Timeless Magic: How My Love for Film Photography Helps Me Slow Down and Truly See
My love affair with film photography began in 1995, in the basement darkroom of Roosevelt High School in Portland, Oregon. It was there, surrounded by the hum of enlargers and the chemical scent of developer, that I first experienced the magic of watching an image appear on paper. Those early days were the spark that ignited a lifelong passion.
My first camera, a Pentax SE, holds a special place in my heart. My mom bought it for me from a pawn shop, and to this day, I still shoot with it. That camera has been my companion for decades, capturing countless memories and serving as a reminder of where it all started. As time went on, I continued to explore the world of photography, always with film as my medium of choice.
When Blue Moon Camera opened its doors in St. Johns, I found a home for developing my rolls of film. Their dedication to the craft resonated with me, and they became an integral part of my photographic journey. During this time, I expanded my knowledge and skills at Portland Community College and later at Oregon State University, where I delved deeper into the technical and artistic aspects of photography.
Fast forward to today, and I find myself back in the darkroom, running the lab at Central Oregon Community College in Bend, OR. It feels like coming full circle, teaching others the art and science of film photography and sharing the joy of analog processes in a digital age.
My camera collection has grown over the years, each piece carrying its own history and character. In addition to my trusty Pentax SE, I have a Pentax K-1000 that I picked up at an estate sale for just $5—a true treasure. There’s also my medium-format Yashica-Mat, purchased from Blue Moon Camera, and a Zero Image 2000 pinhole camera that I received as a gift. Recently, I’ve been exploring new creative possibilities with a Mamiya 645 and working up the courage to master the Graflex Crown Graphic, a large format camera that still intimidates me.
What draws me to film photography, beyond the nostalgia and tactile nature of it, is how it forces me to slow down. In a world that moves at lightning speed, film requires patience and intention. Each frame is precious, and there’s no instant gratification—only the anticipation of what might emerge after development. It’s this deliberate process that keeps me grounded and connected to the art of seeing.
Film photography isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way of life. It’s a journey that began in a high school darkroom and has carried me through years of growth, exploration, and creativity. With every roll I shoot and every print I develop, I’m reminded of the timeless magic of film and why it will always hold a special place in my heart.
