35mm film is the gold standard of analog photography. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or a beginner just dipping your toes into film, chances are you've heard of it. But how did this iconic format come to dominate the world of photography? And why does it remain so beloved today? Let’s take a journey through the fascinating history of 35mm film!

The Birth of 35mm Film

The roots of 35mm film trace back to the late 19th century when it was first introduced for motion pictures. In 1889, George Eastman, the founder of Kodak, developed a flexible celluloid film that revolutionized photography and cinematography. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that 35mm film found its way into still photography.

In 1913, Oskar Barnack, an engineer at Leitz (later known as Leica), created the first compact camera to use 35mm film: the Ur-Leica. This innovation allowed photographers to carry a small, portable camera without sacrificing image quality. Barnack’s invention laid the groundwork for the explosion of 35mm photography.

The Rise of 35mm Photography

The 1920s and 1930s saw a wave of innovation, with companies like Leica and Zeiss refining the 35mm format. The introduction of standardized film cartridges, such as Kodak’s 135 format in 1934, made film photography even more accessible to the public. This standardization meant that photographers no longer had to manually load film onto spools, simplifying the process and making 35mm cameras more user-friendly.

World War II played a significant role in the rise of 35mm film, as compact cameras became essential tools for photojournalists and soldiers documenting history. After the war, the format exploded in popularity, with brands like Nikon, Canon, and Pentax developing high-quality cameras that cemented 35mm film as the go-to choice for professionals and hobbyists alike.

The Golden Age: 1950s–1990s

The mid-20th century was the golden era of 35mm film. Advances in optics, camera design, and film emulsions led to incredible improvements in image quality. Companies like Kodak, Fujifilm, Ilford, and Agfa introduced a wide range of film stocks, giving photographers creative flexibility in color, contrast, and grain structure.

During this period, iconic cameras such as the Nikon F, Canon AE-1, and Pentax K1000 became household names. The affordability and reliability of 35mm cameras made them the dominant format for personal and professional photography, from family snapshots to award-winning photojournalism.

The Digital Revolution and Film’s Decline

By the late 1990s and early 2000s, digital photography began to overshadow film. The convenience of instant results, endless storage, and improving image quality led many photographers to abandon 35mm film in favor of digital cameras. Major film manufacturers scaled back production, and many beloved film stocks were discontinued.

However, despite the rise of digital, 35mm film never truly disappeared. Instead, it found a dedicated community of enthusiasts, artists, and purists who continued to embrace the unique qualities of analog photography.

The Resurgence of 35mm Film

Today, 35mm film is experiencing a renaissance. A new generation of photographers, drawn to the tactile and nostalgic qualities of film, has sparked a renewed interest in analog photography. Film manufacturers like Kodak and Ilford have responded by bringing back classic emulsions and even introducing new ones. Camera stores and online marketplaces are thriving with second-hand 35mm cameras, proving that film photography is far from dead.

The enduring appeal of 35mm film lies in its organic look, unique grain, and hands-on experience. Unlike digital photography, shooting on film forces photographers to slow down, compose carefully, and embrace the unpredictability that makes each shot special.

Why 35mm Film Still Matters

Despite over a century of technological advancements, 35mm film remains a beloved format for photographers worldwide. Whether it’s for the artistic process, the beautiful imperfections, or the joy of developing film, 35mm continues to inspire a passionate community of analog enthusiasts.

So, if you haven’t already, why not grab a roll of 35mm film, load up a vintage camera, and experience the magic for yourself? Film is far from dead—it’s alive and thriving, waiting for you to capture your next great shot!