If you’re new to film camera work and you have purchased your first camera, you’ll likely want to start using it immediately. This might sound like a strange statement, but you’d be surprised how many people buy a camera and never actually use it; they purchase it as a display piece. My friend Neville, for example, has a lovely Voigtlander Vito B on his shelf, bought with every intention of returning to film work, but that dream ended there; it’s a common situation. Use the camera straight away, or the initial interest may wane.
I would advise anyone who buys an analogue camera to run at least one roll of film through it, if only to say, “I use a film camera, occasionally.” Do not consider cameras an investment unless you can buy them very cheaply and then sell them for a profit. However, you’ll need a good understanding of, and experience in, using the camera to make buying and selling a profitable venture. There are also many well-established people already dealing in cameras. This aspect of photography has numerous pitfalls, and one can quickly go wrong. So, buy a camera for use and no other purpose!
In The 35mm Work Book, I discuss using a 35mm camera for the first time and explain why an emerging artistic photographer should buy an affordable initial camera and utilise a photo lab for their first experience with analogue photography. It goes without saying that I won’t reproduce the entire chapter here. I encourage those interested in film to purchase the book, as it will generate income during my retirement and provide funds for me to continue buying and reviewing cameras and film for future books.
Using a film camera makes little sense! It is costly, has a steep learning curve, and is now hindered by thousands of well-meaning articles and essays freely available on the internet. Hindering? Yes, so many opinions can confuse. So, why do we want to use a film camera? Is it the nonsensical aspect that appeals to you? Is it being overwhelmed by a sea of nostalgia? Is it the quirky way that people see your hobby? Also, consider the certainty that failures can occur, and you are in an alchemical world where silver is transformed into pictures. If there is a need for artistic creativity in your soul, analogue photography is a genuine option.
Master the basic techniques thoroughly and practise using the camera in the simplest ways. One camera, one lens, and one film type are essential for building a solid understanding of film work. Learn about exposure and how to focus correctly, understand depth of field, and you’re on your way to becoming a competent photographer who won’t waste many frames. This is not difficult to grasp, and solid foundations will last until you no longer wish to take photographs.
The suggestion is to start by buying colour negative film and having it processed by mail order for the first few rolls. Later, you can switch to using monochrome film and developing and scanning your own work. At this stage, you’ll begin to develop your photographic identity and discover your artistic creativity with film.
The message is:
If you buy a camera, use it right away! Check the instruction manual online, load it with film, and take a few shots. You never know, you might become addicted to the thrill of film photography.
One Camera – One Lens – Pentax S1a – 50mm Takumar f/1.4
You do not need to spend a fortune to make great shots. This is a so called ‘Street Photography’ image, it is more like a ‘street portrait’.
The Heart of the Mind 