From DSLR to Film: Why I Chose the Olympus OM 10

Photography has always been more than just snapping pictures for me—it's about telling stories. But after years of shooting with a DSLR, I started feeling disconnected from the process. I was getting the shots, sure, but I wasn’t really connecting with them in the way I wanted to. That’s when I decided to take a leap into the world of film photography, and it’s been a game-changer.

Why I Made the Switch

For so long, digital photography felt like second nature. The ability to instantly review photos, adjust settings on the go, and know I nailed the shot gave me a lot of confidence. But after a while, I realized I was relying too much on the technology and not enough on my instincts. I wasn’t slowing down or fully thinking through each shot, and I wanted to change that.

Film felt like the perfect way to shake things up. There’s something about the tactile nature of it—the way you have to load the film, wind the reel, and think about every frame before you press the shutter. With film, I knew I’d be forced to be more intentional and patient, and that’s exactly what I wanted.

Enter the Olympus OM 10. This little 35mm camera has completely changed how I see photography. It’s simple, no frills, and entirely manual. No digital screen to check, no instant feedback. Just me, the camera, and the moment in front of me.

The Learning Curve

I’m not going to sugarcoat it—the switch from DSLR to film has been a real challenge. There’s been a steep learning curve, and I’ve had plenty of “what was I thinking” moments along the way. Misjudging exposure, winding the film wrong, overthinking every shot—it’s all part of the process.

But honestly, that’s what makes film so rewarding. There’s no instant gratification. I have to trust my gut, take the shot, and wait (sometimes days) to see the results. And when those developed photos come back, it’s like opening a gift. Even the mistakes feel like a lesson worth learning.

For anyone considering making the jump from digital to film, I say go for it. Yes, it’s harder and yes, you’ll mess up. But that’s where the real growth happens.