The Ultimate Beginner's Guide to using 35mm film
, by Kate Dixon, 2 min reading time
Your simple guide to shooting amazing photos with point-and-shoot film cameras
Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of film photography? At Boho Photo, we're seeing more people fall in love with the unique charm and excitement of shooting on film. Let's walk through everything you need to know to get started!
Your First Film Camera
Two fantastic beginner-friendly cameras:
- Kodak M35: A stylish point-and-shoot available in fun colours
- Ilford Sprite 35-II: A reliable companion for your film journey
Both cameras are perfect for beginners - no complicated settings to worry about, just point and shoot!
Essential Tips for Great Film Photos
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Keep Those Fingers Clear The number one rookie mistake? Fingers sneaking into your shots! Always check your fingers aren't covering the lens before clicking.
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Stay Steady
- Hold your camera with both hands
- Keep your elbows tucked into your body
- Take a breath and hold it while shooting
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Light is Your Friend
- Shoot with the sun behind you when possible
- Avoid shooting directly into bright light
- Cloudy days actually provide lovely, even lighting
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Mind Your Distance Stay at least 1 metre away from your subject for the sharpest photos.
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Always Wind On After each shot, wind on immediately - it's easy to forget and end up with double exposures (unless that's what you're going for!)
Choosing Your Film
We stock a variety of films perfect for beginners:
- Kodak ColorPlus: Budget-friendly and forgiving
- Kodak Gold 200: Beautiful warm tones, great for sunny days
- Ilford XP2: Classic black and white look
Picture taken with Kodak UltraMax
After You've Shot Your Roll
Finished your roll? Bring it to us! We'll process your film with care and can even create prints or digital copies of your photos. Plus, we're always happy to chat about your shots and share tips for your next roll.
Ready to Start?
Pop into Boho Photo at 105 High Street, Honiton. We'll help you choose the perfect camera and film combination for your photography journey. Plus, join our mailing list for exclusive film photography tips and special offers!