In an age where our phones are overflowing with camera roll photos, there’s something truly special about capturing travel memories on film. It makes you think more carefully about each shot, and the result is a collection of real, tangible moments with a distinct, timeless feel.
If you’re planning to document your next trip with an analogue camera, a little preparation can help you create beautiful, lasting souvenirs of your adventure.
Packing Your Film Camera
When you’re packing for a trip, keeping your camera gear light is essential. You want your equipment to help you, not weigh you down. For most holidays, a simple 35mm point-and-shoot or a compact SLR with one versatile lens is usually all you need. Don’t forget spare batteries if your camera uses them; finding the right kind abroad can sometimes be tricky.
A microfibre cloth is also a must-have for keeping your lens free of dust and smudges. Finally, a comfortable camera strap will make carrying your gear all day much more pleasant, letting you explore without a second thought.
Best Film for Different Light
Choosing the right film is just as important as framing your shot. The film’s ISO number tells you how sensitive it is to light. A low ISO like 100 or 200 works perfectly for bright, sunny places, giving you fine-grained, sharp pictures. For cloudy days or mixed lighting, a 400-speed film is a fantastic all-rounder. A popular choice like Kodak Film at this speed offers great flexibility for everything from city streets to shady forests.
If you plan to shoot indoors or after dark, you’ll need an 800-speed film or higher. Beyond speed, different film stocks have their own unique colour palettes, and learning how to select the right colour film for your destination’s light can really change the final mood of your photos.
Composing Your Travel Shots
With only a limited number of exposures per roll, film photography encourages you to really think about your composition. Instead of just pointing your camera at a landmark, take a moment to frame your image. Try using the rule of thirds by placing your subject off-centre for a more dynamic and balanced photo. Look for natural leading lines, like a winding path, a coastline, or a row of buildings, to guide the viewer’s eye into the scene.
You can also add depth by framing your shot with an archway, a window, or an overhanging tree branch. And don’t forget to capture the small details that tell the story of your trip, like a colourful market stall or a quiet cafe scene.
Protecting Film on the Go
Film is a delicate material that needs a bit of care when you’re travelling. Heat is its biggest enemy, so never leave your camera or spare rolls in a hot car or in direct sunlight for long periods. Keep your unused and exposed film in a cool, dry place whenever possible.
When flying, it’s crucial to protect your film from airport security scanners. The X-rays used for checked luggage can damage film, and while carry-on scanners are generally safer, repeated exposure can still cause fogging, especially on higher-speed films.
To be safe, put all your film in a clear plastic bag and politely ask security staff for a hand inspection. Many experienced travellers follow this rule, and you can find detailed advice on packing and airport procedures in guides about the best film for travel photography.
Processing Your Holiday Memories
One of the greatest joys of shooting on film is the excitement of seeing your photos for the first time.
Once you’re back home, your rolls of film hold all your precious memories, just waiting to be revealed. Find a reputable film processing lab to develop your photos. Most labs offer the option to receive digital scans of your images, physical prints, or both.
Getting scans is a great way to easily share your holiday snaps online, but there’s nothing quite like holding a stack of freshly printed photographs in your hands. It’s the final, rewarding step in a wonderfully creative process.
The slight imperfections and beautiful colours of film create a timeless record of your travels that you can archive and treasure for years to come.
