28/04/2025
The Evolution of Photography: From 35mm Film to Digital and AI Technology
Photography has come a long way since the days of 35mm film cameras, and while digital photography has revolutionized the field, there’s still a sense of nostalgia for the analog era. For those of us who remember the tactile nature of film photography, the slow, meticulous process of developing photos, and the excitement (or anxiety) of waiting for prints, it can be hard to let go of the past.
Though I may not be diving back into film photography anytime soon, there’s something about the experience of using a classic 35mm camera that evokes memories of a time when photography was a process, not an instant result. As much as I appreciate the ease of modern digital photography, the tediousness and meddlesome nature of film photography are clear reminders of how far we've come. Let's take a trip down memory lane and compare the analog days with the rapid-fire digital age we live in now.
The Polaroid Era: Instant Gratification
Before the advent of digital photography, one of the most revolutionary innovations in consumer photography was the Polaroid camera. Introduced in the 1940s, Polaroid cameras allowed photographers to see their images developed instantly—right after they took the shot. This was a game-changer for people who had grown accustomed to waiting days or weeks for film to be developed.
For many, the Polaroid became a staple for capturing family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions, providing instant gratification. The images printed in seconds, though often low in quality by today's standards, were cherished for their immediacy and tangible, physical nature. Polaroid’s instant film meant there was no need to send film out for development or wait for prints—what you shot was what you got.
The Rise of Holiday Snapshot Cameras
In tandem with the Polaroid revolution came the rise of point-and-shoot film cameras—small, convenient devices that became the go-to for casual photographers and vacationers. These were the cameras you took on your family vacations, holiday trips, and weekends away, often pre-loaded with a roll of 35mm color film. With simple controls, these cameras allowed people to snap memories without needing to know much about the technicalities of photography.
The beauty of these cameras was that they were affordable, portable, and easy to use, making them ideal for amateurs. They didn’t offer the sophisticated features of an SLR, but they were perfect for spontaneous moments that needed capturing. Over the years, brands like Kodak, Canon, and Olympus became synonymous with these snapshot moments.
The Advent of Cyber-shot and Early Digital Cameras
By the late 1990s and early 2000s, the digital revolution took a major leap forward with the introduction of compact digital cameras. Among the leaders in this era was Sony’s Cyber-shot series, which marked a major shift from film to digital photography. The Cyber-shot cameras were lightweight, had relatively good image quality for their time, and allowed users to view their images immediately on the LCD screen, something that was a huge departure from the limitations of film.
These early digital cameras, while not perfect, showed the world the possibilities of memory cards, digital zoom, and the ability to delete or review photos on the spot. Suddenly, users weren’t confined to the 24 or 36 frames on a roll of film. They could shoot hundreds of pictures without worrying about film cost or having to wait for development. Digital sensors replaced film stock, and the idea of photo storage on a memory card set the stage for a more efficient and less expensive approach to photography.
Camera Phones: The Ultimate Evolution of Photography
Then came the camera phone, a device that, over time, would revolutionize photography as we know it. It was a slow burn at first, with early mobile phones offering basic cameras with low-resolution sensors. But as phone technology advanced, so did the cameras, eventually producing photos that rivaled early digital point-and-shoot cameras.
The real tipping point came with the iPhone in 2007, which combined a high-quality camera with the convenience of a phone. Today’s smartphones have integrated multiple lenses, AI-driven image processing, and advanced editing features that allow anyone with a phone to take professional-quality photos with ease. The camera phone has effectively democratized photography, making it accessible to millions, if not billions, of people around the world.
Now, we don’t have to carry around multiple gadgets—our phones are our primary cameras, replacing everything from point-and-shoots to the need for standalone digital cameras. The iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and other devices have advanced to the point where their camera performance often surpasses that of dedicated cameras from only a few years ago. With smartphone photography now firmly entrenched in the mainstream, the evolution of cameras has come full circle.
The Darkroom Days: A Labor of Love
One of the most defining aspects of film photography was the darkroom process. For those fortunate enough to have access to a darkroom, the experience of developing your own film was a labor-intensive yet incredibly rewarding task. If you were developing black and white film, you'd begin with a strip of exposed negatives, pour a chemical developer over them, stop the process, and fix the image with more chemicals. Then, you'd print those negatives on photographic paper, making every shot a careful and deliberate decision. The waiting was part of the charm.
But, looking back, that process is nothing like the instant feedback we get with today's digital cameras. You’d often spend hours or even days preparing your film, only to receive your prints and negatives and hope, pray even, that the shot turned out the way you imagined. There were no instant reviews or adjustments as you could now with digital cameras. With 35mm film, every shot counted, and you had to trust your skill and your equipment to capture the moment perfectly. There was no way to see if you got the shot until you developed the film weeks later.
The Days of Choosing Between Black and White or Color Film
When I started out, there was a big decision to make before heading out with your camera: Should I go with black and white or color film? For many photographers, the choice was about mood or style. Black and white film created a timeless, classic feel, while color film captured vibrant moments in a way that could convey a deeper sense of realism. That decision alone was part of the craft — a part of the artistry.
The process of purchasing film rolls from the local store was another ritual. And when you were running low on film, it wasn’t as easy as grabbing a spare SD card or charging your camera's battery. You were physically limited by how much film you could afford and how many frames were left on your roll.
