Paris: 35mm Film Photography Workshop with a Visual Artist

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing Paris on film with a real vintage camera in hand, this workshop offers a rare chance to do just that—guided by a professional who knows the city’s secret corners and the nuances of analog photography. Priced at $445 per person and lasting four hours, it’s designed for small groups—no more than four people—ensuring plenty of personalized tips and attention. You’ll start with a warm welcome coffee and a curated beginner’s guide, then venture into the city’s quieter neighborhoods, discovering overlooked details and the charm that many visitors miss.

What we love most about this experience is its focus on mindful photography—it’s not just about snapping pictures but truly appreciating Paris’s textures, light, and shadows. Second, the inclusion of a rental film camera and a roll of film makes this more than a typical tour, giving you a complete, hands-on introduction to film photography.

A possible consideration is that this experience is aimed at beginners and those new to film; if you’re already familiar with analog techniques, this might feel more like a refresher than a deep dive.

This workshop suits travelers who love creative pursuits, want a relaxed, authentic perspective of Paris, or simply wish to learn the art of film photography in the city’s best-kept secrets.

Key Points

Hands-on introduction to 35mm film photography in Paris
Small group size ensures personalized guidance
Includes rental camera, film roll, and beginner’s guide
Explores lesser-known corners alongside iconic landmarks
Focuses on mindful, artistic capturing of Paris
Ideal for beginners or those new to film photography

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Photography Workshop?

This workshop catches your eye because it combines learning a new skill with the chance to see Paris in a different light. Unlike traditional tours that focus solely on famous sights, this experience encourages you to slow down, observe details, and approach the city through the lens of analogue photography.

The guide, Kat Redkind, is a visual artist with a knack for sharing soulful local insights, making each stop not just a photo opportunity but also a storytelling moment. For four hours, you’ll swap the usual rush of Paris sightseeing for thoughtful, creative exploration—perfect for travelers craving a more meaningful connection with the city.

The inclusion of a rental film camera and a curated beginner’s guide ensures you won’t need to bring your own gear or worry about technicalities. Plus, the photos you’ll take are developed and scanned after the workshop, giving you tangible souvenirs of your Parisian adventure.

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What to Expect from the Itinerary

The workshop begins with a welcome coffee, a friendly start where you’ll meet your guide and receive your beginners’ photography guide. This guide covers the basics of film handling, composition, and light—crucial knowledge for anyone new to analog photography.

Next, you’ll receive your rental camera and a roll of film, setting the stage for a walking tour through Paris’s quieter streets. Unlike the typical tourist spots, your guide will lead you into hidden corners and overlooked details—alleys, vintage shops, small courtyards, and quaint facades that often go unnoticed. As you walk, your guide provides personalized instructions and local insights, helping you see how light, shadow, and composition combine to produce evocative images.

Throughout the walk, you’ll get plenty of time to practice framing shots, adjusting focus, and experimenting with film exposure—all under the watchful eye of your guide. The small group size ensures that questions are welcomed, and guidance can be tailored to your comfort level.

The tour concludes with you returning the camera, and your film is developed and scanned, so you’ll finally see your images. Many travelers comment on how surprised and delighted they are with their results, often quoting that they “never knew how much you could learn in just four hours” or that the experience “opened my eyes to a different way of seeing.”

The Experience of Shooting in Paris

One of the greatest advantages of this workshop is the ability to slow down and focus on visual storytelling. You’ll love the way the guide emphasizes mindfulness—taking in the textures of the city, appreciating natural light, and honing your eye for overlooked beauty.

The hidden corners you visit are carefully chosen to offer authentic Parisian charm, away from crowds. For example, you may find yourself capturing the warm glow of a vintage shop’s sign or the play of shadows on a cobblestone alley. These are the moments that make your photos truly special.

Travelers often find that working with film fosters a different kind of patience and attention to detail. The delayed gratification of waiting for your images to develop makes every shot feel more deliberate and meaningful. Plus, the scanning service ensures that your images are ready to share or print after the workshop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your fee covers the essentials: a 4-hour guided walk in a small group, a rental film camera, a roll of film, and a beginner’s guide to help you get started. After your photos are developed and scanned, you’ll have digital copies of your images.

Extras, such as additional rolls of film or personal expenses, aren’t included. If you’re keen to experiment further, you might find it worthwhile to buy extra film on your own.

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Practical Tips

Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking.
Since it’s a film experience, avoid digital cameras or smartphones if you want the full aesthetic.
Be prepared to slow down and observe—this isn’t a fast-paced tour, but a chance to really see.

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Who Should Consider This Experience?

This workshop is perfect if you’re a creative traveler, someone eager to learn film photography, or just looking to see Paris through a different lens. It’s especially suited for beginners or those new to analog techniques. If you’re seeking a relaxing, insightful activity that combines cultural discovery with practical skills, this is an excellent choice.

Travelers who love authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences will appreciate the focus on hidden corners rather than typical tourist traps. It’s also a good fit if you want a small-group, intimate setting with personalized attention.

Final Thoughts

This workshop offers a unique chance to explore Paris with a creative twist. It encourages mindfulness, patience, and appreciation for the city’s textures and light—and it leaves you with tangible memories in the form of film images you’ve captured yourself.

Compared to other typical sightseeing options, it’s a quiet, artistic pursuit that appeals to those craving a deeper connection with the city’s atmosphere. The small group size and personal guidance make it a comfortable, enriching experience, ideal for travelers interested in creative self-expression and authentic discovery.

While the price may seem high, it reflects the all-inclusive nature—the camera rental, film, developing, and scanning—making it a value-packed introduction to film photography in Paris. Plus, you’ll leave with not just photos, but a new way of seeing and engaging with the city.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed specifically for beginners and those new to film photography. The guide provides personalized instructions to help you get comfortable.

Do I need to bring my own camera?
No, a rental film camera is included in the price, along with a roll of film. You won’t need to bring your own gear unless you want to.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for walking are recommended since the walk lasts four hours and covers different parts of the city.

Can I get extra film during the tour?
Extra rolls are not included but might be available for purchase separately. You’ll want to bring extra if you plan to shoot more.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers a guided walk, camera rental, a roll of film, development and scanning of your photos, a welcome coffee, and a beginners’ guide.

Is this experience private?
Yes, it’s offered as a private group, ensuring personalized guidance throughout.

Will I get my photos after the workshop?
Yes, your developed and scanned photos will be provided afterward, giving you digital copies of your work.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, if you’re looking for a creative, relaxing, and distinctly Parisian way to spend a few hours, this film photography workshop offers a memorable journey into both the city’s beauty and the timeless art of film. It’s perfect for those eager to slow down, observe carefully, and walk away with unique images and a new skill to cherish.