Film photography has an undeniable charm. There’s something magical about loading a roll of film, hearing the satisfying click of the shutter, and waiting to see how your shots turned out. If you’re just starting out, the world of film can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—you’re in the right place. Here are 10 tips to help you dive into film photography and enjoy every moment of the process.

1. Start with a Reliable Beginner Camera

You don’t need the fanciest gear to get started. Look for a camera that’s easy to use and widely recommended for beginners, like the Canon AE-1 or the Pentax K1000. These cameras are durable, straightforward, and perfect for learning the basics. Trust me, keeping it simple will make your introduction to film much smoother. Plus, these models are widely available on resale platforms, so finding one in your budget is totally doable.

2. Understand Film Types

Film isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s part of the fun! Start with a versatile film like Kodak Gold 200 or Fujifilm Superia 400. ISO 400 is a great middle ground—it performs well in various lighting conditions, so you don’t have to overthink it while learning. Black-and-white film is also a fantastic way to focus on composition and contrast without the distraction of color. Once you’ve mastered a couple of stocks, branch out into others to explore the unique looks they provide.

3. Master Manual Settings

Film photography is all about learning the basics of manual control. Take time to understand aperture (how much light gets in), shutter speed (how long light hits the film), and ISO (film sensitivity). A good rule of thumb for beginners is the “Sunny 16 rule”: On a sunny day, set your aperture to f/16 and match your shutter speed as close to your film’s ISO as possible. It’s a simple way to get well-exposed shots. Don’t worry if it feels overwhelming at first—practice makes perfect, and soon it’ll feel second nature.

4. Focus on Composition

Good composition can turn an ordinary photo into a masterpiece. Use the rule of thirds to place your subject off-center, and don’t be afraid to get creative with angles and framing. Try leading lines, symmetry, or even breaking the rules for a dramatic effect. Film teaches you to slow down, so take your time to line up the perfect shot. When in doubt, step back, take a breath, and reframe the scene before clicking the shutter.

5. Shoot in Good Lighting

Lighting is everything in photography, and film is no exception. Golden hour—that dreamy period just after sunrise or before sunset—is perfect for capturing warm, soft tones. Overcast days are also great because the clouds act like a giant diffuser, softening shadows and highlights. If you’re shooting indoors, try to position your subject near a window for natural light. Remember, the better the light, the less post-processing you’ll need (especially since editing film scans is more nuanced than editing digital files).

6. Don’t Fear Mistakes

Everyone’s first roll of film has a few “oops” moments. Maybe you forget to focus, or you accidentally double-expose a frame (which, by the way, can look really cool). Mistakes are part of the learning process, and each one teaches you something valuable. My first roll was a mess—blurry shots, weird exposures—but those imperfect shots still hold a special place in my heart. They’re reminders of where I started and how far I’ve come.

7. Develop a Workflow

Once you’ve finished a roll, it’s time to develop it. You can send your film to a lab, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try developing it at home. Black-and-white film is a good starting point for DIY development because it’s forgiving and requires minimal equipment. Watching your images come to life is one of the most satisfying parts of the process. Even if you stick with a lab, make sure you’re organized—label your rolls and note the film stock and date to keep track of your progress.

8. Experiment with Different Films

Each film stock has its own personality. Some have vibrant colors, others offer muted tones, and black-and-white stocks vary in contrast and grain. Lomography films, for example, are known for their funky, experimental vibes, while Kodak Portra is a classic choice for portraits. Experimenting helps you discover your style. Don’t hesitate to mix things up and try something out of your comfort zone—you might be surprised by the results.

9. Keep a Journal of Your Settings

Film doesn’t give you instant feedback like digital photography, so it’s helpful to jot down your settings for each shot. Note the aperture, shutter speed, and conditions—it’ll help you understand what works and what doesn’t. Over time, you’ll notice patterns and improve your skills. Keeping a journal also helps you troubleshoot—if a shot didn’t turn out as expected, you’ll know exactly what to adjust next time.

10. Have Fun and Stay Curious

Above all, film photography is about enjoying the process. Embrace the unpredictability, savor the moments when your shots turn out better than expected, and don’t stress over imperfections. Each roll is a new adventure, and every frame tells a story. The more curious and open you are, the more you’ll grow as a photographer.

Final Thoughts

Film photography is more than just a hobby; it’s an art form that teaches patience, creativity, and mindfulness. So grab a roll of film, load up your camera, and start shooting. Who knows? You might just fall in love with the magic of analog forever.

If you’re looking for more inspiration or tips, feel free to check out my portfolio or reach out with any questions. If you’re looking for some Lightroom presets to get you started, I have a few options available on my website, and they’re currently on sale!