First time I met Daniel, the founder of Hands On film, it was probably 5 or 6 years back, when he was co-renting a small space inside the Lower Barracks, on the hill just behind Chinatown People’s Park. Nowadays, Hands On Film is a vibrant community and a burgeoning business dedicated to the art and practice of film photography in Singapore. In these recent years, this shop has become a cornerstone for both amateur and professional photographers who have rediscovered the charm of analog photography amidst a digital age.
Daniel is a passionate film enthusiasts, who has inherited such feeling from his mum who ran a Kodak development center in the late nineties, Hands On Film aims to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the traditional processes involved in film photography. This collective provides a range of services including film development, scanning, and sales of various cameras and film stocks. Additionally, they host workshops and events to educate and inspire both newcomers and seasoned photographers about the nuances of shooting on film. I had the pleasure of co-sponsoring the first contest a few years back.
Hands On Film studio, now moved on the bone of Haji Lane, acts also as a communal space where individuals can share their experiences, learn new techniques, and explore different film formats and cameras. This hands-on approach has fostered a strong sense of community among film photographers in Singapore, reviving an almost nostalgic practice in the modern era.
In recent years, film photography has seen a remarkable resurgence worldwide. This renewed interest can be attributed to several factors: let me share the few I feel more critical.
Tangible Artistry: Many photographers are drawn to the tangible and tactile nature of film. Unlike digital photography, film offers a physical representation of the image-making process, from loading the film into the camera to developing it in a darkroom. This hands-on experience can be deeply satisfying and artistically rewarding.
Unique Aesthetic: Film photography provides a distinct aesthetic that digital cameras struggle to replicate. The grain, color rendition, and dynamic range of film create images with a unique character and depth. This has particularly appealed to younger generations seeking a different visual style and authenticity in their work.
Slow Photography Movement: The slow photography movement, akin to the slow food movement, encourages taking a more deliberate and mindful approach to photography. Film photography, with its inherent limitations and the need for careful composition and exposure, naturally aligns with this philosophy. This approach contrasts sharply with the immediacy and disposability of digital images.
Educational Value: Learning film photography can also be educational. It requires a foundational understanding of photographic principles such as exposure, focus, and film types. For many, this educational journey is both challenging and enriching, providing a deeper appreciation for the art of photography.
Cultural Nostalgia: There is a significant element of nostalgia associated with film photography. Older generations who grew up with film cameras are rediscovering their roots, while younger photographers are experiencing the charm of film for the first time, often influenced by retro trends and cultural nostalgia.
Hands On Film has successfully tapped into this global resurgence by providing essential services and fostering a supportive community in Singapore. Their workshops cover a wide range of topics, from basic film handling and shooting techniques to advanced darkroom practices and alternative photographic processes. This educational outreach is crucial in sustaining interest and proficiency in film photography.
Moreover,Hands On Film commitment to high-quality film development and scanning services ensures that photographers achieve the best possible results from their film. Their meticulous attention to detail and understanding of various film stocks and their characteristics help photographers maximize the aesthetic potential of their images.
Anytime you tap into Singapore, pay a visit to Daniel’s new shop, in 21 Bali Ln #02-01!
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