Is there a way to replicate the feel of film but with the cost and convenience of digital?
Ask any film photographer why they prefer shooting analog, and among the answers, you will almost certainly hear a deep discussion about intentionality. If you get your rolls developed at a lab, every frame is likely going to cost you upwards of 50 cents apiece (even before you’ve scanned the image), and knowing this creates a different mindset when out photographing—a more considered and thoughtful approach, something that disappears with digital thanks to its ephemerality and throwaway nature. There’s also a distinct feeling that comes with using a film camera, given that it’s often older than the user, full of moving parts, and creates an image through a physical process (of sorts).
Is it possible for a digital camera to replicate that analog feel? Film photographer Jason Kummerfeldt heads out with the Hasselblad CFV 100C digital back attached to his Hasselblad 501c.
For me, I’m not sure I could ever escape the knowledge that each frame no longer comes at such a cost. While I seem to accumulate another film camera with each passing year (albeit very cheap ones), my budget is woefully tight when it comes to buying and developing film, and that feeling is present with every push of the shutter button. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, however, as it makes the process feel more special rather than worryingly expensive.
Would this work for you? Let us know in the comments below.
Thank you for the article. I DO have fond memories of using my 500 C/M, especially for up close portraits and do miss working with it....sometimes. This Hasselblad model is attractive, too bad it doesn't shoot in square format as default.
I think CCD sensors are closer to the film experience and output. Especially the Dalsa sensors without microlenses, like the Phase One IQ260. The Sony BSI CMOS sensors like this IMX 461 or its big brother IMX-441 are too clinical. Also the Live View capability is cheating.
Andy, I really enjoyed this video—such a great sense of humor throughout. The idea of merging the film experience with digital convenience is something I have thought about often. While nothing quite replaces the tactile joy and discipline of shooting analog, the Hasselblad CFV 100C looks like a dream setup that gets closer than most.
That said, part of what makes film special is the mindset it forces—a slower, more intentional approach that is harder to replicate when there is no cost per frame. Still, having a system that encourages that kind of deliberation while offering digital flexibility is an exciting prospect. Hopefully, it is something I can afford one day.
Paul Tocatlian
Kisau Photography
www.kisau.com