While DSLR cameras and Smartphones have now become the norm for capturing your memorable moments, traditional film cameras are still the go-to for many pro and amateur photographers.

Here is your ultimate guide to shooting on film in 2022.

What is a film camera and how does it work?

Firstly, what is a film camera? In short, it’s a camera that exposes light-sensitive photographic film to light to capture an image through a lens. The lens is a glass plate that covers the opening to the camera's body. The lens directs an object to the film when the shutter opens. This process has changed little from the ideas pioneered by Fox Talbot during the Victorian era.

In analogue photos, the image mirrors how your eye looks at a subject. Digital photos, however, convert the image into minute pixels. The higher the number of pixels, the better the quality of your picture. Digital cameras are often Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled and some models double as movie cameras. And of course, photographic prints can also be obtained by converting the camera’s digital files.

All this said photography purists might prefer analogue images in the way music enthusiasts prefer the analogue sound produced by vinyl records rather than digital CDs.

When to use flash on film cameras

Flash photography is almost a skill in itself. Most people know that flash is used indoors under low natural light conditions. Film cameras often have a separate flash unit attachment, or one built in. This is known as an ‘on camera’ flash and adds an extra punch of light through the lens. The disadvantage is that it points in the direction of the lens and can lead to over-exposure and harsher results. The dreaded ‘red eyes, for example.

An ’off-camera’ flash, however, gives you greater flexibility. It allows you to direct the light to achieve different lighting tones and control shadows, for instance. By bouncing light off a wall when shooting a subject indoors, you can obtain more subtle results.

An outdoor, ‘off-camera’ flash can be surprisingly effective. You can use it to add light to dark areas or control the light from the sun. You’ll find many blogs on the internet offering in-depth techniques for getting the best out of flash photography.

How to buy a film camera

When buying any piece of technical kit, it’s always best to shop at a reputable retailer. The same goes for film cameras, whether new or second-hand. Nowadays, with many more people buying digital, there is a thriving market for used film cameras.

Because of this trend, many high street camera shops no longer stock film cameras. But compact single-use models remain popular for taking snapshots at parties, holidays, weddings and other one-off special events.

At CameraWorld, we always stock a wide range of quality used film cameras, fully tested and refurbished by our expert technical teams. You’ll find a used bargain whatever your budget. You can choose from all the big brands including Canon, Nikon, Rollei and Hasselblad, from standard 35mm to larger, professional formats.

How much is a film camera?

CameraWorld specialises in used film cameras and you’ll find models with or without lenses; the latter allows you to choose a lens to suit your specific needs. You can expect to pay anything from £100 to over £3,000, depending on the condition. Spend over £150 and we’ll throw in free delivery. Our used film cameras include a six-month guarantee.

Most of our new and used stock can be found in our London, Chelmsford and Stevenage shops and on our website. What’s more, if you’re looking for a specific brand, we’re always happy to undertake a search. Whether you choose to buy online or in person, free expert advice is always available, ensuring you make an informed buying decision.

Where to buy camera film

It's still possible to buy a variety of film from standard 35mm up to large format 8x10 sizes. CameraWorld shops and our online store stock a large selection of the most popular film types in colour, black & white and transparency. We stock all the popular brands including Kodak, Ilford, Polaroid, Fujifilm and more.

How to load the film

As with all film cameras, the journey from loading the film to developing the photos is not instant. To load the camera, you need to open the back and place the film canister into the slot on the left-hand side.

Next, pull the film leader out and insert it into the slit on the take-up spool, making sure the holes at the side engage with the lugs on the spool. Finally, close the back of the camera and wind the film on. Click the shutter 3-4 times to ensure any exposed film is cleared, then wind the film on until the frame counter shows ‘0’. Now you’re ready to shoot!

How to remove film from your camera

Once the film stops winding on, you know all the frames have been exposed. To remove the film, open the back by pushing the small button on the base of the camera. Then wind the film all the way back into its canister leaving just a centimetre or so protruding. (This tab helps when it comes to processing.) Now, your film is ready to be developed.

Where to get camera film developed

Gone are the times when virtually every local chemist offered a film developing service. Today, keen amateurs who demand instant results, can easily do the processing themselves. Or they take their films to a high street shop or use a mail-order processing service.

Professional photographers, on the other hand, prefer to use a specialist film processing laboratory. This is particularly important when developing large-format pictures and long runs such as weddings and schools’ photography.

If you’re new to film photography or simply wish to upgrade your existing kit, call one of our experts on 01438 367619 for free, friendly advice. Or for a hands-on experience, visit one of our shops in London, Chelmsford or Stevenage.