Why Film Photography Is Cool Again In The Era Of Smartphones

Nostalgic analog and film photography is back

Photography to me means freezing a special moment in time to keep close forever. No matter how that moment is captured, whether it be on my iPhone, digital, or film camera, it always feels rewarding when I get the shot just right. The ability to make the ordinary beautiful via camera has always been alluring.

There’s something especially unique about shooting film photography, and a lot of people feel the same magical feeling when working with the medium. Film photography has had a major resurgence in the past decade alongside older digital point-and-shoot cameras, and the style is becoming even more widespread across the internet, social media, and print. Why are we delving back into this process that was seemingly laid to rest for years? Why is shooting film the trendiest thing to do now? Let’s dive into how and why we got here.

When and why did film photography become trendy?

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Let’s get one thing straight: film photography has been around for a long, long time. The first 35mm film to hit the market was developed and released by Kodak in 1908. There was no other way to capture images and videos until around 1994, when digital cameras became popularized. Since then, digital photography has dominated our visual literacy and its processes are widely understood, thanks to the iPhone and other modern cameras. Lo-fi photos from 35mm cameras and point-and-shoot models have become increasingly popular, and I have to wonder what the motivation behind that is.

The Aesthetics Of It All

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In recent years, analog photography has had a pretty strong pull on people wanting to capture moments. There’s just something about shooting film that feels so much cooler, for lack of a better word. I can admit that a big part of what drew me to film was the dated look of what I could capture.

Remember the OG Instagram filters? The current aesthetic pull is extremely similar to that ‘vintage’ appearance the filters would provide a simple photo (I have to admit I was a huge Sepia fan). Images captured on film return with rich, unique colors and a tasteful hint of grain that takes me back to a time I’ve never really experienced.

This vintage look was totally the standard for photos my parents took back when they were my age, and what their parents likely captured, too. Film photography takes everyday moments and elevates them with a ‘throwback’ twist for visual interest, but there’s also a strong element of nostalgia in terms of its returning popularity.

The same goes for the increasing use of digital point-and-shoot cameras that produce lower-quality images. Blurry, low-contrast pictures that use flash are reminiscent of a lot of the photos Gen Z-ers had taken of them during their childhoods. Now, that same visual aesthetic can often be seen reflected on their social feeds, used to curate a specific vibe and stray from the usual iPhone pic.

We're Craving Nostalgia

@kkkarrii film photo dump :) #35mm#пленка#плівка#35мм♬ shoot more film - cole

Nostalgia is definitely the biggest factor playing into the rise of film and lo-fi photography. Not only is there a dated look to the actual images, but the process entails a tactile experience that’s unlike anything my generation has encountered. It’s kind of like how vinyls and tapes became popular to have on hand again – having the ‘real’ thing is nostalgic of past times, plus it just looks cool. Again, this trend is seen with the embrace of Y2K fashion staples, like bedazzled sweatpants, low-rise jeans, or sleek sunglasses.

To start shooting film, you have to actually load film into the camera, align the frames, and adjust the camera’s exposure settings before you even look through the viewfinder. Aside from a tactile experience, the medium also offers you the opportunity to make more conscious choices for image production, as opposed to just tapping the shutter button on your phone screen. In a way, the process allows the photographer to slow down and dive deeper into their creativity, thinking more carefully about what they’ve set out to shoot.

Here's a beginner's guide to shooting analog photography.

The Practice of Delayed Gratification

The most magical aspect of film photography for me is the anticipation of waiting to see what I shot. It’s nice to escape the constant need for instant gratification (that I’d get from TikTok otherwise, sorry not sorry) via film photography. I feel like a little kid on Christmas morning when I finally get film scans back. It’s just fun!

I, like many other film heads, will wait a long time to get my film rolls developed just to have a nice little surprise waiting for me months down the road. People viewed this slower timing as film's number one drawback, but I think now, it’s the medium’s greatest strength.

Bye To High-Level Production

Image via Meredith Holser/Brit + Co

Since the pandemic, there seems to be a desire to move away from high production values. That was a time where people were genuine with one another, and life got really real for a lot of people, so now consumers are seeking authenticity as society moves back into normalcy.

The lo-fi qualities of film and disposable cameras offer a more authentic, rugged lens for industries that used to be all about airbrushing and manipulating images. Figures like Emma Chamberlain have embraced film photos in posts to curate a tight-knit audience. Bella Hadid constantly makes ‘bad’ (by industry standard) photos look chic. We also can’t ignore Frank Ocean’s giant impact on popularizing film cameras. Even Kendall Jenner has recognized the true power of the medium and shoots film on a regular basis. Presenting themselves at a lower quality makes celebrities feel more real, like they’re approachable and we know them (shoutout to parasocial relationships). All in all, film cameras are just a cool thing to have.

