Film photography is a slower, more intentional approach to image-making. It removes instant feedback and forces you to focus on exposure, composition, and light at the moment of capture.
This hub collects my film photography guides, film stock experiences, and real-world shooting work across both 35mm and medium format formats.
Explore Film Photography Content
Below you’ll find all articles, reviews, and field notes on film photography.
Pushing Film Explained (Real Results with HP5, Tri-X & More)
Pushing film is one of the most powerful techniques in film photography, allowing you to shoot in lower light while creating a distinctive, high-contrast look. It’s something I’ve used regularly when working in early morning conditions, overcast woodland, or when I simply want a more atmospheric result. In this guide, I’ll explain exactly what pushing
Walking Ancient Ruins with Film Photography
There are places that resist haste. Calleva Atrebatum, the abandoned Roman town near Silchester, is one of them. Its walls no longer defend anything, its streets lead nowhere in particular, and yet it continues to hold a presence that asks for time rather than attention. On a cold winter’s day, with low sunshine and clear
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Review: Why It’s the Most Versatile Black & White Film
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Review Ilford HP5 Plus 400 is one of the most widely used black and white films — and for good reason. It’s flexible, forgiving, and capable of producing beautifully atmospheric images in a wide range of conditions. I’ve covered this in more detail in my guide to pushing film Explained, including
Where to Buy Affordable Black & White Film in the UK
A practical buying guide for film photographers Black & white film photography has always involved compromise — between speed and grain, contrast and flexibility, convenience and control. Recently, though, one compromise has become unavoidable: cost. Film prices have risen, availability can be unpredictable, and photographers are increasingly asking a simple question after choosing a film stock:
The Fomapan Trio: Learning Black & White Film by Shooting the Same Roll Three Ways
Choosing your first black and white film shouldn’t feel like studying for an exam. Yet most people start by comparing data sheets, grain charts, and development times — long before they’ve learned what different films feel like in use. I see this a lot, especially from photographers coming from digital, where ISO is a dial rather than
Fomapan 100, 200 & 400 Film – Full Review, Tips & Results
Fomapan 100, 200, and 400 are versatile black and white films known for their classic grain, wide tonal range, and reliability. In this guide, we explore each film’s characteristics, share real-world results, and provide practical tips for shooting, developing, and even pushing them to get the best possible images while choosing the right film. Whether
Lucky SHD400 Review — Three Rolls, 34 Frames, and an Honest Review
A Film With a Bad Reputation and a Beautiful Soul Every so often, a film stock appears that splits opinion down the middle, when selecting a good film becomes debatable. Some photographers praise its character; others warn you off with raised eyebrows and cautionary tales. Lucky SHD400 is one of those films — cheap, moody,
The Complete Film Photography Guide : Techniques, Cameras, and Creative Inspiration
Film photography has made a striking return, proving it’s far more than nostalgia. The Film Photography Guide you’re reading is designed as a complete resource — not only covering cameras and film stocks, but also creative approaches, technical skills, and inspiration to help you develop your craft. Once you understand the basics, techniques like pushing film can
Simple Step by Step Film Development Guide
Developing black and white film at home can be a rewarding and creative process. With the right equipment, chemicals, and a bit of patience, you can create beautiful images right from your negatives. Whether you’re shooting 35mm, medium format, or large format, the process is generally the same, with slight adjustments depending on the film
Kentmere 400 Film Review: Is This the Best Budget Black & White Film?
Kentmere 400 is often overlooked in favour of better-known films, but it has quietly built a reputation as one of the best budget black and white options available. In this review, I share real-world results, sample images, and my honest experience shooting Kentmere across a range of conditions — from soft winter light to contrast-heavy
Kentmere Pan 200 Review: Brilliant Flexibility on a Budget
My real-world Kentmere Pan 200 Review; If you’re looking for a versatile black and white film that won’t break your budget, Kentmere Pan 200 is worth considering. I tested it in real-world conditions using my Canon AE-1 Program and Canon 300V to see if it could become a reliable go-to film for everyday shooting. Below, I share my personal results, tips, and practical
Kentmere Pan 100 Review: Testing with Canon AE-1P & Canon 300V
Discover below why I chose to do a Kentmere Pan 100 Review. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly black and white film, Kentmere Pan 100 is often recommended in film circles. I recently shot a few rolls with my Canon AE-1 Program and Canon 300V to see if it lives up to the praise it gets for affordability, fine grain, and a
Film Formats
35mm Film
Portable, fast, and ideal for everyday shooting. 35mm film is perfect for experimentation, travel, and street photography.
Medium Format Film
Slower and more deliberate, medium format delivers higher detail and tonal depth. It’s ideal for landscape, portrait, and fine art work.
Film Stocks & Reviews
Film choice has a direct impact on tone, contrast, and mood. Each stock behaves differently depending on light and exposure.
Here you’ll find real-world reviews and examples from different shooting conditions.
Techniques & Approach
Film photography rewards discipline at the point of capture:
- Manual exposure and metering
- Understanding light behaviour
- Zone focusing and pre-visualisation
- Working with limited frames
- Shooting with intent, not volume
Getting Started
If you’re new to film:
- Start with a reliable 35mm camera
- Choose one film stock and stick with it
- Shoot in consistent lighting conditions
- Keep notes on exposure and results
- Learn from each developed roll
Why Film Photography?
Film continues to appeal because it slows the process down. It removes instant correction and replaces it with intention, uncertainty, and craft.
It’s not about perfection—it’s about process.
Final Thoughts
Film photography rewards patience and consistency. Every frame matters, and every roll teaches something new.
Whether you’re shooting street scenes or quiet landscapes, film encourages you to see differently.