Shooting Film in a Studio: What We Learned from a Shoot That Went Wrong

Every photographer has a shoot that does not go as planned. This video is a candid look at a studio film shoot that went sideways, the mistakes that caused it, and the specific lessons that came out of it. The value of a blown shoot is in what you learn from it.

Best Films for Studio Photography

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common mistakes when shooting film in a studio?

The most common mistakes are incorrect flash sync speed settings (resulting in partially exposed frames), relying on the camera's meter instead of a handheld incident meter, and not bracketing exposures on a first test with a new setup. Always shoot a test roll in a new studio environment before a real client shoot.

What film is best for studio portrait work?

Kodak Portra 400 and Portra 160 are the top choices for studio portraits. The controlled lighting of a studio plays to Portra's strengths, and the fine grain holds up at large print sizes. For black and white, Ilford HP5 Plus is the most versatile option.

Where can I buy film for studio photography?

Film Supply Club stocks Kodak Portra and Ilford HP5 in 35mm and 120 format. Browse all film here and save more as a member.