How to Choose the Right 35mm Film: A Comprehensive Guide for Photographers

Choosing the right 35mm film can be a daunting task, especially for photographers who are new to film photography. With so many different types of film available, each with its own unique characteristics, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this blog, we will provide a comprehensive guide to choosing the right 35mm film for your photography needs. 

Understanding Film Speed

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing 35mm film is film speed. Film speed refers to the film's sensitivity to light, and is measured in ISO (International Organization for Standardization) numbers. The higher the ISO number, the more sensitive the film is to light. Higher ISO films are ideal for low-light situations, while lower ISO films are better for bright, sunny days.

When choosing film speed, it is important to consider the type of photography you will be doing. If you are shooting in low-light situations, such as indoors or at night, you will want to choose a higher ISO film, such as 800 or 1600. If you are shooting in bright, sunny conditions, a lower ISO film, such as 100 or 200, will be sufficient.

It is also important to note that higher ISO films tend to have more grain than lower ISO films. While some photographers may find this grain appealing, others may prefer a smoother, less grainy look. It is important to experiment with different film speeds to find the one that best suits your style and needs.

Color vs. Black and White Film

Another important factor to consider when choosing 35mm film is whether to shoot color or black and white film. Color film is ideal for capturing vibrant, lifelike colors, while black and white film is better for creating moody, dramatic images.

When choosing between color and black and white film, it is important to consider the mood and tone you want to convey in your images. If you are shooting a wedding or other happy occasion, color film may be the best choice to capture the joy and excitement of the event. If you are shooting a portrait or landscape, black and white film may be a better choice to create a timeless, classic look.

It is also important to consider the type of lighting you will be shooting in. Color film tends to perform better in natural light, while black and white film can be more forgiving in low-light situations.

Different Film Stocks

There are many different types of 35mm film available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular film stocks include Kodak Portra, Fujifilm Pro 400H, Ilford HP5, and Kodak Tri-X.

Kodak Portra is a popular choice for portrait and wedding photographers, as it produces soft, natural colors and has a wide exposure latitude. Fujifilm Pro 400H is another popular choice for portrait and wedding photographers, as it produces vibrant, lifelike colors and has a fine grain.

Ilford HP5 is a popular choice for black and white photography, as it produces rich, deep blacks and has a wide exposure latitude. Kodak Tri-X is another popular choice for black and white photography, as it produces a classic, timeless look with a fine grain.

When choosing a film stock, it is important to consider the look and feel you want to achieve in your images. It is also important to consider the lighting conditions you will be shooting in, as some films perform better in low-light situations than others.

Experimentation and Personal Preference

Ultimately, the best way to choose the right 35mm film is through experimentation and personal preference. Every photographer has their own unique style and vision, and the right film for one photographer may not be the right film for another.

It is important to experiment with different film stocks, film speeds, and shooting conditions to find the combination that best suits your style and needs. Don't be afraid to try new things and step outside of your comfort zone. You may be surprised at the results you can achieve with a different type of film or shooting condition.

Choosing the right 35mm film is an important part of the film photography process. By understanding film speed, color vs. black and white film, and different film stocks, you can make informed decisions about the type of film that will best suit your needs. However, it is important to remember that personal preference and experimentation are key to finding the right film for your style and vision. With a little bit of trial and error, you can create stunning images that capture the beauty and essence of film photography.