat of an investment 😀
@@SteveONions Very true. I guess I'd better get one sooner rather than later... oh well! haha
I shot film all the way up to my first digital the Nikon D1h, loved that babe then I drown it nowt lasts forever. Last month or so I'm steering back to film in my own time at least work still dictate I shoot digital (newspaper photographer etc) I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying film again, initially 35mm deving my own BnWs, but just lately I've dug out the old wedding cam my Bron ETRSi, I could say it's rekindled my love of photography but that's bull because I never need my photography rekindling it's when I'm at my happiest a camera any camera in hand, but this 120 film lark has got me fired up big time. Loads to remember far more to learn, but this channel and a few others I watch will see me right. Top work steve. Regards Paul
Glad to see you back out shooting film Paul, it’s not about technical quality for me, more the experience and natural looking results. Digital is fantastic and I love my micro 4/3 cameras but they just don’t excite me. All the best 🙂
@@SteveONions Yeah mate loving it and to be honest regarding the quality digital has gone crazy so technically perfect everything kinda looks a bit samey. I'm looking back at some of my pre digi work and loving the grain, and general feel of film true what they say it feels timeless. My latest efforts with 120mm are encouraging my latest vid was a nightmare tho trying to load my first roll of 120 onto the reel in the dark bag gotta practice a tad more me thinks. Fun tho and that's what it's all about.
I just found your channel and am enjoying catching up on your videos. I love my old OM-2. I’ve never enjoyed digital photography . (I’ve only ever bought a couple of cheap point and clicks, and have only recently bought a M43 camera - yep, an OM-D E10ii). But I would love to see your process for getting from film to print. Please show.
Thanks Claire, I also owned OM cameras in the past and love their bright viewfinders. I’ve a video coming in the next few weeks that goes right through the process of shooting, scanning and printing 👍
always dope to find fellow youtubers that shoot film!
thanks for sharing this with us
never shot landscapes on film. but def want to try it now
loved watching this
Thank you 🙂
Totally agree! I'd personally add 2 reasons:
1. With film you can get a lot of variation from one camera/lens combination by using different films, different developers, pushing/pulling film etc.
2. (Not really a reason, as it is not quite rational): It feels more of an achievement, and gives you more satisfaction, when the picture is your own effort and work because you developed it yourself.
BTW: Not all film cameras are "old technology". My Canon EOS 3 has multi-spot metering, depth of field AE, and even eye control auto focus. Features you don't find in Canon's digital cameras, but it works with the newest lenses.
Good point on the satisfaction bit, I am definitely happier to get a winner on film than digital.
Never stop. I just love your perspective and videos on film!
Thanks Jesse.
Absolutely love your philosophy behind your photography! I have been growing tired of constant updates, buggy software, and new gear every month. I am making the transition to a Pentax 6x7 within the next few weeks and I am over the moon excited to get out and slow down!
I hope you enjoy using the Pentax Taylor, a lovely camera with excellent lenses.
Agree with everything you've just said Steve....love to see you're scanning workflow
That one is on the list Alan 👍
I, for one, would be very interested to see more videos like this. You spoke about learning from those who came before, about that weight of history and knowledge passed down. I would love to hear your own knowledge on scanning, workflow etc etc so that I might learn from it in the same spirit.
I’ll definitely be going through my workflow and techniques in future videos Josh.
Thanks Steve, as always, educational and interesting.
I agree. At age 70 I started using film in the 1950's because my parents were both into photography as a hobby. My father bought me my own 35mm film camera about 1961, with a Seconic light meter, which still works BTW. However, I do use digital. I have a Nikon D810, with only 2 lenses. 14mm for stars and the Nikon 17-35 F/2.8. For film I used a Hasselblad 503cw, with 3 main lenses. 50mm, 80mm and a 135 Hasselblad bellows lens with a H. bellows for close up work. In-fact, after posting this I am going out to the local botanical gardens (Corpus Christi, Tx) and use my bellows for flower work. I would one day like to use 4x5, but have never tried it.
Sounds like a good setup Mike, I had a 501CM for a few years and also use a D61 along with Micro 4/3 cameras. 4x5 is fun but quite limited compared to medium format when it comes to speed of operation and working in adverse conditions.
