What to consider when choosing a film to put into your camera.
In my previous blog post, I discussed the importance of choosing the right camera for your photography needs. In this post, I want to talk about another important decision that photographers face: whether to use colour film or black and white film.
The choice between colour and black and white film can have a big impact on the overall mood and feel of your images. Colour film can add depth and vibrancy, while black and white film can simplify a scene and draw attention to the composition and form of the subject.
So, how do I decide which type of film is right? Here are the two things I consider:
**Subject matter:** What am I photographing? If I'm shooting landscapes, portraits, or street photography, colour film can be a great way to capture the beauty of the natural world or the character of the subjects. However, looking at abstract or fine art photography, black and white film is more commonly used and can be a more effective way to create a mood or atmosphere.
**Lighting:** The type of lighting available can also influence your decision. If shooting in bright sunlight, colour film will/could capture the vibrant colours of the scene. However, if the weather is drab or it is getting late in the day and shooting in low light, black and white film would usually be my choice, as it is more forgiving of exposure errors.
Ultimately, the decision of whether I use colour or black and white film is a very personal one depending on what I have described above but also how I am feeling that day. Like all artistic choices, there is no right or wrong answer, and the best way to decide for me is to experiment with both types of film so I know what type of photograph I would like to produce that day.
If you are looking at getting into film photography and wondering what film, black and white or colour, you are wanting to use, below are a few additional tips for choosing the right film for your photography needs:
**Consider your budget:** Color film can be more expensive than black and white film, so if you're on a tight budget, black and white film may be a better option.
**Think about your workflow:** If you plan on developing your film, black and white film is generally easier to process than colour film.
**Experiment with different types of film:** The best way to decide which type of film is right for you is to experiment with different types and see what you like best.