It's Easy To Do

Thanks to all of the above, access to film photography is super easy. Every other scroll on my feed, I’m seeing film photo dumps, or artistic, otherworldly photo series. You can totally emulate film shots by using special editing apps, but disposable cameras, point-and-shoots, and 35mm cameras are not hard to find at all these days. Visit your local corner store, or scroll Facebook Marketplace and Depop, and you’ll be able to get your hands on a fairly-priced used film camera.

If you’re looking for that vintage look, or just a different photography experience altogether, I highly recommend starting with a 35mm camera. Starting with a body that has automatic settings like the Canon AE-1 helped me learn more about shooting film, which paved the way for my passion for larger formats and just general appreciation for the medium. There’s tons of possibilities waiting for you!

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Feature image via Meredith Holser/Brit + Co.

Jennifer Lopez may be all over our FYPs, but she's also about to be all over the big screen as well. As some of you may know, she's producing the amazing Emily Henry adaptation Happy Place,and now she's set to work on a new romance with Ted Lasso star and writer Brett Goldstein. And guess what? The two will star in the film as well! Keep reading for all the latest information on the new movie — and Brett Goldstein's IRL crush on J-Lo ;).

What do we know about Office Romance so far?

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According to Deadline, there was a huge bidding war over the Office Romance rom-com, and Netflix ended up winning. Jennifer Lopez's production company, Nuyorican Films, is going to be working on it, thanks to Jennifer's multi-movie deal with Netflix.

As to who will star in it? Jennifer Lopez and Brett Goldstein themselves! Both are playing dual roles of writer/actor and producer/actress. We've all seen Brett Goldstein's incredible writing at play with Ted Lasso, and now we can't wait to see how it translates in this office romance with J-Lo. Brett will be writing the film alongside writer Joe Kelly.

Has cast information been shared? 

Yes! One of Netflix Film shared news about the cast today on Instagram and we're in disbelief over how good it is. Just Jared also shared who everyone will be playing which makes us even more eager to watch Office Romance. Here's the full cast list:

  • Jennifer Lopez as Jackie Cruz
  • Brett Goldstein as Daniel Blanchflower
  • Betty Giplin as Sydney
  • Edward James Olmos as Captain Jack Cruz, Jackie's father
  • Bradley Whitford as Peter Vance
  • Amy Sedaris as Julie Schatz
  • Jodie Whittaker as Lizzy
  • Mary Wiseman as Clair
  • Roger Bart as William Butten
  • Tony Hale as George Zein
  • Rick Hoffman as Carl Gunderson
  • Natalie Ortega as Heather
  • Jackie Sandler as Caroline
  • Tony Plana as Francisco Alberto
  • Michelle Hurd as Rachel Goldberg
  • Mo Welch as Debbie
  • Donald Elise Watkins as Henry
  • Brian Gallivan as Frederick
  • Ali Stroker as Maggie
  • Scott Seiss as Dave
  • Lisa Gilroy as Tanya
  • Will Sasso as Larry

How does Brett Goldstein feel about J-Lo?

David Livingston / Getty

Immediately after news was released about the two co-starring together, fans were so quick to find a clip on X from an interview in 2018 where Brett is talking about J-Lo's movie, Hustlers. He says in the interview, "She's 50! 50! I love her." He then goes on to say, in regards to a scene where Jennifer cuddles another actress in the movie, "I've never wanted to be cuddled more. That is one of the best cuddles. Give me one of your special cuddles." Based on this reaction, we just know their chemistry is about to be off the charts!

What else is Jennifer Lopez working on?

Amazon

Office Romance isn't the only rom-com J.Lo is working on! She's also working on adapting the EmHen book Happy Place for Netflix, which we all know and love (Hi, Emily. We love you!). It will be a multiple-part series on the platform with Leila Cohan from Bridgerton co-Executive producing it.

According to Deadline, Cohan will be the showrunner and co-writer for the series, which we are so excited for as Bridgerton-lovers! As for other future projects, we can't wait to see more news of projects J.Lo is working on, because if these two are any signifiers, then we know it must be good! You can also stream The Mother and Atlas on Netflix now.

