Senior Portraits on Film, Amelia (going back to my roots)

It feels good to think outside of your normal comfort levels, push your boundaries, and be inspired in new ways. These past two weeks really had me thinking on many different levels of my life, and I decided to pull out my [Canon EOS-1V] from the closet, (yes that’s a 35mm FILM camera) – pack up a few rolls of my favorite film in my new [Kelly Moore Bag] and have some fun with one of my recent Senior Reps, Amelia.

I shot two rolls of [Kodak 100 UC] and one roll of [Fuji Acros 100 B&W]. These were my two favorite film stocks in college.

While the Kodak 100 UC (UC stands for “Ultra Color”) is a fun and vibrant film stock – I realized that it was a bit too hot on the skin tones – especially with back-lighting. It held up okay in open shade, but I would definitely settle for a more neutral tone stock (like [Kodak Porta]) for future portrait work. I was just looking up the UC online – and apparently it’s now discontinued. I still have quite a few rolls left on 35mm AND 120 (Medium Format). I guess I better save those up for a rainy day!! (I’m assuming it got replaced by [Kodak Ektar 100] – the most comparable film stock I could find online).

[Fuji Acros 100 B&W] is my ABSOLUTE favorite B&W film stock for 35mm and Medium Format. It never fails to impress straight out of the camera – and always has the best contrast – without over stopping in the blacks. Of course I stick with my general rule of thumb to over-expose slightly, creating a rich and vibrant black and white that remains a classic for years to come.

The BEST way to pick your favorite film stock is to head to your local camera supply store (such as [Glazer's Camera] here in Seattle) – and grab a few different varieties. At one point or another I’ve tried almost every film stock Glazer’s had to offer (while in college). I spent countless hours chatting with the shop employees about each kind of film – what they were best for, and went out and experimented. When you stop by, make sure to say hi to Kevin or Eddy – they’ll take good care of you!

These images were all shot with my [Canon EOS-1V] and [Canon 85mm 1.2L] (I’ve decided to keep my 85 for a bit longer).

Check out my photographer friends who shoot film,
[Dan O'Day]
[Jonathan Canlas]
[Tanja Lippert]

Do you shoot film (full time, or on the side)? What’s your favorite film stock and why?? Leave a comment below!! XOXO

Makeup by, [Fresh Face Stace]