Because Memories Look Like Film
Film Wedding Photography
I have never stopped shooting film. From when my children were little I have always made sure that I made portraits and captured special moments with one of my many film cameras. Analogue photos have a magic all their own and to me, they look like memories. Almost all my personal projects have been captured on film and have nearly 30 years of professional expertise in the medium. I shoot film because I have deep belief in the power of the medium, I am not just hopping on the latest bandwagon or chasing an algorithm. I have always been a film photographer at heart and eventhough I have shot countless projects with digital cameras and love the results, film photography has always been my first love.
If you would like to see my personal work which I have shot on film you can visit my second Instagram account @tobyshootsfilm
Film does have a few advantages over digital. It tends to be more flattering, it has softer skin tones and is less likely to pick up wrinkles and blemishes which get hidden by the grain. It has a look all of its own particularly in the larger formats I use and the square format is great for portraits. It can look more natural and real.
How I work
At weddings, I shoot my film images mainly on 120 medium format film with a 6×6 Rolleiflex camera. 120 film provides a negative four times the size of a 35mm film, so it gives my images more depth, a richer tonality and they can be printed bigger. Think IMAX compared to a normal movie. I also shoot a bit of 35mm as well, usually in lower light situations because it gives me access to faster lenses and modern flash options.
I can also shoot images on a large format camera if you wish, but because this camera is very large and can only be used on a tripod I use it for for couple’s portraits during a quieter part of the day, or select group shots. If want to see how the cameras work and what it is like to be photographed with them, I am happy to do this at your engagement shoot, so you can make an informed decision about the best choice for you.
Aren't You Worried About Your Cameras Breaking Down?
I always shoot film and digital together and I always have back ups close to hand. Even though my film cameras work perfectly and are checked regularly, they are still between 25 and 50 years old. I favour cameras that are all manual and non battery dependent, mainly because there is less to go wrong. The truth is that no camera is 100% reliable. The most expensive repair I ever paid for was on a Canon DSLR that was just a couple of years old. The main board inside the camera died, a very expensive repair on a nearly new camera. Just because it new doesn’t mean it won’t go wrong.
Over the years I have had multiple cameras fail. But no client has ever noticed because I am meticulous about always having a back up camera immediately to hand. Every set up I shoot with a film camera I would also shoot with my digital camera. I carry a back up camera for each of the main film and digital cameras I use as well as multiple lenses and flash guns. A LOT would have to go wrong for me to not be able to have a working film or digital camera.
Black and White or Colour? How much film will you shoot?
This is up to you. I work closely with every couple to make sure they get the exact coverage they want. Some people want just a bit of film shot through the day while others want the bulk of the wedding shot on film. Often shooting colour on digital and black and white analogue works well or you could shoot you couple’s portraits on film, but the bulk of the day on digital.
How Long Will it Take to Get Our Pictures?
I can usually turn around my film weddings within a month, even in busy periods. I develop and scan all my black and white in house, and take colour film to the lab myself. Film has a built in look so the editing process is actually quicker and easier.
Get in Touch
Use the form below to check availability, get a quote of ask any questions. I try to answer all emails the same day.