I have been photographing for over 25 years now. It all started with film cameras, and I still remember the excitement of developing my own film and prints in the bathroom, I didn’t have a darkroom at the time, and like everyone, I improvised.

Last year, I decided to treat myself to a birthday gift – the same medium format camera I used back in 1998. It was like going back in time. One thing that I have learned over the years is that experimenting with different techniques and materials can lead to some incredible results. In this blog post, I want to share my experience of working with expired film for over 20 years, and how it has helped me to learn from my own mistakes.

When working with expired light-sensitive materials, there is always a risk of ruining the film or paper. It can be daunting to invest time, effort, and resources into a project, only to end up with disappointing results. However, I have learned that the fear of destroying something should not hold me back from experimenting and trying new things. One of the advantages of analog photography is that it allows for a hands-on approach. Unlike digital photography, where everything is processed automatically, working with film and paper requires a more manual process. This means that there is room for experimentation, and even if things do not turn out as expected, there is still something to learn from the experience. Nowadays, with digital cameras and automated processing, it can be easy to forget the intricacies of the craft.

Moreover, working with analog materials has given me a new appreciation for the artistry of photography. The imperfections and textures that emerge from expired film or paper can create a unique and evocative aesthetic that is hard to replicate with digital tools. It is a reminder that sometimes, the beauty of a photograph lies not in its technical perfection, but in its dynamic impact.

As a photographer, I have always been fascinated by the power of photographs to capture moments and emotions. For me, photography is not just about taking pictures, but about telling stories and immortalizing memories. I love analog photography, especially photographing people. The faded images may not be sharp or vibrant, but they have a unique charm and a timeless quality that evokes strong emotions and memories.

Let me take you on a journey of my love for analog photography and photographing people, and show you how these two passions intersect and inspire me.