The Long Wait: Sending Film to be Developed
The real kicker in the old days was the time it took to develop the film. I remember in Dominica, there was a local photography shop where you’d drop off your film, and they’d send it off to Barbados for processing. Days or even weeks would go by before you could pick up your prints and negatives. It wasn’t just the expense of developing, either. You had to hope that the photos turned out well and that the negatives didn’t get damaged during transport.
In contrast, today’s digital cameras allow you to shoot hundreds of images, review them instantly on the camera’s screen, and delete or retake shots as needed. The immediacy is part of the appeal, especially for those who don’t have the patience for the slower, methodical pace of analog photography.
Digital Photography: Instant Results and Convenience
Today’s digital technology has dramatically changed how we take and process photos. Digital cameras and smartphones make it so easy to snap a picture, preview it, and make adjustments instantly. There’s no waiting for film to be developed or worrying that you captured something out of focus. And the digital editing tools available now—photoshop, Lightroom, etc.—make it easier to manipulate images in ways that were unimaginable during the film era.
Storage is another area where digital has a clear advantage. You no longer need rolls of film or a shoebox full of negatives. Instead, everything is stored in digital files, ready to be shared, edited, or printed at a moment’s notice. You no longer have to worry about your photos fading over time (as film negatives sometimes did) or being lost during the development process.
The Rise of Artificial Intelligence in Photography
As if digital cameras weren’t enough of a game-changer, the next frontier is the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) in photography. AI technology has already started making waves in the industry, from camera sensors that automatically adjust settings based on the scene, to software that can intelligently improve image quality or even generate images from scratch.
For example, AI-powered apps can now enhance low-light images, remove noise, or even edit portraits to smooth skin or change backgrounds. Some cameras now offer AI-driven scene recognition, where the camera will automatically choose the best settings for the subject you’re photographing. There are even tools that can assist with composition, offering suggestions for better framing or cropping based on smart algorithms. In a way, AI is making photography easier than ever, while still leaving room for creative expression.
My Quest to Restore My Canon T70
One of the most nostalgic projects that I am looking forward to is restoring my old Canon T70 camera — a gift from my niece 20 years ago. This camera was considered technologically advanced for its time, and I’ve always loved the feeling of holding a well-built, classic camera in my hands. However, after years of idleness, the T70 needs some care and attention to restore it to its former glory.
I’m about to begin the restoration process by gathering information, reading manuals, and seeking advice from people who’ve worked on similar cameras. I’ve joined several Canon camera groups online, where enthusiasts share tips and guidance on maintaining and restoring vintage gear. The community has already proven to be incredibly helpful, offering advice on cleaning techniques and recommending products.
Cleaning Products and Methods I Plan to Use for the T70
When I start cleaning my Canon T70, I plan to take careful steps to ensure the restoration is as gentle and effective as possible. Here are some of the products and methods I plan to use:
Lens Cleaning:
I will use a microfiber cloth for gentle cleaning of the lens, as it’s soft and won’t scratch the surface.
A lens cleaning solution that’s specifically designed for cameras will help me remove any stubborn fingerprints, smudges, or dust without damaging the lens.
Soft brushes will also come in handy for removing dust from the lens and other delicate parts of the camera.
Camera Body Cleaning:
I’ll use isopropyl alcohol (90%) and a cotton swab to clean around the film compartment, avoiding any excess liquid that might seep into sensitive areas.
For the exterior of the camera, I will use camera cleaning wipes made for electronics to wipe down the body and buttons.
Internal Cleaning:
I plan to use a can of compressed air to gently blow out any dust or debris inside the film compartment and other hard-to-reach areas.
I will carefully clean the viewfinder and mirror with a soft cloth or brush to avoid scratches or damage.
Joining Canon Camera Clubs
One of the best decisions I made during this restoration process was joining several Canon camera clubs. These online communities are filled with people who have a wealth of knowledge about older Canon cameras, and I’ve already connected with fellow enthusiasts who are guiding me through specific restoration steps. From troubleshooting technical issues to finding the right replacement parts, being part of these clubs has been essential in ensuring the restoration goes smoothly. It’s also been a joy to share my passion for this classic camera with others who appreciate vintage gear as much as I do.
A Journey from Analog to Digital and Beyond
While I may not dive back into film photography anytime soon, I do find myself feeling nostalgic about the past. There’s something about the physicality of film—the anticipation of waiting to see your results, the joy of printing a tangible photo—that makes it feel more personal and meaningful than clicking a button on a digital camera.
But modern digital photography and AI are undeniable, offering a level of convenience, speed, and creative freedom that film could never quite match. The balance between creativity and technology in today's digital world is exciting. Still, I can’t help but miss the magic of a well-developed roll of film and the joy of seeing a perfect shot come to life from a strip of negatives.
Ultimately, each evolution in photography, from 35mm film to digital and now AI-driven technologies, represents the continual pursuit of capturing moments and memories, with each generation building upon the last. While I’ll likely stay in the digital realm for now, I’ll always have a soft spot for the nostalgia and craftsmanship of film.
Word Warrior - A Guild Member’s Memoirs
[Photo- shot with Samsung SM- G390F
F1.9 1/33s, 3.7mm, ISO 50, white balance - Auto with Flash]
Captured moments from the past and present: A glimpse into my photography journey with The Complete Book of Photography by Kodak and 35mm Handbook by Michael Freeman as references, alongside a stack of memories captured on film. My trusty Canon T70, some neatly filed negatives, and two cherished photo albums all come together to reflect the art of capturing moments, both analog and digital.
