I first shot film as a teenager, then set it aside for years — spending a long stretch of time in digital photography before eventually feeling the pull back to something slower and more deliberate. About four years ago I returned to film, not out of nostalgia, but because I wanted to make photographs that felt more considered and, frankly, more artistically satisfying.
I’m Stephen Paul Young, a fine art landscape photographer based in North Hampshire. Everything I write here comes from hands-on experience shooting film in the field — across seasons, in difficult light, and with a range of cameras and stocks. I don’t believe in a single perfect film. I shoot Fomapan regularly (it’s why I stock and sell it — flexible, affordable, and genuinely capable in the right hands), but I try as many stocks as I can. The variety teaches you more than loyalty to one emulsion ever could.
This hub brings together everything I’ve written about film photography — from beginner guides and film stock reviews to technique and camera write-ups. If you’re just getting started, the Resurgence of Film Photography is a good place to begin. If you’re looking for a specific stock or format, browse the sections below.
About Stephen Paul Young
Fine art landscape photographer · North Hampshire · Film & digital · Best Fine Art Landscape Photographer 2025 — Creative & Visual Arts Awards
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.
Capturing Contrast: A Black and White Journey Through Poole and Cologne on 35mm Ilford FP4Plus Film
In this black and white photographic journey, I delve into the captivating realm of black and white photography as I share the narrative of my lens capturing the nuanced beauty of two distinct geographical landscapes—Poole, England, and Cologne, Germany. The essence of this blog is steeped in the timeless allure of monochromatic imagery, an exploration of shadows, contrasts, and emotions that unfold in shades of grey. Embarking on this artistic journey, the canvas of choice is the venerable 35mm Ilford…
Exploring the Beauty of Photography: Embracing the Allure of the Film Camera
Venturing into the captivating realm of photography has been a personal journey, and at the core of this exploration lies my rediscovery of the timeless allure and authenticity found in film cameras. Transitioning to a film camera is more than a technical shift; it’s a profound leap into a more authentic and soulful photographic experience. My own venture into the world of film has unveiled a unique charm that digital counterparts often struggle to replicate. The tactile feel of winding…
Photography Bliss with the Vintage Zenza Bronica ETRSi (Build Date 1988-2004)
Embarking on a new photographic journey is always a thrill, and my recent acquisition of the Zenza Bronica ETRSi Medium Format Camera has elevated my excitement to new heights. The anticipation of holding this classic piece of photographic equipment in my hands is matched only by the allure of the medium format film photography realm it opens up. A few clicks, a winning bid on eBay, and the package arrived on my doorstep, promising a world of creative possibilities. Winning…
Guide to Black and White Photographic Film
In the ever-evolving landscape of modern photography, where vivid colours and cutting-edge technologies dominate, the allure of black and white photography remains unwavering. It is a timeless art form that transcends eras, connecting the contemporary photographer with the rich history of the craft. As we delve into the captivating world of black and white photographic film, we discover a medium that goes beyond the mere absence of colour, capturing the essence of emotion, contrast, and composition in its purest form.…
Mastering Street Photography with 35mm Colour Film: A Kodak Gold Film Guide
Introduction Welcome, fellow photography enthusiasts, to an enchanting exploration of the world of street photography. Through this guide, I invite you to join me in delving into the captivating art of capturing life’s candid moments, all while harnessing the nostalgic allure of 35mm colour film. In the following paragraphs, we will embark on a journey through the magic of Kodak Gold film, uncover 35mm colour film techniques to elevate your street photography skills (and Street photography techniques), and unveil the…
Mastering the Art: Unveiling the Wonders of Colour 35mm Film with Kodak Ultramax ISO 400
Exploring the world of colour 35mm film photography is like embarking on a journey of self-expression and creativity. When it comes to capturing memories, digital cameras have dominated the scene for quite some time. However, there’s a unique charm to film photography that digital can’t quite replicate. In this article, I’ll dive into my first attempt at using Ultramax ISO 400, a colour film that brought a nostalgic twist to my photographic journey. Unveiling Kodak Ultramax ISO 400 Rediscovering Authenticity…
What Is Film Photography? A Complete Guide in the Digital Age
The growing trend of film photography remains strong among professionals and enthusiasts who appreciate the unique characteristics and tangible nature of this traditional form of image-making. So, What is film photography?
