photographyfilm

Photography film is a light-sensitive medium used in traditional cameras to record images on a flexible strip or sheet. The film is coated with a gelatin emulsion containing silver halide crystals that react to light, creating a latent image that is developed chemically. Color films have multiple emulsion layers for red, green, and blue light.

Common film types include black-and-white films, color negatives (C-41), and color reversal (slide) films (E-6). Infrared and specialty films exist. Formats vary: 35mm is standard for consumer cameras; medium format uses 120/220; large format uses sheet films such as 4x5 or 8x10. Film speed, ISO, indicates light sensitivity; higher ISO allows low-light work but adds grain.

Exposure balances shutter speed, aperture, and light to control how much is captured. After shooting, film is developed in chemical baths to reveal the latent image. Black-and-white films yield metallic silver; color negatives require printing or scanning; slide films produce positive images on the film itself. Processing times and chemicals vary by type.

Historically, film was widely adopted in the 20th century and shaped photographic practice, but its use declined with digital imaging. It remains popular with enthusiasts and some professionals who value tonal range and archival potential. Modern workflows often blend film capture with digital scanning or printing, emphasizing careful storage of negatives.