Camera for Christmas : DSLR or film ?
Should you opt for a DSLR, renowned for its performance but sometimes complex, or rather turn to a film camera, which is simpler, more intuitive and often more affordable?
In this article, we'll help you see things more clearly. You'll discover the strengths and limitations of each technology, tips for use, ideas for photos to take during the holidays, and a few models suitable for young photographers. By the end, one thing will become clear. The right camera is the one that makes you want to create, not the one that impresses on paper.
SLR cameras: powerful, but with a complexity that should not be underestimated
SLR cameras have long been considered the ultimate choice for any serious photographer. They offer great precision, beautiful image quality, and a wide range of settings. But they are not necessarily suitable for everyone. For a teenager or beginner, their weight, price, and complexity can quickly become a hindrance. Before investing, it is important to clearly understand the expectations and skill level of the person you want to buy it for.
What is the best camera for beginners?
There are several types of cameras to choose from when starting out. Compact, bridge, hybrid, SLR and film cameras. SLR cameras are often seen as ‘professional’ cameras, with interchangeable lenses, excellent light management and advanced options. But they also require knowledge of certain settings, practice in mastering manual modes, and a larger budget.
This is where a bridge camera can be an excellent alternative. It looks similar to an SLR, but it is lighter, less expensive, and easier to use. It has a fixed lens, but offers a very powerful zoom, sometimes superior to that of certain specialised lenses. It is a good compromise for a teenager who is passionate about photography and wants to progress without becoming discouraged.
Starting with a bridge camera or a more intuitive camera allows you to learn the basics without getting lost in complex settings. And if the passion continues, there will always be time to go further.
Which camera should you choose between film and digital?
Digital has the advantage of speed. You can see your photo immediately and correct, delete or retouch it. This is handy, especially when you're just starting out. It also allows you to store hundreds of shots without worrying about film. Recent digital models offer very good results, even without having to change the settings.
But that doesn't mean that film no longer has a place. Quite the contrary. One forces you to work quickly, the other encourages you to take your time. Film photography requires you to think about framing, work with the light of the moment, and focus on the essentials. There is no screen to check, no filter to add. Just the eye, the gesture, and the image.
Choosing between the two therefore depends on the style of photography you want to practise. Digital favours instant photography and rapid experimentation. Film develops a different way of seeing, one that is more attentive and authentic.
Is a camera a good Christmas gift?
Giving a camera for Christmas is an invitation to observe, create and keep a record of what matters. But for it to be a real pleasure, the camera must be suited to the person receiving it.
A model that is too complex can quickly discourage the user. Conversely, a camera that is too simple can hinder progress. It is important to find the right balance between the user's desires, level of experience, and how the camera will be used. Some young people like to experiment on their own, while others prefer simple tools with fewer technical constraints.
What matters is not only the type of camera, but what it will allow the person to experience. A successful Christmas photo is not always the sharpest or the most retouched. It is the one that has captured a moment, a light or an expression. And sometimes, that starts with a simple but well-chosen camera.
Film photography: simplicity, enjoyment and creativity for all ages
Film photography forces you to slow down, observe and take care with each shot. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone who is curious, creative or looking for something more personal than a quick snapshot. Accessible, durable and often very aesthetic, film cameras are now a great alternative to digital models, especially at Christmas.
What is the advantage of a film camera over a digital camera?
A film camera has no screen, no Wi-Fi, no intrusive automation. It encourages you to focus on the image you want to capture, to think about framing, to observe the light. Every photo counts, because the number of shots is limited. It's a more intuitive, more manual approach that allows you to develop a real sense of composition.
The result is also very different. The grain, the softness of the contrasts and the small imperfections give the images a warmth that is not always found in digital photography. This appeals to many teenagers who want to move away from digital, find their own style or simply try something new.
For a first approach to film photography, the Kodak Ultra F9 is a good starting point. It works entirely in manual mode, with a built-in flash for dark scenes. It forces you to be involved in every photo, while remaining easy to use. Its retro design and light weight make it a popular camera, especially for those who like to move around, experiment and create with their hands.
