summary - Film photography
Film Photographer for Couples & Families — Venice, Dolomites & Beyond
There’s a reason film is having a moment. Not because it’s trendy — but because in a world of algorithmically perfect images, film does something different. It feels like a memory, not a file.
I’m Serena Genovese, and I shoot film alongside digital for couples and families in Venice, the Dolomites, the Amalfi Coast, Dubai, and destinations worldwide. If you’ve been drawn to that look — the grain, the softness, the colors that feel warm and lived-in — this page is for you.
What I Offer: 35mm, 120 Medium Format & Hybrid Sessions
I shoot both 35mm and 120 (medium format) film, mainly using Kodak and Fujifilm stocks. You can book a film session as a standalone experience or as a hybrid — digital and film together — which is what I recommend for most couples.
One thing I want to be clear about from the start: the choice of format, stock, and how much film we use is entirely mine. That decision is based on light, location, colour, mood, and the story we’re telling — not a checklist. That’s how I guarantee a result that actually fits your session.
35mm vs 120 — What’s the Difference?
35mm is spontaneous and cinematic. It’s perfect for movement, walking through a city, candid moments, and storytelling with a real-life vibe. Think Venice alleys, Dolomites hikes, family chaos.
120 medium format is iconic and refined. It’s perfect for timeless portraits, editorial frames, and that luxurious, dimensional look. Think fine art, slower pace, intentional moments.
Both are beautiful. I choose based on what the light and location call for — and often I use both in the same session.
Why Hybrid (Digital + Film) Is Usually the Best Choice
Digital gives you consistency, speed, and security for once-only moments. Film gives you the timeless, romantic highlights with that unmistakable character.
Together, they create a gallery that has both — full coverage and soul.
Hybrid is especially ideal for proposals (digital for the one-chance moment, film for everything after) and family sessions (digital for the fast moments, film for the portraits).
Film Hybrid Photography in Venice — Packages & Pricing
Venice is one of the most beautiful cities in the world to shoot on film. The texture of old stone, the reflections on water, the soft morning light — film responds to all of it in a way digital simply can’t replicate.
The Film Moment — 1 hour — €750 One area, one beautiful story. Up to 40 fully edited images (digital + film), film professionally developed & scanned, private online gallery.
The Film Story — 2 hours — €1,250 (Most Booked) 2–3 areas, a fuller narrative without rushing. Up to 80 fully edited images (digital + film), film professionally developed & scanned, private online gallery.
The Film Chapter — 3 hours — €1,750 3–4 areas, maximum variety, the most relaxed pace. Up to 120 fully edited images (digital + film), film professionally developed & scanned, private online gallery.
Extra time available in 30-minute steps when availability allows.
→ Book your Venice film session
Film Hybrid Photography in the Dolomites — Packages & Pricing
The Dolomites are extraordinary on film. Mountain light, dramatic skies, the texture of alpine landscapes — film reacts to all of it in a deeply emotional way. These are the sessions that look like paintings.
1 hour — €1,250 One location, focused and intentional. Up to 40 fully edited images (digital + film).
5 hours — €5,650 (Most Booked) The best way to experience the Dolomites properly — up to 2 locations, optimised light, relaxed pace. Up to 200 fully edited images (digital + film).
8 hours — €8,950 (Perfect for elopements) A complete day across up to 4 locations. Maximum variety, full flexibility to chase the best light. Up to 320 fully edited images (digital + film).
All Dolomites film sessions include film professionally developed & scanned and private online gallery.
→ Book your Dolomites film session
Film in Other Destinations
I regularly shoot film in Venice, the Dolomites, the Amalfi Coast (Positano, Capri), Florence, Dubai, Scotland, Iceland, Paris, Santorini, and many more destinations worldwide.
If your destination isn’t listed, get in touch — I travel wherever your story takes us.
Why Film Costs More — and Why It’s Worth It
Film is not a filter or a preset. It’s a real, professional process with real costs:
- film rolls (35mm and/or 120)
- professional development
- high-quality scanning (this is crucial — poor scans ruin good film)
- a longer, more curated workflow
So yes, film sessions cost more than digital-only. And if you love that look and that feeling, it’s almost always worth it.
FAQs
What is a hybrid photoshoot? A hybrid session means I shoot both digital and film during the same experience — digital for full coverage, film for timeless, romantic highlights. It’s the option I recommend most.
Can I book a film-only session? Sometimes yes, depending on the location, light, and type of session. Hybrid is usually the most balanced option.
Do I get to choose Kodak or Fujifilm? You can share the mood you love, but the final choice is mine. I decide based on real conditions and the look that fits your story.
How many film photos will I receive? It depends on the package and how much film we include. You’ll know exactly what’s included before booking.
Will I receive my film photos digitally? Yes. Film images are delivered as professional high-quality scans in your online gallery alongside your digital photos.
Does film take longer to deliver? Film requires development and scanning, so it can take a little longer than digital-only. I’ll always confirm timelines in advance.
Is film good in cloudy weather or low light? Yes — often it’s even more atmospheric. I decide how much film to use depending on conditions.
Is film suitable for family sessions with kids? Absolutely. I mix digital for faster moments and film for timeless portraits and emotional highlights.
Is film recommended for surprise proposals? Yes — film is incredibly romantic. For proposals, hybrid is ideal: digital for the one-chance moment, film for everything after.
Can I add film after booking a digital session? Often yes — just let me know in advance so I can plan the film workflow and include development and scanning.
What should we wear for film photos? Neutral tones and natural textures photograph beautifully on film. I can send outfit guidance based on your destination and season.
Do you shoot black and white film? Usually I focus on colour film (Kodak/Fuji), but I can include black and white when it fits the mood and location.
Ready to Book a Film Hybrid Session?
Tell me your destination, your dates, and the kind of session you have in mind — couple, proposal, family, or elopement. I’ll recommend the best approach for your light and location.