Right on sir terrific art snap on.
Your commentary certainly resonated with me, I like to develop my own skills and photographs without having the 'game' changed by strangers with all of their updates to my digital photographic environment. Film puts me in control and that is really important to me. I agree with each of your 5 points. I have recently subscribed and will catch up on your content.
Thank you 🙂
I'm an old fart Steve, I still have my film cameras but my pension doesn't go far enough for me to afford film. I do have a digital camera now, a Lumix GX-80 which I must be honest I love it, but I don't bang away and take hundreds of pictures each time I go out. I restrict myself to the equivalent of one roll of film (36 shots). I use the Lumix in manual mode, auto focus turned off and no other bells and whistles used. I also don't look at the shots on the LCD screen, I do check them when I get home and usually I print every shot because lets face it, they are moments in time that will never happen exactly the same way again. Loved this video my friend and I have now subscribed to your channel.
I like micro 43 cameras too, I’ve got an EM5 Olympus and Panasonic G80. I’m less disciplined than you though and get trigger happy so films stops all that!
Love the videos Steve.
You've inspired me to enjoy film again.I am eagerly awaiting the return of a Yashicamat 124G that I have sent away to be repaired.
It won't be cheap but I can't wait to get a roll of HP5 in it and get out there.Keep up the good work,
Paul Summers
,
Well worth getting old cameras serviced Paul as you can count on years of trouble free use. I picked up a spotless Minolta Autocord TLR last year and sent it off for a CLA anyway, it is so much smoother and easier to use now.
Steve I absolutely loved this video on film. I loved taking the photograph processing the film and finally printing on my Kaiser Enlarger. Lovely 6×7 size Mamiya 67 pro ii images and 35mm too
Thank you.
Really enjoy your channel. Fantastic stuff! Cheers
Thank you Simon.
You are so right ... thanks.
Thanks for posting. Would like to see your 6x12 film back self build as a future video.
Well done! Five key, on-target points clearly explained and supported. I started shooting SLRs with Nikon bodies in the mid-1980s and still, to this day, prefer to use the Nikon circa-1980s prime lenses even on my digital cameras (currently D750). As you said, the lenses are "built from proper material," in-fact have lower geometric distortion than today's lenses (did not rely on software to correct distortion), but also render the image somewhat differently than "modern" lenses. They have a somewhat different color spectrum than today's lenses, use fewer glass elements and overall produce an image that looks more natural to me. Perhaps this is nostalgia, don't really know. I look forward to each of your new posts. Please continue your fine work!
Thanks Frank. Your point about the rendering of modern lenses is true, it’s not just nostalgia. Older lenses, particularly those from over 50 years ago are far more sympathetic and less contrasty than modern ones which shows particularly well with the larger formats and B&W film. Shadows are more detailed and everything looks smoother. It is no surprise that manufacturers are starting to make some lenses with a lower element count and less highly corrected which benefits the image quality for my type of photography.
I shoot a Pentax 67, Graflex Crown Graphic (with a 6x6cm and 6x7cm roll film backs), and soon an Intrepid 4x5. I love film and the process, and would love to see how an experienced photographer does things.
Keep shooting Seth and if you do get an Jntrepid I’m sure you will enjoy it, they weigh so little I find it easier to carry 4x5 than medium format.
Steve another great video and worthy discussion. 2-1/4 is a great learning tool. Sure they are slow but what's the hurry unless professional job,, and even then it can be made better by slower. When i began seriously in the 60's I was advised by a pro to use medium format. I knew better! My new Pentax S1a and 58mm Zeiss Biotar lens was the top for me. A few years down the road I was thoroughly sick of small contacts (35mm) and choosing! I moved to Mamiya C series, do a fashion model (headshots) in 12 images. Contacts big enough for model to keep one set! I shot way less and way more effective. Perhaps best tool to learn with. Go well.
Great advice Jason, there’s always lessons to be learned providing we are open to listening 🙂
Just discovered your channel. Love this video, and I couldn't agree more. Please keep up the great content.
Thanks Rene, glad you enjoyed it.
