My 2023 Film Photography Journey : Unveiling the Beauty of Analog in West Virginia
Douglas Falls, along the North Fork Blackwater River. Shot on Kodak Portra 400 +1 stop.
Introduction
Embarking on my film photography journey in 2023 was more than a creative pursuit—it was a rediscovery of the essence of photography. Surrounded by old film from family and friends, and armed with a collection of working analog cameras, the question arose: Why not shoot on film? The Canon 5D Classic had been a faithful companion, but the intrigue of imparting new 'looks' to my work fueled my plunge into the world of film photography. The allure of the unknown, the anticipation of developing film, and the tactile nature of the process were the driving forces behind my transition to film. This blog post encapsulates the highs and lows, the experiments, and the moments that made this journey unforgettable.
The Palette of Film Stocks
Diving into the world of film stocks was like entering a realm of endless possibilities. From the quirky Food Lion film to the classic Kodak Gold 200, each film stock had its own personality of color rendering and grain. However, the real challenge came with diving into the world of expired film. These rolls, expired anywhere between 5 to 15 years ago, brought an additional layer of unpredictability. The chemistry was, at times, 'wack' and not entirely on my side. Despite the initial discouragement, the learning curve was invaluable. I learned to “push and pull” the film stocks, and after a few rounds of scans coming back from the lab, I felt I was onto something. Confidence grew, leading to a dedicated drawer in my fridge filled with fresh film, and a third of my freezer stocked with expired Kodak Ultra Max (Thank you, Dave).
Cameras of Choice
The cameras became more than just tools—they were companions on a visual journey. The Pentax K1000, my first 35mm camera and go-to at the start, was soon replaced by a Minolta SRT-101. The choice came down to the satisfying shutter click, which in the Minolta is just far more satisfying. That, and a Rikkor 35mm f2.8 lens, which has become a favorite analog focal length. My late Grandmother’s Olympus Stylus Zoom, a compact wonder and a family heirloom, each played a role in capturing moments with a distinct analog charm. As for medium format, the mechanical heavy beast that is the Mamiya RB67 opened up new possibilities, offering a larger canvas for creative expression.
The trusty (and slightly rusty) Mamiya RB67 on a frosty morning at Blackwater Falls State Park - Loaded with a fresh roll of Kodak Portra 400.
Film Stocks: Hits and Misses
Among the diverse film stocks, two stood out as favorites. Expired Kodak Gold, with its unpredictable yet consistently pleasing results, became a staple in my creative arsenal. Then there was Kodak Portra 400. Pushing this stock +1 stop revealed a moody, contrast-rich aesthetic —an aesthetic that resonated with my artistic vision. (Results of those films above) On the flip side, the expired Kodak Ultra Max 400 proved to be a tricky companion. Poor storage conditions led to unpredictable chemistry across rolls, making it unsuitable for professional use. (Results of expired Ultra Max below)
The Flag Spruce of Bear Rocks shot on Expired Portra 400. One of favorites from Fall 2023!
A Love for Landscapes and Weddings
Landscapes became my canvas for exploration in film photography. The limited exposures forced me to be more than a casual observer; I had to be deliberate and precise with each shot. With film, every frame counted, making me appreciate the process of composition and storytelling even more. Weddings, a domain often dominated by digital photography, took on a new dimension. Couples were thrilled to have analog frames interwoven with their digital memories. My friends Heath and Sarah's wedding, though 99% shot on entirely digital, was the first wedding I shot an entire roll of film at. And the scans from the roll of Portra 400 did not disappoint the couple.
Plans for the Future
The journey into film photography has been transformative, and the allure of the analog process continues to captivate me. Experimentation remains a key element of my creative process, and I've recently embraced new film stocks like CineStill 800T and Harman Phoenix 200. The latter, in particular, piques my interest for its potential in capturing the unique palette of West Virginia's highlands. As the year progresses, I plan to document this exploration, sharing the visual stories that unfold with each roll of film.
Building a WV Film Community
Beyond personal exploration, my vision extends to building a community of film photographers in West Virginia. The magic that could be created by talented landscape photographers with an analog camera is a vision worth pursuing. While film photography comes with its expenses, the idea is to foster a sense of camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts, sharing knowledge, experiences, and perhaps even organizing events that celebrate the art of film photography in West Virginia.
Shavers Fork, just outside of Parsons, WV. Shot on Fuji 400 in the Minolta SRT-101.
Conclusion
As the year unfolds, my commitment to making film a cornerstone of my identity as a West Virginia photographer remains steadfast. 2024 promises even more excitement. Stay tuned for more analog wonders and the unfolding chapters of my film photography odyssey!
Cheers and Thanks for reading.