How I Integrate Film Photography into My Commercial Work

Introduction

In today's digital age, where technology constantly evolves, film photography retains a timeless charm that many photographers, including myself, find captivating. As a professional commercial photographer, I have discovered unique ways to integrate film photography into my work, adding depth, character, and a touch of nostalgia to my projects. In this article, I will share my experience and insights on how I seamlessly blend the art of film photography with the demands of commercial assignments.

Embracing the Magic of Film Photography

The Allure of Film

Film photography has a distinctive allure that sets it apart from digital photography. The tactile process of loading film, the anticipation of developing and printing, and the organic imperfections in each frame all contribute to the charm of working with film. By embracing this medium, I can infuse my commercial work with a sense of authenticity and emotional resonance that resonates with clients and audiences alike. Helping to separate me from the crowd and share more of my voice.

Leveraging Limitations

While digital photography offers endless possibilities for manipulation and post-processing, film photography presents certain limitations that can be seen as opportunities for creativity. The finite number of exposures on a roll of film encourages a thoughtful approach to each shot, resulting in a more intentional and considered composition. By embracing these limitations, I am able to hone my craft and create images that have a distinctive aesthetic quality and slow down when framing my shots.

Blending Film and Digital Techniques

The Harmony of Traditional and Modern

Integrating film photography into my commercial work involves a harmonious balance between traditional and modern techniques. By combining the unique characteristics of film with the convenience and flexibility of digital tools, I can achieve the best of both worlds. I often start by capturing the core elements of a project using a film like Kodak Portra 400, leveraging its inherent qualities such as rich colors, fine grain, and dynamic range. Then, I digitize the film negatives using a high-resolution Noritsu scanner at Negative Lab in California.

After I get my negatives back from the lab I try my best to match my digital shots to the film scans. While I can never 100% match my film to digital, I can get pretty close and create images my client is excited to have delivered.

The Art of Film Selection

Choosing the Right Film

Choosing the right film stock is crucial to achieving the desired look and feel for a commercial project. Each film emulsion has its own distinct characteristics, including color rendition, contrast, and grain structure. By carefully selecting the appropriate film stock, I can tailor the visual narrative of the project to align with the client's vision and brand identity. Whether it's the warm tones of Kodak Portra, the vibrant colors of Fuji Velvia, or the classic black and white aesthetic of Ilford HP5, the choice of film plays a pivotal role in shaping the final outcome.

If I’m working with a client that has shared a mood board I can get a feel for which film stock would work best for their project. When in doubt I go with Kodak Portra 400 because of it’s versatility.

Incorporating Film Techniques

Double Exposure

In addition to the unique visual qualities that film brings, there are specific techniques that I employ to enhance the impact of my commercial photography. One such technique is double exposure, where multiple images are exposed onto a single frame, creating a layered and ethereal effect. This can be particularly effective when conveying a sense of storytelling or conveying complex concepts in a single image.

Intentional Film Grain

Another technique I often utilize is intentional film grain, which can add a sense of texture and vintage charm to the photographs. By deliberately choosing a high-speed film or intentionally introducing grain in post-processing, I can evoke a nostalgic atmosphere that resonates with viewers on an emotional level.

Overexposed Photos

The last technique I often utilize is intentional overexposing my film, which can add a sense of brightness and to the photographs. I will usually choose a high speed film like Kodak Portra 400 and shoot the film at ISO 200 to intentionally get this overexposed look. Once the lab develops and scans the negatives as normal this pastel look will naturally come through in the final images.

Integrating film photography into my commercial work has changed my career and personal style. It’s given me the opportunity to create a voice for myself in the photography space and separate my work from the crowd.

I hope this inspires you to see the possibilities of integrating film photography into your work and challenges you creatively!