I have to agree completely. I've gravitated back to film as of late, and just finished a roll of Portra 160 in my 6x17 camera. Now comes the "waiting game" to get the negatives back from the lab. Unlike the "instant results" that come with digital, there's always the "anticipation" of results with film. But as long as your metering is good, its worth the wait.
Meant to ask: have you done much shooting with Ilford's Delta 100? How does it compare to Pan-F?
Good luck with the 6x17 and Portra, I’m sure it will come out fine.
I have shot a reasonable amount of Delta 100 and would favour it over Pan F generally. It is extremely sharp with very fine grain and that extra stop of speed makes quite a difference. It is also available in sheet film sizes unlike Pan F.
I think I've noticed in your videos that you definitely have joy for film. I've always enjoyed your patience and process of working with film. I know the type of film gives you different emotions you are able to draw from film and you are able to take advantage of that as you work. Your 5 Reason adds a bit of clarity and high passion. Your pano shots really caught my eye. How did you create them? Maybe a episode on that someday would be really great to see. Thanks for sharing your passion.
Thanks again Glen. I certainly have a passion for film photography and get excited before each outing when selecting what gear to take with me.
Those panoramic shots were made with a converted Holga pinhole 6x12 that I fitted with. 65mm Super Angulon then foolishly sold when I moved to digital. I’m on the lookout for another one (or a 120 pan version which would be fun).
I could not agree with your thoughts more Steve. I went digital about ten years ago believing it was so wonderful. I eventually realised most of my images were unsatisfactory, but luckily I kept all my old gear and negative files. I have now returned to the joy of film photography (I hate the word 'analogue'). Out the other day with my 1979 Nikon FE, some people commented with with great interest, others were giving me digital advice. My grand-children think I'm so 'old fashioned' but I don't care, it makes me happy being a dinosaur and I'm back to making decent images.
Thanks again Steve for another fine presentation. At least you make me feel I'm not alone !
Thanks Brian and good to see you using an FE, I’ve had a few and currently use an FE2. I wish I’d kept all my film gear when I went digital in 2012, I have ended up buying it all back!
Brilliant!
Reason 3 (slowing down) is probably influences me the most to shoot film. With my DSLR, I end up with so many nearly identical images I am discouraged from ever “finishing” the processing - and when I do process them, I never delete the second through 37th matching pics for fear one day I’ll discover a flaw and need to switch which is best. With film, if I shoot a subject a second or third time, it’s because I know I missed something or remembered to I need to make a substantive change. Worse case, I’ll have three images, one of which is clearly better, and I don’t even scan the rejects.
Your reason 5 is intriguing. I never thought about this from the standpoint of being able to master a static technology. I work in IT, and this reason resonates with me. Having invested so much time and energy learning a technology, only to have Microsoft rearrange all the controls is frustrating. More discouraging and depressing though is seeing my 20 years of experience being dismissed as ‘worthless’ because at least 15 years was with obsolete technology. Now I compete for jobs with recent high school graduates who have as much current experience as I do. The situation makes me feel like I wasted my life.
By contrast, experience shooting with film has a more timelessness quality. Whether shooting with a 1936 Leica II, a 1962 Nikon F, a 1975 Olympus OM-1, or a 1988 Olympus OM-4, I’m gaining experience with composition, aperture, shutter speed, and focal length that translates well to better photography on any camera.
Thank you very much for such thoughtful reasons.
I think we have a lot in common. I have been in IT since 1984 and during that time have seen most of what I’ve learnt disappear. I used to dream about the time computers would make photography easier and less messy but now I’m convinced it has taken the fun and excitement away.
I do think digital has enabled everyone to take great shots and this is fantastic but when it comes to considered work and creating something that will last I’m increasingly disillusioned. With film I don’t strive for sharpness and detail but rather go for a look that is timeless and subtle.
If it wasn’t for using film I’d end up being tied to a computer 100% of the time.
I agree with all the points here. Point 5 is expecially true to me, I work in software by trade and I really didn't want to turn my photography in to a software struggle. That's why I first picked film and when I wound up getting my drum scanner it became pretty clear the late 90s software for it was good enough for me. I love it never changes and I know every little kink and bug there is to it at this point. When absolutely needed I might bring an image in in to Photoshop CS6. I am never upgrading that copy either, I know where everything is and I will keep it that way.
