KOREA FOUNDATION

Return of the Film Camera

Amid the recent boom in retro aesthetics, sales of film cameras, disposable cameras, instant cameras, and camcorders are on the rise. This keen public interest seems to be the result of the “newtro” (new + retro) trend coinciding with the revival of the “Y2K” style that was popular in the 2000s. At a time when smartphones are able to photograph the face of the moon, people are choosing film cameras for their unique, nostalgic atmosphere.

Film cameras have emerged as both fashion items and a new hobby for teens and those in their 20s, satisfying their curiosity for the analog world through the less detailed, sometimes “rough” images they produce. Instant cameras are especially sought after, used to add photographs to journals or record daily routines. Some in this demographic use their parents’ old film cameras, long left untouched in drawers, while others purchase theirs at second-hand stores. Photo studios and stores offering film developing services have also emerged as hot spots thanks to film cameras’ increasing popularity.

Unlike digital photographs, which users can instantly view, delete, or edit, photographs taken with film cameras cannot be seen until they have been developed and printed, making users cherish each shot more than ever. Perhaps the waiting and expectation involved in this development process embodies the unique aesthetic of film cameras.

Film Cameradisposable camerasinstant camerasfilm developingphoto studiosnewtroY2K