Will We See More Film Roll Production in the Coming Years?

In a digital age dominated by smartphones and mirrorless cameras, it may surprise some to hear that film photography is not only alive—but thriving. Over the past few years, there’s been a noticeable resurgence in the demand for film rolls, driven by nostalgia, artistry, and a growing community of analog enthusiasts. So, the big question is: Will we see more film roll production in the coming years? Let’s explore the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of film photography.

The Comeback of Film Photography

Over the last decade, film photography has made a remarkable comeback. From Gen Z creators discovering analog cameras at thrift stores to professional photographers returning to film for its depth, texture, and uniqueness—film has found a new life. Searches for “35mm film” and “film camera” have surged on Google. Major brands like Kodak and Fujifilm have restarted production lines and reintroduced discontinued film stocks due to popular demand. The revival isn’t just a trend—it’s a movement.

What's Driving the Demand for Film Rolls?

Creative Expression: Film offers a distinct look and feel that digital just can’t replicate. Photographers love the grain, the imperfections, and the anticipation of waiting for development.
Tactile Experience: Shooting film slows you down. It makes every shot count—something that appeals to creatives overwhelmed by the rapid pace of digital content creation.
Social Media & Influencers: Film photography has exploded on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where creators showcase the warm, dreamy aesthetic only analog cameras can capture.
Collectibility: Vintage cameras and rare film stocks are now seen as collectible items, fueling interest in analog photography and the products that support it.

Will Film Roll Production Increase?

All signs point to yes—but with a few caveats.

Increased Investment in Production: Kodak has invested heavily in its film division, hiring more staff and ramping up production to meet global demand. Ilford, a leading producer of black-and-white film, has also expanded its offerings. Smaller boutique brands like CineStill and Lomography are innovating with experimental emulsions and niche products.

New Brands Entering the Market: Startups like Film Washi and Silberra have launched their own film lines, filling the gaps left by larger companies and catering to unique artistic preferences. This is a strong indicator that new players see the market as viable and profitable.

Retailer and Lab Growth: The growing number of film labs, online retailers, and camera stores stocking fresh film rolls further suggests there’s confidence in continued growth.

What Are the Challenges?

Despite the excitement, there are still challenges to overcome:

• Raw Material Shortages: The chemicals and materials used in film production are specialized and often difficult to source.
• High Manufacturing Costs: Scaling up production is expensive, especially for companies that mothballed operations during the digital boom.
• Sustainability Concerns: Environmental pressures may affect the production of film rolls and the processing chemicals required.

However, with continued interest and support from the photography community, manufacturers have a strong incentive to innovate and adapt.

What This Means for Photographers and Stores

For photographers, this means more options, more availability, and new creative tools. Expect to see classic stocks return, new films being tested, and better access through online shops and local camera stores.

For Shopify store owners and photography retailers, this is an exciting opportunity to expand your film roll inventory, offer pre-orders for limited edition or new releases, educate customers on how to shoot, store, and develop film, and collaborate with film labs and camera gear creators.

Conclusion: The Future Looks Bright for Film Photography

The analog revival is more than a fleeting trend—it’s a growing global community that’s bringing film back into the spotlight. With major brands scaling production and new innovators entering the market, the future of film roll production looks promising. Whether you’re a film photographer, a creative business owner, or just nostalgic for the click of a shutter and the roll of celluloid, one thing is clear: film isn’t going anywhere. In fact, it’s just getting started.