Why Film Photography Is Cool Again In The Era Of Smartphones

Nostalgic analog and film photography is backNostalgic 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?

Photo by Inga Seliverstova / PEXELS

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

Photo by Casey / PEXELS

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.

While I love seeing BookTok-viral novels get turned into movies (hello It Ends With Us!), it's just as fun to see them get turned into TV shows, like Fourth Wing — which is why I had such high hopes for A Court of Thorns and Roses at Hulu...before it got canceled. But believe it or not, the fantasy series cancellation could actually a good thing.

Here's the latest update on the A Court of Thorns and Roses show.

Is the ACOTAR TV show still happening?

KoolShooters/Pexels

A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show has officially be scrapped at Disney’s 20th Television, according to Variety. But ACOTAR fans, don't give up hope! Sarah J. Maas was working with Outlander creator Ronald D. Moore, but now Variety's sources say that after the rights expire at Disney, SJM will be shopping the rights to an ACOTAR show to a different studio and platform.

Honestly, I'm totally here for this because a platform like Prime or Max would provide a different kind of edge and aesthetic to the series that would serve it in a different way. And if we have to wait a little longer for a platform SJM feels most aligned with, I'm willing to stick it out!

On February 27, 2024, Sarah J. Maas reportedly went out to coffee with Margot Robbie. Margot's production company (LuckyChap) has backed projects like I, Tonya, Promising Young Woman, Saltburn. Everything Margot touches turns to gold so I really hope she eventually ends up on the creative team for A Court of Thorns and Roses!

Who plays Rhysand in ACOTAR?

Jared Subia/Unsplash

We never got an official cast announcement, but there are plenty of ACOTAR fancasts.

Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca in Netflix's hit series Bridgerton, would be the PERFECT addition to the cast, whether she plays Elain or Feyre. And now, I honestly don't know if I'll be satisfied with anyone else ;). "She is ELAIN," one TikTok user comments. "Literally copy paste from my brain Elain."

Deuxmoi (via Marie Claire Australia) revealed some potential actors who could be in the running, like Thomas Doherty, Theo James, and Katherine Langford. Actress Brec Bassigner expressed that she'd love to be considered for a role. "I emailed my team, and I was like, ‘Listen, I don’t care if I have one line. I have to be a part of this,'" she says in an interview with TV Line.

Is ACOTAR getting a 6th book?

Amazon

Yes, ACOTAR book 6 is on the way! We don't know who the new book will focus on, but Sarah J. Maas did say she's excited to bring it to us.

"The next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them," she said during an appearance on TODAY.

What is A Court of Thorns and Roses about?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a huntress who's forced to live with the immortal faeries after killing a wolf in the woods. The longer she stays in the Fae's world, the more she begins to love it — and the passionate, alluring faerie Tamlin. But as a dark shadow grows, both their world and Tamlin are put in danger, and it's up to Feyre to save them all.

When did the Court of Thorns and Roses series come out?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses is the first novel in the series of the same name, and was published in 2015. Sarah J. Maas continued the series with A Court of Mist and Fury in 2016, A Court of Wings and Ruin in 2017, A Court of Frost and Starlight in 2018, and A Court of Silver Flames in 2021.

Are you excited for the A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show? Let us know your dream cast in the comments and on TikTok! And read up on The Only ACOTAR Character Breakdown You Need Before Book 6 Comes Out.

This post has been updated.

Piper Ratliff's outfits on The White Lotus are exactly what I'm looking to add to my spring and summer wardrobe for 2025. Piper's (Sarah Catherine Hook) style is the perfect mix of bohemian and classy that gives off a certain laidback elegance. And considering I'm a Carolina girl myself (not to mention I'm actually from the beach), I know exactly how to achieve that ultimate vacation vibe. Here are the best sundresses for a White Lotus look...without any of the drama.

Keep reading for the best sundresses to add some Piper Ratliff & White Lotus magic to your summer wardrobe.

How To Get Piper Ratliff's style from 'The White Lotus.'

Fabio Lovino/HBO

Like I mentioned earlier, all of Piper Ratliff's best outfits are a mix of three things: bohemian, classy, and fitted. While the aesthetic is giving girl off duty, her attention to detail means she always looks put together. Because if you ask me, that's the secret to always looking expensive! Her best outfits feature pieces that are fitted in a flattering way, her accessories are intentional, and everything in her outfit is working together. In this case, less is more.

8 Dresses For Summer 2025 Piper Ratliff Would Approve Of

Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Emerson Poplin Wide Strap Midi Dress

This gorgeous dress is perfect for both spring and summer, and it's flirty while still offering plenty of coverage. Plus the blue and white color combo is so giving Carolina.

Madewell

Madewell Seamed Squareneck Midi Dress

To channel Piper's more minimalist outfits, this khaki dress is flattering, elevated, and it lets your accessories take center stage.

J. Crew

J. Crew Squareneck Midi Dress

If you prefer to keep your accessories, low-key, a printed dress will do all the heavy lifting for you. And this print is totally giving White Lotus!

