Clair Sapilewski, a photography major at American University, and her Gen Z peers have embraced film cameras for their unique aesthetic. While Kodak remains a popular choice for camera film, the company reported financial struggles, with a net loss of $26 million in the second quarter of 2025 and a 15% decline in shares year-to-date. Despite its challenges, the global cinema camera market is projected to reach $535 million by 2032, driven by Gen Z’s interest in analog wellness and retro aesthetics. Members of Gen Z are drawn to film photography for its rebellion against digital perfection and nostalgia for a slower culture. The unique colors and grains captured by film cameras offer a tangible photography experience that appeals to those seeking to disconnect from the instant feedback loop of social media. Madison Stefanis, a 25-year-old entrepreneur, founded 35mm Co to make film photography more accessible to Gen Z, highlighting the emotional connection and tangible nature of developing film photos. The resurgence of film photography among Gen Z reflects a desire for physical keepsakes in a digital age.

Read more at CNBC: Kodak faces financial trouble even as Gen Z drives a film resurgence