Adorama Narrated: Getting Started with Film Photography

Published: February 15, 2026
Read by Nikki Haller, Written by Erin Saragool

Episode Overview

This episode of Adorama Narrated is an engaging audio version of the 42 West blog post "Getting Started with Film Photography," authored by Erin Saragool. It’s a beginner-friendly guide that walks listeners through the basics of film photography—including camera choices, film types, and the tactile process of shooting and developing film—while inspiring appreciation for the unique qualities and imperfections that define the medium.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Comeback of Film Photography (00:28)

• Despite the dominance of digital cameras, “film photography has managed to stick around. In fact, it's made something of a comeback in recent years—and it's for good reason.”
• Film offers a more intentional, tactile experience with images you can actually hold.

2. Choosing a Film Camera (01:01)

Point and Shoots

• “Point and shoot cameras pretty much do as their name suggests. You load the film, point the camera at your subject and shoot.” (01:10)
• Compact, easy to use, and should be inexpensive; beginners should avoid high-end models and stick with budget-friendly options.

SLRs and Rangefinders

• Offer greater creative control and interchangeable lenses.
• Notably, the Pentax 17 is recommended:

  “The Pentax 17 shoots half frame, which effectively doubles the number of shots you get from a standard roll—72 pictures instead of the usual 36.” (02:09)

• Adorama’s value: secondhand film cameras are tested, and come with a 30-day warranty.

3. Selecting Film (03:23)

• Two standard film sizes:
  • 35mm: For most compact cameras.
  • 120mm: For medium format cameras.
• Film choice impacts your images as much as camera or lens.
• Beginner-friendly color films:
  • Kodak Gold, Color Plus, Ultramax
• Professional films:
  • Kodak Portra 160, 400, 800
• Black and white options:
  • Ilford HP5, Kodak Tri X
• Starting suggestion:

  "If you're new to film photography, I'd recommend starting with a few rolls of color film. It's versatile and relatively forgiving.” (04:18)

4. Embracing the Film Process (04:59)

• Imperfection is Key:

  "Film photography is not about perfection. It's about capturing moments and emotions and finding beauty in the imperfect." (05:02)

• Loading and Unloading Film

  • Can seem intimidating, but is straightforward with practice.
  • Critical advice:

    "Make sure not to open the back of your camera until you have shot your roll of film and wound it back into its casing." (05:31)

  • Accidental exposure produces “weird light leaks”—sometimes a happy accident.

• Mindful Shooting:

  • "With digital cameras, you can spray and pray with little consequence. However, with film, you will want to slow down and think about your composition carefully." (06:06)
  • Limited shots per roll encourages intentionality.

5. Developing Your Film (06:37)

• Two options:
  • Take film to a developer (recommended for beginners).
  • Try home developing.
• Most developers provide digital scans or traditional prints.

6. The Joy and Philosophy of Film (07:00)

• "Film photography is about embracing the unexpected and finding beauty in the imperfections. Light leaks, grain, unexpected colors—these are all part of the fun." (07:09)
• Film offers a refreshing antidote to a world fixated on instant results; it encourages patience, reflection, and appreciation for “moments that feel real.”

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Camera Impacts:

  “…when it comes to film photography, the camera body doesn't have as big of an impact on your photos as it would with a digital camera.” (01:32)

• On Perfection vs. Imperfection:

  "It's about capturing moments and emotions and finding beauty in the imperfect." (05:03)

• On the Slowness of Film:

  "Every frame costs you money and you only have a limited amount of film on hand. This poses a very different shooting experience to digital..." (06:24)

• Encouragement for Beginners:

  "Remember what I said about imperfections." (05:54)

Key Timestamps

• 00:28 — Film Photography’s Resurgence
• 01:01 — Camera Types Overview
• 02:09 — Pentax 17 & Shooting Half-Frame
• 03:23 — Film Formats & Stock Recommendations
• 05:02 — Embracing Imperfection
• 05:31 — Loading/Unloading Film: Key Tips
• 06:06 — Slowing Down: Shooting with Intent
• 06:37 — Developing Your Film
• 07:09 — The Magic and Philosophy of Film

Summary

This episode is a warm, practical, and inspiring primer for anyone curious about film photography. Whether you're picking a camera, choosing your first film stock, or learning to savor every click, the episode encourages beginners to embrace intentionality, imperfections, and the deeper satisfaction film offers in today’s fast-paced digital world.