Disposable Film Cameras for Dummies
I've always been fascinated with film photos, but I didn't know how to use film cameras. Film cameras are expensive and I don't want to purchase one until I have learned more about film photography so I'm using disposable film cameras first. Here are some tips and things NOT to do from my experience.
1) Always use the flash
Film photos will often come back too dark rather than too bright. Even in daylight, you should use the flash to get the best results. The flash can even create light streaks that can make your photo even better. The only time you should avoid using the flash is when taking images of mirrors because the light can cover the item or person you are trying to take a photo of.
2) Keep it in your carry-on
When traveling, you should keep your disposable film camera in your carry-on because exposure to radiation from x-ray machines can damage the film. Checked-in bags are subjected to heavier x-ray levels that can greatly affect unprocessed films.
3) Take photos with your phone
Film photos are full of surprises. There is a possibility that your photo will not come out as you hoped so make sure to take a backup photo using your phone or other cameras.
4) Have fun with it
It's a disposable camera so feel free to experiment with it. You can try coloring the lens with a colored marker to get a filter on your photo. You can also try scratching the lens to get some cool effects on your photo. You can also cover the flash with cellophane to get a variety of light streaks and effects.
I'm no expert when it comes to film cameras. It's just something I've been learning more about and experimenting with.
These tips are super helpful, particularly the radiation one! I feel like all the photos taken on disposable film cameras have a nice nostalgic vibe to it. I didn't expect film cameras to be expensive because I thought they used some old technology.
ReplyDeleteI love to use disposable film cameras with my girlfriend whenever we go on trips. I didn't know about the Xrays so I will keep it in mind for next time. There are also apps that replicate the look of a film camera. I am not sure how well they work but it might be easier than having another camera.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really cool and creative post. I do not have much experience with disposables, but I really wish me and my friends used them more. There is a lot of great memories that I wish me and my friends could capture. If I do get a disposable, I will make sure to refer back to this post.
ReplyDeleteLike Jake said, what a great thing to post about. I appreciate all these random posts because they give greater insight into all of our interests. But I am glad to know these things about disposable cameras and I will definitely keep them in mind if I get into taking pics using disposables!
ReplyDeleteThis post is so cool and helpful, especially with how popular disposable camera have become with our generation! I might try coloring my lens sometime because that sounds like a cool idea!
ReplyDeleteVery interesting post about disposable cameras! I wish I will be able to try them out one day since I haven't had a chance yet.
ReplyDeleteI have been wanting to buy a disposable camera, I just wish there were easier ways to get the film developed.
ReplyDeleteRecently me and my girlfriend are trying to get a film camera but kinda hard to find the right one to use. We know nothing about film camera but very curious! After reading your random post, I have gained much more knowledge and insights about film camera! Thank you Kelly!
ReplyDeleteI love being able to take film photos, because they remind me of the pictures my grandparents used to take when they were young. I love sharing those types of photos and reminiscing on the memories. This is an awesome post!
ReplyDeleteI love the direction of this post Kelly! I remember using disposable cameras a lot when I was younger, my family has literal buckets filled with pictures. It's cool how things from when we were younger come back into style and I'm glad to see disposable film be one of those things. I'll definitely check out your tips if I get a camera.
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