Returning to film: how to become an analogue photographer (again)

Analogue cameras, until recently the domain of nostalgics and street photographers, are now starting to interest the masses again. And there are some good reasons for it. — dpa

For some it's the look of the photos and the design of the cameras. For others it's the slow process needed to develop pictures from a roll of film.

Analogue cameras, until recently the domain of nostalgics and street photographers, are now starting to interest the masses again. And there are some good reasons for it.

For one, there's the low entry price. Although there aren't many new models, second-hand film cameras can be bought for as little as US$30 (RM118), while a comparable digital camera would cost many times more.

"Getting started, it doesn't matter whether you buy an SLR, a rangefinder or a simple plastic camera," says photographer Kersten Glaser – the main thing is that it works.

As with all second-hand items, it's worth checking the camera for defects before buying. For example, in a decades-old camera the light seals might not close any longer or the mechanism for moving the film might not work.

Some models might also require mercury batteries, now banned in many countries. In that case you should find out whether there are suitable replacements.

If the camera doesn't have a built-in light meter, then you'll have to think about accessories – here a digital camera or an app can do the job.

For an entry-level film camera, Glaser recommends one with a mechanical reflex, 50mm fixed lens. Since you will have to set everything manually, you will immediately have to engage with the technology, he says. A 50mm lens is also suitable for both landscapes and portraits.

As far as the camera itself is concerned, you have the choice between an SLR and a rangefinder. Rangefinder models are smaller and more compact and are well suited for street photography. On the downside, focusing is more complicated, especially with longer focal lengths. Also, they're not cheap.

Then there's the question of film format. Most common is 35mm. "This is the most widespread format in the world with the widest selection of cameras in almost every price and quality class," says Manfred Schmidt, an expert on analogue photography.

For people who want even more detail in their photos there are large format film cameras that can match even top-of-the-range digital models, but for the beginner a 35mm camera should suffice. There's also the advantage that 35mm film is cheap at around €3 to €5 (RM14.40 to RM24).

Whether to go with colour or black and white film is largely an aesthetic choice. For the latter the result depends greatly on the development process.

Photography trainer Manuel Gauda recommends going to a specialist processing lab – or doing it yourself. Anyone who can prepare a packet of instant noodles can also develop a film, he says. The equipment costs between US$100 and US$200 (RM393 and RM787).

Colour film, on the other hand, can easily be taken to the local drug store for developing, Gauda says. — dpa