So…you love movies and want to explore becoming a filmmaker? Cool! Want to know what *one* of the first steps are to making your dream come true? Why, none other than a film camera, that is. That brings me to the world of 4K smartphone sensors and infinite cloud storage. With all this technical technology, film technology really shouldn’t exist. Yet, sales of 35mm film are higher than they have been in decades. Why is that, you ask? While digital captures an image, film cameras are still unparalleled when it comes to capturing feelings. Cinema has played a massive role in this renaissance. Certain movies don’t just feature cameras; they fetishize the click of the shutter, the smell of the darkroom, and the golden, grainy texture of memory.
I can keep going on and on, but if you need some further inspiration to get your dreams rolling, these five films will definitely inspire you to finally buy that vintage Canon or Nikon you’ve been dreaming of.
Ready. Set. Action!
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1. The Philosophy: The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Photo: Netflix
Chronicling a photojournalist who chases the world’s rarest moments, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a must for any inspiring film maker. The High-adventure wanderlust is stunning, and you’ll be off to buy a new Nikon in no time.
The Camera: Nikon F3/T (Titanium)
Photo: B&H Photo & Video
A stunning, mechanical camera that keeps you living and breathing in the present.
2. The Ritual: Perfect Days (2023)
Photo: Hulu
A masterpiece that focuses on a Tokyo toilet cleaner who finds joy in the bliss and simplicity of photography.
The Camera: Argus c3
Photo: Etsy
The only way to truly nail the vintage vibe is to scoop up an Argus c3…with a roll of Kodak Gold 200 to match, of course.
3. The Grit: City of God (2002)
Photo: Apple TV
Set in Rio de Janeiro, 2002’s City of God tells the story Rocket, a man who finds hope and joy in his camera, which serves as his passport between the warring gangs and the outside world.
The Camera: Nikon F
Photo: B&H Photo & Video
An undeniably cool camera that will make you treat street photography with bravery.
4. Carol (2015)
Photo: Apple TV
Sure, 2015’s Carol is more of romantic love story (albeit with a bit of obsession mixed in there), but the main character, Therese, is a voyeuristic aspiring photographer who captures the world, which, in turn, will leave you feeling more inspired.
The Camera: Olympus Mju (Point & Shoot)
Photo: Sidekick
If you want a compact point-and-shoot camera to keep in your pocket and whip out at any moment, the Olympus Mju (Point & Shoot) is your guy. It treats photography not as “content creation” but as a daily ritual of gratitude.
5. Call Me By Your Name (2017)
Photo: Apple TV
Shot on 35mm Kodak Vision3 film, the imagery in Call Me By Your Name by your name is breathtaking—enough to make you want to pick up a camera of your own and get going. So, what are you waiting for?
The Camera: Canon AV1
Photo: Cute. Camera
An adorably cute camera that gets the job done beautifully.
Author Bio
Jael Rucker is the founder of Decked Out Magazine. She has previously worked as the Associate Commerce Editor at PureWow, focusing on analytics and trends to pitch stories and optimize articles that build and engage their audience. Her work has also been seen in Footwear News and WWD. Prior to 2024, she was the style and pop culture editor at ONE37pm for over three years, contributing numerous product reviews, brand profiles and fashion trend reports, which included interviewing Steph Curry, Snoop Dogg and more.
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