How I Got Over My Photo Burn Out With the Minolta X-700

 I paired the camera with Ektar 100 color negative film and borrowed my co-worker Matt to take some shots in the parking lot after work. The rest of the photos were taken in downtown Atlanta.

I am sure that at some point in your photographic career you will experience a burn out. This may cause you to feel uninspired with the medium you are currently shooting. I was in need of something different, or better yet, something to challenge me. That is why I decided to try out a film camera to help me get my groove back.

I chose to get my hands on the Minolta X–700 with a Rokkor 50mm f/1.4. At first glance, the Minolta X-700 is very sleek, and I loved the weight of the camera compared to my bulky DSLR. I have been a photographer for the last 8 years, but I never really shot film, so I had grown so accustomed to being able to see my work instantly.

Today, everything is built off instant gratification and the Minolta X-700 allowed me to slow down and think about what I was shooting. When you only have 24 shots to a roll, you tend to not to get shutter happy. The 50mm lens allowed me to capture some great portraits, but was also wide enough for me to be able to get some nice building shots as well.

Overall, I had a really great experience with the Minolta X-700 and shooting film period. It helped me get over my slump. I have since returned to my digital life with a new respect for the craft. I might get back to taking my time and just having fun with it!