How to Learn Film Photography

The Film Guide I Wish I’d Had 10 Years Ago.

My First Roll of Film (& the Leap of Faith That Started It All). Over fourteen years ago, I loaded my very first roll of film with my fingers crossed. I wasn’t terrified exactly — more young, exuberant and blissfully unaware. I had a gracious model, a stunning vintage dress, and gorgeous light. I just had absolutely no idea if I could figure out my film camera.

With a voracious appetite for learning and eagerness to dive in, I was hoping for the best and excited to fully commit, wondering how to learn film photography without making every mistake in the book.

Here’s the wild part: for this session I had invested in a gown, flowers, studio rental — the whole nine yards — and I didn’t shoot any digital backup (you know, just in case it didn’t work out). I went all in. 100%. I was completely committed to figuring this out.

And you know what? Every session thereafter, I shot 99.9% film. I was completely hooked.

Why Film Photography Captivated Me
(& Might Captivate You Too)

I’d read every “Film Photography for Beginners” / “How to Shoot Film” book I could find, but honestly? Most of them felt too technical, too intimidating, or just didn’t address the real questions I had as a Family photographer working with young children and unpredictable light.

I was limping along through the camera bits, committed to never making the same mistake twice. What I really needed was more of a beginner’s 101 guide to medium format film photography.

So I did what any determined creative does — I learned by doing. And second-guessing. And taking tireless notes. Lots and lots (and lots) of notes.

Learning Film Photography Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Here’s what I wish someone had told me: You don’t need to be a technical wizard to create beautiful analog photography. You just need to understand a few key principles and have someone who’s made all the mistakes guide you around the pitfalls.

For hundreds of sessions now, I’ve sat down after each and every one and analyzed each set of negatives that came back from the lab. What worked? What didn’t? Why did one image sing while the other fell flat? I’ve filled countless notebooks with observations about light, settings, and those magical moments when everything just clicks – the best film photography tips for beginners come from real experience. Along the way, I’ve been fortunate to work with experienced labs like Richard Photo Lab, whose consistent results have helped make this kind of thoughtful process possible.

My Top Film Photography Tips for Beginners
(Learned the Hard Way)

The funny thing? The cover image of my film guide – one of my favorite portraits (of one of my favorite people) with skin tones, colors and quality that made me swoon – came from my very first roll of film. I was just in beautiful light and got lucky. But here’s the thing: luck isn’t a strategy. Understanding why that image worked is.

What I’ve learned is this: Film photography isn’t about perfection. It’s about intention. It’s about slowing down, understanding your light, and trusting the process. And yes, it’s about having someone who’s been there whisper in your ear, “Try this setting,” or “Watch out for that.”

Understanding Light, Film Stocks, and Settings
(Made Simple)

I created this guide because I remember that photographer crossing her fingers and hoping for the best, and I want to save you years of trial and error. I want to give you the confidence to walk into any lighting situation with your film camera knowing exactly what to do. I want you to stop second-guessing and start creating with intention.

Learn Tips & Tricks for Capturing Stunning Film Images Quickly

• Build your confidence & gracefully sidestep the beginner stumbling. Save time and start creating those creamy images you have been lusting over.
• Take control of your session with knowledge on how to use the light (inside or out) in your favor.
• A comprehensive look at using your film camera, film stock & your talented film lab to help craft (& strengthen) your personal brand aesthetic.

Don’t Rely on Luck — Learn to Create Intentional Film Images

If I could create something beautiful on my very first try,
imagine what you can do with a decade of learning in your hands.

Your film photography journey doesn’t have to be guesswork.

Let me show you the way with this beginner’s guide to learning film photography
Getting Started with Film.