EP 78 - Shooting Film in a Digital World: A Conversation with Autumn Jordan
Hi everyone! Today I had the honor of chatting with the incredibly talented Autumn Jordan—a New York and Vermont-based film and Super8 photographer with over 15 years of experience. Autumn shares her creative journey, from long hours in the college darkroom to becoming a sought-after wedding photographer known for her emotionally rich, film-first approach. We dive deep into the art and technical side of film photography—discussing hybrid workflows, the importance of building strong relationships with pro labs, and her favorite film cameras (including some dream gear).
Meet Autumn:
Autumn Jordan is a photographer based in New York and Vermont, working primarily on film and Super8, traveling worldwide. Through her 15 years of experience, Autumn has honed her craft with a delicate intensity—capturing the quiet moments that matter, and the memories that will stretch across generations. An artist first and foremost, her photos spotlight the intangible magic of being alive and the tender warmth of connection. Autumn graduated from Bennington College with a BFA in Film Photography in 2014, and her heart has grown with the medium since she picked up her first film camera over a decade ago.
Autumn's Film Photography Journey
We started off with how it all began—Autumn talked about discovering film back in college and falling in love with the darkroom. She’s been shooting film ever since and has seen the film lab landscape shift a lot over the years. But despite that, she’s stayed true to her medium. She walks us through how she transitioned into weddings, and how she’s built a hybrid workflow that always puts film first.
Pushing + Pulling Film
“What does pushing film mean and why would I do it?”
If the idea of pushing or pulling film freaks you out, you’re not alone—but Autumn breaks it down in the most approachable way. She explains how pushing film helps her adapt in low-light situations, like candlelit receptions, to preserve the natural feel of a space without relying on flash. It’s all about using the tools to keep the mood and magic intact.
Working with a Lab
“What are the benefits of working with a pro lab?”
Autumn is all about collaboration—especially with her lab. She shares why working with a trusted pro lab (like Indie Film Lab) has been such a game-changer for her. From color consistency to custom scanning, she walks us through the benefits of having a lab that truly understands your artistic vision. It’s like having a creative partner who helps bring your work to life.
Her Top 5 Film Cameras
“What are your top 5 favorite film cameras?”
Okay—this part was *so* fun. Autumn’s go-to lineup includes:
1. Hasselblad – for its hand feel and the flexibility of switching backs.
2. Leica M6 – super reliable and perfect with beautiful glass.
3. Plaubel Makina 67 – compact but *so* sharp.
4. Intrepid 4x5 – her go-to for formal, intimate portraits.
5. Olympus Stylus – tiny and great for everyday magic.
Dream Cameras
“If budget wasn’t a factor, what camera would you get?”
Her dream setup? A Mamiya 6—which, yes, is a big splurge, but with its quality and portability, it’s no surprise it’s at the top of her list. She also dreams of shooting 8x10 for her artistic work. The bigger the negative, the bigger the challenge—and reward.
Wrapping Up
This episode was such a joy. Autumn’s love for film, her patience with the process, and her artist-first mindset were so refreshing. Whether you’re brand new to film or have been shooting for years, there’s something in this episode for you.
Thanks for tuning in and geeking out with us over all things film. As always—keep playing, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to shoot the next roll. I’ll catch you next time!
Want to learn more from Autumn? Subscribe to Summer School to get access to her class + an exclusive podcast episode, and so much more amazing content.
Connect with Autumn:
Instagram: @atmnjrdn Website: autumn-jordan.com
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