How to Incorporate Film Photography Into Your Wedding Day
Your wedding day is one of the most significant events of your life, and you want to preserve those memories in a way that captures the essence and emotion of the day. If you’re looking for a unique and timeless style, incorporating film photography into your wedding day can create stunning results.
As a Derbyshire-based wedding photographer who shoots across the UK and beyond, I offer a hybrid approach using both digital and film formats. This blog explores why more and more couples are falling in love with film, how it works, and how it might be the perfect fit for your own wedding.
What is Film Wedding Photography?
Film photography is the classic method of capturing images on 35mm or medium format film. Unlike digital, each frame is physically exposed and developed by hand in a lab. There’s no screen to preview the image—it’s a craft that requires trust, intention, and artistry.
After your wedding, the rolls of film are sent to a professional lab where they are processed, scanned, and returned as beautiful high-resolution digital files. You get all the magic of film—without sacrificing digital convenience.
Why Choose Film Photography for Your Wedding?
Timeless Aesthetic
Film naturally lends itself to classic wedding settings—from stately homes to wild countryside ceremonies.
Slows Things Down
With only a limited number of frames per roll, every photo is intentional. This helps both the photographer and the couple stay present and focused on what matters most.
Creates Legacy Images
There’s something special about knowing your wedding photos were created the same way as those of past generations.
Soft, Editorial Look
Film renders soft light, skin tones, and color palettes with a gentle touch that can’t be perfectly replicated digitally.
Blending Film and Digital Photography
If you are unsure about going fully analogue, don’t worry - mixing film and digital photography is a great way to get the best of both worlds. Many couples opt for a mix of both. While digital photos are perfect for capturing high-speed moments and ensuring you get every shot, film photos can focus on the more artistic, intimate moments that will give your gallery a distinct feel. By using both throughout the day, you will have a gallery that tells the full story with a combination of emotional depth, dynamic action and timeless beauty.
As a wedding photographer, I blend both film and digital throughout the day, shooting on a mixture of cameras from my Canon R6 to the Canon EOS 3, Contax 645 and others. I’ve found that both mediums work harmoniously together throughout the day, providing a balanced collection of images. Digital photography can be used for high-speed or ‘critical’ moments, while 35mm and medium format film can be reserved for more artistic shots, such as the couples portraits, detail shots and first looks.
Choosing a Wedding Photographer Who Specialises in Film Photography
When incorporating film photography into your wedding day, it’s essential to choose a wedding photographer who is experienced in using analogue techniques. Shooting on film requires more than just a camera - it involves a deep understanding of film stocks, exposure setting and lighting to ensure that the images turn out beautifully.
When choosing a film photographer, be sure to ask potential photographers to see examples of their film work to ensure their style aligns with your vision for the day. Whether that’s classic black and white film, vibrant color film, or a combination of both.
If you work with me, I have extensive experience working with 35mm and medium format film, ensuring every shot is carefully captured. Whilst I can scan film negatives myself, I tend to use film labs that have much better scanning systems.
Film Photography and Your Wedding Budget
Film photography can be a little more expensive than digital, primarily due to the cost of film rolls and the time it takes to develop and scan the images. However, many couples find that the investment is well worth it for the timeless, vintage quality of film photos.
Consider how many rolls of film you’d like your photographer to use, and discuss this with them ahead of time. Some photographers may offer packages that include a set number of rolls, while others may charge per roll or offer it as an add-on.
Incorporating film photography into your wedding day is a wonderful way to create a unique record of your celebration. Whether you choose to use it for portraits, candid moments, details or even the whole wedding, film photography will add an artistic and nostalgic touch to your wedding gallery.
If you’re looking to add the magic of film to your wedding day, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Feel free to reach out to me here.