Earth Day Tip Special: 5 Ways for Film Photographers to go Green

It’s hard to imagine film photography without all of the waste that comes with it: paper, chemicals, film and canisters. Still, it’s easy to take "greener" photos without compromising the quality of your shots. If you’re an avid nature photographer, these are simple ways to preserve your muse, Mother Earth.

1. Remember to recycle the plastic film containers and lids, along with the metal canisters if you are developing yourself. If you are sending the film out to be developed, simply request that the lab recycle anything they can salvage.

2. Use a 36-exposure roll of film instead of a 24. You get more frames, while still using the same amount of plastic and metal as a 24-exposure roll, not to mention the same amount of chemicals required to develop.

3. Although it may seem obvious, always return the fixer and other chemicals that can pollute water sources, to the original containers rather than dumping chemicals down the drain.

4. Air drying your prints, rather than putting them in a dryer, saves energy.

5. You knew it was coming: the ultimate way to go green is to go digital! With rechargeable battery packs included with even basic digital cameras, you can avoid using alkaline batteries. Investing in a digital picture frame lets you showcase your favorite photos without paper.

—Kaitlin Tambuscio
Editorial Intern