Nostalgia shapes so much of what inspires us today—whether in visual art, fashion, or music. This longing for the past has also fueled a revival in film, particularly in wedding photography. With its rich textures, warm tones, and beautifully imperfect qualities, film evokes a sense of intimacy that digital often can’t replicate. Far from being just a fleeting trend, analog photography has proven itself as an enduring art form that continues to resonate. Exclusively for THE WED, talented wedding photographer Alice André, who works with both mediums, shares her expert perspective on the beauty of film and why it's here to stay.
Authenticity and Timeless Aesthetic
Film has a distinct, organic look that digital images often struggle to replicate. The grain, colors, and dynamic range give photos a depth and character that feel nostalgic and genuine. Film has never truly gone out of style to begin with, but with current trends favoring timelessness and clean editing, it is experiencing a resurgence.
The Perfect Imperfectness of Film
One of the most attractive qualities of film photography is its imperfections! Light leaks, grain, and slight variations in exposure, create images that feel organic and full of character. Unlike digital photography, where perfection is often the goal, film embraces unpredictability, making each shot unique and artistically rich. In addition, since film limits the number of shots your photographer can take, each one is even more carefully considered and unique, often with its own quirks—and that is the beauty of it!
A More Intentional Approach to Photography
With film, every shot counts. Unlike digital photography, where you can take hundreds of photos, delete the ones you don’t like, and adjust settings freely, shooting film encourages patience and precision. Photographers become more mindful of composition, lighting, and timing, resulting in more thoughtful and deliberate imagery. For that reason, film photographs often feel more sentimental and unique than digital ones.
A Break from Instant Gratification
In today’s fast-paced digital world, where images are instantly available, film photography offers a refreshing change of pace. The anticipation of developing film and seeing the final images adds an element of excitement and appreciation. This delayed gratification fosters a deeper emotional connection to each photograph.
Our Love for Nostalgia
Modern society—Millennials in particular—has embraced film photography as part of a broader nostalgia movement. From vinyl records to vintage clothing, there is a growing appreciation for analog experiences. Film photography aligns perfectly with this trend, offering a way to slow down, appreciate craftsmanship, and create images with a classic, sentimental feel.
A Growing Community and Industry Support
Film photography isn’t just surviving—it’s thriving. Film stocks are being reintroduced, new cameras are being developed, and an ever-growing community of photographers is keeping the medium alive. With labs, workshops, and brands supporting film photography, it’s clear that it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Beyond that, more and more photographers are now learning to use this medium and refine their skills. So, you can not only expect to see more film in the coming years but also better-quality film!
