land of the red sun - Cinestill 400d (pulled one stop)
Rick Alarcon is a US photographer in Paris , France, specializing in portraits, events, and artistic photography.
I wouldn’t recommend accidentally pulling Cinestill 400d, unless you really like the halation effect (that kind of glowing red halo around the lights - see it strongly in ‘halo’ with the church lights). It seems to also wash the entire image in a red cast; not something I’d like to spend the hours needed to correct. I’ve been switching between different cameras and setups lately, that I think I forgot to reset this roll (I will hardly ever pull film), also was messing around with in-camera double exposing (see ‘start of day’, ‘essentially’), but it was interesting to see despite the unintended results. Pulling not only exaggerated the red casting, but also seemed to splash some red light leak-looking things (see ‘lightest part’ and ‘homilies’) onto the image. Fingers crossed its the film and not a camera problem.
panorama camera - Expired roll
Rick Alarcon is a US photographer in Paris , France, specializing in portraits, events, and artistic photography.
I found an old point and shoot panorama camera in my things. It’s not a true panorama, but rather a 35mm point and shoot that blacks out the frame to give that panorama letterbox look. I didn’t even know I still had the camera, let alone that there was film on it. Expired film, plastic camera, light leaks, sitting in a box for years. Perfect, let’s develop it.
So here’s a roll of expired Fujifilm 200, probably from around Covid time from what I can see. Images were left untreated and at original crop, because there is no coming back for these.
There’s no lesson to take from this as it is a miracle anything came out of this roll, and though not the greatest, some nice memories of friends from a forgotten time.
buymearolloffilm.com
Film photography costs - from purchasing, to development and scanning, to printing - can make it difficult to regularly produce work, so in the event that you would like to be a patron of the arts and support me, you can now do so. You would be helping me to acquire the tools to make more images. and not only would you be helping me, but also those who can’t donate, as I intend to deliver the same images for all.
All support goes towards the purchase, development, scanning, printing and furthering of my analog film work. Images will always be made available via the blog, as well as some notes to let you know how it is all going and other thoughts. Support and help me create.
Cheers,
Rick
summer 2025: ilford fp4 125
Rick Alarcon is a US photographer in Paris specializing in portraits, events, and artistic photography.
I’ll try to start blogging more images here as well as on social media, as it is a bit limiting in presenting work and my friends tell me I like to talk a lot. I turned back to film for daily work recently: refreshing, brain twisting, highly recommended to stretch the muscles.
My parents’ Canon AE-1 50mm FD f/1.8, Ilford fp4 125 pushed one stop, reflx lab meter, labo and scan: reportage-image. Two test rolls. May post the duds one day (only one here cause there was some weird ‘me double exposure/I-don’t-know-what + lab/development’ and it looked cool.
Click on each photo for full screen. Hover over for more.
How to Plan a Paris Photoshoot That Fits Your Trip (Timing, Light & Logistics)
The best Paris photoshoots are the ones that fit naturally into your trip—not the ones that disrupt it. With a bit of planning, a session can feel effortless and become one of the most relaxed moments of your stay.
Here’s how to approach it.
The best Paris photoshoots are the ones that fit naturally into your trip—not the ones that disrupt it. With a bit of planning, a session can feel effortless and become one of the most relaxed moments of your stay.
Here’s how to approach it.
Choose the right time of day
Light matters more than location. Early mornings are quieter and softer, while late afternoons offer warmth and movement. I usually recommend scheduling the session at a time that complements your energy—not when you’re rushing between plans.
Keep locations close
A great session doesn’t require covering half the city. Two nearby locations often give more variety (and better images) than trying to do too much. This keeps things relaxed and avoids unnecessary travel.
Plan outfits with the environment in mind
Neutral tones photograph beautifully against Paris architecture. Comfort is key—walking is part of the experience. If you’re unsure, I can help you choose something that works for the location and season.
Book early if possible
Booking ahead allows us to choose the best light and build flexibility into your schedule. Sunrise sessions and weekends tend to fill first, especially during peak travel months.
Leave space, not pressure
Your photoshoot shouldn’t feel like a checklist item. When it’s planned with breathing room, it becomes something you enjoy rather than something you “get through.”
A well-planned session doesn’t just produce better photos—it creates a better experience.
If you’re starting to organize your trip and want help fitting a photoshoot into it naturally, feel free to reach out. I’ll help you plan something that works for you.