Summary
Highlights
A basic understanding of film photography begins with knowing that film is plastic with light-sensitive chemicals. When light enters the camera through the lens, it 'burns' these chemicals, creating an image that becomes visible after development.
There are three main types of 35mm film cameras: SLRs, rangefinders, and point-and-shoots. SLRs allow lens changes and manual shooting with a true-to-image viewfinder. Rangefinders offer a different viewfinder with frame lines for composition, often more compact. Point-and-shoot cameras are automatic, good for capturing everyday moments, but most are electronic and require batteries, unlike many mechanical SLRs and rangefinders.
Film cameras can be purchased from private second-hand markets or professional camera shops. Second-hand markets can offer great deals but come with the risk of receiving a non-working camera. Professional shops provide tested cameras but at a higher price.
Familiarize yourself with your camera's basic controls, such as the shutter button, film advance lever, ISO setting, shot counter, and film rewind knob. These features are common across most SLRs, but specific operations may vary.
When selecting film, ensure it's 35mm, not medium format (120 film). Consider the style you want (color, black and white) and your budget, as film can be expensive. Kodak Gold 200 is recommended for beginners due to its affordability, and Agfa APX400 for black and white.
Loading film varies by camera type. For SLRs, open the back, insert the film canister, pull the leader across, attach it to the take-up spool, and advance the film a few times to ensure it's properly engaged before closing the back. Always ensure the rewind knob turns when advancing film to confirm proper loading. Never open the camera back until the roll is fully rewound.
Set the ISO rating on your camera, either automatically (via DX code on some point-and-shoots) or manually. For manual cameras like SLRs, use a light meter (internal or an external app) to determine correct exposure. With film, it's generally better to slightly overexpose rather than underexpose to retain shadow details.
Once the roll is finished (the advance lever won't turn), rewind the film back into its canister. This usually involves pressing a release button and turning the rewind knob until tension loosens. After rewinding, you can safely open the camera and remove the film. For beginners, it's recommended to send the developed film to a lab for processing and scanning.