Capturing 35mm Urban Photography Landscapes with 35mm Film
Introduction Hey there, fellow photography enthusiasts! I want to take a moment to share a personal adventure that sparked my deep love for 35mm urban photography and how it led me on an exciting journey through captivating cities like Winchester, Scotland, and Hungerford. Grab a cup of coffee and join me as I unfold the enchantment of capturing the essence of these places through the vintage charm of a 35mm film camera, my old faithful Canon AE-1 Program.. There’s something…
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Pushed to 800: A Practical and Creative Guide
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 has earned its reputation not through technical perfection, but through forgiveness. It is a film that tolerates uncertainty, adapts to changing light, and rewards photographers who value responsiveness over control. When HP5 is pushed to EI 800, it does not simply become a low-light solution — it becomes a different expressive tool altogether. For a complete review of HP5 at box speed, read my full HP5 Plus 400 review. Pushing HP5 by one stop subtly reshapes…
Exploring the Diversity of 35mm Black and White Films
Introduction 35mm black and white films are a classic and timeless medium for capturing images. They offer a unique look and feel that can’t be replicated with digital photography. There are a variety of types of 35mm black & white films available, each with its own characteristics and uses. From slow speed films for fine art photography to fast speed films for action shots, there is a film to suit any photographer’s needs. In this article, we will explore the…
Demystifying the Art of Film Grain
“Discover the Difference: More or Less Film Grain?” What is Film Grain Introduction Film grain is a visual effect that is created when light passes through a film negative. It is a result of the physical structure of the film and the chemical processing of the film. Film grain can be used to create a certain look or feel to a movie or photograph. It can also be used to add texture and depth to an image. The question of…
Unlocking the Enchanting World of 35mm Film Photography
35mm Film Photography has come a long way since the invention of the first camera. As technology advances, the medium continues to evolve, but there’s something about these cameras that has its charm. If you’re new to the medium, start with our What is Film Photography guide to understand the art and philosophy behind shooting on film.”. Exploring Vintage Photography with a 50-Year-Old Canon AE-1 Program Camera In this article, I’ll take a look at the experience ( a bit of a…
Film Formats
Most of my shooting is on 35mm — it’s accessible, affordable, and the range of available stocks is enormous. But I save medium format for occasions that feel worth it. The Bronica ETRSi takes 120 film, and the difference in negative size is immediately visible in the final image — a quality of detail and tonal depth that 35mm simply can’t match. I don’t shoot medium format every week, but when I do, I’m more deliberate with every frame. Partly because each roll gives you fewer shots. Partly because the camera demands it.
If you’re starting out, 35mm is the right place to begin. Get comfortable with the process, experiment with different stocks, and don’t rush toward medium format until you’re genuinely ready to slow down even further.
Getting Started with Film
My honest advice: enjoy it before you get bogged down in what the YouTube generation tell you. There is an entire ecosystem of online voices telling you which camera is correct, which film stock is superior, which developer to use, and which rules to follow. Most of it is noise.
Film photography is about more than getting technically good results. Load a camera, go outside, make photographs. The learning comes from doing, not from watching. There will be bad frames, underexposed rolls, and the occasional disaster — that’s part of it. The art matters more than the execution, especially at the beginning.
Why Film Photography?
Film slows you down. That sounds like a limitation but it isn’t — it’s the whole point. When you have 36 frames instead of thousands, you think twice before pressing the shutter. You consider the light, the composition, the moment. That deliberateness is good for the soul in a way that rapid-fire digital shooting rarely is.
There’s something else worth saying that doesn’t get mentioned enough: shooting film regularly makes you a better digital photographer. The habits you build — slowing down, thinking before shooting, being selective — don’t switch off when you pick up a digital camera. Film teaches you to see differently, and that stays with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is film photography worth it in 2026?
Yes — but not for the reasons people often give. Film isn’t worth shooting because it looks better than digital, or because it’s more authentic. It’s worth it because the process changes how you photograph. It slows you down, makes you more deliberate, and produces images that feel genuinely considered. If that appeals to you, film is absolutely worth it.
What is the best film stock for beginners?
There isn’t one perfect film stock — and anyone who tells you otherwise is probably selling something. Fomapan 100 and 400 are excellent starting points: affordable, widely available, and flexible enough to shoot in a range of conditions. Ilford HP5 is another reliable choice. The honest answer is to try several and see what suits your eye.
Can you still buy 35mm film in the UK?
Yes — 35mm film is widely available in the UK, both online and in some high street camera shops. FineArtPics stocks a selection of 35mm film including Fomapan, available to buy directly from the online shop. The resurgence in film photography over the last decade means supply has remained healthy, though prices have risen compared to ten years ago.
Does shooting film improve your digital photography?
In my experience, yes — significantly. The discipline of working with a limited number of frames forces you to think more carefully before shooting. Those habits don’t disappear when you pick up a digital camera. Photographers who shoot film regularly tend to be more selective, more patient, and more intentional with their digital work as a result.
What’s the difference between 35mm and 120 medium format film?
35mm film is the standard format — rolls of 24 or 36 exposures, compatible with a huge range of cameras. 120 is medium format film, producing a larger negative that captures significantly more detail and tonal range. Medium format cameras like the Bronica ETRSi give you fewer frames per roll (typically 12–16) but the image quality at large print sizes is noticeably superior. 35mm is the natural starting point; medium format is worth exploring once you’re comfortable with the process.