Which film format should I use to take portraits?
Medium format, large format and 35 mm are the most suitable film formats for portrait photography. While medium format and large format could yield the best results, 35 mm can also be ideal for taking portraits and more portable.
Compared to smaller film formats still being used today such as 110 and 35 mm, medium format has better resolution and captures finer details. Medium format also has a narrower depth of field, which emphasizes the subject and translates perfectly for portraits!




Large format ranks the highest when it comes to image quality among film formats still available today, making it the perfect choice for many film photographers, especially for professional portraits. With large format, images are taken using 4×5 up to 8×10 inch film sheets, then loaded into a film holder attached to the camera.
Since both of these formats are big and capture fine details, both also have a higher maximum for print enlargement.




While 35 mm is a smaller format than the first two, many 35 mm camera and lens combinations are also capable of capturing astounding detail fit for portraits. It can also be more accessible for beginner photographers to start out with 35 mm as gear and developing costs are cheaper compared to medium and large formats.



Anything missing?
Can’t find an answer to your question? Or do you have some useful advice to add to one of our courses? We want to build the world’s largest analogue learning space, so please send any further requests or information to school@lomography.com and we’ll take a look!
More Courses
-
How to focus the camera when taking self portraits on film?
To focus when taking self-portraits on film you can use several techniques, such as choosing a high aperture setting, using a tripod, and putting another object in frame that you can focus on before taking your own self-portrait.
-
What are the photographic rules you should follow when composing a portrait on film?
As with all aspects of analogue photography, rules do not always need to be followed. However, here are a few basics you may want to consider when shooting portraits on film.
-
How to choose the perfect background for a portrait photo?
When deciding on a background for a portrait photograph there are many elements you may want to consider, including color, texture, depth of field, and context.
-
What type of lens is best suited for portrait photography?
While the lenses suitable for you depends on what results you’d like to achieve with portrait photography, prime lenses are often preferred for this type of photography.
-
How to take self portraits on film?
If you’re wondering how to create a self-portrait on film, here are a few tips to guide your process.
-
What are some tips for taking good portraits on film?
Some ways to take good portraits on film include using a camera and lens that suit your photography style, getting the lighting right and making your model feel comfortable.
-
What kind of film camera should I use for portrait photography?
You can use any film camera for portraiture! 35 mm SLR cameras, medium format and large format cameras are all popular choices.
-
What camera settings should I use to take portraits?
When taking portraits on film you should adjust your aperture, shutter speed and ISO settings depending on the environment in which you’re shooting and what kind of image you want to capture.