Image above is taken on the Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Camera, using ‘Eterna Bleach Bypass’ film simulation mode

The retro-style photography trend is booming in popularity. In fact, according to data from Ahrefs, we found an almost 50% increase in searches for the term ‘film camera’ in the past six years (from 10,200 searches per month in December 2019 to 15,200 in December 2025).

However, while old film cameras offer that authentic vintage charm, they can be difficult and expensive to repair if something goes wrong. Plus, a good quality model isn’t always easy to get your hands on.

Retro-style digital cameras provide a great alternative. But how can you recreate the analogue film aesthetic digitally? 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of retro-style photography for beginners and recommend the best digital cameras that look like film, with insights from our Product Specialist at Jessops, Lizzie James.

Contents

What is the retro photography trend?

Can digital images be edited to create a retro look?

The best retro-style cameras

Get into retro-style photography with Jessops

This could be because of their immediacy and unpredictability, with images printed on the spot and often featuring imperfections such as blur, uneven exposure or harsh flash.” 

“In a period where many people are experiencing screen fatigue and growing tired of highly curated digital content, this shift towards physical, imperfect photography seems to resonate more strongly. Perhaps it reflects a wider desire for authenticity and a sense of nostalgia for a pre-algorithm, pre-social-media era.”

Image taken on the Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Camera, using ‘Monochrome’ film simulation mode

Lizzie explains: "There are very few film cameras still being manufactured today, and buying a second-hand one can be risky due to potential quality issues or the need for costly repairs. That's why editing your digital photos to look like film may seem like a good option."

"Many people use apps like Tezza to edit photos taken on their smartphone. However, while you can add vintage effects with these apps, they often look low-quality and don't quite capture the true essence of film photography."

"For a more authentic look, your best bet is to opt for a retro-style digital camera. Although it isn't quite as authentic as shooting with a film camera because digital sensors and processes inherently differ from traditional film in how they capture light and colour, retro-style digital cameras do come very close."

"Brands like Fujifilm have options with film simulation modes that mimic the look of film photography, making them an excellent choice for achieving that nostalgic aesthetic without the drawbacks of older equipment."

Here's an example of an image taken on an iPhone and edited in Tezza, alongside one captured with a retro-style digital camera so you can see the quality difference.

Example 1

Image taken on the Huawei P30 Pro Smartphone and edited with Tezza (Fuji400 filter)

Image taken on the Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Camera, using ‘Nostalgic’ film simulation mode

Lizzie comments on the distinctions between the photographs: "When looking at these two images, it's clear that the equipment and editing techniques make a big difference in quality."

"The photo taken with the Fujifilm X-T50 and its 'Nostalgic' film simulation mode does an excellent job at mimicking a traditional film look while maintaining digital clarity. The colours are vibrant yet natural, and the details, like the textures of the berries and the sheen on the cheesecake, are clearly visible. It maintains the depth and subtle tonal variations you'd expect from high-quality film photography."

"The image edited with the Tezza app to look like film shows how digital manipulation can have its drawbacks. The yellowish hue introduced by the app impacts the overall colour balance, making the image appear warmer and less natural than the first."

"The filter sharpens contrasts and edges to the degree that can feel unnatural, compared to the smoother gradation of tones typically seen in film photography."

Example 2

Image taken on the Huawei P30 Pro Smartphone and edited with Tezza (Vintage filter)

Image taken on the Fujifilm X-T50 Mirrorless Camera, using the ‘Pro Neg’ film simulation mode

Lizzie says: "Again, the photo taken with the Fujifilm camera captures the retro look most authentically, with a softness reminiscent of old-school film while maintaining clear details. You can see this in the subtle textures of the suit and the softly blurred background, which effectively mimics a realistic film grain effect."

"In contrast, the smartphone image edited with the Tezza app shows clear signs of digital enhancement, where the colours are more vibrant, and the contrast is sharper. This makes it dramatic but less true to the traditional film style."

“What sets it apart is that, behind that classic exterior, the OM-3 is very much a modern camera,” she adds. “The stacked 20.37MP BSI sensor delivers fast performance and reliable image quality. But it’s also a digital camera that can replicate the look of classic film photography if you want it to. The in-camera colour and monochrome profiles let you shape colour, contrast, highlights, shadows, and grain straight out of camera, without relying on heavy editing.”

“It’s especially appealing for photographers who like retro-style photography and a traditional way of shooting but don’t want to give up modern features.”