I'm considering bringing in some digital photography with the same qualities to most film photography and that would be to get an older digital back for my RZ67. That way I keep all the qualities of the camera system but get the option for direct digital capture when desired. These are luckily a lot more spartan than the full on game console on the back of a current digital camera. These aren't changing anymore either and I hope they'll last for years to come.
Good point on the digital backs Jan, I considered one for my Hasselblad a few years ago but they were very expensive. I wish there was an easy way to use my Bronica lenses on a good digital body.
Enjoyed the video Steve and I really enjoy your channel. You've helped to inspire me to give film photography a try after shooting with a Canon 6D for the last 4-5 years. I've no intention of giving up digital, but for the reasons you listed here I wanted to give film a shot. I recently got a great deal on a Pentax 645 with 3 lenses and can't wait to give it a go.
Thanks Kevin, there’s no reason anyone has to be exclusively film or digital, both have their place.
I think you’ll enjoy the 645 format as it feels well balanced and offers a significant increase in quality over 35mm.
“I think I’ve got on top of how to use the remote control” - brilliant, I almost choked on my cup of tea when you said that. A very honest appraisal on the joys of shooting film. Nice one Steve.
Thanks Craig.
Yes, I concur. I have a DSLR and I use it, but I like the look of film and the feel of film cameras. There's a certain pride I get from getting the whole process right, and viewing an image I produced from start to finish.
I know what you mean Robert, the enjoyment is a result of the effort it takes to get the shot in the first place. Whilst I can take good pictures with a digital camera I just don’t love them.
My oldest c amera is 100 years old and my oldest daily shooter is 70 years old. i love shooting black and white out of a argus c3. its a fantastic little cheap camera that is completely manual and really a good camera to learn analog photography on because you have to know more than you do with other film cameras.
Very informative video. Looking forward to more about how you develop and process images. Might even get my old film camera back out.
Thoroughly enjoyed this vid Steve. As an old fart who also shot film in the dark ages I would now never go back to it, though I do hanker after it occassionally. However, your Point 5 is just so true, well at least I relate to it. Maybe its just us oldies that feel that way. Maybe a vid idea in the future could be you going from initial idea all the way through the travel, shooting, developing, scanning and any post-processing of a large format shot. Anyway, keep 'em coming! Thanks, Joe
Thanks Joe, I think I will do an overview video of my workflow next before going into more detail on any one topic. 👍
I enjoyed the video very much. Thanks
Glad you liked it Michael.
Hi Steve! I like your movies and they give me much inspiration and joy. And your quiet way of photographing and searching subjects is great fun to see. I'm glad to see you using film this time.. Best regards.
Great video Steve. I haven't shot film for many years but have fond memories of my Yashica 6x6 TLR. Shooting Fuji and Kodak slide film it produced some of the best images I have ever shot. I totally agree with your comments about the evolution of digital cameras. As soon as you bring a camera home it seems outdated and you have to upgrade. I used my 35m and Yashica film cameras for years without a though about upgrading. Now I am in a mood for reminiscing I might have to go dig my slide albums out...Smiling.
Thanks John, I also used a Yashicamat many years ago and still like the images. I really hate getting a camera and finding it ‘bettered’ within 18 months but with film it doesn’t really matter. Slides look amazing!
Since I watch your vids I use my Mamiya and my old field camera again. Thank for uploading.
I agree with your 5 reasons Must admit over the years I have acquired to many film cameras Got the 301 and 501 I remember when I first used one For got to take it out of c mode pressed the shutter nearly used a whole roll of film. keep doing what your doing really enjoy your Videos.
Thanks Katharine, those old Nikon’s are still fun to shot with and such bright viewfinders too.
I agree with all of your points but to my eye nothing beats a silver gelatin print on fiber paper printed in a darkroom. Black and white printing is still accessible but it makes sense to scan color neg and transparency.
Keep doing this Steve! I enjoy your channel, your movies are very inspirational for me. Im also shooting on film for the same reasons as well, also with Bronica and lenses as you.
Thanks Lukasz.
