Digital vs 35mm Film Photography: Which is Right for Your Wedding?

Choosing the right type of photography for your wedding day is an important decision, and one that can greatly impact the look and feel of your wedding photos. One of the biggest decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want to go with digital or 35mm film photography. As someone who’s passionate about photography, I’ve worked with both mediums and would like to share my personal experience and knowledge on this topic.

Do photos shot on 35mm film look different to digital photos?

Yes, they do look different! One of the biggest differences between digital and film photography is the way they handle light. Film photos have a unique quality that digital photos can’t quite replicate, with dreamy, soft colours and a more natural feel to the images. This is because film is less harsh with highlights and shadows, and can capture a wider range of colours and tones.

Digital photography, on the other hand, offers sharper, more vibrant images that can be easily edited and shared online. It’s also more versatile in low-light conditions, which can be important for weddings that take place in darker venues.

One of the biggest draws of film photography is the timeless quality of the images. The soft, dreamy tones of film create a nostalgic feel that can’t be replicated by digital cameras. These qualities make film photographs an enduring keepsake that can be treasured for generations to come.

Do they cost the same?

No, they don’t cost the same. Analogue photographers have to pay extra costs for film and developing at a film store, which can add up quickly. Each photo taken on film can be valued at $3 or more, whereas digital photography has no additional costs beyond the initial equipment purchase.

While it’s true that 35mm film photography can be more expensive than digital, there are ways to save on costs without sacrificing quality. For example, opting for a hybrid photographer who uses both film and digital can be a cost-effective compromise that provides the best of both worlds.

Film photography requires a certain level of skill and attention to detail that digital photography doesn’t necessarily demand. Because each shot is limited to the number of frames on a roll of film, film photographers often take more care to compose each shot, resulting in more intentional and thoughtful images.

Are there risks with shooting one format over another?

One of the biggest cons of shooting weddings on film is the possibility of missing moments due to the slower nature of film cameras. Additionally, film cameras don’t handle low-light situations as well as digital cameras, and there is always the risk of light leaks and other imperfections in your photos. However, the pros of shooting on film are numerous, including the soft and dreamy photos that film produces, as well as the intentional and thoughtful composition that is necessary with a limited number of shots.

Digital cameras, on the other hand, are able to capture fast moments with ease and can capture photos in dark conditions. However, SD cards can get corrupted, and digital files are easy to lose. One of the biggest advantages of digital photography is the ability to take unlimited photos at high speeds, ensuring that every beautiful moment of your wedding day is captured.

So, should you pick a film or digital photographer for your wedding?

We’ve outlined some clear drawbacks for every photography medium but there are some clear unique strengths for the case for digital or film wedding photography. It all comes down to how you want to feel when you look back at your wedding photos.

If you’re looking for unique and nostalgic wedding photography, 35mm film is a great option. Film photography can provide you with photos that feel like they were taken in a different era and evoke a sense of timelessness. If you’re looking for more modern and crisp wedding photography, digital photography might be the way to go.

Regardless of the format, the most important thing is to choose a photographer who has experience shooting weddings and whose style resonates with you. A great photographer will be able to capture the special moments of your wedding day in a way that feels unique and personal to you.

Ultimately, every photographer is a master at their specific format so you will need to trust that regardless of the format they use, they are the professionals who know how to capture the special moments of your wedding day the best. Take some time to review the portfolios of different photographers and consider which style resonates with you and your partner. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and communicate your preferences to your photographer to ensure that you get the wedding photos of your dreams.

Although, maybe you want both film and digital photography for your wedding, and that’s exactly what we do! You can learn more here.