Chasing the Film Look with Seiya Taguchi

Chasing the Film Look with Seiya Taguchi

Join professional photographer, Seiya Taguchi, and explore how to shoot digital in a film-inspired way. Beginning with a breakdown of Seiya’s creative process and the visual qualities that give film its distinctive character: halation, colour bleed, tonal shifts, light leaks, and texture.

Explore how tools such as filters, vintage lenses via the FTZ II adaptor, and manual-focus can be used to intentionally shape the image. We’ll compare subjects photographed on film cameras and the Nikon Zf, analysing differences in colour, contrast, and overall image character.

The session also dives into colour theory across classic film emulsions, matching film references and building a custom film-inspired profile using Nikon Imaging Cloud. You’ll upload and apply your custom profile, then head out to shoot together, putting your film-inspired look into practice in real-world conditions.

Please Note:

A selection of Nikon Z series cameras including the Zf and NIKKOR Z lenses will be available for trial during the session, along with a Nikon representative to answer your questions.

About Seiya:

Seiya is a freelance Japanese-Australian photographer based between Tokyo and Sydney. With over 15 years of experience in photography, he has shot for clients which include: Amazon Prime, Spotify, Nikon, Virgin Active, Audible, Netflix, and more.

While he primarily focuses on Commercial Photography, the common thread within all his work is the humanity of the moment. Being born in Tokyo and growing up in Sydney, his unique perspective places human experience at the fore– Seiya captures those moments authentically through the use of light and composition, his eye for detail, and his zest for life; distilling them into an all-encompassing image.

You can view some of Seiya’s work here.

Images by Seiya Taguchi

Please Note:

A selection of Nikon Z series cameras including the Zf and NIKKOR Z lenses will be available for trial during the session, along with a Nikon representative to answer your questions.

Recommended Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Topics Covered:

• What gives film its distinctive look: halation, colour bleed, tonal shifts, light leaks, and texture
• How different film stocks influence mood and colour (Portra, Superia, Ektachrome, Cinestill)
• Using filters, vintage lenses, and the FTZ II adaptor to shape light and rendering
• Manual-focus workflows for slower, more intentional image-making
• Colour theory across film emulsions vs digital profiles
• Creating a custom film-style profile in Nikon Imaging Cloud
• Uploading and using custom recipes on the Nikon Zf
• Applying your film-inspired look during a guided location shoot
• Reviewing and refining film-emulated images alongside real film references

What to Bring:

• Mirrorless or DSLR camera
• Lenses for your camera
• Fully charged battery and spare
• Memory cards
• Tripod (optional)
• Weather appropriate clothing and footwear
• Water & Snacks

Gear Provided:

A variety of Nikon cameras (including the Zf) and lenses will be available for use during the class. Bring your own SD card if you'd like to keep your photos and footage!

For more course information or inquiries email:

school@mynikonlife.com.au (Mon-Fri 9-4 PM AEST)