Why is 35mm Film for weddings making a comeback in a digital world?

You might be wondering, "With cameras and lenses that cost thousands, why on earth have you started shooting on film again?" - which is exactly what my parents asked me.

The answer is simple: film offers something different. Something unexpected.

In an era of instant gratification and digital perfection, film photography brings back a sense of nostalgia, artistry, and authenticity. The grain, the warmth, the imperfections, the way it captures light—it all creates a depth and emotion that digital just can’t replicate.

A Sentimental Love for Photography

Photography for me comes of my complete and utter love and obsession spans back to being a kid and literally obsessing over all the photo albums at my grandparent’s house. I have always been so sentimental and fascinated by the idea that you could freeze time with photographs.  I would gaze at the faces of family members I had never met, feeling a deep connection to them. Even though they were strangers to me, their smiles filled me with joy, reminding me that they were never truly gone. Film, with its unique ability to capture memories, gave us photographs that we could feel - images that were timeless.

Fast forward to today, and film is making its quiet but powerful return, as the demand for film has started to creep in, with more and more photographers embracing its charm, I climbed into my loft and unearthed my trusty film camera back from my uni days, a camera, the I hadn’t touched in over 10 years. Holding it instantly brought back memories of being the dark room, and the smell of the chemicals from when I used to develop my own film. Loading in the film, and hearing that noise and the film rewinding, and hearing the shutter sound each time to press it, brings back sentimental feelings in itself.

The Magic of Film

Film photography isn’t just about taking pictures - it’s about slowing down and being intentional.

Unlike digital, where you can take thousands of shots without a second thought, film forces you to be mindful. You only have a limited number of exposures, and let’s be honest - it’s not cheap! But that’s the beauty of it. Every frame matters. You think before you shoot. You become more present in the moment.

And then there’s the anticipation—the part I love the most. In a world where we’re used to instant results, there’s something magical about waiting to see your images develop. That feeling of excitement (and, okay, sometimes slight disappointment when a shot doesn’t turn out quite as planned) is something digital just can’t replicate.

35mm Film & Weddings - A Perfect Pair

Now, don’t get me wrong - I still shoot weddings primarily on digital. It gives me full control and allows me to craft a beautifully curated gallery that tells the complete story of your day. But more and more couples are opting to add a roll (or a few) of film to their wedding photography package.

And I love that.

Including film in your wedding means you’ll have a handful of photographs with that raw, nostalgic quality - moments captured in their purest form. The unexpected nature of film adds an element of magic and surprise. After your wedding, your film gets developed, scanned, and added seamlessly to your digital gallery, bringing extra depth and character to your memories.

Interested in adding film to your wedding photography? You can check out more details here.

Bringing Film Into Your Wedding - Even If Your Photographer only shoots in Digital

If your photographer doesn’t shoot film but you still want that nostalgic touch, there are plenty of fun ways to incorporate analog photography into your big day:

1. Disposable Cameras on the Tables

This was the thing at weddings 10+ years ago, and I’m so happy to see it making a comeback! Leave a few disposable cameras on each table and let your guests snap away. The best part? The excitement of getting those scans back and seeing what everyone captured!

(Tip: Assign a responsible person to collect the cameras at the end of the night - because we all remember the Friends episode where Monica and Chandler’s wedding cameras went missing!)

For an extra personal touch, check out these custom disposable camera sticker wraps: Etsy Link

2. Make It a Game

To avoid ending up with 20 blurry dance floor selfies of your drunk uncle, leave a shot list at each table! Guests can turn it into a fun challenge - capture a selfie with everyone at the table, the best man’s speech, the newlyweds’ first kiss, the food, etc. Not only will you get some great moments from your guests’ perspective, but it’ll also keep them entertained!

3. Polaroid Guest Book

Everyone loves a Polaroid camera. Set up a station where guests can snap a picture and leave a handwritten message in your guest book. It’s a fun, interactive way to capture memories and create a keepsake you’ll actually want to look at again and again.

Film Isn’t Just a Trend - It’s Timeless

Yes, film is “trendy” right now, but in reality, it has been around far longer than any of us. Without it, so much of our history would have been lost.

Film photography isn’t about chasing a fad - it’s about preserving memories in a way that feels real. There’s something deeply personal about it. Something irreplaceable. And I, for one, am so glad it’s making a comeback.

Would you add film to your wedding day? Let me know - I’d love to hear your thoughts!