Analogue and 35mm Film Photography
Film offers a texture and emotional depth that digital cannot replicate. I use 35mm film to strip back the process, focusing on pure form, shadow, and authentic narrative.
A diptych on 35mm film, showing a model against a vibrant blue backdrop. The film's grain and color saturation give the image a vintage, candid feel, highlighting the styling of the pinstripe blazer and bold yellow belt.
A soft-focus, black and white portrait of 'Henna,' shot on film. The dreamy, slightly blurred effect and the subtle light circles create an intimate and timeless quality.
A shot from a 35mm film series, presented as a contact sheet layout. The raw, unpolished feel of the outdoor setup with a simple white backdrop emphasizes the model's pose and the lace top.
Another look from the same film series, this time with the model wearing a denim skirt and a bold red belt. The direct gaze and the natural light give the portrait a strong, confident presence.
A close-up portrait from the blue backdrop series, captured on film. The model's direct eye contact and the rich colors of the orange shirt and yellow belt are prominent.
This film shot features an edgier look with a deconstructed denim top and leather pants. The composition, resembling a contact sheet, gives a behind-the-scenes, process-oriented feel.
A full-length view of the experimental denim and leather outfit. The harsh shadows and the grain of the 35mm film add to the gritty, rebellious aesthetic.
A candid-style portrait from the same series, where the model appears to be in a moment of reflection. The film captures the subtle nuances of light and shadow.
The model holds wooden blocks, adding a strange, sculptural element to this film portrait. The image feels both posed and spontaneous, a quality often found in analogue photography.
A black and white film photograph from the 'Henna' series. The composition uses a tree branch to cast a strong shadow, creating a moody and atmospheric scene.
About Analogue & 35mm Film
Shooting on 35mm film requires a deliberate approach to lighting and composition. We prioritize continuous light or natural sources to fully embrace the film grain, ensuring each frame captures a raw, honest atmosphere that digital post-production filters cannot replicate.
The Aesthetic of Film
There is a distinct tension in analogue photography that I find essential for certain narratives. When we step away from the instant gratification of digital screens and into the tactile process of 35mm film, the intent of the shoot shifts. Every frame becomes a conscious decision because the medium demands it. This creates a specific visual language defined by grain, depth, and a color palette that feels organic rather than rendered.
My Approach to Analogue
Whether I am working on a fashion editorial or a personal project, my process remains consistent. We begin with a conceptual storyboard, but leave space for the unpredictability of film. This hybrid workflow—often combining digital planning with analogue execution—allows us to test lighting and composition before committing to the film roll.
I often use this medium for projects that require a grittier, rebellious, or timeless quality. From the high-contrast lighting of a studio set in Mumbai to the natural light dynamics of outdoor locations, the medium highlights the textures of fabrics and the nuances of expression in a way that feels grounding.
Is Film Right for Your Project?
Clients often ask if film is suitable for commercial work. The answer lies in the story. If your brand or portfolio is looking for that raw, authentic connection, film is the superior choice. We handle the entire process, including the sourcing of film stock and the lab development, ensuring the final assets maintain the integrity of the original shoot.
If you are planning an editorial or a lookbook, we can discuss whether a full film shoot or a hybrid approach best serves your visual objectives.
Malavika Jayaram
I am Malavika, and for me, photography is about finding the story within the frame. Whether we are shooting in a studio or on location, I focus on the connection between subject and lens to create something timeless.
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