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“It’s one of the most sought-after digital cameras around right now, particularly among photographers who enjoy film-style shooting in a digital body. And it’s easy to see why. The 40.2MP back-illuminated X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor is hugely impressive for a compact camera, delivering excellent detail and natural-looking colour.”

“You also get 20 film simulation modes inspired by analogue film, including the new REALA ACE mode, which focuses on faithful colour reproduction and higher contrast. Whether you’re shooting street scenes, cityscapes, or portraits, the X100VI makes it easy to achieve a classic, retro-style look straight out of the camera.”

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“But it’s not just the hardware that gives the Zf its film-inspired appeal. It also includes dedicated monochrome picture controls, including Flat Monochrome for softer contrast and Deep Tone Monochrome for richer blacks and more dramatic results. These make it easy to create classic black-and-white images.”

“The Zf delivers powerful performance with its full-frame sensor. This provides exceptionally sharp and clear images, reducing noise and enhancing detail, which makes your photos come to life, even in low-light conditions."

While the Nikon Zf is on the pricier side, the combination of vintage aesthetics and advanced technology offers great value for photographers who appreciate both style and substance.

Lizzie goes on to say: "To create film-like images, you can pair this camera with retro-style lenses, such as the Nikon Nikkor Z 28mm f/2,8. It's an affordable full-frame prime lens that delivers excellent colour, contrast, and sharpness, even in low light."

"The lens lets you shoot both close-up, macro and wide-angle, giving you that same sense of working for your shot, just like you would with film."

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"The X-T50 introduces an all-new film simulation dial on the top plate," explains Lizzie. "This feature allows users to effortlessly switch between different modes, adapting to various subjects and scenes with ease. Whether you're capturing stills or video, you can enjoy a variety of colour tones and retro styles, making it easy to get creative with your photography. “It’s one of the best retro digital cameras on the market.”

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composition in-camera. The 17.4MP 1-inch sensor, paired with a 32mm f/2.8 prime lens and fast autofocus, delivers sharp, well-balanced images without overcomplicating things.”

“Details like the included aperture ring, frame advance lever, and even a film-style date stamp reinforce the analogue feel,” Lizzie adds. “You also get 13 of Fujifilm’s iconic Film Simulation modes, Grain Effect, and creative filters like Light Leak and Expired Film, which all help create a film look straight out of the camera.”

“It’s a more affordable retro-style camera option, and a great choice if you want a digital camera that looks like film without paying flagship Fujifilm X-series prices.”

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You manually wind the film, set focus using a simple zone-focus system, and work more deliberately with exposure, which is exactly what many people miss about shooting film.”

“At the same time, it’s not difficult to use,” Lizzie adds. “This retro camera automatically handles exposure in Full Auto mode, but you also get additional shooting modes for situations like low light or long exposures, plus an exposure compensation dial for quick creative adjustments. It’s a great balance of traditional film handling with just enough assistance to make it accessible, even if you’re new to shooting on film.”

At Jessops, we also have a wide range of used cameras, carefully serviced by our team of experts, ensuring they're in excellent working condition. Plus, they come with up to 12 months' guarantee, so you can shop with peace of mind.

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“The Polaroid Now+ Generation 2 keeps that look, but adds more creative control than you’d expect,” Lizzie explains. “Using the Polaroid app, you can access features like aperture priority, manual mode, double exposure, and light painting, which makes it easy to experiment while still enjoying the simplicity of instant photography.”

“It still delivers that unmistakable Polaroid look, but with added flexibility. If you want a retro-style camera that prints instantly and lets you experiment creatively, without needing traditional camera skills, this is a great option.”

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"Retro-style digital cameras can create the same look and feel of classic film but have the advantage of modern digital technology," says Lizzie.

"Fujifilm is really excelling in this area with its range of cameras that combine vintage design with cutting-edge features. They let you enjoy the nostalgic aesthetics without the hassle of film processing."

"And with features like film simulation modes and easy-to-use settings, these cameras offer the flexibility to experiment with different styles and techniques. Plus, you get the convenience of instant review and editing, making capturing and sharing your work easier than ever."

At Jessops, we have a wide selection of digital cameras that produce film-like images, as well as used camera options. We also stock lenses, tripods, lighting, bags, and more to help you level up your photography experience.

If you're new to photography, check out our beginner's guide to choosing the best digital camera. Or, for more advice and inspiration, take a look at our blog.

If you have any questions or need help choosing the right product, contact us today.