The Analogue Photography Notebook, consisting of 48 pages, serves as a companion to Andrew Bellamy’s Analog Photography: Reference Manual for Shooting Film. While most new negatives are typically viewed on screens, many enthusiasts still seek more analogue experiences. Paper requires no internet connection, loading time, or batteries, and can often be more accessible than a screen—being portable, foldable, and infinitely versatile. Consequently, paper notes naturally complement film photography.
This notebook features a diagram showcasing Kodak Aerochrome layer sensitivity and color dyes. The majority of my film photographs can only be seen on screens, and I have even created applications to record film usage, monitor chemical expiration dates, and invert negatives. Nonetheless, paper continues to play a significant role in my processes. I find it to be the most effective tool for planning complex projects, such as my recent venture to redscale Aerochrome, constructing a camera using bread, and experimenting with pushing HP5+ to ISO 100,000.
Regrettably, I have purchased many beautiful notebooks in the past, only to leave them unused; I don’t value my notes enough to maintain an archive, resulting in most of my sketches being on scrap paper and sticky notes. Therefore, I couldn't resist accepting Vetro Editions' offer to review a pair of notebooks featuring Andrew Bellamy’s designs.
In this review, I will discuss the notebook's design and build quality, content, lining, organization, and where to purchase the Analogue Photography Notebook. Additionally, you can support this blog and gain premium benefits through GOLD memberships!
Notebook design and build quality: The Analogue Photography Notebook stands out just like the book it is inspired by. It boasts a bright yellow cover adorned with high-contrast, expertly drawn graphics. The notebook has a look reminiscent of the 1970s, despite being made from modern materials. Its cover is crafted from cardstock with a pressed canvas texture that feels secure to hold and produces a pleasing sheen in the light.
In comparison to the Reference Manual, the texture of the notebook’s cardstock is notably more pronounced. Both the appearance and feel are excellent. Since the notebook is designed for frequent and possibly rough handling, I tested its durability by scratching the cover and creasing the corners to check for damage. It's not indestructible (it is primarily paper), but it passed my tests: the ink does not easily smudge, and the textured cover slightly conceals any creases.
The inner pages resemble standard lined paper with a slight tan hue. The fonts, graphics, and lines are in monochrome gray.
Content, lining, organization: I've previously shared why I appreciate taking notes on paper; the first two pages of the Analogue Photography Notebook explain how maintaining measurement records can enhance your image quality. These arguments and examples are well-articulated, though I'm uncertain if I require this information in each of my notebooks.
The subsequent six pages provide basic exposure explanations, such as the Sunny 16 rule and aperture function. I find this section valuable due to the appealing illustrations, and even though I am already familiar with the concepts, it serves as a practical reference in certain discussions.
This notebook aims to serve multiple purposes: as a reference (mentioned earlier), for lined note-taking related to camera/film/lens & per-frame, a section for freeform notes, and six pages designated for contact information.
The challenge with a notebook designed for various uses is the predetermined allocation of space for each task. Photographers and note-takers may have differing needs. However, using a dark enough pen allows for note-taking in any format or location you desire.
Where to purchase the Analogue Photography Notebook: Vetro Editions is a Berlin-based publisher, which may explain why their products are not widely available in the U.S. and Canada (I did manage to find them at Brooklyn Film Camera). You can find copies directly on the Vetro website, or check shops in the EU and UK, such as Ars Imago and Analogue Wonderland, which are likely to stock them.
The Analogue Photography Notebook serves as a continuation and a companion to Andrew Bellamy's Analog Photography: Reference Manual for Shooting Film.