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If you're like us, then you're probably missing Taylor Sheridan's Yellowstone — and you probably watched it for not only the plot, but also for the beautiful scenery. Well, the show takes place in Montana and has many people (myself included) wanting to take a trip out to the Big Sky Country. Sound familiar? We've gone ahead and came up with some hot spots you'll want to check out on your next trip whether you're looking to visit Billings, Whitefish, Kalispell, Missoula, Butte, or anywhere in between.

Scroll to find out how to visit Montana like your favorite Yellowstone characters!

Where to Stay in Montana

Larch House

Larch House

If you find yourself in Whitefish, then you'll want to book a stay at Larch House for your visit. This luxury boutique hotel has a variety of standard guest rooms and suites that have farmhouse-style decor and modern amenities. The property is spread across 10 buildings for a lodge-like feel and is home to a speakeasy and heated rooftop pool with views of beautiful mountains. This is the perfect hotel for a girls-trip, bachelorette party, or romantic getaway in the northern region of Montana.

Grouse Mountain Lodge

Grouse Mountain Lodge

Plan on staying in the Whitefish area in the winter? Grouse Mountain Lodge is another property that both skiers and snowboarders will love as it's right near Big Mountain and Glacier National Park. The rooms are cozy, quaint and comfortable giving that more home-like, rustic feel that gravitates people to the country region. At night, you can head to the downtown area that has a plethora of dining and shopping options and then go back to your room to rest up for the next day of adventures.

Paws Up

Paws Up Montana

Paws Up Montana is an all inclusive resort in Greenough, Montana that combines the fun of a ranch with the sophistication of a luxury property. It's great for families who want to explore the great outdoors in a controlled environment as there's over 70 activities to choose from such as horseback riding, fishing, hiking, canoeing and more.

What to do in Montana

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National Parks

Glacier National Park

A trip to Montana isn't complete with visiting a national park. Glacier National Park is home to over 700 miles of trails making it the perfect spot for those hikers looking to venture off the beaten path. You'll be able to see melting glaciers (hence the name) as you explore alongside lakes and valleys. If you enjoy backpacking, then you can do that at this national park but you'll need to get a permit in advance. Don't worry if you forget to file a permit because the Glacier Park Lodge is right next door and they have rooms and suites to keep you comfortable.

National Parks Service

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is the world's first national park — crazy, right? There's so much to do and see at Yellowstone it can be hard to find where to begin. Let's be clear — you probably won't see it all in one trip so that's just another reason to go back! For starters, take a visit to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone River. It runs for 20 miles and can be seen from various points in the park. It's a great location to take those picturesque photos for your Instagram feed — trust me. If you're a fan of hot springs, then you're in luck because there's no shortage of them here.

Glacier Raft Co.

Other Activities in Montana

Glacier Raft Co

Rafting in Montana is a popular activity because there's not only so much water, but also beautiful scenery to take in. Glacier Raft Co. has a selection of rafting excursions and guided experiences to choose from whether you're looking to go out on your own or join a group and explore.

The World Museum of Mining

World Museum of Mining

Located on an actual mine yard, the museum offers a unique experience to visitors to tour the steel headframe and even go on an underground tour of the Orphan Girl Mine. This is an educational and insightful activity to do if you don't want to be out in nature and instead open up your mind to new facts and information.

VisitMT.Com

Garden of One Thousand Buddhas

This park is home to 1000 hand-cast Buddha statues that are positioned around the central Great Mother figure. Located approximately 25 west of Missoula, this garden is the perfect place to venture off to for a peaceful and spiritual experience unlike any other.

Where to Eat in Montana

Lucca's Fine Italian

Lucca's Fine Italian

If you're craving delicious Italian food, then you'll want to make a reservation at Lucca's Fine Italian. This dinner-only restaurant serves up freshly made from scratch cuisine with everything ranging from pasta to poultry — don't miss out on the fisherman's spaghetti. There's no dress code and they encourage guests to come in whatever they feel most comfortable wearing.

Instagram/themontanaclub

The Montana Club

The Montana Club is touted as one of the best restaurants in Montana with its diverse menu filled with steaks, slow-roasted prime rib, seafood, sandwiches, burgers, pasta and salads. No matter where you are in Montana, you'll likely find a location close by as there are five throughout the state in Billings, Missoula, Butte, Kalispell and Great Falls.

Instram/themartbletablemt

The Marble Table

This family-owned restaurant in Billings, Montana is a hot spot for tourists and locals alike in the area. The menu is described as having an elevated twist on traditional comfort foods with menu items including mac and cheese, fried chicken and pork schnitzel. The family-friendly spot is closed on Sunday and Monday so you'll want to be sure to plan accordingly during your visit.

