In September 2024, I took a bike ride from Berlin to Copenhagen and decided to document my trip using a film camera instead of a digital one. If you have been reading this blog for a while, you already know I’m a big fan of film photography. If you don’t, here is an article for you.
I decided to go analog here since I wanted to use this opportunity to capture some beautiful photos of my trip more traditionally. Of course, I didn’t only carry my film camera of choice, a Lomography LC-A+, but I also used my iPhone to take pictures.
Due to some issues with the space available and my fear of falling, I left my Canon F-1 home. I traveled to Copenhagen with a more compact camera. This is how I ended up cycling with my Lomography LC-A+.
I wanted a consistent look throughout the trip, so instead of my usual experimental approach to film usage, I bought some rolls of Kodak Gold 200 and took them with me. You will see this in the images I selected for this.
Why I Chose Film Over Digital on My Bike Ride from Berlin to Copenhagen
You might be asking yourself: why use a film camera on a bike ride like this? Easy, I chose to use a film camera for a few reasons. First, I love the look of film photos. They have a certain warmth and graininess that I find very appealing, giving the images a certain character. Second, I like the interesting challenge of using a film camera. It requires more patience and planning than a digital camera, but the results are worth it. Third, I wanted to create a more personal and nostalgic trip record, like the National Geographic magazines I read as a kid.
Film photography is slower and more deliberate than digital photography, which helps capture the experience’s essence. It was great for me to stop and think about the pictures while still on a bike. It made me see some of the scenery and details in a different light.
Also, it was great to relive the entire trip once I got the negatives back from the photo lab. It made the whole trip last even longer with me.
The Benefits of Using a Film Camera on a Bike Trip
Here are some of the benefits of using a film camera on a bike ride:
- It forces you to slow down and appreciate the moment. You’ll be more mindful of each shot because you can only take a limited number of photos.
- It helps you to focus on the composition and lighting of your photos. Film photography requires more careful framing and exposure than digital photography.
- Film photography creates a more personal and nostalgic record of your trip. It has a unique look and feel that digital photography can’t replicate.
- It’s a fun and rewarding experience. Using a film camera can be challenging, but it’s also a lot of fun. It’s a great way to learn more about photography and create beautiful photos you’ll cherish for years.
Of course, there are also some drawbacks to using a film camera. It can be a bit more expensive and inconvenient, and you won’t be able to see your photos immediately after you take them. However, the benefits of using a film camera outweigh the drawbacks—at least for me.
Here are some additional tips for using a film camera on a bike ride:
- Choose a compact and lightweight camera. You don’t want to be carrying a heavy camera around all day. Keep it simple.
- Pack extra film. You don’t want to run out of film during your trip.
- Be careful with your camera. Make sure you keep it safe and dry.
- Film photography is a slow and deliberate process, so take your time and enjoy the experience.
When I see the pictures I took during those days of cycling, it’s easy for me to remember the scenery and the places I passed by. Among all these photos, my favorite ones are from the fields I cycled through when I arrived in Denmark, the first ray of sunshine on one of the rainy days in Northern Germany, the ancient grave sights I visited in Møn and the cosmopolitan beauty of Copenhagen. I’m looking forward to the second stage of this trip to Oslo.
If you’re planning a bike trip and are considering using a film camera, I highly recommend it. It’s a great way to capture the beauty and memories of your journey uniquely and meaningfully.
A Nostalgic Journey Through Berlin to Copenhagen on Film
If you want to see more analog pictures of this trip, I have an album on Lomography.com that you might like. There is also one on Flickr that has higher-resolution photos.
