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Film Is Not Dead: Why Analog Photography Still Matters

Felix Ryu
|
September 3, 2023

Slowing Down in a Fast World

Digital cameras and smartphones have made it easier than ever to take photos—but with that convenience comes a loss of intentionality. Film photography flips that script. With only 24 or 36 shots per roll, every frame counts. You slow down. You think. You wait for the right moment.

Embracing Imperfection

Film doesn’t allow you to review and retake endlessly. That limitation is part of the magic. Light leaks, soft focus, grain—these “flaws” often add mood and character. In a culture obsessed with perfection and filters, film reminds us that beauty often lies in the imperfect.

A Physical Connection to the Craft

Shooting with film means engaging with your tools in a tactile way—loading the roll, winding the advance lever, hearing the satisfying click of the shutter. It’s a hands-on process that brings you closer to your art, and often teaches you to become a more patient observer.

The Joy of the Unknown

With film, you don’t get instant feedback. You wait to develop your images, and that delay introduces a sense of mystery and excitement. The final results are often a surprise—sometimes flawed, sometimes better than you imagined.

Community and Revival

Film photography isn't just surviving; it's thriving in passionate communities around the world. From small camera shops to online forums, there’s a collective effort to keep this craft alive. Sharing scans, swapping tips, or developing your own negatives—it’s all part of the analog revival.

Why It Still Matters

Film photography asks us to trust the process. It encourages us to notice light, shadow, and emotion with greater care. In doing so, it offers not just images, but a deeper way of seeing.