Hi, I’m Julie, the photographer behind Among the Grain Photography. I photograph on both film and digital, and film is something I love bringing into a session.


I’m drawn to the grain, the color, and the way light looks from one frame to the next. If you’ve found yourself saving photographs with that textured, nostalgic feel, adding 35mm film might be worth considering.


What Does Adding Film Actually Mean?


I load a roll of photographic film into a film camera and use it during your session alongside my digital camera. These are photographs made on actual film, rather than digital images with a film filter applied.


After the roll is developed, the negatives are scanned to create digital files. You receive those photographs in your online gallery, where you can download, share, and print them alongside your digital images.


You don’t need a film camera, a scanner, or any knowledge of film. I take care of that part.


It Brings a Different Look to Your Gallery


One of my favorite things about film is its texture. You might notice visible grain, subtle differences in color, or the way bright light fades into softer tones.


There isn’t one single “film look.” The film stock, lighting, exposure, and scanning all influence the finished photograph. Film can be colorful and crisp, soft and understated, or full of contrast.


Adding it gives your gallery another visual quality to enjoy. You might find that a particular portrait becomes your favorite on film, while you prefer another moment photographed digitally.


Each Frame Gets a Little More Thought


A roll has a limited number of photographs, and I can’t check the back of the camera after taking one.


That’s part of what I enjoy. I pay attention to the light, the composition, and when to press the shutter. There’s anticipation in it, too—I have to wait to see the finished photographs.


That doesn’t mean your session needs to become slow or serious. We can still move around, laugh, and keep things relaxed while I switch between cameras.


It Works for Both Candid and Posed Photographs


Film doesn’t require you to act a certain way or have a particular kind of photoshoot.


We can use it for a family portrait with everyone looking at the camera, a couple walking together, an individual portrait, or something that happens between planned photographs.


I’ll still help with posing and offer direction when you need it. If you feel awkward in front of the camera, adding film doesn’t give you anything extra to figure out.


You Can Have Film and Digital Together


You don’t have to commit your whole session to film to enjoy it.


Digital gives me flexibility throughout the shoot, while film adds a smaller selection of photographs with a different texture and character. I enjoy working with both, and a mixed gallery lets you experience each.


You also don’t need a vintage outfit or an elaborate location. Film works just as well with your everyday clothes, a familiar park, or time spent at home.


Is It Right for Your Session?


If you love visible grain, the character of older photographs, or are simply curious about seeing yourself on film, let’s talk.


You can choose a session photographed entirely on 35mm or combine film and digital. Film-only sessions are for those who want the whole gallery made on film. Digital + film sessions bring together the flexibility of digital and the texture and color of 35mm.


Not sure which feels right? Take my Find Your Film Fit quiz to explore the options. You can also browse my film photographs to see whether the colors, grain, and overall feel appeal to you.


I offer both experiences in Maryland, Baltimore, Washington, DC, and surrounding areas. Let me know what you have in mind, and I’ll help you choose the right fit.