A photo of two horses on film, featured in “Emulsion Side Up” at The Goat Coffee House in downtown Eau Claire. (Photo by Gary Krogman)

Creating works of art with film photography appeals deeply to many people, and it’s not just about nostalgia and memories of pouring over book after book of family albums.

The slower pace and tactile hands-on process of loading film, advancing frames, the click of the shutter, and the anticipation of development provides a sense of authenticity in an increasingly digital world.

For the past six months, area photographers Jeff Bucklew, Paul Thomas and Gary Krogman have joined forces to create a new photography showcase entitled “Emulsion Side Up,” to be displayed at The Goat Coffee House (336 Water St., Eau Claire) now through Sept. 30.

From 5-7pm on Sept. 23, the coffee shop will host a reception for the public to connect with the photographers face-to-face.

Emulsion Side Up celebrates the various nuances of analog film photography in a space where the three photographers are are frequent customers. They coordinated this installation alongside Ryan Bembniser, The Goat Coffee House owner and a avid supporter of local art. 

Each photographer created eight images using eight different film cameras: from view cameras to twin lens reflex, 35mm single-lens reflex, point-and-shoot and more.

One featured camera, the Holga, is known for its inexpensive construction and unpredictable print quality. It has been embraced by the art world for that very reason. Another large format camera used dates back to the 19th century.

There’s certainly something for all types of photographers here.

“I knew 24 images is a nice number to fill the space at The Goat Coffee House,” Bucklew said. “The thought of 24 different film cameras would make the show both fun and a challenge for the three of us as photographers, in addition to make for an interesting show for the viewers.”

A photo by Jeff Bucklew using the Holga camera, which often uses 120mm film. (Photo by Jeff Bucklew)

A barn and a cat, on film by Paul Thomas, who develops his own film in a personal studio. (Photo by Paul Thomas)

Placards will detail the type of camera used in the creation of each image, including a short history of the camera and a few technical specifications. Some images were developed by the photographers themselves, while others were developed through Sharp Photo & Portrait (3306 Mall Dr., Eau Claire).

“I am often asked why I use film to take pictures, and why I spend so much time with seemingly awkward and arcane mechanical systems that require a significant amount of thought and care to make a successful picture,” Thomas said. “But that is precisely the point!”

“After sixty years, my love for film photography has never faded,” Krogman added.

To introduce the art of film photography to others, one roll of film – plus a film camera – will be given away each week while Emulsion Side Up is on display. Patrons can also pick up a free zine featuring the entire 24 image collection at The Goat Coffee House or across the street at Decadent Gifts and Gallery (329 Water St., Eau Claire).

Questions regarding the purchase of any images in Emulsion Side Up should be directed to The Goat Coffee House staff. Stop down this month for your chance to win some new camera gear and learn more about the resurgence of film photography in Eau Claire!

“Behind the Easel” is a periodic column by Patricia Hawkenson, a visual artist and one of the proprietors of Decadent Gifts & Gallery in Eau Claire.