Film Photography's Comeback Challenges Manufacturers

Analog's resurgence is spurring reinvestment in film and development chemicals, but legacy equipment and supply chains are struggling to keep up with demand.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:22am

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After digital photography nearly wiped out the film industry, analog photography is making a surprising comeback, driven by younger generations drawn to the nostalgic, tangible, and unfiltered nature of film. This resurgence is putting pressure on legacy film and chemical manufacturers, who are scrambling to increase production and invest in new equipment to meet the growing demand.

Why it matters

The return of film photography represents a significant shift in the imaging industry, which had largely moved on from analog processes. This trend highlights the enduring appeal of physical media and the desire for a more intentional, meditative photographic experience, even in the digital age. However, the industry's ability to keep up with this renewed interest will determine whether film photography can sustain its comeback.

The details

Key film and chemical manufacturers like Kodak, Fujifilm, and Harman-Ilford are adding shifts, investing in new equipment, and expanding capacity to meet the growing demand for film. This includes upgrading aging production lines, sourcing hard-to-find materials, and hiring additional staff. The resurgence is being driven by both younger photographers drawn to film's unique aesthetic, as well as a return to analog by professionals and artists who appreciate the craft and intentionality of the medium.

  • In 2022, Kodak hired over 300 people to run its film production lines in Rochester, New York.
  • In 2024, Kodak carried out a major renovation of its Rochester plant, including a 5-week shutdown for equipment upgrades.
  • In 2024, Harman-Ilford spent millions on new machines to make 35mm film cassettes at its plant near Manchester, England.
  • In December 2025, Fujifilm announced a $30 million upgrade to a factory near Tokyo that makes Instax instant film cartridges.

The players

Kodak

Once a photography industry giant, Kodak has downsized significantly but is now reinvesting in film production to keep up with renewed demand.

Fujifilm

A major film manufacturer that is boosting output of disposable cameras and instant film to meet the growing interest in analog photography.

Harman-Ilford

A UK-based film and chemical manufacturer that is investing millions to expand its production capacity for 35mm film cassettes.

Joe Giordano

A photographer and teacher who shoots both digital and analog, and sees the appeal of film's intentional, meditative process.

Alan Fischer

The founder and CEO of Photo Systems, one of the last remaining manufacturers of photographic development chemicals.

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What they’re saying

“We're seeing new people fall in love with film photography every day.”

— Greg Summers, Managing Director, Harman-Ilford

“I have to write a lot of late passes because the students don't want to leave the darkroom.”

— Joe Giordano, Photography teacher

“From our research, we've learned that Gen Z especially is drawn to the nostalgia, tangibility, and unfiltered nature of analog photography.”

— Bing Liem, Imaging Division Leader, Fujifilm North America

What’s next

Kodak and other film manufacturers are expected to continue investing in equipment and capacity upgrades to keep up with the growing demand for analog photography.

The takeaway

The resurgence of film photography, driven by younger generations' embrace of its unique aesthetic and tactile qualities, has presented both opportunities and challenges for the industry. Legacy manufacturers must navigate supply chain constraints and aging equipment to meet this renewed interest, underscoring the durability of analog media in the digital age.