The advantages of medium format film
Not all film cameras are created equal, and some formats offer real benefits for those who want to go a step further. Half-frame, for example, allows you to take two photos per frame, or up to 72 exposures on a 36-exposure roll of film. It's ideal for practising, testing and experimenting without worrying about using up all your film in a matter of minutes.
In terms of rendering, half-frame offers a softer image, which is often highly appreciated for portraits or street photography. It's a format that requires a little more precision in framing, but it develops the eye and attention to detail.
The Kodak EKTAR H35N is right in line with this philosophy. Modern and well-designed, it embraces the codes of half-frame with a sober and effective style. It also allows you to play with double exposure, which opens the door to true creativity. It's a camera that appeals to young beginners as well as those who enjoy visual experimentation. And its entirely mechanical operation makes it a great tool for understanding the basics of screen-free photography.
What gift should you give someone who loves photography?
There are those who want to equip themselves with the latest technology. And then there are those who seek meaning in taking pictures, pleasure in the act itself, or simply an object that reflects who they are. For these people, film photography hits the mark.
Giving someone a film camera is giving them a complete experience. You choose your film, you shoot without knowing exactly what the result will be, and you wait for it to be developed. Then you rediscover your images, sometimes several weeks later. This gives memories a different value and a different relationship to time.
The Kodak S88, for example, offers a slightly more advanced approach, with a design inspired by the 1980s, a winding motor and a comfortable grip. This model is well suited to curious teenagers who are attracted to unique objects and want to learn in a different way. With this type of camera, photography becomes a form of expression, not just a quick gesture.
Inspiration, uses and ideas for Christmas with a film camera
The festive season is the ideal time to try your hand at film photography. The lights, faces and moments of sharing offer so many scenes to capture. With a little preparation and a few tips, you can create beautiful, emotive images without the need for complex equipment. Here are a few ideas for using your camera in a simple and creative way during the festive season.
How to take beautiful Christmas photos?
The most important thing is to be attentive to what is happening around you. With film photography, you don't just snap away all the time. First, you observe. Soft lighting, a fleeting smile, a family scene in the kitchen... These moments can become beautiful images if you keep a few key points in mind.
Choose the natural light whenever possible. Fairy lights and candles often create a warm atmosphere. Avoid overly wide frames. Getting closer adds intensity. A simple composition, good contrast and a background that isn't too busy are all you need to take a beautiful photo. Sometimes it's the little details, like a hand serving hot chocolate or an exchanged glance, that make a photo precious.
How to photograph Christmas lights?
Photographing outdoor lights requires a little more attention. It is best to use film with a high sensitivity, such as ISO 800, to avoid blurring due to lack of light. Ideally, aim for the brightest areas and avoid using the automatic flash, which tends to flatten the image.
This is where film really comes into its own. The contrasts between shadows and points of light give an organic look that is often softer than digital. A simple, compact and lightweight camera is particularly useful in these conditions. The Kodak EKTAR H35 is a good example. It fits comfortably in your hand, is quick to adjust, and allows you to capture this type of atmosphere naturally, without having to carry around bulky equipment.
How to take a beautiful photo of a Christmas tree?
The Christmas tree is a must-have in Christmas photos. To show it off to its best advantage, think about framing and depth of field. Try to create a blurred background to focus attention on a decorated part, a colourful bauble or a particular light.
Light also plays an important role. It's best to photograph the tree in dim light, when the lights are on. They will stand out better on film. Film allows you to capture that soft, almost hushed atmosphere typical of winter evenings. By choosing the right moment and avoiding overly bright lighting, you'll get a charming image that captures the Christmas spirit.
A camera suited to Christmas
An SLR camera remains a solid choice for technical enthusiasts, but it is not always the most suitable for a teenager or someone who is just starting out, especially on Christmas Eve. Film cameras offer a different experience. Fewer screens, more attention and often a real pleasure in rediscovering photography in a different way.
At Kodak, film cameras are designed to be accessible, reliable and suitable for all styles. From half-frame beginners' models to more complete motorised cameras, there's something for everyone. Perhaps that's the right choice for Christmas. A simple, well-designed camera that makes you want to see things differently and create with sincerity.