What we've learned from 90 years of film photography

From our humble beginnings as the Fuji Photo Film Co., established in 1934, we’ve been at the forefront of the photography artform for nearly a century. We’ve experienced the golden age of film, seen the transition to digital, and been trailblazers in finding the best of both worlds with our innovative film simulation modes. 

Learn more about our history, and read on for top photography tips, guided by our 90 years in the industry.

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Insights from our years in the industry

Throughout our journey, we’ve never stopped being curious about the possibilities, and we’ve learned a handy trick or two along the way. Here are some insights we’ve discovered at every stage of our photography journey.

Whether you’re exploring film photography or using a mirrorless camera, these lessons can be applied to help you develop your skills and see where your creativity can take you.

1. As technology advances, the vision stays the same

We’ve seen mediums change over the decades — from black and white to colour, analogue to digital, time-consuming to instant. With every change, however, the meaning behind photography has stayed the same, providing an opportunity to capture a moment, emotions, and storytelling.

• • • Our photography tip: Focus on what draws you to the image in the first place. That might be the people or subjects in it, an emotion in the moment, or the colours or the composition of the landscape. By letting this lead your photography, you can create timeless and captivating images.
    
    

2. There’s power in simplicity

As you develop your photography skills, it can be tempting to buy lots of complex equipment.

However, the best cameras for film, digital, or even instant photography, are accessible. From tactile dials and intuitive controls to film simulations that let you experience the effects of analogue photography with the ease of digital, 

Every camera in our X Series, GFX, and instax™ collections is designed to be user-friendly. This balance of technology and simplicity allows you to explore, play, and find your own photography style.

• • • Our photography tip: Try out some different cameras and see what feels right. Why not see which FUJIFILM X Series and GFX cameras and lenses we have available to test out? Our 48-hour Try Before You Buy product loan system gives you the opportunity to see how the equipment works and if it’s the right model for you.
    
    

3. Nostalgia can fuel creativity

In 1986, we launched the first single-use camera. The QuickSnap is pre-loaded with FUJICOLOR ISO 400 film and really highlights the sense of simplicity we’ve been talking about. 

The principle has stayed the same for the past 30 years — you point and snap, then send off your film reel to be developed. The result is a feeling of nostalgia, with each printed photo bringing a bit of retro charm to your photo albums. 

Likewise, our instax™ camera and printer ranges hark back to another era, delivering the colours, textures, and tactile fun of instant photography that first became popular in the 1980s and 90s. Combined with modern technology, the instax™ collection lets you enjoy a retro aesthetic with a fresh twist.

• • • Our photography tip: One of the best (and most retro) parts of single-use and instant cameras is the element of surprise. You never fully know what the results will be! So try to focus on the process rather than the outcome — see if it opens up new ways to get creative.
    
    
  • • Bonus tip! Print your photos. It’s easy for images to get lost on our phone reels, in the Cloud, on memory sticks, and in a variety of other digital formats. Printing your instax™ snaps, QuickSnap shots, and mirrorless camera photos offers the chance to appreciate them in a different way, whether that’s in an album, frames, or personalised homeware.
    
    

4. Imperfection is beautiful

Sometimes, the most impactful images are unexpected, unplanned, and unfiltered. Our instax™ instant cameras are perfect for fleeting moments, and we encourage photographers of all experience levels to trust their instincts and look beyond technical perfection. 

• • • Our photography tip: Whether you’re a wedding photographer, nature photographer, or street photographer, don’t get too hung up on the perfect setup, the ideal lighting, and exact camera settings. Work with what’s around you and see where inspiration takes you.
    
    

5. There’s always more to explore

No matter what photography style you’re interested in, there’s always more to explore and learn. We’ve seen the industry evolve over the years, and have seen some developments stick and others fade away. Either way, there’s a huge amount of value in trying things out.

• • • Our photography tip: Never stop learning — being curious and inquisitive is the best way to hone your skills and find new ways of working. At the FUJIFILM School, you can join genre-based workshops, photography holidays, photography walks, and courses, all led by experienced professional photographers. You can always learn something new, spark your next creative project, and find more joy in the process. 

Keep creating with the FUJIFILM House of Photography

The FUJIFILM House of Photography is here to help photographers of all experience levels learn and grow. 

Take a look at what we’ve got coming up at the FUJIFILM School, find inspiration and advice on our blog — from essential photography tips for beginners to how to find your photography style — and explore our range of cameras, lenses, and photography equipment.

See what we have to offer online and plan your visit to our creative hub in the heart of Covent Garden.