Why I Shoot 35mm Film for Weddings

A perspective from an Oklahoma wedding film photographer

When someone tells me they love how I edited an image and it turns out to be straight from a roll of 35mm film, I take that as the highest compliment. Not because I want my film work to blend in with digital, but because it speaks to how film has this way of standing out without needing to shout.

As an Oklahoma wedding film photographer, I’ve learned that shooting film is less about following a trend and more about honoring the moment.

What makes a film image feel different?

There is something almost imperceptible about a film photograph that makes you pause. It could be the softness in the shadows, the way skin tones glow without looking overly corrected, or the grain that feels like memory instead of noise. Film photos capture light in a unique way that just can’t be replicated with digital cameras.

But not all film photos are created equal.
The most timeless ones are intentional. They are well-exposed. Thoughtfully composed. And matched with the right film stock for the light and the moment. This is where 35mm film shines.

Why 35mm?

I shoot 35mm film at weddings because it moves at a rhythm that matches real life. It allows me to respond to what’s unfolding without overthinking every detail. It’s fast enough to document the little moments, but still makes me slow down enough to be fully present.

With 35mm, I’m not trying to create something trendy. I’m trying to capture something true, something that will still hold its weight and feeling ten, twenty, or fifty years from now.

The problem with how film is often seen online

Right now, film photography is having a moment online. And that’s a beautiful thing. But I’ve also seen a shift where grainy, underexposed, slightly out-of-focus photos are becoming the default aesthetic for what people think “film” should look like.

There is absolutely space for that look, especially when it fits the energy of the moment. But when every film photo is expected to look like a vintage snapshot, we lose sight of what film can be.

Film is not just a vibe. It is a craft. And when it’s done intentionally, it can be both nostalgic and elevated.

How I use film on a wedding day

Film is part of the story I tell, not the whole story. I don’t bring a film camera just for one or two quick photos. I use 35mm all day: during getting ready, portraits, and especially during emotional moments.

I meter for light. I choose my stock based on conditions. I shoot intentionally, but never stiffly. My goal is for the photos to feel like you, but with just enough artistry to make you stop and feel something when you see them again.

Why film matters for your wedding

If you’re planning a wedding that is deeply personal, emotionally rooted, and a little outside the box, film can be a powerful part of how you remember it.

It is slower. More thoughtful. And in a world that moves fast, film gives us a reason to pause. To notice. To look again.

If that resonates with you, I’d love to connect. You can view more film work [insert link] or reach out to start a conversation.ur wedding day and don’t know where to start?

FAQ: Film Wedding Photography

What is a film wedding photographer?

A film wedding photographer uses analog film cameras, often 35mm, to document your day on physical rolls of film. These are developed and scanned after your wedding, resulting in images with a soft, organic quality that feels timeless and true to life.

Why choose a film wedding photographer for your wedding?

Film photography brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia that digital editing can’t fully recreate. It encourages slower, more intentional image-making and tends to focus on what matters most—emotion, light, and storytelling. If you’re looking for wedding photos that feel artistic but honest, film is a beautiful choice.

What does it mean to have film-only wedding coverage?

Film-only wedding coverage means your entire gallery is photographed exclusively on film: no digital images are taken during the day by me and my team. Every frame is intentional. Every image is created with care, using 35mm film stock selected specifically for the lighting and tone of your day. It’s a slower process, but one that often results in photographs that feel deeper and more personal.

Do I get fewer photos if I choose film-only?

Film-only coverage typically results in fewer total images than digital or hybrid coverage, but the quality and intentionality of each photo is what makes them stand out. I focus on capturing the story of your day without overshooting, which means you still receive a complete, thoughtful gallery filled with real moments, beautiful light, and emotional connection.

Is film-only photography right for every couple?

Film-only photography is perfect for couples who value artistry over volume and want a slower, more intentional approach to their wedding day. If you’re someone who loves nostalgia, values craftsmanship, and is comfortable embracing the occasional imperfection for the sake of authenticity, film-only might be exactly what you’re looking for.

Where do you offer film wedding photography?

I’m an Oklahoma wedding film photographer serving couples across Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and beyond. I also travel for weddings and elopements throughout the Midwest and internationally. Whether you’re getting married at home or planning a destination celebration, film can be part of the experience.

How do you handle low-light or fast-paced parts of the day with film?

Film has a wide range of flexibility, especially with the right stocks and metering. I come prepared with flash and multiple film stocks to handle tricky lighting situations. For fast-paced moments, experience and anticipation are key. I’ve spent years refining how I shoot film so I can keep up with wedding timelines without missing a beat.

Is film more expensive than digital?

Yes, film photography comes with additional costs for the film itself, development, and scanning. But the value goes beyond the materials. It’s about offering you a wedding gallery that feels different from everything else you’ve seen. A gallery that feels like it could have been taken yesterday or 50 years ago.