Today I wanted to share a review of Jonathan Canlas’ Film is Not Dead, A Digital Photographer’s Guide to Shooting Film. He recently released this e-book because of receiving hundreds of questions via email and his formspring page about the process of getting into film and how to make it happen. I have found myself tempted over and over to get into film a bit, but have avoided it because I felt like I didn’t have the time to research and learn it all right now or the money to invest in new gear when I didn’t even know if it would be something I’d continue pursuing. I will also admit that I’ve avoided it because it has turned out to be kind of the trendy thing to do right now… and I don’t like to be trendy! But there is just something about film that calls to me and I at least have to give it a try.
So when his book came out, I decided to go for it–and I am so glad I did. It is a really comprehensive guide detailing ALL the information needed to start shooting film. He talks about advantages of shooting film and the differences between it and digital. He talks about the basics of shooting film, the cameras he recommends, the film he loves, details the process of exposing correctly, and finally how his film workflow looks.
It’s easy to read because Jonathan knows his stuff and how to explain it well. Plus, he is funny. Plus, it is beautifully designed and totally in keeping with his style and branding. And funny and pretty books are just more enjoyable to read.
I read it all the way through and find myself looking back through it all the time as I start figuring stuff out. I haven’t bought any new gear yet–right now I’m using my dad’s Olympus OM-2 that he let me borrow for a film class three years ago that I never gave back to him. :) If things go well, I’ll probably look into getting a new film camera and a light meter and go from there.
The e-book is $149, but I bought it at it’s discounted promo price of about half that, which is not available anymore. I did hear though that you can get $20 off the price of the book on the FIND Facebook page by becoming a fan. AND there is a huge giveaway over there this week that includes everything you need to start shooting film.
But really, even if you aren’t interested in film and don’t buy his book, at least go check out his work. He blogs gorgeous photos every day and he has such a beautiful look. I love that his style is so definitive–you see his work and know immediately that it’s his. He constant mantra is about hard work and shooting a LOT, and especially doing personal work to find your style. I love that.
So. Now that I’ve got the info and am starting shooting a bit of film… I’m a little nervous. Because what if I love it?? If I do, it would mean changing a lot of how I do things, but we’ll deal with that when it comes. For now, I’m just experimenting and we’ll see what happens. I’ll share my progress with you soon!
no comments