When is it perfect enough? This is a profound question that often stirs our minds, especially when life speeds by like a rushing train. You may find yourself on the platform, watching as the train races towards its destination, leaving you behind in a moment of reflection.

I often feel the same way about my photography. It’s a relentless chase for the ultimate megapixels, yet I grapple with the dilemma of having too many. Where lies the sweet spot that captures the soul and essence of an image? In my quest for clarity, I decided to return to film photography, and that journey led me to rediscover the depth and emotion I had long been yearning for after spending 15 years in the digital DSLR world. That spark reignited when I ventured back to Kodak TMax film, paired with the Hasselblad 503CXi. This magnificent black-and-white film, known for its rich grain, encapsulated the very soul of photography.

KODAK PROFESSIONAL T-MAX 400 Film is a continuous-tone, panchromatic black-and-white negative film, particularly adept at capturing the nuance of dimly lit subjects and the thrill of fast action.

The experience of photography extends far beyond just the film itself. Using a single roll of medium format film set me back about €12 for 12 images, not even accounting for the development cost. If I opted for JPEGs, it would still be around €12, but my preference for TIFFs pushed the total to €21. This means that each cherished photo effectively costs me nearly €3. However, the true price is measured in time—an invaluable currency that I can’t afford to spend. I’m faced with the choice of sending my film out for development or investing in the necessary equipment to do it myself. This path would require purchasing a development machine and scanner, along with other essentials. In the end, it’s not just about the money; it’s the significant amount of time that I simply don’t have.

I also contemplated the allure of 35mm film. The expense of a full-frame camera comes at a similar price point, while the film offers 36 stunning images for the same cost—or even less, considering the development fees. Yet, the time investment remains consistent, which is something to consider. Navigating my way towards a direction that truly resonates with my needs has proven to be a challenge, but what are those needs?

That’s the essential question I face.

Shot with the Leica M9 Monochrome

I have been in the business of selling photographs at a high level; over 15 years ago, I was using the Canon EOS 1D, boasting 10 megapixels and allowing me to create breathtaking banners for the EICMA in Milan, some over 5 meters tall. So, one must wonder, who genuinely needs more? There’s something magical about working with film that captivates me—it compels me to slow down in my photographic journey. My experience with Leica M cameras has nurtured this desire, helping me fully immerse myself in the joy and passion of capturing moments. With film, the experience is beautifully simple: no batteries required—just film. You embrace the moment and then patiently await the results, which can be quite a contrast if you’re used to instant gratification. Ultimately, it’s about embracing the art of letting go and relinquishing some control, a process that brings depth to the craft.

Shot with Hasselblad 503 + Hasselblad 907

I have come to truly appreciate how perfectly Leica aligns with my photographic vision. The M digital cameras bring me tantalizingly close to the heart of shooting with film—a connection I hold dear. I find myself contemplating trading my Hasselblad 503 for a Leica M6 or M7 to accompany me on my road trips, while for my digital endeavours, I’m considering a shift from Canon to a Leica SL.

What draws me so irresistibly to the Leica M6 or M7 is undoubtedly the built-in light meter. This invaluable feature makes a remarkable difference when I need to seize those fleeting moments with both speed and precision. Although we may strive for excellence, I often wonder who truly takes notice. The three images above were captured digitally, and this journey brought me immense joy. After all, photography is about passion. In this pursuit, the relentless quest for perfection can occasionally overshadow the beauty of the creative process.

Ultimately, photography should evoke feelings and stir emotions. Even if the images are grainy, if they resonate and fulfil their purpose, then they have succeeded in my eyes!

Thank you