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When Jennifer Lawrenceannounced she was pregnant last year, we couldn't contain our happiness for her! Though she and her husband, Cooke Maroney, aren't known for being in the public eye too much, this is one piece of news they didn't mind sharing. Now, we get to maintain our excitement because the couple's welcomed their precious baby!

Here's everything we know about baby number 2 so far!

Wait, did Jennifer Lawrence really give birth to baby No. 2? 

Kevin Mazur

According to PEOPLE, Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maroney are parents of two! The outlet reports a few sources shared the news with them, confirming rumors about whether the actress had given birth or not (via Daily Mail).

The couple haven't released a public statement, but we're overjoyed for them either way!

November 17: Jennifer Lawrence Glows On The Red Carpet Again

Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Not only is Jennifer Lawrence glowing during her second pregnancy, but she's also showing how stylish moms can be! According to WWD, she wore a gorgeous brown Bottega Veneta gown to the Governors Award event and looked like a goddess on the red carpet. The dress and its gold hardware complemented her skin beautifully along with her matching clutch!

It seems like maternity style gets better every year and it gives this mama hope that the world sees that life doesn't stop just because we have kiddos in tow!

Has Jennifer Lawrence debuted her baby bump yet?

Anna Webber/Getty Images for AFI

YES! Jennifer Lawrence's baby bump was the star of the Zurawski v Texas premiere (via PEOPLE). She wore a structured white dress with a black belt around her waist that accentuated her cute baby bump and appeared to be glowing.

According to Deadline, she's one of the executive producers of Zurawski v Texas, a documentary that sheds light on the "restrictive abortion laws" that put women's lives in danger in Texas. Alongside producers Hilary and Chelsea Clinton, Jennifer's involvement in the documentary as a pregnant woman makes a pivotal statement during a time where mothers' mortalities aren't always considered during their pregnancies.

When did Jennifer Lawrence announce her second pregnancy?

Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images for BFI

Leave it to Vogue to get the exclusive scoop about Jennifer being pregnant again! According to the publication, an official "representative for the actor confirmed" the news, October 20, 2025. So exciting!

What have Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maroney said about their family?

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It seems Jennifer Lawrence and Cooke Maroney were open to the idea of having another baby as recently as this summer! An unknown source told Entertainment Tonight, "Jennifer and Cooke are doing very well and are super in love. They make each other laugh and have the best time parenting together. They would love to have another kid and expand their family."

When was Jennifer Lawrence's first baby born?

Sebastian Reuter/Getty Images for Sony Pictures

Jennifer and Cooke's firstborn son, Cy, was born February 2022, which means he's almost three years old!

The actress later explored her feeling about becoming a mom in another Vogueinterview. "It’s so scary to talk about motherhood. Only because it’s so different for everybody. If I say, It was amazing from the start, some people will think, 'It wasn’t amazing for me at first,' and feel bad. Fortunately I have so many girlfriends who were honest. Who were like, It’s scary," she said.

What has Jennifer Lawrence said about being a mom?

Amy Sussman/Getty Images

It seems like Jennifer found her stride because she's apparently embraced being a mom. She hasn't said anything recently, but she did speak with Entertainment Tonight last year during the promotion of No Hard Feelings about her parenting habits. "Of course, the urge to stop anything from ever hurting or negatively affecting your baby..." she said.

However, co-star Andrew Barth Feldman had nothing but positive words to share about Jennifer as a mom. "Jen is an amazing mother, for real. That was kind of one of the incredible things about doing this with you is seeing just how much of a priority being a mother is for you and how deeply you care about that over everything," he said.

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This post has been updated.

I've been on the edge of my seat for Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson's Verity (even before I saw It Ends With Us), and after hearing about the first look that aired at CinemaCon this week, the internet is even more locked in on the “gothic, psychosexual thriller” (as the film's described by director Mike Showalter) than they've ever been.

Here's what the Verity cast, including Anne Hathaway, Dakota Johnson, and Josh Hartnett, had to say about the new movie from Colleen Hoover.

What is Verity about?

Any Colleen Hoover fan knows the Verity movie revolves around Lowen Ashleigh (Dakota Johnson), who gets hired by Jeremy Crawford (Josh Hartnett) to finish his wife's novels. Renowned author Verity Crawford (Anne Hathaway) is no longer able to write after a tragic accident, but what begins as an exciting project takes a turn for the horrifying when Lowen discovers Verity is hiding a terrible secret.

Anne Hathaway promises 'Verity' is worth "waiting for."