Old Navy

Old Navy Fit & Flare Lightweight Smocked Gingham Midi Dress

You can never have too many fit and flair dresses if you ask me. Especially when they feature fluttery sleeves and a dreamy gingham print.

Anthropologie

Anthropologie LSPACE Calla Midi Dress

For the ultimate beachy look, opt for a lightweight, strappy dress. You can wear it over your bathing suit during the day or a colorful bodysuit at night.

J. Crew

J. Crew Fitted-Waist Shirtdress

If there's anything that makes sense for a preppy Carolina girl, it's a collar. Add some raffia sandals for a Piper Ratliff-approved boho edge.

Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Strapless Drop-Waist Midi Dress

Y'all, I can't stop thinking about this dress. The silhouette! The color! The detail! It's the perfect thing to pack for any vacation...whether or not you're showing up to a White Lotus resort. ;)

Amazon

CUPSHE Beach Dress

Comfy, casual, and some eye-catching details? Sign me up.

Which Piper Ratliff-inspired look will you be rocking this summer? Don't forget to read up on Everything You Need To Know About The WhiteLotus Season Finale.

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Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) have always been a dramatic duo, but they're taking the drama to new heights right now: they're breaking up, according to TMZ. The Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker BFFs announced they were expecting their first child together, making this all way more complicated than a simple split. And Megan Fox just gave birth to their sweet new baby.

Here's everything to know about Machine Gun Kelly and Megan Fox's baby— & their breakup.

Did Megan Fox have her baby?

www.instagram.com

Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly may not be together, but they have a lot to celebrate now that their daughter made her grand debut! Machine Gun Kelly eagerly announced her arrival on Instagramby sharing a small black and white video of him holding her toes.

No matter where he and Megan stand, the rapper made it clear he's excited their daughter was born safe and sound. The sweetest part of his caption is him calling the newborn a "little celestial seed."

He also explained that Travis Barker helped welcome their daughter through music, adding, "We composed the score of the birth. What an epic journey. Praise God."

We also love positive the comments on the announcement post are! Even MTV couldn't resist commenting by writing, "congratulations ♥️."

And get this, Megan's birth was aided by music. "We composed the score of the birth. What an epic journey. Praise God," Kelly told E! News. If you're wondering whose music they were listening to, it's none other than Travis Barker!

Did Machine Gun Kelly and Megan Fox break up?

www.instagram.com

TMZ reported Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly broke up on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The pair allegedly split on Thanksgiving weekend in Vail, Colorado given "upsetting material" Megan found on MGK's phone. Apparently they haven't been together since the breakup, with MGK going as far as to leave their trip early.

Megan announced she was pregnant on Instagram a month before they allegedly broke up, on November 11, 2024. According to PEOPLE, MGK was "basically telling everyone he knows" about the baby, and that the pair is "doing well" in general. Now, it seems like the tables have really turned in the latter regard.

However, an exclusive source told PEOPLE, "Their relationship has always been bumpy. They love each other but don't have compatible personalities." The source explained that Megan and MGK are "both hot-heads, dramatic and stubborn," noting that they've "worked things out" when they broke up in the past. "When they're good together, they're great," they said. "They will very likely get back together."

PEOPLE reported that Megan and MGK announced their engagement on Instagram on January 12, 2022. However, the Jennifer's Body star only features her pregnancy announcement on Instagram now — and while MGK doesn't have a post on his grid either, you can still see his video of her engagement ring here!

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

This post has been updated.

The World Happiness Report for 2025 is officially here, and there's a LOT to take away from it — including the happiest countries around the world that you can visit and live in this year. Whether there's better healthcare, more community, and everything in between, some places really are just happier than others. So, without further ado, these are officially the most happy countries in the world for 2025!

Scroll to see what the happiest countries in the world are for 2025!

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

Yan Krukau

The 2025 World Happiness Report was aptly released on March 20, the International Day of Happiness!

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

FbyF Studio

Published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the report is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in over 140 countries. It ranks nations by happiness using the average life evaluations over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.

Participants in the survey rate their overall life satisfaction, and these self-assessments determine the rankings. To better understand the factors influencing happiness, the report examines six key indicators: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

What rank is USA in World Happiness Report?

Samson Katt

This year, the United States isn't faring so well. This year, our nation dropped to its lowest ranking ever: number 24.

According to Illana Ron-Levey, Gallup's managing director, some of the United States' decline in happiness was "at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives."

Why would some people be less happy in 2025?

Vlada Karpovich

"Today's young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she added.

The good news is that the research shows people are generally kinder than we assume, and recognizing this could boost our happiness and transform how we perceive those around us.

Moreover, there are plenty of extremely happy countries that make desirable travel destinations. Here are some that topped the list in satisfaction.

