Last week, my family packed up the car and drove down to California for spring break.

It was everything I hoped it would be—slow mornings, sandy kids, salty hair, and the kind of family time that fills you up in a way nothing else can.

I brought along my old film camera.

I snapped photos here and there—kids running on the beach, messy snack breaks, little in-between moments I didn’t want to forget.

When we got home, I immediately sent the film off to be developed. And yesterday, I got the scans back.

And I just sat there… staring at them.

Because somehow, these images didn’t just show the trip—

they felt like the trip.

There is something about film photography that digital just can’t replicate.

It’s not just the look—although the soft grain, true-to-life colors, and subtle imperfections are beautiful.

It’s the feeling.

Film images:

When I look at these photos, I don’t just see my kids.

I feel the warmth of the sun, the chaos of packing up beach towels, the laughter, the exhaustion, the goodness of it all.

I have a nice camera. The kind that takes technically “perfect” photos.

And of course, I always have my phone.

But film?

Film is different.

Film photography is about memory—not perfection.

The slightly crooked frame.
The unexpected blur.
The lighting that didn’t turn out just right.

That’s what makes it beautiful.

Those “imperfections” are what make the image feel real—like a memory instead of a posed moment.

If you’re someone who wants your photos to evoke emotion and tell a story, I cannot recommend film enough.

I’ll be honest—film photography isn’t for everyone.

But if you’re drawn to that nostalgic, timeless, old-memory feeling…

It is so worth it.

This little hobby has brought me so much joy over the past two years—and it’s completely changed the way I document my family.

If you’re curious about trying film, here’s the easiest way to start:

If you want a low-pressure way to dip your toes in:

Buy a disposable camera (you can find them at places like Walmart for around $15)
Use the flash 100% of the time indoors or on cloudy days (this makes a huge difference!)
Shoot all 36 exposures—don’t overthink it
Send it to The FIND Lab or a local lab to get developed (around $15 per roll)

This is the easiest way to fall in love with film.

If you’re ready to go a little deeper:

Look for a used film camera on Facebook Marketplace—or ask your parents/grandparents (so many people have one sitting in a drawer!)
Order film online (I recommend starting with ISO 400 film—it’s very forgiving)
Watch a quick YouTube tutorial for your specific camera model
Download a light meter app to help you set exposure correctly
- Match your ISO to your film (don’t change it!)
Shoot your roll (usually 36 images), then send it to The FIND Lab or a local developer

Once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.