In a world dominated by instant digital photography, the nostalgic charm of film photography is making a remarkable comeback, with Analog Photomart leading the charge in Little Tokyo.
Owned by Bryan Hong, a lifelong photography enthusiast, Analog Photomart has quickly become the neighborhood’s go-to destination for film and processing services.
Hong’s journey into the world of film photography began during the pandemic when he rediscovered an old family camera tucked away in his parents’ closet.
Despite initial setbacks, including a failed roll of film, Hong was inspired to delve back into film, and his passion only grew from there.
Recognizing a gap in the market after Kimura Photomart closed in 2010, Hong set out to fulfill the need for a local spot where residents could buy film and have it developed.
“I would have loved it if there was a place I could walk to and buy film and drop it off for developing,” Hong shared, expressing his desire to serve his community in Little Tokyo, where he has lived for years.
Analog Photomart specializes in 35mm film from renowned brands like Kodak, Fuji, and Ilford, ensuring that both seasoned photographers and newcomers have access to quality materials.
The shop also features a small darkroom for processing, which adds to the allure of the experience.
One standout moment at Analog occurred when a customer named Kathy visited to drop off her film for processing.
Kathy emphasized the artistry of film photography and the anonymity it provides compared to digital formats that can easily expose personal information through metadata.
“The craze right now is content creating and posting online, but I kind of want to still keep my privacy,” she explained, highlighting the appeal of maintaining a level of discretion while still enjoying photography.
Hong’s diverse clientele includes both experienced professionals and those experiencing film for the first time, with many utilizing disposable cameras—yes, they’re still popular.
According to him, processing images from these cameras makes up a significant portion of the business, as customers seek tangible memories rather than digital files that can easily be lost.
“It’s the best way to preserve memories, really, and it’s actually not hard. It’s easy and it’s fun,” he stated enthusiastically.
Hong believes that the tactile nature of film offers a more practical solution for memory preservation compared to digital formats.
“With film, you can just throw the negatives into a closet, and they will be there 30 years later,” he pointed out, contrasting it with the constant challenge of keeping digital files well-organized and accessible.
“If you don’t stay on top of migrating all of your data to whatever the new storage medium is, you are going to lose access to it,” he warned, making a case for the reliability of physical records.
For those eager to embrace the revival of film photography, Analog Photomart serves as an essential hub, fostering creativity and community.
Additionally, the playful spirit of the shop is evident, as customers are often invited to take Polaroid snapshots to commemorate their experience.
Photos of satisfied customers adorn a corner of the shop, showcasing the growing community of film enthusiasts who have found a new passion at Analog.
Hong’s commitment to bringing film photography back to the neighborhood is part of a larger trend, as many people seek a more authentic and slower-paced approach to capturing their lives.
The distinct aesthetic of film continues to draw individuals into its fold, as it stands in contrast to the instant gratification found in digital photography, ultimately creating a richer experience for both the photographer and audience alike.
Analog Photomart is not just about selling film; it is about cultivating a culture that cherishes moments, stories, and the beauty of imperfection associated with analog photography.
Located at 416 E. 2nd Street in Little Tokyo, Analog Photomart is open and ready to welcome anyone interested in rediscovering the magic of film.
As we navigate a digital-first world, places like Analog Photomart remind us of the beauty of waiting and the joy found in capturing life through a different lens.
image source from：rafu
