RESOURCES

The workshop’s over but your journey isn’t. Grab the tips, tools, and extras here.

Buying Film

Here are some trusted places I buy my film from:

21 Studio Photolab
Analogue Wonderland
Bristol Cameras

Developing Film

Labs I have personally used and recommend:

21 Studio Photolab
Analogue Wonderland

I develop all my personal black and white film at home. It’s much easier than you expect and saves a lot over time.

Editing Film Scans

Forget the myth that film scans should be untouched. Film photography has always involved editing. Back in the day the darkroom was where images were crafted. Today your phone or computer is the modern darkroom. A few simple tweaks can turn a good scan into a great image. Editing your scans isn’t cheating. it’s completing the story you began shooting. Keep edits subtle and purposeful, letting the image speak for itself. If anyone insists film must be “pure,” just nod, smile, and maybe suggest they check out Ansel Adams.

My top tip? Use Snapseed on your phone. It’s free, fast, and easy. I’ve even made custom looks for my workshops, just apply and you are done.

Beginner Film Cameras

Here are some cameras I suggest for beginners. When choosing a camera I advise looking for a system with lenses you want, making sure they’re affordable and easy to find before purchasing a camera.

Canon AE-1 Program
Minolta X-700
Nikon FE
Olympus OM-2N
Pentax K1000

If you decide to purchase a camera try to buy from a reputable shop that can offer a warranty for peace of mind.  eBay can be great but always assume some risk here. Look for sellers who offer returns or guarantees. Make sure you test the camera by running a cheap roll of film through it, checking all shutter speeds, aperture settings, the light meter (if it has one), focus accuracy, and that film advances and rewinds smoothly. Then develop and scan that roll before trusting it with anything important or using expensive film.