How do you budget for film photography expenses such as film, developing, and printing?

1 Choose your film wisely

The type and amount of film you use will have a big impact on your budget. Film prices vary depending on the format, brand, quality, and availability of the film. For example, 35mm film is usually cheaper and more widely available than medium format or large format film. However, you might prefer the aesthetic or resolution of a larger format. You also have to consider the color or black and white option, the speed or ISO rating, and the expiration date of the film. To save money, you can buy film in bulk, look for deals online or in local shops, or use expired film with caution. You can also experiment with different film types to find the ones that suit your style and needs.

2 Develop your film at home or in a lab

Another major expense of film photography is developing your film. You have two options: you can either do it yourself at home or send it to a professional lab. Both options have pros and cons. Developing your film at home gives you more control and flexibility, but it also requires more time, space, equipment, and chemicals. You'll need to buy a developing tank, reels, bottles, measuring cups, a thermometer, a timer, and the appropriate developer, stop bath, and fixer for your film. You'll also need a darkroom or a changing bag to load your film. Developing your film at a lab is more convenient and consistent, but it also costs more and depends on the quality and service of the lab. You'll have to pay for the shipping or delivery of your film, the processing fee, and any extra services such as scanning or printing. You can compare the prices and reviews of different labs online or in your area to find the best option for you.

3 Print your photos digitally or analog

The final step of film photography is printing your photos. You can either print them digitally or analog. Digital printing involves scanning your negatives and printing them on a printer or at a photo kiosk. This is the easiest and cheapest way to print your photos, but it also loses some of the charm and character of film photography. Analog printing involves enlarging your negatives and printing them on photo paper in a darkroom. This is the most authentic and satisfying way to print your photos, but it also requires more skill, equipment, and materials. You'll need to buy an enlarger, a lens, a negative carrier, an easel, a timer, a safelight, trays, tongs, paper, and chemicals. You'll also need a darkroom or a makeshift one in your bathroom or basement. You can also look for community darkrooms or workshops that offer access to analog printing facilities for a fee.

4 Track your expenses and income

One of the best ways to budget for your film photography expenses is to track them and compare them to your income. You can use a spreadsheet, an app, or a notebook to record how much you spend on film, developing, and printing each month. You can also categorize your expenses by project, genre, or purpose. For example, you might have different budgets for personal, professional, or experimental work. You can also track how much you earn from your film photography, if any. You might sell your prints, license your images, or charge for your services as a film photographer. You can use these income sources to offset or cover your expenses, or to reinvest in your hobby.

5 Set a realistic and flexible budget

Based on your tracking, you can set a realistic and flexible budget for your film photography expenses. You can decide how much you can afford to spend on film, developing, and printing each month, and stick to it. You can also adjust your budget according to your goals, priorities, and circumstances. For example, you might want to save up for a special film or project, or you might need to cut back on your spending due to an emergency or a change in income. You can also look for ways to save money or make money from your film photography, such as using coupons, selling your gear, or finding new clients.

6 Enjoy your film photography

The most important thing to remember is to enjoy your film photography. Budgeting for your film photography expenses is not meant to limit your creativity or passion, but to help you manage your finances and make the most of your hobby. Film photography is a unique and rewarding way to capture and share your vision of the world. Don't let the costs stop you from pursuing your dreams and having fun with film.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?