At Amazon MGM's CinemaCon presentation, the Verity cast, Colleen Hoover, and Mike Showalter offered attendees a new look at the movie via video message.

“My character Verity Crawford is an accomplished author with a tragic past,” Anne said, while Dakota joked, “Or is she?”

Josh added, “My character, Jeremy Crawford, is a devoted husband who’s committed to protecting his wife’s legacy.”

“Or is he?” Dakota said again.

“One thing we can say for sure is that seeing Verity in theaters will give fans the shared experience they’ve been waiting for," Anne promised.

And everyone's losing it over the "wild" footage from CinemaCon!

The presentation also included the first trailer for the movie, which showed Verity and Jeremy meeting at a bar — which explains those iconic set leaks of Anne Hathaway and Josh Hartnettrunning through the streets of New York! And when Jeremy's introduced to Lowen and brings her to their giant home, he tells her "she's the only writer who can do this"...and then they begin their own illicit affair. And as they have a hot make out sesh on the couch, Lowen realizes she's kissing Verity and not Jeremy. Wow.

"Just saw the first footage for VERITY starring Josh Hartnett, Anne Hathaway, and Dakota Johnson," @JoeySpielberg says on X. It looks like it’s gonna be good but I honestly couldn’t tell you the plot is but it’s definitely gonna be wild. Seems like a movie you just don’t know what happens next."

"The footage showcases a sexy, mind-bending thriller," @howatdk agrees.

We're sure to see many more shocks and surprises when Verity hits theaters May 15, 2026.

Check out the 10 Most-Anticipated Book-To-Film Adaptations We Can't Wait To See In 2025.

A new Trader Joe’s skincare find just hit shelves, and beauty fans are already reeling about its similarities to more luxury products! The night cream features a handful of ingredients that are commonly found in pricier skincare options, but this TJ’s pick costs a fraction of its suspected competitors.

As a Versed Sweet Relief overnight cream loyalist (I use it every single day without fail), I must say I'm thoroughly convinced to try this new Trader Joe’s item after reading shoppers’ reactions!

Scroll on to discover the all-new Trader Joe’s skincare product worth adding to your routine!

Reddit

Trader Joe’s Night Cream is a brand-new addition to their collection of skincare goodies. In fact, it’s so new that it’s not listed on their website quite yet. Despite its newcomer status, tons of shoppers are already buzzing about the Trader Joe’s Night Cream.

Reddit

One TJ’s fan on Reddit surfaced the new find on the r/TraderJoe’s subreddit, and skincare lovers were super quick to chime in.

Per the post, the Trader Joe’s Night Cream is formulated with Irish sea moss extract, a fermented mushroom complex, ceramides, and sodium hyaluronate. It’s also unscented, which can be super beneficial for sensitive skin in need of moisture.

The TJ’s fan that found the night cream on shelves reported that it is “very thick but dry at the same time. I really had to work it into the skin,” they said. “Very odd consistency.”

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Another shopper that tried the Trader Joe’s Night Cream weighed in on their experience:

“Using it sparingly since I’m quite pregnant and don’t want to mess with sensitive skin but so far it’s quite nice!” they said. “Thick but not greasy in the slightest. I still feel it on my skin when I rinse my face in the AM which means it held up overnight in my dry altitude climate.”

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Several more users compared this new TJ’s formula to other products on the market, mentioning Asian beauty and even retinol for its anti-aging benefits.

“It’s interesting to see all the fermented ingredients in this!” one person commented. “I know that they have been very popular in Asian skincare for years, but I don’t see it that often in the States. I’m excited to try this! Thanks for sharing, I’m going to be on the lookout now.”

“Based on the ingredients list, I suspect this might be a Korean product,” another TJ’s shopper agreed.

“Irish Sea Moss is considered an excellent retinol alternative so if it agrees with one’s skin, not a bad option for those who can’t tolerate or don’t want harsh actives,” one more skincare fan noted.

MARA Beauty

One Redditor confirmed that a single 2-ounce jar of the Trader Joe’s Night Cream cost just $9. Similar moisturizers that leverage sea moss in their formulas (like Wildling’s Moonbounce 2% Bioretinol Irish Sea Moss Plumping Moisturizer and MARA's SeaDream Algae Crème) average around $73, which is insane.

KoolShooters / PEXELS

This TJ’s find could be a great way to try out the sea moss skincare wave without shelling out a fortune! Per episode 87 of The Inside Trader Joe's Podcast, it’s certifiably “high-quality” and “incredibly functional.”

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