A Journey with the Hasselblad 500CM and Kodak Portra Films
In today’s fast-paced digital age, where images are instantly captured and shared with a click, I’ve found myself longing for a deeper connection with the photographic process. This yearning led me back to the enchanting world of film photography, where every frame is a cherished creation, and the analog medium lends a unique charm to each image.
At the heart of my return to film is the iconic Hasselblad 500CM. Renowned for its exceptional build quality and timeless design, the 500CM embodies the epitome of medium format photography. With its modular construction and precision engineering, this camera exudes a sense of craftsmanship that elevates the photographic experience to an art form.
Accompanying my Hasselblad is a selection of Kodak Portra films, each with its own distinct characteristics that contribute to the richness and depth of my images. Whether I’m shooting with the vibrant hues of Portra 400, the versatility of Portra 800 in low light situations, or the classic aesthetic of Portra Gold, these films never fail to deliver stunning results.
What draws me most to film photography is the deliberate and contemplative process it entails. Unlike digital photography, where the immediacy of technology often leads to hasty decisions, shooting with film requires patience, intentionality, and a heightened sense of awareness. With each frame limited and precious, I find myself fully immersed in the moment, carefully composing each shot and savoring the anticipation of what the final image will reveal.
Moreover, there’s a certain nostalgia and sentimentality associated with film photography that resonates deeply with me. From the tactile sensation of loading a roll of film into the camera to the tactile process of developing and printing in the darkroom, every step feels like a ritual, imbued with a sense of reverence for the craft.
In essence, my return to film photography with the Hasselblad 500CM and Kodak Portra films is not merely a journey back in time, but a reawakening of the artist within me. It’s a celebration of the tangible beauty and enduring allure of analog photography, and a testament to the enduring power of creativity in an increasingly digitized world.
Thanks for sharing this !