Paul Theodor Oja

2025's Happiest Countries In The World

It may not come as a shock that Finland has taken first place for the eighth year in a row. The nation boasts many beneficial policies and initiatives, such as universal health care, as well as a strong social support and education infrastructure. It also has a very low crime rate.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, too, from soaking up the northern lights under the Arctic sky to hiking in one of Finland's 41 national parks, seeing breathtaking architecture, experiencing Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice, and, of course, trying Finnish food.

The runners-up to Finland include Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Just like Finland, these three countries held onto their global happiness ranking from 2024.

Damir K

Those hoping to visit Denmark can explore its capital city, Copenhagen, which is rich in museums and other cultural experiences, learn about the fascinating history of Vikings, and dine at Michelin award-winning restaurants.

Rudy Kirchner

Over in Iceland, experience unbelievable 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July, go whale watching, take a diving tour or guided snorkeling trip at Thingvellir National Park, traverse glaciers, relax in geothermal spas, and walk along beautiful black sand beaches.

Shvets Anna

Finally, in Sweden, there are various vibrant cities to check out, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Pop fans must visit the ABBA museum, while culinary connoisseurs need to try authentic Swedish meatballs, and nature lovers can take in all the natural beauty that Sweden is renowned for.

Aside from the Nordic countries, which are dominating the globe in terms of happiness, two Latin American countries also made it into the top 10 for the very first time. Costa Rica ranked at number six, and Mexico at number 10.

Diego Madrigal

If you travel to Costa Rica, you can embark on all kinds of adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and river rafting.

Bryan Martinez

Or, in Mexico, see the archaeological site Chichen Itza, take a delicious food tour, and sit back on the sand of some stunning beaches.

What's the full list of the happiest countries in the world for 2025?

Kristoffer Brink Jonsson

  1. Finland
  2. Denmark
  3. Iceland
  4. Sweden
  5. Netherlands
  6. Costa Rica
  7. Norway
  8. Israel
  9. Luxembourg
  10. Mexico
  11. Australia
  12. New Zealand
  13. Switzerland
  14. Belgium
  15. Ireland
  16. Lithuania
  17. Austria
  18. Canada
  19. Slovenia
  20. Czechia
  21. United Arab Emirates
  22. Germany
  23. United Kingdom
  24. United States
  25. Belize

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Raffia sandals are going to be huge for spring fashion this year, and since warmer weather provides the perfect excuse to swap out your heavy boots for something a lil' lighter, it’s time to add a pair of raffia sandals to your wardrobe! Whether you’re dressing up for a cutie spring brunch or keeping it pretty casual on vacation, these comfy raffia sandals will be your go-to for every occasion.

Shop our 9 favorite raffia sandals below!

Target

Wild Fable Elide Raffia Fisherman Platform Heels

With the flair of the fisherman aesthetic, these platform sandals lean a little bit bold to make easy 'fits (like jeans and a white tee or linen pants and a tank) truly stand out.

DSW

Anne Klein Roe Sandals

The heels on these cuties definitely make them a fit for formal occasions. Got an Easter party on the cal? Well, you've officially found your shoe! What we love the most about this pair is the black scalloped accents on the straps that instantly add a playful vibe.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Cabo Nights Embellished Sandals

Easy to slip right into, these raffia sandals boast some eye-catching crystals to make any spring outfit feel a lil' bit bougie. Though these do have some height to them in the flatform design, the insole is impressively soft and cushiony for all-day comfort.

Anthropologie

Dolce Vita Wriley Raffia Platform Sandals

With some added visual oomph from the bold black lining, these raffia sandals also come with extra reinforcements around the ankle strap to stabilize your step. This is a great pair to snag if you love the look of raffia sandals but want your shoe game to stand out from more traditional styles!

DSW

Crown Vintage Dylann Sandals

Not all raffia sandals have to be the classic tan color – we adore this stunning orange colorway because it's downright perfect for wearing on spring and summer vacations. If you're jetting off to somewhere beachy soon, this pair would look simply iconic with a flowy white sundress or a tasteful matching set for that epic post-beach dinner.

Nordstrom

Steve Madden Bigmona Raffia Platform Sandals

The chunky platform and wide base on these raffia sandals add to their insane comfort level. What's more is the insoles are super soft to handle step after step! You can also easily adjust the straps on these babies to find your ideal fit. If you're one to get your steps in, you'll undoubtedly enjoy walking in these – no matter where you go!

Anthropologie

SIMONMILLER Cloudy Raffia Platform Slide Sandals

Ooh, the puffy feel of these green raffia sandals make 'em feel so retro (in the best way possible). These are the pair to shop if you tend to like a good pop of color on your feet to balance out more neutral 'fits.

DSW

Crown Vintage Leah Sandals

For a casual look, these low-profile raffia sandals are wonderfully easy to wear. They have a slight wedge heel to make them look more polished, plus dual straps to secure your feet with every stride!

Nordstrom

Dolce Vita Holis Fisherman Sandals

Complete with a chic preppy look, these fisherman-style raffia sandals supply a bit more coverage around the toes, but are still generously breathable for hot days. They're simple to secure, too, thanks to the side buckles.

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