There’s been a big resurgence of 35mm photography at weddings lately, and I’m here for it. In a world of super-sharp digital images and perfectly curated Instagram feeds, film brings something a bit more human, nostalgic and real to a wedding day.
If you’ve been seeing grainy, colourful, slightly unpredictable photos popping up on your Pinterest boards and wondering “what is that vibe?” – chances are, it’s 35mm film photography.
So let’s talk about what it actually is, why couples are loving it, and whether it might be right for your wedding day.
What is 35mm Wedding Photography?
35mm photography is film photography shot on a traditional analogue camera, using rolls of film rather than a digital memory card. Each roll usually holds 24 or 36 frames – which means every photo is intentional.
At weddings, 35mm film is often used alongside digital photography, not instead of it. Think of digital as the solid, reliable foundation… and film as the fun, creative extra layer that adds depth and soul. I love to shoot it during portraits and to capture cute details of the day.
The result is photos that feel timeless, imperfect in the best way, and full of atmosphere.
Why 35mm Film is Having a Moment at Weddings
Film never really went away – but weddings have definitely fallen back in love with it. Here’s why:
1. It feels nostalgic
35mm film has that dreamy, old-school quality that reminds people of their parents’ wedding photos or family albums. It doesn’t scream trendy – it feels timeless.
2. The colours are unreal
Film handles colour in a way digital just can’t replicate. Skin tones are softer, whites are creamier, and colours feel rich without being over-processed.
3. It captures the feeling, not just the moment
Film is incredible at documenting the in-between bits – the laughs, the chaos, the hugs, the dance floor blur. It’s less about perfection and more about emotion.
What Does 35mm Film Look Like at a Wedding?
Expect:
- Soft grain and texture
- Slight motion blur (especially on the dance floor)
- Unexpected light leaks or happy accidents
- A very editorial, documentary feel
Film loves real moments. Confetti chaos, pub receptions, sea air, hugs that go on too long, friends piling onto the dance floor -this is where it shines.
If your wedding is laid-back, colourful, or a bit non-traditional, 35mm film fits right in.
Digital vs 35mm Film at Weddings
This isn’t an either/or situation.
If I’m shooting film at a wedding, I will always do so hybrid-style – combining digital and 35mm film throughout the day.
- Digital: reliable, flexible, perfect for low light and fast-paced moments
- 35mm film: artistic, emotive, nostalgic, and full of character – perfect for portraits, details and in-between moments.
Together, they tell a richer story of your wedding day.
Is 35mm Film Right for Your Wedding?
You’ll probably love film if:
- You value feeling over perfection
- You like candid, documentary-style photos
- You’re not into overly posed or polished imagery
- You want your wedding photos to feel timeless
- Your day is relaxed, personal and a bit you-shaped
If you’re planning a chilled-out wedding – whether that’s a Brighton Town Hall ceremony, a pub reception, a festival-style celebration or a seaside elopement – film photography fits like a dream.
35mm Wedding Photography
35mm film photography isn’t about trends or aesthetics for the sake of it. It’s about storytelling. It’s about photos that feel like memories, not just images.
Weddings don’t need to be perfect. They need to be enjoyed. Film gets that.
If you’re curious about adding 35mm photography to your wedding day, or you just want to chat about doing things your own way, I’m always up for a natter.
Because the best weddings? They’re the ones that actually feel like you.