You hit the nail on the head with those reasons...
what did you mean by corner to corner for every apperture ? at 3:34. Thank you it was an amazing video, Again!
Each of the lenses are very sharp Deniz and don’t really need to be stopped down to give good results unlike many zooms.
@@SteveONions thank you :)
Thank you, Steve!
This was great! I like the different film style too, interesting change. Also interested in your reasons for shooting film. I know that's a thing everyone explains at some point, but I never tire of hearing about it and actually you brought up some points I hand't considered (that film does change, namely).
Thanks Tim, I can think of plenty of others reasons too but these seemed to stand out.
Fantastic Steve. Me too, but I do shoot digital for color. I still have a darkroom with 2 5x4 enlargers. I have not scanned a single sheet of film because the Ilford Classic paper sliver process is a step above ink, in my opinion. Also, it is more of a artistic craft to work with analog media. By the way, #6 on your list: analog equipment is cheaper than digital. Lots of bargains still out there in the analog world.
The gear is indeed cheap Steve and I only wish I’d bought more of it when it was at its lowest point about 2009. Glad you still have a darkroom too, I developed such a severe reaction to the chemicals I had to give mine up in 2012, I can just about manage film development but need to be very careful.
I noticed the folding camera on your desk. Have you done a video with that?
Their is one Thomas, it is called 6x6 Seascapes.
@@SteveONions Oh, right on. Thanks. I have an old Zeiss Super Ikonta 531/2. From 1938 and it still works great
Great video Steve I'll look forward to your scanning video
Thanks Adrian.
Nice video on why I use film still, I have been shooting since the early 70's and agree with you 100%. Might I add it was fun to have your own darkroom and experiment withe the processing and printing of negatives even though the process is more complicated and time consuming than digital. plus all the great photo magazines such as Peterson Photographic, Peterson Darkroom and Kodak books, Times Photo books that took us deep into understanding photography of another time and place. In High School for the early 70s' for the Class Yearbook my goto film was Ilford 120 and 35mm with a Yaschia Mat 124 and a Pentax 500. For me the Ilford film gave me better negatives / prints than Kodak Plus X or Tri-X. My medium format camera is Mamiya 645 with a metered pentaprism since its negatives are in relationship to an enlarged 35 mm frame format and 15 exposers per 120 roll or 30 with 220 film. I also shoot digital using my vintage lenses on my mirror-less cameras, and enjoy using the post processing software available on computers.
Thanks Robin. I have owned many of the cameras you list, great fun using them.
My late uncle's surname was Bastarde - he insisted on pronouncing it base-tardy. Really enjoyed hearing your pronounce 'onions'. :)
I'm going on with film, my old Nikon FE and Nikkormat FT2 work well and I bought a beautiful Rolleiflex and a superb Hasselblad. I couldn't afford these cameras, specially the Hasselblad before, (I remember it's was the price of a small car in the 80's), but know you can get them for almost nothing. I also have a Sinar P2 4x5 that an old friend gave to me, so heavy, it's difficult to take it for landscape so I'm waiting for 4x5 Intrepid camera.
I like the idea that you have to "think" about your picture and not just take multiple views, hoping one will be good. Digital is great, yes, especially for colors and so easy for panoramic pictures, but for B&W pictures I prefer films.
I’m envious that you can get Hasselblad’s and Rollie’s really cheap, they’ve shot up in price recently in the UK.
What a great watch this was. Lots of these kinds of videos are all "Top Ten Reasons FILM is BETTER!?" with a crazy thumbnail. You don't throw digital under the bus, you keep it adult and civilized and personal, it's all very refreshing, very adult.
You made a really good point about the upgrade cycle. As a millennial, having to learn a new phone every two years is just part of the lifestyle, and it's just as irritating as you make it out to be. I never thought about that as a reason why I like film cameras, but you hit the nail on the head.
There’s something very reassuring about using cameras in exactly the same way year after year, it leaves you free to concentrate on the composition.
Yeah, the camera should never be in the way, just like any creative tool. Imagine if every year they came out with a new neck for guitars where all the frets were in different places and you had to buy that neck every year to keep up with the other guitar players.
