If you’ve ever been to San Francisco’s Castro District, you know it’s full of color, history, and energy. It’s one of my favorite spots in San Francisco to shoot because every corner has something interesting—rainbow crosswalks, vibrant murals, and that classic Castro Theatre sign. Recently, I photographed an engagement session here entirely on 35mm film, and it couldn’t have been more fun.
We also checked out the Photobooth Museum by Photomatica (https://www.thephotoboothmuseum.com/), this museum is one of a kind, offering a history of different kind of (WORKING!) analog photobooths, and each costing $7. You can even ask the employee to scan for photostrips to use for social media!
I shot the whole session on Kodak Portra 400 using my Contax G2 and trusty little Olympus MJU ii (yes, the tiny point-and-shoot that delivers big results). Film just hits different—soft tones, natural grain, and that nostalgic feel you can’t fake with filters.
We wandered around the Castro, grabbed cookies at Hot Cookie, stopped by the rainbow crosswalks, and found a few quiet side streets with painted houses and a cute conveient store. The couple wanted their photos to feel real and true to their life in SF, so nothing felt stiff or overly posed. That’s one of the reasons I love shooting film; it makes you slow down, pay attention, and catch those little moments that really tell your story.
If you’re planning your own engagement session in San Francisco, here are a few tips:
Wear outfits that pop against all the colorful backgrounds.
Plan for golden hour—SF light is dreamy at the end of the day.
Be ready to explore a bit; the best spots are often found just wandering around.
And if you love the look of film photography, ask your photographer if they shoot with Portra 400 or other 35mm stocks for that timeless look. I offer a varitey of film stocks, but Portra 400 is my main squeeze.
Film photography isn’t for everyone, but if you love images that feel natural, artistic, and a little nostalgic, it’s totally worth it. I love giving couples engagement photos that feel like them—no stiff poses, just real moments in a place that means something.
Planning an engagement session in San Francisco? Whether it’s the Castro District or another favorite neighborhood, I’d love to shoot your story on film, hit me up via my contact form on my website or erin@erinrobertsphotography.com
