Film photograph of bridal bouquet

November 17, 2023

Samantha Couick

Why Film Photography for Your Wedding Day?

Can’t decide if you want film photography on your wedding day? In this fast-paced social media age, every moment is captured instantly and shared across social media platforms, but recently there’s been a growing appreciation for the slower, more intentional art of 35mm film photography. As a documentary wedding photographer in Charlotte, I’ve witnessed the magic that film brings to weddings, turning ordinary moments into timeless treasures. In this blog post, let’s explore the enchanting world of 35mm film and why incorporating it into your wedding package can add a touch of nostalgia and unparalleled beauty to your special day.

Nostalgia and Timelessness:

Weddings are a celebration of love, a timeless union of two souls embarking on a journey together. What better way to capture this timeless essence than with a medium that has stood the test of time? 35mm film lends a nostalgic quality to wedding photos, giving them a timeless charm that will resonate with generations to come. Imagine flipping through your wedding album and experiencing the same emotions you felt on that day, captured in the rich tones and soft hues of film. The inherent grain and imperfections of film create an aesthetic that evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting us back to a time when photographs were tangible memories rather than pixels on a screen.

The Art of Slowing Down:

One of the virtues of film photography is its deliberate and thoughtful nature. Unlike digital photography that is quicker to snap, film has a limited number of exposures per roll so you really have to be intentional with the photographs you take on it.This intentional process results in images that are not only visually stunning but also emotionally resonant. A film photographer becomes a storyteller, capturing the unfolding narrative of your wedding day with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the significance of each moment.

Documentary Wedding Photography:

For couples seeking a candid and authentic representation of their wedding day, documentary wedding photography is an ideal choice. A documentary wedding photographer focuses on capturing real, unscripted moments as they naturally occur. The inherent authenticity of 35mm film complements this style perfectly, preserving the genuine emotions, laughter, and tears that make your wedding day unique. I’ve loved bringing my many film camera with me along to wedding days. Guests always think they look so cool and it becomes more than just a camera- it’s an experience. To see more film images click here.

The Unique Aesthetic of Film Photography:

Ultimately, Film photography is not just a technical choice; it’s an aesthetic one. The softness, warmth, and depth of film create a unique visual language that can’t be replicated by digital means. The subtle color shifts, the organic feel of grain, and the dreamlike quality of film contribute to an aesthetic that is both romantic and classic. I absolutely love coming home after I’ve gotten rolls of film developed and sitting down to scan and process the images. It honestly feels like Christmas day every time.

Making Film a Part of Your Wedding Package:

For couples considering the addition of 35mm film to their wedding package, I highly recommend it if you love the look of film, the softness, the imperfection and the colors. It’s truly an art form. So if you love film as much as I do, let me know and we can add it to your collection! You’ll also receive prints of your film photos as a keepsake to hold onto for generations.

In the ever-evolving landscape of wedding photography, the allure of 35mm film remains timeless. Its ability to capture the nostalgia and authenticity of a moment makes it a valuable addition to any wedding package. It feels like childhood and fond memories every time you flip through the pictures. I have a box of old film photographs of my family dating back to the 1800’s. I absolutely love going back through and seeing my grandparents and great grandparents at the same age I am now. Now I use my photography to give others this gift of generational connection. So what do you say? Ready to add film?

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