2024-08-08 05:07:20
In recent years, digital photography has become dominant, primarily through our mobile phones. Film photography, requiring the development of a film roll, seemed to have almost disappeared. However, this traditional technique is experiencing a resurgence of interest due to its nostalgic and artistic aspects.
An increasing number of manufacturers have resumed production of film cameras. Among them is the famous Japanese brand Pentax, which recently launched a new model, the Pentax 17, available in Europe and the United States since June, and in Japan since July. The model’s rapid success in Japan quickly made pre-orders impossible.
The return to film is undeniably a trend, explains Clara Bouveresse, a photography historian, on Wednesday in La Matinale of RTS. “This technique never really disappeared, but it is true that a profound transformation of the market occurred around the year 2000 with the advent of digital technology. This put historical companies in film photography in difficulty.”
According to her, these companies did not disappear; they continued to exist, operate, and respond to the growing demand for film, which is regaining momentum.
A Nostalgic Return
Just like vinyl in music, film photography is experiencing a certain resurgence of interest despite its apparent obsolescence. However, Clara Bouveresse points out that it is important to note that film remains an expensive technique. This characteristic makes it attractive for those who seek to carefully select each image, unlike the more common practice of digital photography.
She adds that while there is renewed interest in film, it will probably remain a more specialized practice: “In everyday life, I do not think this practice will impose itself as it did in the past”.
There is a community of enthusiasts who cherish the use of film cameras, finding a unique charm in their “vintage” character. However, maintaining these vintage devices presents a challenge, as the production of spare parts for these cameras has ceased, making repairs difficult.
Radio topic: Jean-Philippe Rutz
Web adaptation: Miroslav Mares