From the bustling streets of Mumbai to the serene backwaters of Kerala, film photography is enjoying a vibrant comeback among Indian creatives. In 2025, a new wave of enthusiasts is rediscovering the tactile joy of winding a camera, hearing the shutter click, and savoring the unique grain and color rendition that only analog can deliver. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a curious newcomer, investing in the right film camera can transform your visual storytelling.
Kodak remains a household name for its legendary film stocks, and their camera lineup carries that same reputation for reliability and vivid tones. The Kodak Ektar 100 is an ideal companion for landscape lovers, rendering brilliant reds and deep blues with crisp detail. For those seeking a more compact option, the Kodak Retina II offers a classic rangefinder design, perfect for candid street scenes and travel diaries, all while keeping your kit light.
If you crave striking black-and-white imagery, Ilford’s cameras and monochrome films are hard to beat. The Ilford Sprite 35 II stands out as an affordable point-and-shoot, partnered beautifully with Ilford HP5 Plus for its forgiving exposure latitude. For medium-format aficionados, the Ilford Master 600 series brings larger negatives and richer tonal gradations, giving portraits and fine art prints a timeless, museum-quality feel.
Fujifilm has long bridged the gap between film and instant photography. In 2025, the Fujifilm GA645Zi continues to lead medium-format enthusiasts with its sharp lens and intuitive controls, ideal for street photography and environmental portraits. Meanwhile, the Fujifilm Instax Wide 300 delivers instant gratification, making it a hit at creative workshops and social gatherings—especially for Indian wedding photographers looking to surprise guests with on-the-spot keepsakes.
On the 35mm SLR front, Canon’s AE-1 Program still holds its own thanks to durable construction and extensive lens compatibility. Whether you’re shooting Kodachrome-style slides or experimenting with cross-processing, the AE-1’s manual dials and program auto mode give you the flexibility to learn or simply enjoy point-and-shoot simplicity. With used bodies readily available in India’s camera markets, it’s a cost-effective pick for budget-conscious creators.
Beyond individual models, what truly fuels the analog renaissance in India is the sense of community and shared exploration. From local meet-ups in Delhi’s art cafes to online forums where Fotokarigar enthusiasts swap development tips, there’s never been a better time to dive in. Workshops on darkroom techniques and film chemistry are popping up in Bangalore and Pune, bridging generations of photographers eager to pass down their craft.
Choosing a film camera in 2025 is more than a purchase—it’s an invitation to slow down, observe details, and build a deeper connection with each frame. Whether you opt for Kodak’s vibrant color palettes, Ilford’s classic monochrome, Fujifilm’s hybrid offerings, or Canon’s reliable SLRs, your analog journey begins with a single roll of film. Embrace the imperfections, celebrate the surprises, and let the timeless allure of film photography enrich your visual narrative.
