After a few years of using my DSLR (a Nikon D3100), I decided it was time to experiment with film. I did some research on the best cameras available within my price range, and I found my now-beloved Nikon FM10. Photography for me is both a hobby and a way for me to express myself, a way to capture the moments I'm in. Both mediums have their own advantages, and some may prefer working with one over the other. Personally, I tend to use my DSLR at special events that I definitely want to have a record of, and my film camera comes into play when I'm wandering around the city, hanging out with friends or just feeling inspired to shoot There are lots of perks that come with using a digital camera rather than a film camera, and vice versa. Here are some pros and cons of shooting film that I've come to realize over time.
PROS
1. Finally seeing your shots once they're developed is super exciting!
2. Finding one or two shots you adore in a roll of 24 exposures is usually more rewarding than having 10 digital shots you kind of like.
3. If you wait a while to develop your film (which I often do, since I get my film developed for me and love to have tons of photos to look at at once), you may forget what shots you took. Seeing the pictures from experiences you may have forgotten about is an amazing surprise.
4. Developing your own film is extremely rewarding if things go right -- seeing your pictures emerge before your eyes in the dark room is like no other feeling.
CONS
1. You can't see exactly what you're about to take; I used to be wary of taking pictures I wasn't sure would come out well, but I've learned to go for it! You never know; the shot could not come out, or it could be one of your favorite pictures from an outing.
2. Buying film costs money. But if you plan ahead, you can buy film in bulk (hey, Amazon) and not worry about "wasting" shots!
3. You're not sure how great your picture came out, and if the photo is under or over exposed. Some cameras, like the Nikon FM10, have a light meter built in that'll indicate if your photo needs more or less light; this is super helpful, especially if you're just starting out!
If you're considering investing in a camera, make sure to do your research! Ask around and Google best options; brand new film cameras are sometimes difficult to find for sale, but (hardly) used ones are often a safe bet! In the end, both digital cameras and film cameras are awesome. Happy shooting!
