Why I Love 35mm Black and White Film Photography

There’s something sacred about the sound of a 35mm film advance. The subtle click of the shutter, the deliberate pause before the next frame. In a world addicted to instant results and digital perfection, black and white film photography slows everything down—and that’s exactly why I fell in love with it.

For me, 35mm black and white photography isn’t just a medium—it’s a mindset. It forces me to be intentional with every shot. There’s no spray-and-pray mentality here. I can’t rely on burst mode or post-processing tricks. Every frame counts, and that makes each image feel like it means something.

Stripped Down to the Essentials

Without the distraction of color, black and white photography brings out the essence of the subject. Light, shadow, texture, emotion—they all take center stage. It’s raw. Honest. Unapologetically minimal. There’s a timeless quality to monochrome images that feels grounded, powerful, and human.

Shooting with film adds another layer of meaning. It’s not instant gratification. It’s delayed reward. I love the anticipation that comes with waiting to see my images developed. That moment of reveal is pure magic—like opening a time capsule I made with my own hands.

Embracing Imperfection

One of the most beautiful things about film is that it’s not perfect. Grain, scratches, unexpected flares—they all add character. These so-called “flaws” tell a story. They remind me that photography isn’t about perfection, it’s about feeling. And sometimes, a slightly out-of-focus moment carries more emotional weight than the sharpest digital image.

Why It Still Matters

In a digital age flooded with content, shooting 35mm black and white film is my way of slowing down, reconnecting with the roots of photography, and creating something truly intentional. It’s meditative. Challenging. And deeply rewarding.

Whether I’m capturing a quiet street corner, a candid portrait, or just chasing shadows at golden hour, black and white film helps me see the world differently—and maybe that’s the real magic.

📷 Thanks for reading. If you’re a fellow film lover, or curious to try it for the first time, I’d love to hear what draws you to the format. Let’s keep analog alive—one frame at a time. If you would like to see more check out the 35mm section of my website!