Cape Town’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes beg to be captured on film. Fortunately, finding 35mm film within the city is still very achievable, with a range of options catering to both seasoned analog photographers and curious newcomers, from dedicated photography stores to pharmacies and even some unexpected outlets.
Where to Buy 35mm Film in Cape Town
Cape Town offers diverse avenues for sourcing 35mm film. Your best bet is to head to specialized photography stores like Orms Direct, Photohire, and Foto First, which stock a wide variety of brands, film speeds (ISO), and formats. These stores also offer expert advice and often provide developing services. Supermarkets like Pick n Pay and Checkers, and pharmacies like Clicks and Dis-Chem, sometimes stock basic consumer-grade film. Finally, exploring smaller camera shops and online retailers based in South Africa provides additional options. Consider location and proximity for convenience, but also check for stock availability online or by phone before visiting.
Dedicated Photography Stores: The Professionals’ Choice
These stores are the gold standard for analog photographers. They offer the widest selection, expert advice, and often carry both new and expired film stocks.
Orms Direct
Orms Direct is a powerhouse in the South African photography scene. They boast a massive selection of 35mm film, ranging from popular brands like Kodak and Ilford to more niche options. They also stock accessories and developing chemicals. Their knowledgeable staff can answer your questions and help you choose the right film for your needs. Their online store is also very comprehensive and ships nationwide. Expect premium pricing, but also premium quality and selection.
Photohire
While primarily a rental house, Photohire also stocks a decent selection of 35mm film, particularly those geared toward professional use. Their emphasis is on quality, so you’ll likely find high-end films suitable for demanding photographic applications. Their staff are very experienced and can provide valuable insights.
Foto First
Foto First stores, while found in various locations and often offering a range of photography services, sometimes stock 35mm film. It’s best to call ahead to confirm availability at your local branch, as stock can vary greatly. They usually carry readily available, consumer-grade options.
Supermarkets and Pharmacies: Convenience at a Cost
For those needing film quickly and without making a dedicated trip, supermarkets and pharmacies offer a convenient, albeit limited, option.
Pick n Pay, Checkers, Clicks, and Dis-Chem
These large retailers occasionally stock basic 35mm film, usually Kodak or Fuji consumer-grade options like Kodak Gold 200 or Fujicolor C200. Stock availability is unpredictable and can vary by location, so it’s always worth checking online or calling ahead. Pricing is often comparable to other retailers, but the selection is severely limited. This is a great option for casual shooters.
Exploring Alternative Options
Beyond the established retailers, there are other avenues worth exploring, particularly for those seeking unique or expired film stocks.
Online Retailers and Independent Camera Shops
Searching for online retailers specializing in film photography within South Africa can reveal hidden gems. Independent camera shops, often tucked away in quieter areas, may also carry film. Consider searching on platforms like Bid or Buy and Takealot, filtering for sellers based in Cape Town or South Africa to minimize shipping costs. Scouring flea markets or vintage stores might also unearth forgotten rolls of film, but be aware of potential issues related to age and storage conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Buying 35mm Film in Cape Town
Here are some common questions to consider before purchasing 35mm film in Cape Town:
FAQ 1: What film speed (ISO) should I choose?
Choosing the right ISO (film speed) depends on the lighting conditions. Lower ISO films (e.g., ISO 100 or 200) are ideal for bright sunlight, producing finer grain and sharper images. Higher ISO films (e.g., ISO 400 or 800) are better suited for low-light situations but may exhibit more grain.
FAQ 2: What are the most popular 35mm film brands available in Cape Town?
Kodak and Ilford are widely available, with Kodak offering color negative films like Gold 200 and Portra, and Ilford specializing in black and white films like HP5 Plus and FP4 Plus. Fuji is also popular but may be less readily available than Kodak and Ilford.
FAQ 3: Where can I buy expired 35mm film in Cape Town?
Finding expired film can be a gamble. Online marketplaces like Bid or Buy and smaller camera shops are your best bet. Exercise caution, as the results can be unpredictable. Price and storage conditions significantly impact the outcome.
FAQ 4: How much does 35mm film typically cost in Cape Town?
Prices vary depending on the brand, ISO, and type of film. A roll of consumer-grade film like Kodak Gold 200 might cost around R150-R250, while professional-grade film like Kodak Portra can be significantly more expensive.
FAQ 5: Do any stores in Cape Town offer film developing services?
Yes, Orms Direct and Foto First are known to offer film developing services. Many smaller independent photography shops also provide development services or can recommend local labs. Check their websites or call ahead for pricing and turnaround times.
FAQ 6: Can I buy 35mm film online and have it delivered in Cape Town?
Absolutely. Orms Direct and other online retailers offer delivery services throughout South Africa, including Cape Town. Consider shipping costs and delivery times when ordering online.
FAQ 7: What is the difference between color negative, slide, and black and white film?
Color negative film produces negatives that need to be printed or scanned to see the final image. Slide film (also known as transparency film) produces positive images that can be projected or viewed directly. Black and white film captures images in shades of gray.
FAQ 8: How should I store 35mm film before and after use?
Store film in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Ideally, unexposed film should be refrigerated, especially if it won’t be used for a while. After exposure, develop the film as soon as possible.
FAQ 9: Are there any photography workshops in Cape Town that focus on film photography?
Yes, various photography workshops in Cape Town occasionally offer courses focusing on film photography. Search online for local workshops or check the offerings of organizations like Orms School of Photography.
FAQ 10: What is “pushing” or “pulling” film?
Pushing film involves intentionally underexposing it and then overdeveloping it, which increases contrast and apparent ISO. Pulling film is the opposite, overexposing and underdeveloping, which reduces contrast. These techniques are used to compensate for lighting conditions or achieve specific artistic effects. This is a technique for more experienced photographers.
FAQ 11: What is the lifespan of 35mm film?
Unexposed film has a shelf life, but it can last for years if stored properly. Expired film can still be used, but the results may be unpredictable. Color film tends to degrade faster than black and white film.
FAQ 12: Are there any film photography communities or groups in Cape Town?
Yes, searching online for “Cape Town film photography group” on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram can connect you with other film enthusiasts. These groups often organize meetups, share tips, and buy/sell film.
By understanding the available options and considering these FAQs, you can confidently find the perfect 35mm film to capture the beauty of Cape Town in all its analog glory. Happy shooting!