Documenting Life Through 35mm Film: A St. Pete Lifestyle Photographer's Perspective

As a lifestyle photographer based in St. Petersburg, Florida, there's something about the timeless allure of 35mm film that continues to captivate me. In a world increasingly dominated by digital images, film photography offers a refreshing, nostalgic alternative that brings a unique sense of authenticity to the stories I capture. Whether it's the soft grain, the rich color tones, or the unexpected surprises that come with shooting on film, each frame feels like a moment frozen in time — not just an image, but an experience.

The Charm of 35mm Film

Film photography has a certain magic that digital images just can't replicate. With every roll of 35mm film, I am not just taking a photo; I'm creating a piece of art, guided by the limitations and beauty of the medium. Unlike digital photography, where I can instantly review and tweak my shots, film requires a deeper sense of intention and patience. I carefully consider my framing, lighting, and composition because I only have a limited number of exposures on each roll.

There's also a natural unpredictability that comes with shooting film. From light leaks to the graininess of underexposed shots, these "imperfections" are often what give film its character. For me, this element of surprise adds depth to the storytelling process. Each image is a little bit of a mystery — I don’t know exactly what I’ll get until the film is developed, and even then, sometimes the results are unexpected in the best way.

The Joy of Slowing Down

One of the key aspects of working with 35mm film is the act of slowing down. In a world where instant gratification is the norm, taking the time to carefully compose a shot, think about lighting, and truly immerse yourself in the moment feels almost like a form of meditation. There’s no rush to get the perfect shot because I know that the process will unfold in its own time.

For me, this slow approach is important not just as a photographer, but as a person living in today’s fast-paced world. It’s a reminder to be present, to savor the small moments — whether it’s a spontaneous portrait of a friend laughing at a local café, a quiet sunset over the bay, or a candid shot of a couple strolling hand-in-hand down Beach Drive. Film allows me to engage with these moments more deeply, capturing their true essence rather than rushing through them.

Preserving Memories, One Frame at a Time

What I love most about shooting 35mm film is how it gives me a chance to document life in a more intentional way. Each roll of film is a time capsule, preserving memories that feel more tangible, more meaningful. In a way, film photos have a certain gravitas — they feel weighty in a world where digital images can be so fleeting.

I think back to the families, friends, and couples I’ve worked with, and I imagine them years from now, flipping through a photo album filled with 35mm prints. The grainy images, the muted tones, the slight imperfections — they’ll all come together to tell a story of life as it was, capturing not just how things looked, but how they felt.

As a St. Pete-based lifestyle photographer, 35mm film has become more than just a way to capture images — it’s a way to document life in all its beautiful, imperfect glory. It’s about embracing the process, slowing down, and celebrating the authenticity of every moment. In a world where we’re often encouraged to move quickly and consume content at a fast pace, film photography invites us to take a step back and savor the fleeting moments that make life so special.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering through the streets of St. Pete, take a moment to look around, breathe in the beauty of the world, and remember: sometimes the best way to document life is through a camera, a roll of film, and a heart full of intention.

If you’re interested in learning more about my work or booking a session, feel free to reach out. I’d love to help you capture your story — one frame at a time.



Lots of love,

Victoria