I have been thinking, why is it difficult to influence and convince people to shoot film?
However, I know at least I have helped raise awareness that film is still alive.
How do I know that?
I have encountered too many times when my friends or strangers saw me with film and they were, most of the time, amused that film still exists. Some of them would ask me where I can still buy and develop film.
Anyway, in case you also want to help influencing more people, let’s look at some points we could tackle:
Price
Thieves’ Market, Fomapan 400 (June 2017)
First and foremost, the major thing that put people off from film photography is the cost. You definitely cannot convince someone who’s still a student and struggling to buy superfluous stuff with his/her limited pocket money (provided they are not from super rich family).
I see that it’s easier to influence a working adult, provided they are very open-minded about the medium.
They might be the one who has been wanting to try film but there’s no one to give them a push. Be the one pushing them.
They might not have a film camera yet, be the one to lend them, and give them a roll of film.
I really did this.
Convenience
Grocery, Kodak Proimage 100 (2017)
You definitely cannot convince someone who love short-cut, convenience and technology. Of course, you cannot convince someone who’s super close-minded.
Film Look
Tudorcolor XLX 200 (2017)
If the person is willing to spend on photography, the next question in mind is ‘what’s so different about film and digital?’
The reason why me and you shoot film? Most probably because of the film look right? Then, we have to inspire them by showing our best film work. (I am working on it)
I have friends who asked me what/how did I edit my photos. I told them ‘I shoot film’ and they just ‘oh’. This shows that people love film look but want to achieve it with Lightroom!
However, aesthetic is subjective. Some people really love the digital look. Then forget it.
Audacity
Causeway Bay, HK 2016
Like I mentioned, some people have been amazed by film look. They have been wanting to try.
But the common excuses?
“I’m scared all my images turned out empty.”
I think people just feel insecure. So be the one to guide them.
They might not know that film has large latitude in term of exposure, because they are less sensitive to light than digital sensor.
When in doubt, just overexpose by a few stops up.
Walk the talk
Shoot their portrait with film, send them the photos, to show them the greatness of film.
Be like a film ambassador.
With some of the points above, I have pulled 2-3 people on board. It’s not even hard-work at all. I was just doing what I do (use film) and they just become curious.
But it also doesn’t matter if people want to criticise us right? Our own happiness is the most important.
