Film photography is experiencing a notable comeback amid the dominance of digital cameras, offering a more deliberate and authentic shooting experience. A new guide from CNET provides recommendations for selecting analog cameras and film stocks to help newcomers get started. Professional photographer Geoff Morrison shares insights based on over a decade of experience.
The popularity of film photography has surged in recent years, driven by photographers seeking challenges, authenticity, and a retro aesthetic similar to vinyl record collecting. Unlike instant digital shots, film requires waiting for development, fostering a deeper engagement with the process.
For beginners, point-and-shoot cameras offer simplicity with fixed lenses and autofocus. Options include the affordable Canon Prima Zoom, priced at $50 to $130, or the premium Konica Hexar AF at $800 to $1,000, which features higher-quality lenses and more controls.
Vintage single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras like the Canon AE1, Nikon F, or Pentax K1000 provide retro appeal and are widely available at low costs; one such Pentax K1000 was acquired for 8 pounds (about $10). These often require manual adjustments using an internal light meter, though some include aperture-priority modes.
A recommended entry-level modern SLR is the Canon EOS 1000F, available for $20 to $50, with autofocus, auto settings, and compatibility with Canon EF-mount lenses from digital cameras. Most cameras use 35mm film, while medium-format options like the Hasselblad 500C or Mamiya 6 are more complex and expensive, yielding fewer shots per roll.
New film cameras are rare, but the Pentax 17 offers half-frame shooting for more images per roll, and Leica's MP emphasizes mechanical precision. Purchasing used gear is advised through reputable sellers like Kamerastore, KEH, or Adorama to ensure functionality, avoiding risks from unverified sources such as eBay or local markets.
Film choices include color stocks like Kodak Gold 200 for warm tones at under $10 per roll, or black-and-white options such as Ilford HP5 or Kentmere 400, both at ISO 400 for versatile contrast. Experimentation with stocks like Kodak Portra 400 or Harman Phoenix allows customization based on desired aesthetics and lighting conditions, with ISO ratings from 50 to 3200 influencing exposure settings.