I became interested in film photography about 2 years ago when I walked by a small camera shop and saw a nice Canon camera in the window for 8000 yen. I went into the shop, bought the camera (and lens), the owner threw in a roll of film and a strap for free, and I was off!
The first roll of film I took, only 4 pictures turned out. The rest were over or under-exposed, blurry, or just off. The shop owner gave me some pointers, and I was off again. The 2nd roll, about 10 pictures turned out, and 1 of them was actually nice. Again, after they were developed, we looked at them together and he offered me some more advice. Since then, I have always returned to that shop for all my camera and processing needs.
I have learned a lot about 35mm film photography, from trial and error, reading online articles and just doing my best. But the best source for learning and inspiration has been the owner of this little camera shop in Zeze. He has been continuously kind and caring and helpful, and it’s this kindness and customer service that keeps me going back, and I’m certain it’s what gives his business the edge against all the other camera shops in the area.
More recently, my Japanese teacher was getting married and she asked me if I would take pictures at her wedding. So again I went in to my little camera shop and asked for advice, and this time he surprised me further by lending me an expensive professional light meter. Armed with this and some more great advice, I took 3 perfect rolls of film, getting about 30 good shots and 5 or 6 great shots. Thanks to this one shop owner’s kindness, I have become a fair photographer and feel proud of the skills I have developed.
Finding kindness in this world can really make life a whole lot better…
For more fun with photography, check out John’s Photography Page
Edward, SSE Ohtsu
Leave a Reply