Why I Still Shoot 35mm Film in a Digital Age

Being a film wedding photographer in a digital world raises a few eyebrows. People assume it’s hipster bullshit or just about the “aesthetic.” But film wedding photography isn’t a trend for me—it’s a practice, a process, and a choice I keep making for reasons far deeper than nostalgia.

I started shooting film professionally in 2020, and the more I shared it with clients, the more we all fell in love with it—me, my couples, their families. Shooting film feels like an act of love. And maybe even a little resistance. It’s choosing the slower, messier, hands-on way in a world of auto-tracking megapixel perfection.

For me, I love how it feels to slow down and make something analog with your hands, your eye, and a camera that doesn’t offer a safety net. It’s not automatic. It’s not instant. You shoot intentionally and trust.

What Film Teaches Me Every Time I Shoot

Creating an image on film is a completely different experience—it’s about composing with intention, trusting your instincts, and leaning into the unknown. There’s no screen to check. No do-overs. You get 36 frames per roll, and that’s it.  You won’t know what came out until the scans come back from the lab. And honestly? I love that part. Dropping off film feels like sending a letter to your future self. The creative anticipation is half the joy.

And there’s something in that film process that quietly shifts your perspective. Film doesn’t wait for perfection. It doesn’t ask you to perform. It asks you to pause. To feel something before you press the shutter. To trust that the moment—however fleeting or however messy—is already enough.

There’s a kind of freedom in that. Like the camera is saying, I saw you. Just like that. That was enough.

And sometimes I wonder how many stories this camera saw before it ever landed in my hands. That thought alone makes the whole process feel even more meaningful.

And yeah—let’s be real. The tones are insanely good.

We’re all (not so secretly) here for that grain, those colors, that unique film rendering. It’s one of a kind. I’ve tried editing digital files to look like film, but nothing hits the same.

What’s Hybrid Wedding Photography?

Hybrid wedding photography means I shoot both film and digital throughout your wedding day. You get the best of both worlds.

Using both lets me work with the rhythm of your day. Digital is efficient and reliable but film is for the moments you want to feel twice. You’ll receive a gallery that feels complete with a mix of digital and film perfection.

When Do You Shoot Digital And When Do You Shoot Film?

I shoot both film and digital throughout the day—but how and when depends on the light, the pace, and the energy in the moment.

Digital is my go-to for anything fast-moving or unpredictable. I use it during ceremonies, first kisses, family photos, receptions. These are the moments I can’t risk missing, so I always make sure we’ve got them clean, sharp, and covered. Digital is reliable, quick, and performs better in low light or indoor situations.

Film shines—literally—in natural light. It has amazing dynamic range, which means it holds highlights and shadows beautifully, especially outdoors. It loves full sun. Where digital can sometimes blow out the whites or flatten color in harsh light, film renders it in this soft, dimensional way that just feels right.

I reach for film throughout the day—usually during portraits (especially outdoors), in the little pauses between events, or as a way to mark those important moments with something that feels more tangible. I love getting a bit of each part of your day on film. Whether it’s an emotional glance, a quiet corner, or a fleeting detail, I’m a sucker for those artistic in-betweens.

And late at night? You might catch me pulling out a film camera on the dance floor. Because film and flash at night? It’s a whole vibe. (Jump ahead to low light reception examples.)

Digital vs Film Wedding Photo Examples

I try editing digital files like film all the time—but nothing hits quite the same. There’s no simulation that can replicate the way real film renders light, color, and skin. It’s just… different.

And once you see it, you kind of can’t unsee it.

Sometimes you can’t tell the difference but it’s also because I edit my digitals like film.

Film photos just got that oomph. Ya know?

I know you can just feel their personality too >>

Do You Edit Your Film?

Film’s already doing most of the heavy lifting. It doesn’t need much help. That said, yeah, I always go in and add my own touch.

I also shoot everything on professional color film because it gives me the most to work with. Then I also deliver a black and white version of each image, and I take the time to make sure the B&W versions feel just as strong.

What Will a Low Light Reception Look Like on Film?

A low-light reception makes for a mix of ambiance and fun flash film vibes. So yeah…pretty awesome with me as your Minnesota-based film wedding photographer. Inquire and share your vision with me.

What Film Gear Are You Pulling Up With?

Depending on how much film coverage you’re excited about, I might be rolling in with more than just 35mm.

I actually shoot on Super 8 film and Hi8 Camcorders to create vintage-style wedding videos that feel like they came out of a family archive. If you’re into instant keepsakes, I also offer Polaroid wedding photography—real, instant film prints that develop on your wedding day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What Does a Film Wedding Photography Investment with Bri Include?

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Howdy, I’m Brianna Kirk (but you can call me Bri). Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, I document weddings with a documentary heart and an editorial eye. My goal isn’t to stage your whole day or chase picture-perfect moments. I’m there to witness what’s real, capture it honestly, and deliver images that will still be as good in 30 years as they are right now.

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