Paris: 35mm Film Photography Workshop with a Visual Artist

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing Paris in a timeless way, this 4-hour workshop offers a unique blend of learning analog photography and exploring some of the city’s lesser-known corners. Led by Kat Redkind, a talented visual artist, this experience promises more than just snapping photos — it’s about appreciating the city’s hidden details and creating soulful images on film.

What really stands out is the inclusion of a rental film camera, a curated beginner’s guide, and a small, intimate group size that ensures personalized attention. On the flip side, if you’re after a quick, digital snapshot experience or a longer, more in-depth course, this might feel a bit condensed. Still, it’s perfect for travelers eager to pause, reflect, and create in a city that’s bursting with picture-perfect moments. This tour suits beginners, creative explorers, or anyone wanting to add an artistic twist to their Paris visit.

Key Points

• Authentic analog experience in the heart of Paris, emphasizing mindful photography.
• Small group format (max 4 people) for personalized guidance and attention.
• Includes camera rental and a roll of film, making it accessible for first-timers.
• Focus on discovering hidden corners and overlooked details of Paris.
• Guided by a professional photographer with local insights and soulful storytelling.
• A creative, immersive activity that results in unique, tangible photos.

Discovering Paris through Film: An Unconventional Way to Capture the City

This workshop offers a different perspective on Paris, steering away from the usual tourist hotspots to explore lesser-known areas and details that often escape digital snapshots. It’s a chance to slow down, observe closely, and understand the art of film photography from a professional guide.

Led by Kat Redkind, the experience emphasizes personalized instruction tailored for beginners. The fact that it’s designed for those new to film photography makes it accessible, but the insights and guidance are deep enough to make any traveler feel more confident behind a camera. The curated beginner’s guide provided at the start is an excellent resource, even for those who haven’t used an analog camera before.

What’s Included and How It Works

The workshop kicks off with a welcome coffee where you meet your guide and receive your film camera rental, along with a beginners guide to film photography. This initial touch of hospitality sets a relaxed tone, encouraging creativity and curiosity. The small group size (max 4) ensures that each participant gets personalized feedback and attention.

The core of the experience is a 4-hour guided walk through Paris’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks, with plenty of opportunities to practice your new skills. Your guide, Kat, offers professional guidance and local insights, revealing stories and details about the city that aren’t in every tourist guidebook.

As you walk, you’ll learn how to compose shots, handle film exposure, and recognize the authentic beauty that makes Paris so photogenic. The walk is tailored to capture the essence of the city on film, with a focus on overlooked details and soulful perspectives.

Your experience includes a roll of film, which is developed and scanned afterward, giving you tangible photos that reflect your personal view of Paris. Many reviews mention that the photographs turn out to be soulful, slightly nostalgic images that digital photos often lack.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Part Special

The route is designed to balance famous sights with hidden corners, allowing you to see the city through a new lens. While the specific stops aren’t listed in detail, the guide’s local insights promise explorations into areas you might not find on Google.

Expect to stroll through quaint alleys, admire architectural details, and perhaps find yourself pausing in a quiet courtyard or a corner café. The focus on overlooked details means you might photograph a weathered door, a charming wrought-iron balcony, or a beautifully worn sign — elements that give Paris its authentic character.

The timing allows for a relaxed pace, where you’ll have plenty of chances to adjust your framing and try different angles. The professional guidance helps you fine-tune your technique, whether it’s setting the right exposure or choosing the best moment to shoot.

The Experience of Shooting on Film in Paris

The feel of using a film camera in Paris is something many reviewers find particularly rewarding. Unlike digital, film demands patience and thoughtfulness; you need to be selective about each shot. This often results in more meaningful images and a deeper appreciation for the process.

One reviewer appreciated the way Kat explained film exposure and how to recognize good light, adding that her personal tips made the experience both educational and fun. The fact that you walk away with scanned images of your photos means you get to see the results without waiting weeks for film development, which enhances the immediate sense of accomplishment.

Travelers often mention the stunning views captured on film — from classic Parisian architecture to hidden details — emphasizing how this approach makes their photos feel timeless.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $445 per person, the cost might seem high for some, but when you consider what’s included — a rental camera, film, a guided walk, and professional guidance — it begins to look more reasonable. The value lies not just in the photos you’ll take but in the creative learning experience and unique perspective you gain.

Compared to other typical Paris tours, this experience offers something more personal and artistic. Plus, you’ll leave with tangible photos that serve as lasting souvenirs of your trip, making it a worthwhile investment for those passionate about photography or seeking a nostalgic, mindful activity in the city.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This workshop is ideal for beginners curious about film photography, creative travelers who want to slow down and see Paris differently, and anyone interested in artistic expression. It’s especially good if you prefer small, intimate groups and personalized feedback.

Travelers who enjoy guided walks and discovering hidden corners will find this a rewarding way to combine sightseeing with a creative activity. Also, if you’re someone who appreciates tangible photos over digital, this workshop will give you a lasting, meaningful memento.

The Sum Up: Is This Experience Right for You?

This 35mm film photography workshop with Kat Redkind offers a wonderfully authentic and creative way to experience Paris. It’s a slow-paced, mindful activity that encourages you to see the city through a different lens—literally. The inclusion of a rental camera, a beginner’s guide, and local insights makes it accessible for beginners, while the focus on hidden details appeals to those who love discovering less obvious sights.

The stunning views you’ll capture on film, combined with personalized guidance, make this a memorable artistic journey. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a more meaningful connection with the city, or anyone wanting to add a nostalgic touch to their Paris memories.

While it’s a bit of an investment, the quality of the experience and the photographs you’ll produce justify the price. This tour is best suited for creative souls, curious explorers, and anyone eager for an unconventional, artistic adventure in Paris.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. It’s designed with beginners in mind, offering a beginner’s guide and personalized instruction to help you understand film exposure, framing, and composition.

What’s included in the price?
You get a 4-hour guided walk, a rental film camera, a roll of film (which is developed and scanned afterward), a welcome coffee, a beginners photography guide, professional guidance, and local insights.

Can I bring my own camera?
The experience includes a camera rental, so if you want to use your own, you should check with the provider. However, using the included rental camera ensures you follow the intended learning path.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since you’ll be walking around for several hours.

Are there additional costs?
Yes, if you want to purchase extra rolls of film or have personal expenses, those are not included in the package.

How many people are in each group?
The group is small, with a maximum of 4 participants, to ensure personalized guidance.

When can I book?
Availability varies, so it’s best to check the calendar, but the experience offers flexible booking options — reserve now and pay later.

How long does it take to receive the scanned photos?
The photos are developed and scanned as part of the package, so you typically receive the digital scans shortly after the workshop.

Is this experience accessible for non-English speakers?
The guide speaks English, so fluency is recommended for understanding instructions and insights.

This workshop offers a rare chance to slow down and truly see Paris through the lens of film. Whether you’re a budding photographer or simply curious about the analog process, it promises a creative, authentic, and beautifully memorable experience in the City of Light.