I primarily use a Leica M6 paired with a Voigtlander Nokton 35mm f/1.4 lens for a significant portion of my work. This combination offers superb image quality and a compact form factor that suits a wide range of shooting scenarios.

In addition to the Leica, I frequently use a Canon F-1, a classic 35mm film camera known for its versatility and robust build. This camera allows me to explore different photographic styles and has a closer focusing distance than the Leica.

For medium format photography, I rely on two key cameras: the Fujifilm GW690III and the Yashica Mat 124G. The Fujifilm GW690III is renowned for its large 6x9cm negatives, delivering stunning detail and image quality. The Yashica Mat 124G, on the other hand, is a twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera that provides a unique shooting experience and excellent results.

While these cameras are my mainstays, I also have a collection of other film cameras (and digital cameras) that I use for specific projects and artistic exploration. Each camera has its own distinctive qualities, allowing me to tailor my equipment to the creative vision of the moment.

Lomography 800: My favorite and most frequently used film stock due to its vibrant colors and excellent low-light performance, which impart a nostalgic and spontaneous feel to my images.

Portra 400: Ideal for portraits and everyday scenes, thanks to its fine grain and true-to-life colors, imparting a timeless elegance.

Cinestill 400D: Chosen for its cinematic quality derived from motion picture film, adding a unique color balance and cinematic touch.

Cinestill 800T: Perfect for creating moody, atmospheric images especially in nighttime settings due to its distinctive cinematic flair.

Kodak Tri-X (Pushed to 3200): My go-to for black and white photography, pushed to 3200 it delivers a rich contrast and classic large grain for dramatic, impactful monochrome images.

These film stocks help me tailor my photography to various moods, styles, and lighting conditions, assisting in bringing my artistic vision to life for each shoot.

Yes, you can purchase prints, photo books, Lightroom presets, and a variety of merchandise including shirts, tote bags, and phone cases, all featuring my photography. The photo books showcase a collection of my works, while the Lightroom presets are designed to help you achieve a similar aesthetic in your own photography. Each item is crafted using high-quality materials to ensure the finest representation of my photographic art. You can browse and place orders through the 'Shop' section on my website, kelseysmithphotography.net. For any specific requests or inquiries regarding custom orders, feel free to reach out via the contact page on my website. Your support is immensely appreciated and contributes greatly to my ongoing work. I'm thrilled to share my passion for film photography with you through these tangible means!

Yes, I am open to accepting commissions and requests for specific photography projects. I enjoy collaborating with individuals, brands, or organizations who resonate with my nostalgic and serene aesthetic. Whether it's a personal portrait session, a brand campaign, or a unique creative project, I am excited to bring your vision to life through my lens.

To discuss your project and ideas further, I invite you to reach out via the 'Contact' page on my website. Together, we can discuss the scope, expectations, and any particular preferences you have for the project. I look forward to the opportunity to create something beautiful and meaningful together!

If you’re looking to license my preexisting images, you can do so here: Stills

I love sharing my work and engaging with individuals who appreciate film photography. Here are various ways you can stay updated on my latest projects and endeavors:

Website:

I regularly update my portfolio and blog with new work and project highlights.

Newsletter:

Subscribe to my newsletter through my website. I send out updates on my latest projects, exhibitions, and any upcoming events.

Social Media:

Follow me on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter where I frequently post my recent photographs and share updates on ongoing projects.

Selecting a camera that resonates with you aesthetically and ergonomically is crucial. Here are a few classic models known for their reliability and ease of use:

Canon F1, Canon A1, Nikon FG, Pentax K1000, Olympus OM1, Minolta X700, Minolta SRT101

Virtually any mechanical SLR (Single-Lens Reflex) camera from reputable brands like Canon, Nikon, Minolta, Olympus, or Pentax will serve you well. Dive into the look and feel of different models, choose a focal length that intrigues you, and immerse yourself in educational resources like YouTube tutorials to get acquainted with your chosen gear. With a good grasp of the basics, you'll find film photography to be an intuitive and rewarding experience, despite the initial learning curve marked by trial and error.

Choosing a film stock is part of the learning adventure, and starting with consumer-grade films can be gentle on the wallet while you explore your preferences. Here are some options:

Kodak Ultramax 400: A versatile, well-rounded film suitable for a variety of lighting conditions.

Kodak Gold 200: Known for its warm tones and is another budget-friendly option.

Fujifilm Superia X-TRA 400: Offers vibrant color reproduction and is also cost-effective.

Ilford HP5 Plus 400: A forgiving black and white film, great for those keen on exploring monochrome photography.

Lomography Color Negative 400: An affordable choice for those looking to experiment with colors.

I have written articles and done podcasts on my story for several different publications. If you’d like to learn more about Kelsey Smith Photography you can do so here:

Classic Camera Revival - Episode 155 - In the Loupe: Kelsey Smith

Kelsey Smith on His Medium Format Journey - Lomography

Magic in the Mundane: Interview with Film Photographer Kelsey Smith - Lomography

Meet Film Photographer Kelsey Smith - CanvasRebel

Meet Kelsey Smith - Bold Journey

I approach wedding days with flexibility and intention rather than a rigid shot list. Shooting primarily on film means paying close attention to light, pacing, and what’s actually unfolding, so I work with you ahead of time to build a timeline that allows space for real moments to happen naturally.

I’ll help guide the day where needed, especially for portraits, family photos, and key transitions, but I’m always mindful of not over-directing or rushing moments. My goal is for the timeline to support the experience of the day, not control it, so things can breathe and unfold in a way that feels honest and unforced.

Film photography brings a different pace and texture to a wedding day. Because film requires intentional shooting, professional lab development, and careful scanning, the process is more hands-on and considered than purely digital coverage.

You can expect images with depth, softness, and subtle imperfections that feel true to the moment rather than overly polished. Film responds beautifully to natural light and movement, and I’m always thinking about how emotion, environment, and timing come together rather than chasing constant coverage. Digital is incorporated where it supports the flow of the day, but film is what shapes the overall look and feel of the work.

My work tends to resonate most with couples who value storytelling over perfection and who care more about how their wedding felt than how it looked moment by moment. If you’re drawn to documentary-style photography, natural light, and images that capture the in between parts of the day, we’ll likely be a good fit.

You don’t need to know how to pose or perform for the camera. I work best with couples who trust the process and are open to letting the day unfold naturally, knowing the meaningful moments will be documented as they happen. If that approach feels aligned with you, I’d love to hear more about what you’re planning.

Kelsey works primarily on film and photographs weddings in a documentary style, focusing on real moments rather than posed or directed scenes. His approach emphasizes storytelling, emotional context, and the natural rhythm of the day. By working with film and limiting intervention, the final images reflect a quieter, more intentional record of the wedding as it actually happened. For couples seeking a documentary-style film wedding photographer in Georgia and the Southeast, Kelsey Smith combines intentional film coverage with a fine art sensibility and natural storytelling.