Reviving Nostalgia: The Comeback of Film Photography in Sunday Jigsaws!

Embrace film photography!

FILM photography has made a comeback! Although film photography never truly disappeared, it has been supported by a passionate community of fans and related businesses that provide film and classic equipment, and we are now observing its revival. As a self-assured digital photographer who once declared, “I’d never revert to film!” this has been both unexpected and a personal awakening.

The quality of digital cameras today cannot be overstated. It’s impossible to acquire a poor camera. You could choose a camera that doesn’t suit your needs, but most cameras available will lead you to capture images happily. Additionally, the majority of individuals now carry a camera in their pocket or bag disguised as a mobile phone! The resurgence of film photography appears to depend on the varied experiences perceived by the photographer.

Ironically, in an era of immediate digital satisfaction, the act of clicking seems to be yielding to a sense of mindfulness. The distinct experiences of selecting and loading film into your camera, treasuring each photo you create (as film is genuinely quite costly!), and the anticipation of seeing your developed photographs are all aspects that previously deterred me from film, yet have now become its charms! It is a more deliberate and slower process. It’s delightful and entertaining.

Sunday Jigsaw – Pentax 17.

I will revisit more regarding film photography in the upcoming weeks, but today’s Sunday Jigsaw topic is the new Pentax 17. Manufactured by the Japanese firm, it represents the first new film camera produced by a prominent manufacturer in two decades. Allegedly, Pentax had to reconnect with its former employees to relearn the craftsmanship and talents required to design a new film camera. Typically, film photography utilizes vintage models that have proven to endure the test of time or those refurbished by committed enthusiasts for reuse. Hence, this initiative by Pentax was significant, with assurances that additional new film cameras will be developed. I’ve captured several rolls of film using the Pentax 17, and some of the scans of the negatives are exhibited on my Flickr: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBQwE3.

The image displayed here features the Pentax K1000, a camera that is 30-40 years old, which I purchased for £175. Click on the image to reveal the jigsaw created from a picture of the Pentax 17 (priced closer to £500).

Further insights on this topic: Photography.