Flashback Friday: Why Reusable Film Cameras Are Making a Comeback

We love a smart device. From phones to homes, the power of technology never ceases to amaze us. However, whether we are of a certain era craving the nostalgia of the good old days. Or, part of a generation trying an old-school trend for the first time around, there has certainly been a growth in the popularity of retro devices – reimagined for a digital world. Young entrepreneur  Madi Stefanis is one of the fab females leading this charge – recently launching her 35MM Co Reloader Reusable Cameras in JB Hi-Fi.  Here’s why she believes film can definitely feature in photography future. As, well as her top five tips to help you click and capture your memories.

Online v Old-School

In an digital era dominated by instant gratification and high-definition displays, the resurgence of film photography might seem paradoxical. However, Madi believes that for many, the tactile experience of loading film, the anticipation of developing photos, and the raw authenticity of film images offer a refreshing contrast to digital perfection.

“Shooting film is such a fun process,” she says. It feels a lot less serious than digital and allows you to really immerse yourself in the moment, given that you can’t look back on the photos in real time.”

According to Madi, this approach encourages photographers, both novice and seasoned, to capture moments organically without the pressure of immediate review or endless retakes.

Safe snapping

For beginners eager to dive into the world of film, it’s essential to be aware of common mistakes to ensure a smooth shooting experience. One prevalent error, as Madi points out, is inadvertently exposing film to light. “35mm film is light-sensitive, meaning you need to protect it from any accidental exposure until you are ready to take a picture,” she advises.

Once loaded, never open the back door of the camera until the roll is fully used and rewound.
After finishing a roll, rewind the film completely into the canister before opening the camera.
By adhering to these precautions, photographers can avoid the heartbreak of ruined shots due to accidental exposure.

Five top tips for shooting with a reloader reusable film camera

Ready to embark on your film photography journey? Here are Madi’s essential tips to ensure you capture memories beautifully:

Don’t forget the flash. Even during daytime!

Lighting plays a pivotal role in photography. While natural light can be splendid, using the flash—even during the day – can enhance image clarity and reduce unwanted shadows. Especially in situations with backlighting or overcast conditions, the flash ensures your subjects remain well-lit and vibrant.

Stand 1.5 – 3 metres away from the subject

Proximity matters. Standing too close can result in blurred or distorted images, while being too far can diminish detail and impact. Maintaining a distance of 1.5 to 3 metres ensures that you capture subjects crisply and within the camera’s optimal focus range.

Ensure your film isn’t exposed to light at any stage during the shooting process

Protecting your film from unintended light exposure is also crucial. Always double-check that the camera’s back is securely closed and resist the temptation to peek. Remember, patience is key in film photography.

Hold your camera still

Camera shake can lead to blurry images, especially in low-light conditions or longer exposure times. Adopt a stable stance, use both hands to grip the camera, and consider leaning against a solid object or using a tripod for added stability. This ensures your photos remain sharp and detailed.

Lean into the uncertainty of shooting film

Perhaps the most liberating aspect of film photography is embracing its unpredictability. As Madi beautifully puts it, “Not every photo is going to be perfect, but that’s half of the fun. It’s all part of the process.” Relish the suspense between shooting and developing, and cherish the authentic moments captured, imperfections and all.

The 35MM Reloader Reusable Film Camera is priced at $119.95 and available both in stores and on the JB Hi-Fi website.