Many couples love the distinct, artistic quality of film photography for their wedding, but they often wonder, “Is there a cost associated with processing film photography?”
Let’s delve into this topic to give you a clearer picture of how film photography works, what it’s benefits and drawbacks are- and just how much it costs to develop this timeless media.
The Art of Film Photography
Before we discuss costs, it’s important to understand what makes film photography unique. Unlike digital photography, where images are stored on a memory card and can be viewed instantly, film photography involves capturing images on a strip of plastic coated with a light-sensitive material.
This traditional method of photography gives your wedding photos a beautiful, timeless quality, impossible to replicate with digital techniques. However, it’s also a more involved process that requires physical development of the film to produce images, hence incurring additional costs.
The Cost of Processing Film
Yes, there is a cost associated with processing film photography, and it can be broken down into a few key areas:
Film and Processing
First, there’s the cost of the film itself. A roll of high-quality 35mm or medium format film can range from $10 to $50. Each roll can only capture a limited number of images- usually 15 to 25, unlike a digital memory card that holds thousands.
Once the film is used, it needs to develop in a darkroom or specialized lab. The cost for professional development can range from $20 to $40 per roll.
Scanning and Digitization
After the film develops, the lab will scan the negatives to create digital files. This allows you to view your images online, share them digitally, and order prints. The cost for professional scanning can vary greatly depending on the resolution you choose, typically ranging from $20 to $50 per roll.
Additional Editing
While film photos have a beautiful look straight out of the scanner, some images might require further adjustments for optimal results. This might include color correction, retouching, or cropping. Depending on the extent of editing required, this could add further to the cost.
Worth the Investment
While the costs associated with film photography are higher than digital, many couples find the investment worth it.
The quality, texture, and colors of film photos are truly special. There’s a certain depth and richness to them that adds a beautiful, timeless quality to your wedding memories.
In conclusion, yes, there is a cost associated with processing film photography. The exact amount can vary based on the type of film, the number of images, and the specific processes involved. However, if you love the aesthetic that film brings to your wedding photos, the investment can be well worth it.
Here at Rebecca Ann Aesthetic, we accept that our general cost is going to be around $4 per image if we are creating them on film. We also accept that not every image will “turn out”- meaning we don’t always get a full 15 images out of a 15 image film roll. This cost does not pass to our clients. We roll it into our general books as overhead.
Still trying to decide where to go from here? Check out these blogs to help you learn more about the wonderful world of wedding photography and videography with Rebecca Ann Aesthetic
