Why 2026 Couples Are Loving 35mm Film Wedding Photography in Cape Town (And How to Add It to Your Package)

Louise Meyer
2 days ago
2 min read

Ballet dancer in a white tutu leaps gracefully by a lake, flanked by statues, with mountains in the background under a clear sky. 35mm film photography

(All photos in this post was shot with Nikon F3, 35mm Portra 400 film. By Lootsin Photography)

If you’ve been anywhere near Pinterest, TikTok, or the coolest wedding accounts lately, you’ve seen it: that dreamy, grainy, soulful look that somehow makes every moment feel like it belongs in a vintage love story. It’s not a filter. It’s not digital. It’s real 35mm film, and it’s officially the hottest wedding photography trend sweeping South Africa (and the world) right now.And yes — I now offer it as an exclusive add-on for my Cape Town couples.

So, What's the Big Deal with 35mm Film at Weddings?It’s the opposite of perfect—and that’s why it’s perfect.

Digital delivers razor-sharp, perfectly exposed images. 35mm film? It gives texture, soft light flares, colours like a 90s sunset, and that unmistakable grain making every photo feel like a forever memory. Brides tell me: “We want shots that feel like us—not an Instagram preset.”It’s genuinely rare.

35mm film photography of Bride joyfully holds flowers, raising arms, alongside groom in black suit. Guests celebrate. Arched entrance with greenery in background.

Most photographers faking “film” just slap presets on digital. True 35mm film wedding photography needs pro gear: I shoot on a Nikon F3, with stocks like Portra 400, developed at Cape Town film supply. Only a handful of us in Cape Town do it right. That scarcity? Pure luxury.

Couple embraces at a wedding under chandeliers, surrounded by candles and flowers. Elegant white decor and draped fabric set a romantic mood.

Every frame costs to shoot and develop. I limit to 2–5 rolls (different packages available), forcing intention, every click counts. Result: A curated gallery of emotional, timeless, unfiltered moments, that you will receive within a week of your wedding date.

Table Mountain haze, Clifton golden hour, fynbos glow, film soaks it up. Warmer colours, deeper blacks, grain like a 1998 magazine spread. [ "2025 Wedding Trends: Film Revival"]

Ballerina in white tutu dances on an elegantly set table, framed by large arched window with mountain and lake view. Sunlight casts soft shadows. 35mm film photography

What You Get with My 35mm Film Wedding Add-On in Cape Town. Different packages available on request.

2–5 rolls shot alongside digital coverage that is booked separately.
Photos received one week after wedding date.
20–30 hand-picked, high-res scans in your online gallery
Ten 13×18cm archival prints in a keepsake box, couriered free
Limited to first 18 2026 weddings—film isn’t infinite

An investment that books out yearly, inquire here (contact).Still on the Fence?Ten years from now: 2,000 crisp digitals... or 30 frames that make you tear up? If it's the latter, let's chat. My 2026 diary fills fast, film spots first. Email me at lootsinphotography@gmail.com to book your free consultation now.

Louise Loots