There’s just something about film photography that digital will never quite touch. The grain, the dreamy tones, the little imperfections that make each frame one-of-a-kind — it all feels timeless. Michigan, with its endless lakeshores, charming downtowns, and woodsy hidden spots, is an absolute dream for 35mm film photography.
But if you’re here, you’re probably wondering: how do you find the perfect film photographer in Michigan? So let’s break it down.
Why Choose Film Photography for Your Michigan Wedding or Session
Film photography isn’t about perfection… it’s about nostalgia, artistry, and creating photos that feel like heirlooms. On 35mm film, Lake Michigan sunsets glow a little warmer, forests look a little more mysterious, and your wedding day feels like it could’ve taken place in any decade.
And if you really want to take that vintage vibe to the next level? I also offer Super 8 wedding films — little cinematic clips that look like something out of an old home movie, but with all the magic of your wedding day. Paired with 35mm stills, it’s the dream combo for couples who love the nostalgic feel of analog.
👉 Looking for a Michigan photographer who offers both digital, film, and Super 8? That’s me — and I’d love to capture your story. Inquire here!
What to Look For in a Film Photographer
Choosing someone to shoot film isn’t quite the same as choosing a digital photographer. Here are a few things to consider:
- Experience with film cameras. Shooting film requires a whole different skill set than digital. Make sure your photographer actually knows how to load, meter, and expose film properly (no endless guessing games).
- Hybrid workflow. Many photographers (myself included!) shoot both digital and film on a wedding day. That way you get the best of both worlds — the timeless look of film plus the flexibility and coverage of digital.
- Lab partnerships. Film doesn’t just get uploaded to a hard drive. It’s developed and scanned, often at specialized labs. Ask your photographer about their process so you know what to expect for delivery.
- Style. Not all film is the same — Portra 400 has different tones than Kodak Gold, for example. Look at their work and make sure the vibe matches your vision.
👉 Want to see what film looks like in action? Browse one of my Michigan wedding galleries where I mix in 35mm film.
Pro Tip: What to Expect with Film on Your Wedding Day
A lot of couples are curious about how film works behind the scenes. Here’s the inside scoop:
- Roll count matters. A roll of 35mm film usually has 24–36 frames. For weddings, I’ll often bring several rolls so you get a beautiful mix of film and digital. I usually overshoot a bit on film, that way I can selective or still have a good selection even if some don’t turn out.
- Hybrid = flexibility. Film slows me down and lets me shoot intentionally, while digital ensures we don’t miss a single candid moment. It’s truly the best of both worlds.
- Film feels different. You’ll notice film images have a softer, more nostalgic look compared to digital’s crisp perfection. That’s what makes them so magical.
- Super 8 adds motion. Still frames are powerful, but Super 8 adds movement and soundless nostalgia. Imagine your first kiss, a rowboat ride, or your guests dancing captured on vintage film reels. It’s storytelling on another level.
👉 Thinking film might be right for you? Reach out here and I’ll walk you through how we can build it into your Michigan wedding day coverage.
Michigan Locations That Shine on Film
Some places just sing on 35mm film:
- Sleeping Bear Dunes. Rolling sand, moody skies, and wide-open lake views — perfect for that nostalgic, windswept look. If you’re curious about planning a wedding or elopement here, check out my full guide: Eloping at Sleeping Bear Dunes.
- Detroit architecture. Think art deco, vintage hotels, and city streets that glow on film. This city is such a vibe for couples who love a more editorial, urban look. You can peek inside a recent Detroit wedding day here.
- Northern Michigan forests + lakes. Intimate elopements tucked into the woods or by hidden coves translate beautifully onto film.
- Small towns like Petoskey, Traverse City, or Frankenmuth. Their vintage vibes make film photography feel right at home.
👉 If you’re planning a wedding or elopement in Michigan, I’d love to capture it on film for you. Let’s chat about your date!
Why I Offer Film Photography
I started shooting film because I wanted to slow down. To be intentional. Every frame matters. And that’s what I love giving my couples — a set of images that feel thoughtful, artistic, and full of soul.
Digital photography gives us the flexibility to capture every moment, but film adds that extra layer of romance. Together, it’s the perfect balance. And when you add in a touch of Super 8? It’s like bottling up the heartbeat of your day.
Film Photography FAQ
How many film photos will we receive?
It depends on your coverage, but I typically shoot several rolls of film throughout a wedding day. That means you’ll receive a curated set of film images alongside your full digital gallery. It’s usually about 75-100 images.
Can we request all film, no digital?
Technically, yes…but I always recommend hybrid coverage. Digital ensures we capture every single candid and group shot, while film gives you those dreamy, timeless frames. It’s the perfect balance.
Does film cost extra?
Film is an add-on since rolls, developing, and scanning come with extra costs. I’ll walk you through pricing and options during the booking process so there are no surprises.
Do you offer video, too?
Not full videography — but I do offer Super 8 wedding films. These are short, cinematic clips (about 3–5 minutes) shot on vintage film cameras. They’re perfect if you want motion without the pressure of a full video crew.
How long does it take to get film photos back?
Film has to be developed and scanned at a lab, which adds some time. I typically deliver your film scans alongside your full digital gallery so you can enjoy everything together.
👉 Have more questions? Send me a message here and I’d love to chat about adding film or Super 8 to your Michigan wedding or session.
Final Thoughts
If you’re drawn to the dreamy, nostalgic feel of 35mm film, finding the right photographer in Michigan comes down to experience, artistry, and trust. Film isn’t for everyone — but for the couples who want their story captured with depth, texture, and timeless charm, it’s magic.
And hey, if you’ve read this far, I think you already know what’s next:
👉 Reach out here to see if I’m available for your Michigan wedding or session. I’d be so honored to capture it on film (and Super 8!). Let’s get started!
©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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