>>4153828It's fine to say that film looks better than digital, but if you think that's the reason behind the prices you don't understand the complexities of supply and demand or consumerism. The vast majority of photos taken today are digital and far fewer people shoot film. As demand drops, supply goes up and prices drop... which happened already. Years ago. Once that supply was bought out, demand inevitably went back up but there were fewer customers providing said demand. This means production ramps back up but the cost of production is shared among fewer customers. Also, output is often reduced especially with things that expire. Either way, the individual pays more.
100 pack Maxell DVD-Rs = $30
3 pack Maxell VHS tapes = $30
Maxell VHS tapes aren't more expensive because they look better and are in higher demand, it's because the demand diminished and so did production. The current high demand for 35mm film isn't because there are more film customers, it's because there are less. It takes a few ups and downs to reach somewhat of an equilibrium.
You will just have to endure higher film prices than in the past. That's how it works. Contrary to what you say, once digital cameras "look as nice as film" film prices will actually go up long term because even more film customers will disappear. At that point, production will be so low that you likely won't even enjoy a drop in prices first. The writing will be on the wall and they will go up before production even drops.