What is your experience with traditional film photography?

Sample answer to the question

I have some experience with traditional film photography. During my time in photography school, we were required to learn both digital and film photography techniques. I worked with both 35mm and medium format film cameras and learned how to develop and process the film myself in the darkroom. It was a great hands-on experience that helped me understand the fundamentals of photography and appreciate the art form. While I primarily shoot digital now, I still have a deep love for film photography and occasionally incorporate it into my work when the project calls for it.

A more solid answer

I have a solid foundation in traditional film photography. Throughout my photography education, I extensively studied film photography techniques and gained hands-on experience with various film formats, including 35mm and medium format. I learned how to properly expose and compose shots using film cameras, and I also developed and processed the film in the darkroom. This experience not only deepened my understanding of photography as an art form but also enhanced my attention to detail and honed my creative eye. Although my primary focus now is on digital photography, I still appreciate the unique qualities and aesthetic of film and occasionally incorporate it into my work when it aligns with the project's vision.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands upon the basic answer by providing more specific details about the candidate's experience with traditional film photography. It highlights the skills and qualities developed through this experience, such as attention to detail and a creative eye. However, it could further improve by linking these skills to the requirements of the job, such as attention to detail and visual storytelling.

An exceptional answer

I have extensive experience and a deep passion for traditional film photography. Throughout my photography education, I dedicated a significant amount of time to mastering film techniques, including shooting, developing, and processing film in the darkroom. I have worked with various film formats, including 35mm, medium format, and even large format cameras. This experience has not only refined my technical skills but also shaped my artistic vision. Film photography has taught me the value of patience, attention to detail, and deliberate composition. It has imbued in me an appreciation for the art form's rich history and has greatly influenced my approach to digital photography. I believe that my profound understanding of traditional film photography would enable me to bring a unique perspective to any project, and I am always excited to share my knowledge and passion with others.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer showcases a high level of expertise and passion for traditional film photography. It demonstrates a deep understanding of various film formats and the technical process involved. The answer also highlights the candidate's growth in both technical skills and artistic vision through their experience with film photography. Additionally, it conveys how this expertise can be valuable in bringing a unique perspective to projects. However, it could be further improved by linking this expertise to the specific skills and qualities listed in the job description.

How to prepare for this question

Refresh your knowledge of traditional film photography techniques, including exposure, composition, and film processing.
Compile a portfolio showcasing your best film photographs to demonstrate your skills and style.
Familiarize yourself with the different film formats and their characteristics.
Highlight any projects or experiences where you have applied film photography techniques and their outcomes.
Consider discussing any challenges or unique solutions you encountered while working with film photography.

What interviewers are evaluating

Experience with traditional film photography