A Photographer’s Guide to Film Wedding Photography: 35mm, Medium Format, Instant Film & Super 8
One of the most common questions I get from couples is, “Can you explain the different types of film you use?”
Film photography isn’t just one thing — it’s a collection of mediums, each with its own feel, strengths, and purpose. I use a mix of 35mm film, medium format film, instant film, and Super 8 video to tell wedding stories in a way that feels honest, nostalgic, and deeply human.
Here’s a breakdown of each medium, what it’s best used for, and why I choose it.
35mm Film — Movement, Emotion, In-Between Moments
35mm film is what most people picture when they think of film photography. It’s versatile, fast-moving, and perfect for capturing moments as they unfold naturally.
I use 35mm film for so much throughout the day! It’s truly a workhorse. But some of my favorite ways to use it include:
candid moments
getting ready
cocktail hour
details
the dance floor and party moments
It handles movement beautifully and gives images a timeless, editorial feel without feeling stiff or overly posed.
I primarily shoot 35mm film on my Canon 1V, a professional-grade film camera known for its reliability and precision—especially important on a wedding day where moments happen once. Recently, I also added a Contax T2 to my kit, which I love for its compact size and effortless, point-and-shoot feel. It allows me to move quickly and intuitively, capturing in-between moments in a way that feels incredibly natural and unobtrusive.
Medium Format Film (120) — Portraits, Details, Heirloom Images
Medium format film (120) creates images with incredible depth, detail, and softness. Compared to 35mm, it produces a larger negative, which results in richer tones and a more polished, fine-art look.
I love using medium format for:
portraits
ceremony moments
details and still-life imagery
slower, more intentional moments
These images often feel like heirlooms — the kind you frame, print large, and pass down.
I shoot medium format on my Holga 120N (for its dreamy, imperfect charm) and my Fuji GA645Zi Pro, which offers stunning sharpness while still maintaining that unmistakable film quality. The Fuji is the latest addition to my camera collection, and I’m so excited to use it for weddings this year.
Instant Film (Instax) — Tangible, Joyful, In-the-Moment
Instant film is all about immediacy. These are the images you can hold in your hands within minutes — imperfect, joyful, and completely one-of-a-kind.
I often use instant film for:
details
reception moments
quick portraits with friends and family
There’s something really special about watching a photo develop in real time. It slows people down and creates connection.
I use a Fujifilm Instax Mini, which allows me to create tangible keepsakes right on the wedding day.
Super 8 Film — Motion, Emotion, Memory
Super 8 film is motion captured on real film — the same medium many of our parents’ and grandparents’ home movies were shot on.
Super 8 isn’t about perfection. It’s about feeling. The movement, the light leaks, the softness — it captures emotion in a way digital video simply can’t replicate. I use it to document:
I use it for:
walking shots
laughter
vows in motion
hugging, dancing, movement
story-driven moments
I shoot Super 8 on a Canon 514XL, a vintage film camera known for its beautiful low-light performance and cinematic feel.
Each film medium brings something different to the story of a wedding day. Together, they create a layered, intentional narrative — one that feels lived-in, emotional, and timeless. If you’re curious about incorporating film or Super 8 into your wedding coverage, you can explore my collections or reach out anytime — I’m always happy to talk through what feels right.
