My Wallet is Crying
Being that PHOTO 250 is an entry-level course that merely introduces us to the basics of 35mm film photography and a bit beyond, and very specifically makes use of BW and only BW film (400 speed specifically), us as students are left with very few options to pick from when it comes to buying filmstocks. These include but are not limited to:
- Ilford HP5+ 400
- Ilford Delta 400
- Kodak Tri-X 400
- Kodak Tmax 400
I had been vaguely familiar with HP5+ and it’s potential for experimentation, so that has been my go-to. I have had to make 3 trips to my local photo store now, and on each trip buying either 2 or 3 rolls of the 36 exposure version, each going for $11 a pop. In total, that is $83 worth of film. We still have a few projects left to go….Lord have mercy. This of course forgoes the cost of development and printing, which is accounted for in our tuition. At least we have that going for us. BW is actually considered quite economical in comparison to color film, which makes my jaw drop.
I love doing this stuff so much that I am more than willing to shoot and develop a roll or two here and there every other month, but wow. More and more it becomes clear why digital photography has become the way to go for most. Which is a bit sad to me. Don’t get me wrong: the creature comforts that are included in digital cameras are simply incredible and great; but I love the hands-on process that is film photography. I love being able to hold and store my negatives tangibly. It’s a beautiful thing. I can only hope that the cost of the craft can eventually be more reasonable, but I know its a big ask.
