So today I received two new lenses in the mail – these are used lenses that will work with my medium format film camera. I have yet to get my first roll of film back from the photo lab – and I am already barreling into the world of film head first!

My new Bronica 50mm and Bronica 150mm lenses

BTW, I call these lenses new – they are new to me. They are most definitely used – and they arrived in their original boxes. I don’t keep my boxes for too long. But then I wasn’t raised in the depression – where you learned to keep EVERYTHING. I recycle boxes – rather than store them in a basement somewhere.

This weekend I am excited to go out and photograph a few more rolls of film. Last night I shot about 5 frames of black and white film and about 8 frames of color film. Shooting film is very different than digital photography. I love digital photography – but there is definitely something romantic and classic about film photography.

All three of my medium format camera lenses - 50mm, 75mm, 150mm

Digital photography simplifies photography – it can have a faster workflow – and the image quality is getting outstanding. What is it that I like about film? I like that the film itself will include a unique thumbprint – grain, color, contrast are all subjective to what kind of film you use. Yes you can fake it in Photoshop.

I also like the retro/old time feel of film cameras. Much like people today are now buying actual records to listen to music – it is hip to be retro – but no too retro.

And most importantly? I think shooting film will help make me a bit more unique – cause I don’t like to blend in. Normal is boring – be extraordinary. So watch for me the photographer with a film camera and a digital camera.

Bird's eye view of the Bronica lenses

However, the lens is the window to a good photograph. And right now my favorite lens to use is the Nikkor f/1.4 50mm lens. I can take portraits with that lens all day. I have covered entire events with that lens. I always have that lens on one of my cameras at a wedding.

My Nikkor f/1.4 50mm lens

Some of the benefits of this lens include:

• Shallow depth of field
• Perfect for portraits
• Gorgeous color and contrast
• Low light performance – I can almost shoot in the dark

If you are a photographer – I really recommend it. If you are a bride looking for a great photograph – contact me. Or check out some of my wedding galleries.