Once dismissed as a relic of the past, film photography has made a striking comeback in recent years. Platforms like Instagram and niche sites such as Analogue Wonderland have helped reignite interest, drawing photographers back to the distinctive charm of analog shooting. Film possesses an almost intangible magic that digital photography struggles to replicate.
Why do people continue to embrace film? The reasons are as varied as the medium itself. There's the tactile pleasure of handling film, the excitement of exploring different stocks, and the unique character each one imparts to an image. Then there's the delayed gratification—a stark contrast to today's instant results. Waiting to see the final images after capturing a moment adds a layer of anticipation and satisfaction.
Aesthetics also play a big role. Film cameras often feature timeless, robust designs, typically made from sturdy metal, offering durability and elegance that stand in sharp contrast to the disposable feel of many modern plastic cameras.
I've rounded up the best film cameras you can buy on the market from my extensive knowledge of shooting film over many years, even still preferring it over digital today.
These all range in price, size, film stock, and features to suit all budgets for those just starting out with analog photography to those pros wanting to get back to nostalga.
