Today’s technology is forever advancing and accessible, one can reach into a pocket and take a high-quality photo in just a second. However some teenagers seem to think this method is altogether too simple and are going back in time to grab film. There are seemingly a plethora of reasons for the resurgence of this thought-to-be-dead photography method. This ‘new’ photography tactic that has a satisfying click when you wind up the film, a bright flash leaving those captured temporarily blind for a second, seems to be everywhere these days. 

While it may seem like a lot of effort to pull out the camera at the right moment, many love the effect it seems to add. It can effortlessly make a seemingly boring photo opportunity into a special occasion, without any altercations. “I can be lazy when it comes to editing photos,” said junior Avery Braswell, “but a film camera does the tedious process for me.”  

This photo style has been seen all over social media as this old-school method appears in new-age ways; Instagram posts have been a hot spot for film photos, from Friday night parties to summer vacations. The film camera has captured dozens of memories that go on to be shared amongst the community.  “My Instagram has become a fan page for film photos,” said junior Aidan Smith, “I have uploaded dozens.”

However, some cannot get behind the trend; Waiting two weeks for photos to develop isn’t exactly ideal when a phone can capture a photo instantly. It may not be extremely complicated to work with a film camera, but compared to phones it’s complex, an adjustment to say the least. “I wish I was skilled enough to understand cameras other than my phone, but sadly I am a product of my phone-focused environment,” said sophomore Parker Braswell.

Some however continue to support the cause and are throwing money at stores that develop photos, such as CVS and Walgreens. The supporters are suffering for the cause of film, as it’s not cheap to develop. “I’m skint, totally broke, and yet I’ll continue to spend half my paycheck on photos,” said junior Ellie Nejedly.  

 It’s hard to gauge if this trend is here to stay or merely a short-term fad. For now just make sure you’re ready for the click of the camera, you only get one shot!