Exploring London Through the Lens of Low-Sensitivity Film: A Unique Photography Experience

For photography enthusiasts, experimenting with different films can lead to surprising and delightful results. Recently, I had the opportunity to capture 17 candid moments in the vibrant city of London using an unconventional approach—very low sensitivity film.

This particular film, with an ISO of just 1, is primarily designed for duplicating movie reels. However, a Canadian company has cleverly packaged it in standard 35mm canisters, making it accessible for traditional photography. The film, a thoughtful gift from a friend, inspired me to embark on a creative journey to see how it performed in the bustling streets of London.

While shooting, I primarily worked with a wide aperture of f/1.2 at a shutter speed of 1/75, and occasionally f/1.7 at 1/60. This combination allowed me to capture the essence of the city while harnessing the unique characteristics of the film. The results are a testament to the beauty of low-sensitivity photography, showcasing the subtle interplay of light and shadow in a way that is both intriguing and evocative.

The images, while not excessively technical or deep in concept, serve to illustrate the charm of London through a distinctive lens. They tell a story of moments that might otherwise go unnoticed—fleeting glimpses of life in a city that never sleeps.

If you’re curious about how the world looks through the lens of low sensitivity film, I invite you to explore these random shots and discover the beauty that lies in experimentation and creativity in photography.