Analog Series: Sun Soaked Sicily on 35mm Film

Welcome to my Analog Series — a collection of stories, lessons, and reflections centered around one roll of film at a time. This series invites you to slow down, experiment creatively, and approach your film photography practice with intention.


This was my first trip to sunny Sicily and I drew a lot of visual inspiration from colorful every corner. It was great to travel with other photographers who understand the importance of taking it slow and consciously exploring a new place in an effort to spot the little details, like fresh morning dew on leaves, bright, colorful petals and expansive island views. Sicily further heightened my interest in all things floral. I was enamored with Mediterranean blooms like fuchsia bougainvillea, purple morning glories, bright orange trumpet vines, and other ornamental foliage. Photographing flowers during my travels is like a fun lesson in botany, and I’m starting to recognize more species, especially the sun-loving ones.

With day after day of Sicilian sunshine, views of the mountains meeting the sea, mouthwatering food, and historic street scenes, this trip was a photographer's dream! But I also learned a hard lesson: experimenting with expired films on holiday sometimes leads to disappointment if the rolls don’t develop properly. Oops! Sadly, the pictures here were some of the only survivors, but luckily, I’ll have the memories etched in my mind forever.

Camera: Canon AE-1 with 50mm lens
Film: (expired) Kodak Portra 160

Mondello beach view

Continue exploring my Analog Series, and feel free to leave a comment with a link to your own analog photos.
I’d love to see what you’re creating!

Lily Heaton

Lily Heaton is an Amsterdam-based freelance writer, photographer, and creative director helping lifestyle, fashion and travel brands tell bold stories through written and visual narratives. Creative services: copywriting, brand messaging, communication strategy, content creation, digital marketing, photography, tone of voice, brand guidelines, and creative concepts.

http://www.lilyheaton.com
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Sicilian Cooking Workshop