FAQ
Explore the FAQ section to find answers to common queries about the film-based portraiture service. From the choice of film to pricing details and shooting procedures, this page has got you covered with clear and concise explanations.
Concept
1 / Why shoot on film?
Shooting on film imparts a unique, timeless quality to portraits, with rich textures and authentic colours. It captures moments with an artistic touch, evoking emotions that digital often can't replicate.
2 / What justifies the price?
The pricing accounts for film, development, scanning, and a personalised, artistic approach. It ensures the creation of authentic, timeless portraits and supports the use of premium film stocks.
3 / What is included?
Depending on the plan you have chosen, each photography session with Thomas offers a variety of features. All plans include exclusive film-based photography with options for colour, monochrome, motion picture, or slide film. You will have access to different camera formats, including 35mm and medium format. Basic Adobe Lightroom editing and colour correction are provided. Each plan is designed to meet your specific needs, ensuring a personalised and high-quality photography experience.
4 / Do I need to pay for the cost of film, development, and scanning?
For those who have chosen the Basic, Premium, or Ultimate Plans, the cost of film, development, and scanning is included, so there are no additional charges for these services. However, for customers opting for the Build Your Own Plan, these costs are directly billed to you.
5 / How many photos will I get?
You can typically expect around 36 exposures from a roll of 35mm film, though this may vary with different plans, formats and conditions. Unlike other services that provide only a few selected photos, you will receive all the photos captured during your session as soon as they are developed. This way, you get to enjoy every moment and detail from your photoshoot.
6 / Who is the ideal client for this photoshoot?
Thomas's film-based portrait sessions are perfect for a wide range of clients, including individuals, couples, pets, and professionals. This service is especially suited for models and actors looking to enhance their portfolios with professional headshots. Editorial photoshoots are also hugely welcomed, making it ideal for those in creative professions seeking unique, authentic, and timeless portraits. Whether you need photos for personal keepsakes, social media, or professional use, Thomas's approach ensures that your essence is beautifully captured in every frame.
Technical Aspect
1 / What format do you offer?
Thomas primarily offers 35mm and medium format film, two formats in total. However, if you are into something more specific, Thomas also offers the half frame. The choice depends on your preferences and the desired look for your portraits.
2 / Differences between 35mm and medium format?
35mm film, known for its accessibility and classic appeal, offers a smaller canvas for image capture. In contrast, medium format film, with its larger canvas, excels in capturing finer details and affords greater versatility for creative compositions. Consider the film as your canvas; the larger it is, the more intricate details you can paint onto it.
3 / What is half frame format?
Half-frame format refers to a type of 35mm film camera that takes two images on a single standard 35mm film frame, effectively doubling the number of photos you can take. For example, a standard 36-exposure roll of film will yield 72 exposures with a half-frame camera. This format offers a unique, vintage aesthetic and allows for more creative freedom and experimentation within a single roll of film.
4 / What medium format aspect ratios are available?
For medium format, you have the option to choose from different aspect ratios, including 6x4.5, 6x6, and 6x7, allowing you to tailor your portraits to your desired composition. Click here to learn more.
5 / Which film stock should I pick?
Please visit this page for more details.
6 / Can you pick the film stock for me?
Of course! Thomas can suggest film stocks based on your choice of plans, preferences and shooting conditions. Just let him know the style or look you're aiming for, and he will recommend suitable options.
7 / Should I pick colour or monochrome?
Your choice of colour or monochrome film depends on your choice of plans, desired aesthetic. Colour brings vibrancy, while monochrome adds a timeless, artistic touch. Thomas is always open to discuss which suits your vision best.
8 / What gear is used?
Thomas primarily employs 35mm SLR and medium format SLR film cameras, with lens options spanning various focal lengths for versatile shooting. The choice is tailored to your preferences and the desired portrait aesthetic.
In Shoot
1 / Where does the shoot take place?
The portrait session is conducted exclusively outdoors, capturing the beauty of natural light and surroundings. Thomas is happy to discuss specific locations based on your preferences and vision.
2 / How long does the shoot typically take?
Depending on your choice of plans, the duration ranges from 2 hours to 4 hours. However, Thomas is flexible and can adjust the duration to meet your specific requirements.
3 / How many people can join the session?
The portrait session is designed to accommodate individuals, couples, families, or small groups of up to four people. However, considering the factors like time efficiency and aesthetics, Thomas does not recommend party above a number of 2.
Post-Shoot
1 / When can I expect to receive the photos?
The turnaround time for photos varies depending on factors such as processing time and the choice of lab, ranging from 1 day to 2 weeks.
2 / How will my photos be delivered to me?
Your photos will be delivered via WeTransfer.
3 / Which lab do you pick for film processing?
Thomas has multiple go-to labs for film processing, each with unique pricing, specifications and turnaround time. The choice may vary based on your needs, ensuring the best-quality film processing. If you have specific requirements, please don't hesitate to inform Thomas.
4 / What image format will I get?
You will receive high-resolution digital image files, typically in JPEG. TIFF is also available on request. Specific scanning and format requests can be discussed to meet your needs.
5 / What are film negatives?
Film negatives are essentially the inverse of a photographic image. When you take a photo on film, the areas that are exposed to light become dark on the negative, while areas that receive less light appear lighter. These negatives are then used to create positive prints, like the photographs you see. They're crucial in the traditional film photography process, serving as the source for producing final images.
6 / What can I do with the negatives?
You can use the negatives to make prints, re-scan into digital images, and for archiving.
7 / Can I keep the negatives?
Yes, you have the option to retain the negatives from your session. Just let Thomas know your preference, and he will accommodate it accordingly.