Why Film Photography Is Making a Comeback at New England Weddings
When couples start planning their weddings, photography is often at the very top of the list. And in the past few years, something has been happening in the wedding world: film photography is back. Not VHS tapes (well at least not yet), but old-school film cameras — the kind that give photos a texture, softness, and authenticity that digital sometimes can’t replicate. I actually learned photography on film, and it remains a very special aspect of my process today. I offer film to all my clients, regardless of budget, mainly because I love it so much and believe it adds something unique to every gallery. In New England especially, with its historic estates, coastal views, and sprawling landscapes, film has found a perfect stage.
So why is film photography making a comeback, and should you think about it for your wedding? Let’s dig in.
What Exactly Is Film Wedding Photography?
Before we get too deep, let’s clear something up. Film wedding photography doesn’t mean your whole wedding is shot on film. Most photographers (myself included) use a hybrid approach: digital cameras for the bulk of the day, and film cameras sprinkled in for special moments, portraits, or details.
Film means actual rolls of 35mm or medium format film, which need to be developed in a lab. It’s slower, more intentional, and has a different look than digital photography. Think about it as the difference between listening to vinyl records versus Spotify — both get the job done, but one feels a little richer and more timeless.
Why Couples in New England Are Loving Film
So why has film suddenly become such a big deal again? Here are a few reasons couples are gravitating towards it:
The look: Film has a soft, luminous quality that digital can mimic but never fully duplicate. Colours are richer, skin tones look flattering, and highlights don’t blow out as easily.
The nostalgia: Many couples grew up flipping through their parents’ or grandparents’ wedding albums shot on film. It feels familiar, even if they didn’t live through it. All of my own family photos from growing up were shot in film, so for me, there’s seriously nothing more emotional or nostalgic than returning to film.
It slows things down: Shooting film takes intention. There’s no burst mode. No clicking away 100 times. That slower pace often makes the photos feel more meaningful.
It pairs perfectly with New England vibes: Whether it’s a coastal ceremony in Newport or a rustic barn in Vermont, film blends seamlessly with the atmosphere. It enhances the timelessness of the region.
The Benefits of Film Photography at Weddings
Film isn’t just about looks. It also brings practical benefits to wedding photography:
Dynamic range: Film handles light differently than digital. Harsh sun? Film can actually soften it in a way digital sometimes struggles with.
Skin tones: One of the biggest perks. Film tends to render skin beautifully, with warmth and natural tones.
Highlight retention: White dresses in bright light? Film preserves details rather than washing them out.
Unique imperfections: Light leaks, subtle grain, and slight blurs can add charm and character. Not every shot will be “perfect,” but that’s kind of the point.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Film Wedding Photography
Okay, now for the honest side. Film is amazing, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
It costs more: Film itself isn’t cheap. Rolls need to be purchased, developed, and scanned at a professional lab. That cost gets passed on.
It’s slower: Photographers can’t shoot endlessly on film. Each shot is thought through carefully. That means fewer overall images compared to digital.
Turnaround time is longer: Film photos need to be shipped to a lab, developed, and then delivered. If you want instant gratification, digital will deliver faster.
It doesn’t replace digital: For fast-moving parts of the day (like dance floors or family formals), digital is still the more practical option.
So while film is beautiful, it works best as an addition to digital coverage rather than a replacement.
How Film and Digital Work Together
Most modern wedding photographers who shoot film use what’s called a hybrid approach. Here’s how it typically looks:
Film for portraits and details: Think couple’s portraits at golden hour, flat lays of invitations, or quiet getting-ready moments.
Digital for everything else: Ceremony, reception, family photos, and low-light moments where digital cameras are stronger.
This balance gives couples the best of both worlds: the artistry of film with the reliability of digital. Personally, though, I take things a step further — I keep shooting film throughout the entire day, even during fast-paced moments like the dance floor. Why? Because I love the way film captures energy and movement, and I believe those imperfect, dynamic frames are just as meaningful as the slower, more composed ones.
Real Talk: Is Film Just a Trend?
Some people might wonder if film is just a passing fad, like mason jar centrepieces or photo booths. Here’s my take: film never actually went away. It’s been quietly alive in fine art and editorial photography all along. What’s happening now is that couples are rediscovering it as a way to make their wedding galleries stand out.
And with New England’s natural beauty, film doesn’t feel trendy — it feels classic. Those warm, grainy shots of a Cape Cod shoreline or a Vermont hillside aren’t going to look dated in 20 years. They’re going to look timeless.
How Much Film Should You Include?
This depends on your priorities. Some couples want just a handful of film images sprinkled into their gallery. Others ask for entire portrait sessions shot on film. You can usually add on a set number of rolls to your package.
A good rule of thumb: if you love the film look, talk to your photographer about where it fits best. Often, it’s in the slower, more intentional parts of the day — not the chaotic ones.
Film Photography Costs Explained
Because I get asked this a lot, let’s break down why film costs more:
Each roll of film has a limited number of exposures (usually 16–36)
Professional-quality film is expensive to buy
Developing and scanning each roll at a lab adds both cost and time
Shipping film to labs (many are out of state) is another expense
So when you see a “film add-on” in a photographer’s package, it’s not just a buzzword. It’s covering real, tangible costs.
Why Film and New England Weddings Are a Perfect Match
New England weddings already have a timeless, classic energy. From historic towns to autumn foliage, the settings often feel like a storybook. Film photography leans into that feeling.
A few examples:
Summer Florals and Greens: Film captures the vibrancy of florals and the richness of natural greens beautifully.
Coastal Rhode Island: Film’s softness makes seascapes look dreamy without losing detail.
Historic estates in Massachusetts: Film pairs beautifully with old-world architecture, giving older estates that perfect layer of dust and grain.
It’s not about making your wedding look like someone else’s Instagram feed. It’s about enhancing the place and moment you’ve chosen.
Final Thoughts: Should You Add Film to Your Wedding Photography?
At the end of the day, film isn’t about following a trend. It’s about how you want your memories to feel. Do you want a few timeless, artful images that feel like heirlooms? Do you love the idea of photos that show texture and soul? If so, film could be the perfect addition.
You don’t have to go all-in on film to enjoy it. Even a few rolls can bring a different layer to your gallery. And in New England, with its stunning scenery and timeless vibe, film feels right at home.
So my advice? If the look speaks to you, go for it. Your future self flipping through your wedding album in 30 years will thank you.