Portrait Photography Chicago | Chicago Portrait Company

Isn’t it interesting how black and white photography pictures still interest most people who appreciate photography? While digital camera technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, black and white photography apprears to be gaining popularity with digital photographers. And don’t count film out just yet. Polaroid photography is currently enjoying a resurgence in popularity, particularly with young photographers. I personally think it’s a wonderful form of rebellion against the huge trend in digital photography. It’s more than just rebellion though - I made this portrait with a $5 garage sale Polaroid that was made in the 1960s, using film that was discontinued and 3 years past its expiration date.

I made about 100 portraits while on vacation in the Black Rock Desert of Nevada, and I was surprised by how people responded so positively to my ancient looking camera. When I’d made the same trip previously, I brought my digital camera. The difference in people’s interest in being photographed by the two cameras was night and day. This positive interest in the Polaroid camera resulted in a much higher percentage of hits, or photos that I was happy with. It just goes to show that newer isn’t always better.