Great video. Totally agree with the 5th point.
I shoot film and digital. And I love film. Although in dark scenes, digital is superior. but in day light , film experience is by far better. and tonal rendering is great. thanks for the great video !!!
Indeed, film really needs good light, especially colour negative.
Great vid Steve! I collect the old film cameras excess of 100 in all sorts of condition and although don’t shoot with them these days I often wonder what they have seen and captured ! Maybe just me haha. Thanks anyway and keep them coming! 😊
Cheers Craig.
The darkroom at uni was where I lived. I love film, and apart from a few variations, for the same reasons stated in this vid. Thanks
Love your videos, your videos and some other channels are really putting the art back into photography and teaching others along the way. And not talking about gear. Thank you !
Thanks Curtis.
Great video Steve, I couldn't agree more. There is one little limitation in film usage I 'd like to add. I like the looks of Kodachrome 64 . Just take a look a the great work of Saul Leiter or Fred Herzog. So in order to achive at least similar colour rendition, I am forced to use a digital camera and apply the appropriate filter. Other than that, I always wondered why people use emulations for still existing film, if they could use the " Real Mc'Coy " in the first place. Thanks for sharing your thoughts !
Thanks Klaus. Even though I didn’t shoot Kodachrome (except one roll of 25 back in 1978) I now look at images made with it and absolutely love the colours. If they ever brought it back I think it would be very popular but sadly the processing is far too complex.
I also dislike film simulations and equally I do not attempt some of the older darkroom effects I used to like such as lite printing. I tend to go with the native look of a camera/film and if I don’t like it I see little point in spending time manipulating it later.
Steve, where do you buy IR-film ? I cannot find this.
I agree on all your points
thanks Steve I enjoy your vidoe
Hi Jean. I usually buy my Rollei infrared from either Firstcall Photographic or Ag Photographic in the UK. It has a decent shelf life too, even when expired although I allow a bit more exposure if it is more than 3 years out of date.
That was a funky little episode Steve.. that intro was a bit too *modern* for the subjective matter in my opinion, lol. :) Great conversational piece and as this episode came out I had to dash up to my 84 year old mate's house to collect something - only to engage him in what your latest vlog was about - I am sure he will watch it later himself. Anyway, apart from his digital set up he too has a film collection that he enjoys, so much so he is getting right back into it. Whilst I was there he showed me a mint copy of a 1952 Zeiss Ikon (and when I say mint I mean it!) and it was one I had not seen him take out so I encouraged him on our next outing to bring it along so I look forward to that. Not a film shooter myself but I so enjoy watching him use them and love watching you do these vlogs - it's difficult to say why but there a different feel and mood to images captured. TFS your thoughts .
Thanks Alan, those Zeiss Ikon’s are lovely cameras and still deliver excellent results. Film is just different, not better in the same way that acrylic paints aren’t better or worse than oils or watercolours.
Love this. I see you've been ramping up your production quality!
Thanks Mark.
Good summary, esp. #5. As you say, every time you have finally gotten the steps down, things are changed (often for no apparent reason- the button lower left is now upper right with Shift key. I did find the B-roll cuts jarring, and would have been better to have better composition (part of head missing)- better angle might have been 45 degrees, not 90. In any event, a proper good show.
Thanks Ricardo, I’m still working out how to do the office based stuff.
Hey Steve, thanks for sharing your work and your experience. After 10 Years of digital i just get into analog with a Bronica SQ-A and a Canon AE-1. Already in love with the very different feeling while taking pictures. So much more relaxing an satisfying. Actually waiting for the FIRST! developt roll from the Bronica. I'm so excited to see the results. In the future i plan to develop an scan by myself so i'm looking forward to Videos about you " analog postproduction". Greetings from Solingen .... Timo
So glad you are taking the film route, it can be challenging at times but also very rewarding. It is less about absolute technical quality and more the image itself which is something people seem to forget.
Great video Steve,
I sat watching it & glancing in the display cabinet at the SQA's I used to use when I shot weddings in the late 80's & 90's. In fact, I've not used them since.
I think I'm going to have to get one of them out of retirement for a run round the Peak District ;-)
I need to be getting commission from the film manufacturers 😀