cover image by crossroad0201
Have you become so accustomed to the convenience of digital that the excitement of photography has faded? For you, we propose a slightly unique way to enjoy the experience of shooting like a film camera with digital. It's a bit contrived, yet unique, so please take a look.
No Retakes, Limit the Number of Shots
First, set a limit on the number of shots. In a film camera, you can only shoot a limited number of frames per roll. By setting such a 'limit' yourself in digital, you can improve the quality of your photography.
Image by Tsubasa Mfg
Try limiting the number of shots you can take in a day to '24 or 36', just like a film camera. You'll start to carefully consider each scene and treat each shutter press with care. For example, by limiting your daily shots to 24 and observing the scene thoroughly before pressing the shutter, you can enhance the quality of your photography.
If setting a limit is difficult, try using a 2GB SD card in the latest digital camera. This will inevitably impose a limit.
Don't Look Immediately, Hide the Screen
Next, limit the preview of photos. With a film camera, you can't check the photos immediately after shooting. To experience a similar feeling with a digital camera, try refraining from checking the images after shooting. By turning off the camera's LCD screen or covering it with something, you can recreate the real film camera experience. Some cameras allow you to turn off the digital screen, so be sure to check the settings.
Image by 佐藤亜梨沙 │ Sato Arisa
Don't Be Satisfied with Data, Print and Display
Finally, print your photos. One of the charms of film photography is being able to hold printed photos in your hands. To enjoy the same charm with digital photos, try printing them.
You don't need an expensive printer, but try to develop the habit of printing at home. Seeing photos in a tangible form can provide a more moving experience. For example, by printing photos and displaying them on the wall of your room, you can feel the distinctive beauty and uniqueness that stands out because of the effort involved, deepening your appreciation of the expressive power of photography.
Image by Kei
What do you think?
It might be a slightly contrived method, but enjoying a digital camera like a film camera can be achieved with a little ingenuity. Reconsidering how each function of the camera affects our photography experience can be an interesting pastime.
Give it a try!
