What Is The Difference Between Film & Digital Fine Art Photography? Understanding the Beauty of Both Mediums
In the ever-evolving world of wedding photography, the fine art niche has long been synonymous with the luminous poetry of film, that delicate dance of light and grain that feels as though it belongs to another time. Yet, as artistry expands and technology refines its touch, the boundaries of what defines fine art continue to blur in the most beautiful way. Today’s fine art photographers are guided less by the medium in their hands and more by the vision in their hearts, by an intentionality that seeks to tell love stories with depth, restraint, and timeless grace.
In conversation with fine art photographer Troy Meikle, we explore how the essence of fine art photography has transcended the question of film versus digital. Troy invites us into a dialogue on evolution, how the soul of fine art remains rooted in light, emotion, and storytelling, even as our tools shift and expand. From the painterly softness of film to the refined precision of digital, this new era celebrates the harmony between tradition and innovation, proving that true artistry has never been about the format, but about the feeling it evokes.
Over the years, Wedding Sparrow has focused on fine art weddings, being synonymous with film photography. As this artistry and style has developed in recent years we feel creators are no longer bound by the medium in order to classify as fine art. Can you share why digital photography also holds a place in this niche? With evolving technology in both mediums, how, if at all, has your approach to fine art wedding photography changed in recent years?
Troy: Absolutely. I think digital photography absolutely belongs within the fine art space; it's not the medium that defines the artistry, but the vision behind it. Fine art wedding photography has always been about intentionality; the way we compose, use light, and tell a story with emotion and restraint. Whether captured on film or digital, that same philosophy applies.
Digital technology has evolved tremendously, allowing us [fine art photographers] to achieve the depth, texture, and tonal nuance that used to feel exclusive to film. For me, shooting hybrid allows each medium to serve its purpose; film brings this organic, painterly quality that feels timeless, while digital offers flexibility and precision that can beautifully complement it.
Over the years, my approach hasn’t been about chasing trends in either medium, but about creating imagery that feels lasting. I want my work to transcend the format it was captured on; to feel refined, true to the moment, and last the test of time. The tools may evolve, but the heart of fine art photography remains the same: crafting images that feel as though they could live on a wall or in a book for generations.
What are the remaining defining characteristics of film versus digital when it comes to capturing the timeless elegance of a fine art wedding?
Film has an undeniable softness and depth; it renders color and light in a way that feels organic and timeless. The grain, the dynamic range, and even the imperfections contribute to its emotional quality. There’s also an intentionality to film; every frame matters, which naturally slows the process down and invites more presence and artistry.
Digital, on the other hand, offers a clarity and versatility that’s equally valuable in capturing a wedding day. It allows me to adapt quickly to shifting light and fleeting moments while maintaining that same fine art aesthetic through careful exposure and composition.
Both mediums, when approached with intention, can convey timeless elegance. For me, it’s less about one versus the other and more about choosing which tool best translates the feeling of each moment.
How do the workflow and creative processes differ when shooting in film versus digital during a wedding day? Does this ever influence your couple's decision on what to opt for?
Shooting film requires a certain level of trust between the couple and their photographer. Unlike digital, film isn’t something that’s simply added on for a few portraits; it’s woven throughout the entire storytelling process. Each roll is intentional, and the results can’t be instantly reviewed, which means couples place full confidence in their photographer’s vision, timing, and technical expertise. The workflow for film and digital differs both technically and creatively. With film, there’s a slower rhythm; each frame is intentional, and that pace naturally invites more artistry. I’m paying close attention to light, color, and composition before ever pressing the shutter. Digital, by contrast, allows for immediacy and flexibility. It’s wonderful for fast-paced moments like dancing or unexpected weather shifts, where adaptability is key.
When couples choose to work with a hybrid photographer, that process often becomes part of what they value most. They trust me to know when a moment belongs on film and when digital best serves the story. Most don’t have to “choose” one over the other; it’s about blending both seamlessly to create a cohesive, elevated gallery.
Of course, film does carry additional cost and logistical considerations, processing, scanning, and sourcing film stock all contribute. But couples drawn to this medium often see it as an investment in the feeling of their imagery.
Film photography often requires patience and intentionality. How does this shape the way you capture fleeting, candid moments compared to digital?
Film naturally invites patience and presence. Because every frame matters, I approach each moment with more intention; observing light, emotion, and movement before pressing the shutter. That slower rhythm actually creates a heightened awareness; I’m more attuned to the small, fleeting gestures that tell a couple’s story in an authentic way.
With digital, I have the freedom to move quickly and respond instinctively; capturing laughter, movement, and spontaneous emotion as it unfolds. Film, though, has taught me to anticipate rather than react. It’s less about chasing the moment and more about feeling when it’s about to happen.
That balance between patience and intuition is what shapes my storytelling. Even my digital work carries that same film-inspired intentionality, so every image, whether planned or candid, feels thoughtful, and true to the moment
Do you find that the choice of medium affects how you connect with your clients or approach storytelling on their wedding day?
Definitely, the medium I’m working with naturally shapes how I see and tell a story. Film, especially, slows everything down in the best possible way. It invites me to be more present, more observant, and more attuned to the emotion unfolding in front of me. That rhythm encourages storytelling that feels intentional and layered, rather than purely documentary.
Because film doesn’t allow for instant review, it also builds a deeper connection of trust, with my couples and with the moment itself. They’re able to let go, be fully present, and trust that their story is being captured with care.
Are there certain wedding moments or settings where film might truly excel over digital, or vice versa?
Absolutely. There are moments where film truly shines, especially outdoor ceremonies, romantic portraits, and quiet, emotional moments tend to translate beautifully on film. It has a way of rendering light and skin tones with such depth and nuance that the images feel instantly timeless.
Digital, on the other hand, excels in dynamic or low-light settings, like receptions, dance floors, and unpredictable weather, where flexibility and precision are key. It allows me to adapt quickly and ensure every fleeting moment is captured with clarity.
Both mediums have their strengths, and that’s the beauty of a hybrid approach. It’s about intuition; knowing when a moment calls for the nostalgia and texture of film, and when digital will best preserve the energy and vibrance of the scene.
Finally, if a couple feels torn between the two mediums, how do you help guide them to finding their perfect fit as both now can result in a timeless, heirloom-worthy fine art collection?
If a couple feels torn between film and digital, I always remind them that they don’t need to choose one over the other. In my approach, film is woven seamlessly throughout the day; it’s not a separate add-on, but an integral part of how I tell their story. Some moments naturally lend themselves to film’s soft, luminous quality, while others shine in the precision and versatility of digital.
What matters most is creating a cohesive collection that feels timeless and true to the couple. The beauty of hybrid photography is that it combines the best of both worlds: the emotion and texture of film with the clarity and adaptability of digital. Together, they create an heirloom-worthy gallery that feels effortless and complete.
At the heart of it, my work isn’t about choosing between mediums; it’s about storytelling. Film and digital [photography] each play a role in preserving a wedding day with honesty, beauty, and emotion. My goal is always to create images that feel timeless, editorial, and deeply felt. Photographs that will transport couples back to how their day felt for generations to come.
Contributor
Troy Meikle a fine art curation member
