The resurgence in film is one that shows no signs of slowing, and if you've not shot on film since your childhood, or perhaps it's something you've never experienced, you may not be aware of the true differences between the two mediums.
As a lab that has been in the film industry since the 80's, we still continue to shoot and advocate for film (so, we may be a little biased), but if you're thinking about dipping your toes into film, I wanted to share a proper side by side comparison, along with pros and cons of the both.
Below is Kusatsu Onsen, Japan shot on Fujifilm 200 VS the same location shot on an iPhone 14.
Both of the images are completely unedited, and you can clearly see the dramatic differences between the images. The film image has definition, character, and even though this was shot on an ISO 200 film, it captures the movement of the water in a way that the phone image doesn't.
The digital comparison image looks flat, lacks character and real vivacity of colour. Unlike the film image, there is no subtle grain. Although this image could of course be edited, it would be difficult to replicate the same settings and atmosphere that was naturally captured in the film image.
Pros of Shooting Film
Film photography has a certain magic to it. From the moment you load a roll into your camera, you’re more intentional about each shot.
There's no instant preview, just patience, anticipation, and a little bit of hope that you nailed the exposure.
Timeless Aesthetic – Film has a soft, organic look that digital often tries to replicate but never quite nails. The colours, the grain, the dynamic range, it just has a different feel. Once you have shot on film, it really does have a hold on you.
Forces You to Slow Down – With only 24 or 36 shots per roll, you think more about composition, lighting, and settings before pressing the shutter. Every shot counts and it can lead to more mindful, considered photography.
Better Highlight Retention – Film handles highlights beautifully. Overexposed areas still retain details, whereas digital can blow them out completely.
Physical & Tangible Process – Developing your own negatives or getting scans back from the lab makes the experience more rewarding. In a world of instant gratification, that delayed gratification of getting your shots back is the best kind of endorphin release.
Film choice - there are so many varieties of film to choose from, all with their own unique colour profiles, grain structures, and contrast levels. Whether you want the rich tones of Kodak Portra, the dramatic contrast of Ilford HP5, or perhaps something a little bit dystopian like LomoChrome Purple, each film stock brings a distinct character to your images that digital presets can only try to emulate.
Digital images - whilst you can still order prints, once your film has been developed, you can choose to receive digital files so they can still be edited if you wish, and of course, shared on social media.
Lower initial cost - film cameras are relatively affordable to pick up nowadays, whether you choose entry level cameras like the Kodak M35 or browse Facebook Marketplace for a second hand camera.
Cons of Shooting Film
Costs Add Up – Buying rolls of film, developing them, and getting them scanned isn’t cheap. A roll of Portra 400 alone can set you back £19+ before processing.
Limited Control Over ISO – You’re locked into the ISO of the film you loaded, so adjusting for different lighting situations can be tricky.
No Instant Results – If you’re impatient, waiting days (or weeks) for film scans can be frustrating.
Pros of Shooting Digital
Digital cameras have come a long way, and even smartphones now boast exceptional cameras, making it easier than ever to capture great shots on the go—no need to lug around bulky, expensive gear, if you don't need to.
Instant Feedback – You can check your shots right away, adjust settings, and reshoot if needed. You're not limited by the amount you can take.
Higher ISO Flexibility – Modern digital cameras can handle low-light situations far better than film, with minimal noise even at ISO 6400+.
Cost-Effective – Once you’ve invested in a camera or high quality phone, you can shoot thousands of images without worrying about film or processing costs.
More Post-Processing Control – RAW files let you tweak exposure, colour, and details.
Prints - you can choose which specific images you want to print.
Cons of Shooting Film
Too Many Shots, Too Little Thought – Since there’s no cost per frame, it’s easy to overshoot without thinking about composition or settings.
Less Highlight Protection – Overexposed areas in digital images often lose detail completely. Film is more forgiving in this regard.
The "Too Clean" Look – Some digital images feel overly sharp, clinical, or lacking character, especially straight out of the camera (as shown in the comparison image above).
So… Which One is Better?
Honestly, it comes down to what you’re shooting and what you love about photography.
If you enjoy a hands-on, nostalgic experience and love the unique look of film, go for it!
If you need speed, flexibility, and cost efficiency, digital is the way to go, BUT there are still so many ways you can shoot film on a budget today. It's definitely still worth considering as a medium. Plus, waiting for scans and prints to come back doesn't take weeks on end, we often turn around C-41 scans within 1-2 days so you're never waiting long to see how your shots look.
At the end of the day, both film and digital have their strengths. If you’ve never shot film before, I highly recommend trying it—it’s a completely different experience that can help you grow as a photographer. And if you already love film, don’t be afraid to embrace digital too! There’s no rule saying you can’t enjoy both.
Personally, I shoot both. Film is my go-to when I want to slow down and create something special - I always shoot film when travelling and on special occasions, while digital is perfect for times when I need immediate results, like snapping your brunch on a Saturday and sharing it straight to social media, because if you don't, did it even happen?
The film vs debate is an ongoing one, and it probably always will be, share your thoughts with us in the comments below!
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