Summary of Key Points
Film, once marginalized by digital cameras and smartphones, has seen a resurgence among young people in recent years. Young adults in their twenties and thirties, especially females, have embraced the ritualistic experience, unique imaging quality, and slower pace of life that film offers, driving the revival of related markets such as film production, developing services, and second-hand equipment trading. However, challenges such as rising film prices and speculation in the secondary market also exist. While film will not return to its golden age of widespread use, it is likely to become a stable niche option.
Detailed Analysis
1. The New Consumers of Film: Young People, Especially Women
Film was once the domain of professional photographers and the older generation, but this has completely changed. Industry data shows that people aged 18-35 now account for 73% of film consumers (compared to less than 40% in 2019), with women making up 54% of this group, reversing the traditional male-dominated landscape in the photography community.
- Young People's Preference: Owners of developing shops in Guangzhou report that most customers in recent visits are young people who often don't even know how to load film into their cameras and simply bring them in for assistance. At a rural art gallery in Zhejiang, two or three out of ten visitors use film cameras.
- Women as the Driving Force: Many new users are women who appreciate the vintage aesthetic and atmosphere of film, using it primarily for portraits and daily documentation. For example, Zheng Tong started with a disposable film camera before purchasing a used Olympus.
- Professional Photographers Supporting the High-End Market: Although they only account for 12% of consumers, professional photographers make larger purchases and are more loyal to the brand, such as Professor Du Jiang who uses film to create unique formats not achievable with digital cameras (like Hasselblad Xpan). The collectible market also values film works significantly.
2. Why Film Outperforms Digital Cameras?
The appeal of film lies in its emotional value, which digital cameras cannot provide:
- Ritualistic Experience: Each photograph requires manual processing, and a roll of film only contains about 36 images, limiting the number of shots that can be taken casually (unlike smartphones, which can capture thousands). Zhou Yuan says, "The click of a film camera feels more luxurious compared to the cheapness of digital buttons."
- Anticipatory Joy: The wait for developed photos adds excitement; Zheng Tong finds the process of waiting for her films to be processed more enjoyable than viewing them immediately.
- Unpredictable Results: Film development is influenced by temperature, timing, and chemical formulas, resulting in unique images that cannot be replicated with digital filters. The distinct colors (e.g., Fuji's fresh tones, Kodak's vintage styles) and texture are also irreplaceable.
- Slow, Reflective Process: Using film encourages careful composition and lighting planning, unlike the casual nature of digital photography.傅拥军 uses film to teach rural children how to observe their surroundings more attentively.
3. Businesses Benefiting from the Film Revival
The resurgence of film has boosted the entire industry chain:
- Film Production Restart: Lekai has restarted its civilian film production line, operating three shifts a day.富士's film business saw a 23% increase in profits in the second quarter of 2024, with China contributing 76% to the global growth in silver salt materials markets for the first time in 15 years.
- Developing Services Evolving: Developers are offering new services such as dark room experience sessions (where customers can spend hours developing photos) and film-themed cafes (where they can share their work and have their films developed). Some even host photography workshops.
- Second-Hand Equipment Becoming Valuable: The price of used film cameras has risen; for example, the Nikon FM2 is much more expensive than it was a few years ago, with some individuals making significant profits from selling them (e.g., Shen Wang). However, there is also speculation, with popular models seeing prices driven up by internet fame.
4. Challenges to Film's Revival: Rising Prices and Long-Term Sustainability
The revival of film faces several challenges:
- Price Concerns: Affordable options like Lekai C200 are still available, but discontinued films (e.g., Kodak 5294) have seen price increases of 160%, making them unaffordable for students. Experienced users may become more cautious with their spending.
- Quality Issues with Second-Hand Equipment: Older cameras may have mechanical issues or damaged lenses, which can be difficult to detect.
- Future Outlook: Experts predict that film will not return to its peak popularity but will remain a stable niche market. The key is for the industry to meet consumer needs by offering more affordable films, reliable second-hand options, and engaging experiences to turn short-term interest into a long-term hobby.
The comeback of film reflects young people's pursuit of "slowness" and uniqueness in a fast-paced world. While it will not replace digital technology, it represents a warm and authentic alternative in the digital age.