Chong mixing the chemicals for use in film processing at The Duckroom at Persiaran Southkey 1, Johor Baru. — THOMAS YONG/The Star
FILM photography newbies should not feel too bad if their photographs do not turn out as well as they would have liked.
The DuckRoom Johor Baru senior executive Bobby Chong said it was quite normal for beginners to make mistakes.
“It shouldn’t be a stumbling block for you to not continue with your newfound interest,” he said in an interview at the film processing laboratory at Persiaran Southkey 1, Johor Baru.
The DuckRoom is a play on the word “darkroom” where films are developed.
The outlet opened in October 2020. There are only two other film processing laboratories in Johor – in Taman Abad in Johor Baru and one in Batu Pahat town.
“Analogue photography refers to photography using an analogue camera and a roll of film loaded into the camera,’’ said Chong, 49.
He said the pictures in a film roll come to life when processed in a photo lab or darkroom.
“This is the beauty of analogue photography as you will not know the end results until the film is processed,’’ he said.
Chong said the waiting part (to develop the negatives) for any film photography devotee was akin to a couple waiting for their newborn baby.
On its popularity, he said taking photos using an analogue camera was something new for many youngsters.
“It also brings back memories when they see the black and white photos at their homes,’’ he added.
He said videos uploaded in social media also influenced youngsters to try it out.
“We have customers as young as 15-year-old who are into film photography,’’ he added.
Chong said the availability of disposable analogue cameras in the market made it easier for beginners to pick up the art form.
“The disposable camera is suitable for trial and error as it helps beginners build their confidence and improve their photo-taking skills,’’ he said.
Chong said beginners should not be afraid to experiment by trying out techniques, adding that there was no right or wrong when it came to film photography.
“Some photographers are happy with ‘mistakes’ that occur as they shoot – these ‘flaws’ make your photographs even more interesting and unique,’’ he said.
Chong pointed out that different film laboratories used different chemicals and calibrations, hence photographers would get varied results with their photos.
He said the most popular films for analogue photography in the country were 24 exposure (ESP) 150-400 priced at RM39 per roll and 36 ESP 150-500 with a price tag of RM54 per roll. — By ZAZALI MUSA
