The Nostalgic Comeback of Analog in the Digital Age
If you’re a VFX artist or work in the post-production industry, you’ve likely noticed the justified obsession with the “old-school” aesthetic of film and analog editing. It’s not just post-production either—pre-production creatives have embraced this movement as well. Film cameras, Super 8, medium format cameras, and even mirrorless cameras paired with vintage lenses are making a true long-term comeback in today’s visual storytelling.
But let’s take a step back. What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of glitches? Probably factors of technology—computers, the internet, and the tools that fuel modern social institutions. Since the pandemic, movie theaters have been working hard to emotionally reel us back into the cinematic experience, which is great. Although a form of “cinema” has remained right at our fingertips. It’s not the Netflixes or Hulus of the world—it’s platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
These platforms exploded in popularity because they’re free, addictive, and incredibly accessible. Unlike traditional cinema or streaming services, their social algorithms connect you to content that feels personal and immediate. A feed dedicated to you, "For You". And with the rise of vlogs and influencer culture, we’ve seen an entirely new standard for “high-quality” content creation emerge.
Take vlogging as an example. Back in 2013, if you asked someone what camera they used, they’d probably mention a Canon Rebel T3i or a simple Sony camcorder. I remember being gifted a Sony camcorder by my mom and feeling like a true YouTuber—it was my childhood dream. Fast-forward to 2023, and a Canon G7X is now considered “entry-level” for vlogging.
This was the camcorder I was gifted, mine is still in great condition!
As time passes, technology evolves, and cameras become more advanced. But as social platforms gained more attention than cinema at certain points, a fascinating shift occurred: instead of continuing to chase pure technological clarity, we turned back to nostalgia.
Why Nostalgia is Taking Over
For years, many believed film would “progress” past analog cameras and embrace something so crystal-clear, so digital, and so immersive that nostalgia would no longer matter. And yes, in some ways, we did achieve that—virtual reality is proof.
But the return to film grain, analog noise, and visual imperfections tells a different story. We’re living in an era where nostalgia aesthetics have merged with modern digital art. Think CRT overlays, VHS glitches, film grain, chromatic aberration, pixelation, and neon glows. This fusion of analog and digital feels fresh, but it also taps into a collective longing for the textures of the past.
Introducing the Farewell TikTok Giveaway Pack
As a VFX artist, I’ve fallen in love with this digital-analog hybrid aesthetic. It is essential to the foundational aesthetic of my works. As I went through a rebrand, I was inspired to create a free VFX asset pack as a thank-you to my community, with special mention to my largest supporter base: TikTok.
In light of TikTok’s temporary bans and its uncertain future, I’ve decided to name this collection the Farewell TikTok Giveaway Pack. The pack includes 10 digital-analog style assets—perfect for adding that nostalgic flair to your projects.
Until TikTok’s fate is sealed, my goal is to create as much as I can and give back to the community that has supported me so much. Whether you’re a filmmaker, content creator, or fellow post-production enthusiast, I hope these assets bring something special to your work.
