Khayr Zakariyya
In the age of digital photography, film cameras might seem like a relic of the past, but for many enthusiasts, they are still the preferred method of capturing images. With their unique aesthetic and hands-on approach, film cameras offer a nostalgic experience that cannot be replicated by modern technology.
The rise of digital photography in the late 1990s and early 2000s marked a major shift in the industry, with many photographers switching to digital cameras. Today, the vast majority of cameras sold are digital, with film cameras becoming more of a niche product.
Avid photographer Fauzan Jamahat is one of the few who continues to use a film camera.
“Instead of simply uploading images to a computer, film must be developed in a darkroom.
The process can be time-consuming and requires a certain level of skill,” he said.
“There is a sense of satisfaction that comes from holding a physical print in your hands, knowing that you created it from start to finish. Although the process is time consuming, I love developing images on my own rather than sending film rolls to a shop.”
He added, “The advantage of film cameras is their simplicity. There are no complicated menus or electronic systems to navigate.
“Film cameras can be much easier to use for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.
This can also make them a great choice for beginners just starting to learn photography.”
Film cameras also offer a range of manual controls, allowing photographers to adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to achieve the desired effect. This level of control is particularly useful for those who enjoy experimenting with different settings and techniques to create unique and interesting images.
Film cameras can last for decades with proper care and maintenance. This means that many vintage film cameras are still in use today, and their quality and performance can still rival that of modern digital cameras.
“One of the unique aspects of film photography is the range of different film stocks available,” said Fauzan.
“Each film stock has its own characteristics, including colour rendering, contrast, and grain structure.
“Some films are known for their warm, natural colours, while others have a cooler, more clinical look.
“Some films have a fine grain structure, while others have a more pronounced grain pattern that adds to the texture of the image.”
The photographer said that “regardless of the challenges of shooting film, there is something undeniably rewarding about the process.
“From the careful selection of the right film stock to the excitement of waiting for the prints to be developed, film photography is an immersive and rewarding experience”.
He added, “So while digital cameras may be the future of photography, there will always be a place for film cameras in the hearts of enthusiasts around the world.”
Fauzan also said that the main advantages of film cameras is to produce images with a distinct film grain and colour tone.
As he highlighted, there is something about the colour of the film being used, and film cameras create a unique look that adds depth and texture to photos. This is more obvious in black and white images.
“The camera that I am currently using was a gift from my dad to start my photography lessons,” said Fauzan.
“I once used a digital camera but when I tried film camera, it changed my perspective on photography. The sound when you click the shutter is very unique compared to digital cameras.”
There is a dedicated community of film photographers in the Sultanate who continue to shoot with film cameras. Many are drawn to the unique aesthetic qualities of film, which can be difficult to replicate with digital cameras.
While digital photography has undoubtedly revolutionised the world of photography, film cameras remain a beloved and important part of photographic history.
So why not take a break from the digital world and try your hand at film photography? You may be surprised by what you discover.
