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Back to Basics: 35mm Film
From how 35mm film works to which type you should buy, this page will give you a rundown of all you need to know.
So, you’ve picked up a film camera (or you’re eyeing one off eBay), and now you’re standing in front of a wall of film rolls thinking… What even is ISO? Welcome to the wonderful world of analogue photography: slower, more mindful, and way more rewarding than snapping hundreds of shots on your phone.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about 35mm film, help you choose the right roll for your next creative adventure, and show you what black & white magic and medium format colour we have in store for you.
Why shoot film in a digital world?
Film photography isn’t just a retro trend, it’s a full-on experience. It forces you to slow down, think about your composition, and feel each frame. It’s tactile. It’s imperfect in the best way. And there’s nothing like holding a developed roll in your hands, knowing every shot counts.
While we carry other formats (yes, including 120mm and even Polaroid), 35mm film is still the crowd favourite, for good reason. It’s accessible, compact, and works with a huge range of film cameras.
What kind of 35mm film should I use?
Picking your perfect roll is kind of like ordering coffee: it depends on your taste. Here's a quick lowdown on the main types:
- Colour Negative Film: Great for everyday shooting, portraits, street scenes, and landscapes. Delivers rich colours and forgiving exposure latitude.
- Black and White Film: Classic, timeless, and beautifully expressive. B&W film gives you full control over tone and contrast. Plus, it’s fun to develop at home.
- Slide Film (aka Reversal Film): This is the premium choice. It's a bit pricier but gives you super-rich colours and the truest image, what you see is exactly what you shot. Perfect for projection or professional scans.
Wait, what’s ASA/ISO?
Every film roll will have an ASA (or ISO) number, usually 100, 200, 400, 800, etc. Here’s the deal:
- Low ISO (100–200) = smoother images, great in bright light. Think sunny outdoor shoots.
- Medium ISO (400) = all-rounder. A balance between light sensitivity and grain.
- High ISO (800+) = better for low light, but expect more grain.
Grain isn’t always bad, it can add character and mood to your photos. Just depends on your vibe.
Don't forget exposure count
Most 35mm film comes with 24 or 36 exposures, so check the label before you load up. If you’re trigger-happy with the shutter, 36 might be your best bet.
Shop our black & white 35mm film favourites
We carry some of the most trusted brands in film photography. Whether you’re just starting out or have your darkroom dialled in, here are our top picks:
A forgiving, high-speed film with medium contrast. Handles low light like a champ. Perfect for documentary, travel, or street photography. It’s slightly grainy, but in a beautifully nostalgic way.
Sharp, fine grain, and low contrast, an ideal beginner’s B&W film. Great for detail and flexible enough for a wide range of lighting conditions.
A true legend in film photography. Loved by photojournalists and pros for its punchy contrast, fine grain, and versatility. Great for enlargements too.
Slow-speed, high-detail film, perfect for long exposures and scenic shots. Delivers rich blacks, bright whites, and fantastic tonality. Think moody landscapes or fine art.
And for colour lovers… Our 120mm medium format film
While we don’t currently stock colour film for 35mm, we do offer some stunning 120mm film options for medium format shooters. If you’ve got a Mamiya, Yashica, or Holga in hand, here’s what we’ve got for you:
Sunshine in a roll. Delivers warm, vintage tones with natural colour reproduction and subtle grain. Ideal for daylight shooting or flash-lit fun.
The gold standard for portraits. Renowned for true-to-life skin tones, fine grain, and dreamy saturation. It’s versatile, but can take some time to master exposure-wise.
Ready to load up?
Whether you’re experimenting with film for the first time or you’re a seasoned shutterbug, we’ve got the rolls you need to capture life the analogue way. Let film slow you down and bring your creativity to life, one beautiful frame at a time. Explore our full collection of Camera Film.
Got questions or not sure what to pick? Drop us a message, we’re always happy to help fellow film lovers find their perfect roll.
Looking for more?
Check out our Blogs: A Beginners’ Guide to Film Photography in 2018, and Get Hands On With Film photography.
