Considering film photography at your wedding? Here’s why we love that idea!

We aren’t ones to jump on every trend bandwagon. Both Brett
and I feel strive to capture images that are timeless documents, photos that
are made rich by emotion, not gimmicks. We never want our editing style to be a
telltale sign of your wedding year. However, some of the “trends” happening
right now in wedding photography, I would argue, are actually classic styles
that are just being more widely appreciated at this moment.

These classic but totally having a moment right now styles
are film photography and flash photography.

Wedding Photography Shot on Film

While both Brett and I have only worked professionally
during the reign of digital photography, we both have a serious soft spot for film. As a teenager, Brett had a darkroom in his parent’s basement in Alberta.
I fell in love with the film process at BealArt in London, Ont.

We occasionally have the opportunity to shoot some
assignments and weddings on film. The results are always worth the extra
effort! We recommend a hybrid digital-plus-film approach. This lets you get
the same quantity of photos, with all those shots we’ve now come to expect at a
wedding, and some extra special ones mixed in. Here is why you should consider
film for your special day:

Timeless

As I mentioned before, film photography might be “trending”
right now, but really, it’s been the classic way to take a photo, since 1885
;). It’s how your mother and your grandmother’s weddings were photographed. It nods
to nostalgia, however, it’s as contemporary as whatever is being photographed. The
aesthetic is different from digital, it’s rich and textured.  

Physical Object

There’s something about the physicality of film that’s special.
It exists in the world, not only on a hard drive, and you can hold it in your
hands. I often think of the artifacts that we leave behind, a computer might be
difficult to access by a future generation, but a strip of film can just be
held up the light.

Experience

The experience of being photographed on film is much
different than that of digital. It’s slower and more intentional. Digital
photographers can press the shutter 1000s of times without worry. With film,
they need to know they’re getting their shot. They have to slow down, and get
everything just right. Portraits, especially on medium format (Brett’s fave
style), will feel more formal and special.

Film Photography with Direct Flash

Perfect for after-dark shots that are still full of style
and personality. In this particular take, direct flash gives a paparazzi-like
feel. It works well for candids and documentary-style shots. The results are the
epitome of cool.

Still now sure? Read what The Knot has to say. 

See more of this wedding shot on film.