1 Choose your film

The first step to incorporate black and white film photography into a documentary project is to choose the right film for your vision and style. There are many types of black and white film available, each with different characteristics such as grain, contrast, speed, and tonality. For example, if you want a fine-grained and sharp image, you might opt for a low ISO film like Ilford Pan F or Kodak T-Max. If you prefer a more gritty and dramatic look, you might choose a high ISO film like Ilford Delta or Kodak Tri-X. You should also consider the lighting conditions and the mood you want to create when selecting your film.

2 Choose your camera

The next step is to choose the camera that suits your needs and preferences. You can use any camera that can load and shoot black and white film, from a simple point-and-shoot to a sophisticated SLR. However, some factors to consider are the size, weight, durability, and versatility of the camera, as well as the lens options and features. For example, if you are shooting in low-light or fast-moving situations, you might want a camera with a fast lens and a reliable metering system. If you are traveling or working in harsh environments, you might want a camera that is compact and sturdy.

3 Shoot your film

Once you have your film and camera ready, you can start shooting your documentary project. The key to shooting black and white film is to pay attention to the light, the composition, and the expression of your subject. You should look for strong shapes, patterns, textures, and contrasts that can create interest and depth in your image. You should also consider the tonal range and the mood of your scene, and adjust your exposure accordingly. For example, if you want to emphasize the shadows or the highlights, you might overexpose or underexpose your film slightly. You should also experiment with different angles, perspectives, and distances to capture the essence and emotion of your subject.

4 Develop your film

After you finish shooting your film, you need to develop it to reveal your images. You can either send your film to a professional lab or develop it yourself at home. Developing your own film can be a rewarding and creative process, as you can control the quality and the look of your images. However, it also requires some equipment, chemicals, and skills. You will need a darkroom or a changing bag, a developing tank, a thermometer, a timer, a film reel, and a pair of scissors. You will also need a developer, a stop bath, a fixer, and a wetting agent. You can follow the instructions on the film or the developer package, or experiment with different times and temperatures to achieve different effects.

5 Edit your film

The final step to incorporate black and white film photography into a documentary project is to edit your film. You can either scan your film and edit it digitally, or print it and edit it manually. Scanning your film can give you more flexibility and convenience, as you can use software like Photoshop or Lightroom to crop, rotate, adjust, and enhance your images. However, printing your film can give you more satisfaction and authenticity, as you can use an enlarger, a paper, and a set of filters to dodge, burn, and manipulate your images. You can also use different types of paper, such as glossy, matte, or textured, to create different finishes and feelings.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?