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How to Take Retro Pictures on SLRs

A look through an old family picture album can inspire even the most vehement digital single lens reflex (DSLR) shooter to reconnect with traditional film photography. Retro pictures are characterized by muted, fading colors or a monochrome cast. Due to the simplicity of old lenses, soft edging and a slight vignette at the corners of the frame are typical in vintage photographs. Using a 35mm SLR and some expired film, you'll be able to recreate the retro look.

Things You'll Need

UV filter
Petroleum jelly
Expired 35mm color film
Black and white film

Instructions

- 1
  Attach a UV filter to the front of your SLR's lens. Check the lens' front nameplate to ensure that your filter is the correct size.
- 2
  Smear a thin layer of petroleum jelly around the inside circumference of the filter. To increase softness around the edges of your pictures, use a thicker layer.
- 3
  Load a roll of expired 35mm color film into your camera. Expired film often provides unique color shifts and increased grain in the resulting pictures. Look for films which are five to 10 years past their expiration date for best results.
- 4
  Look for retro photo opportunities while out shooting. Take pictures of classic cars, old business signs or people dressed in vintage fashions.
- 5
  Process expired color film as if it were fresh. Some labs will offer to correct color shifts or reduce grain prior to making your prints. Decline this option to retain the retro look.
- 6
  Experiment with a roll of black and white film. Traditional black and white films, such as Kodak Tri-X, Ilford HP5 and Fuji Neopan, produce timeless results. Learn to develop your own black and white film or have the roll processed by your local professional photo lab.

Photography