What 35mm Film Should I Buy?
As a passionate photographer, I've always been drawn to the timeless beauty of 35mm film. There's something about the tactile experience of loading a roll, hearing the satisfying click of the shutter, and anticipating the results that just can't be replicated in the digital world (we call it "photogasm"!). But with so many film options out there, it can be a daunting task to choose the right one for your needs. Fear not, for I'm here to guide you through the world of 35mm film and help you find the perfect match for your camera and shooting style.
Colour vs Black and White
The first decision you'll need to make is whether to go with colour or black and white film. Both have their own unique charms and can produce stunning results, but the choice ultimately comes down to your personal preference and the type of photography you enjoy.
Colour film is a great option for capturing the vibrant hues of the world around you. Whether you're shooting landscapes, portraits, or street scenes, the rich, saturated tones of colour film can bring your images to life in a way that IMO digital just can't quite match. Brands like Kodak and Fujifilm offer a wide range of colour film stocks, each with its own distinct character and personality.
Kodak Portra series & Ilford HP5 400 are two of the most popular films
On the other hand, black and white film has a timeless, moody quality that can lend a sense of drama and emotion to your photographs. The interplay of light and shadow, the subtle gradations of grey, and the timeless aesthetic of monochrome can be truly captivating. Ilford (Harman) and Kodak are two of the most renowned names in the world of black and white film, also we do have Fomapan and Fujifilm which is well known of their black and white film.
Budgeting for Film
Of course, the cost of film is another important factor to consider. While premium film types like Kodak's Portra series, Kodak's Ektarchrome 100 or Fujifilm 400 can produce stunning results, they also come with a heftier price tag. For those on a tighter budget, there are plenty of affordable options that still deliver great quality.
Kodak Colorplus 200
Brands like Lomography and Kodak's Ultramax and Colorplus lines offer excellent value for money, with prices that won't break the bank. And don't be afraid to experiment with expired film, you can often find great deals on rolls that are a few years past their expiration date, and the results can be surprisingly beautiful.
Top Film Brands
Now, let's dive into some of the top film brands and what they have to offer:
Kodak
Kodak is a name that's synonymous with film photography, and for good reason. Their lineup includes a wide range of both colour and black and white options, from the classic Portra series to the budget-friendly Ultramax, Colorplus and Gold 200 lines. Whether you're shooting portraits, landscapes, or just everyday moments, Kodak has a film that's sure to suit your needs.
Fujifilm
Fujifilm was another powerhouse in the world of 35mm film, known for their vibrant, punchy colour rendition. Though the only film you get can get in Europe are Fujifilm 200 & 400, which still provide stunning colours. Though our studio still have some expired Fujifilm Superia 400 in stock, which is also a budget friendly film for those who'd love to experience out-of-date film!
Lomography
Lomography is a brand that's all about embracing the quirks and imperfections of analogue photography. They have been very active in these few years and released a few films.
Their "normal" C41 colour film, are colour negative 100, 400 & 800, which provide similar colour to Kodak and Fujifilm, while their iconic Lomochrome Purple, Turquoise, Metropolices, offer a unique, experimental take on colour that can add a touch of whimsy to your images.
Cinestill
Cinestill is a company that sell Cinematic colour negative film, their products include Cinestill 50D, 400D and the famous 800T.
Ilford
For those who prefer the timeless beauty of black and white, Ilford is a name that needs no introduction. Their Black n white films, like the classic HP5 Plus and Delta series, are renowned for their exceptional quality and versatility. Also, they released two new colour film named Harman Phoenix 200 & Phoenix 200 II, which has unique colours and budget friendly.
Harman Phoenix 200 I & II are the first colour films to be made entirely in-house
Factors to Consider
When choosing a 35mm film, there are a few more key factors to keep in mind:
Camera Type and Lens
The type of camera and lens you're using can have a big impact on the film you choose. For example, if you're shooting with a vintage or point & shoot camera, you might want to opt for a film with a med-high ISO (200-800) to ensure optimal image quality; on the other hand if you are shooting with a pro-SLR camera, the choices for you are more flexible.
Film choice varies with the camera you use
Shooting Environment
The lighting conditions you'll be working in can also influence your film choice. If you'll be shooting in bright, sunny conditions, a low-speed film like the famous Kodak Gold 200, or Lomography 100 might be a better fit. For low-light situations, a high speed film is recommended like Kodak Portra 800, Lomography 800 or Cinestill 800T, some people prefer to use black and white film for low light situation, HP5 Pus 400, Ilford Delta 3200 are their favourites.
Purpose
What are you planning to shoot with your 35mm film? Portraits, landscapes, street photography, or something else? Different films excel in different genres, so it's worth considering what you'll be using the film for.
ISO 100 film offers fine grain and works best on bright days
Budget-Friendly Recommendations
If you're just starting out with 35mm film, or you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of great options that won't break the bank. Kodak's Ultramax 400, Gold 200, Colorplus 200 and Fujifilm 200 are excellent all-around films that deliver great results without costing an arm and a leg. Lomography's Colour Negative 100 & 400 are another budget-friendly choices that can add a touch of analogue charm to your images. There is a new colour negative film named Candido is also a great selection especially if you love red halo halation effect around bright highlights
Tips
Here are a few pro tips to keep in mind:
Embrace Expired Film
Don't be afraid to experiment with expired film – you can often find great deals on rolls that are a few years past their expiration date, and the results can be surprisingly beautiful, with a unique, vintage-inspired look.
Match Film to Lighting
Pay attention to the film speed (ISO) of the film you're using, and try to match it to the lighting conditions you'll be shooting in. A higher-speed film will work better in low light, while a slower film will give you smooth, fine grain results in bright, sunny conditions.
High ISO films perform well in low light
Use Flash Effectively
We always tell people who are going to shoot film in parties/gigs to turn on flash, If you're shooting with a flash, be mindful of the film's sensitivity to light. Faster films can handle the extra light better than slower films, which may result in overexposed images.
However, does that mean you can't use low ISO film with Flash in low light situations? The answer is no, because analogue film always goes well with light, as long as you are within the flash distance (not too close), you will still see the subject perfectly in you pictures.
The high ISO film can be used when some people don't like or not allow to use flash but only using natural light in fairly dark situations, the higher speed film you use, the better image you get in such low light situations with no flash.
Film always pairs well with flash
Conclusion
Choosing the right 35mm film can be a bit of a journey, but with a little experimentation and an open mind, you're sure to find the perfect match for your camera and shooting style. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant hues of colour film or the timeless beauty of black and white, there's a 35mm film out there that's waiting to capture your unique vision. So grab your camera, load up a roll, and get ready to embark on a new analogue adventure!
BTW, If you want to see more samples of 35mm colour films, please click this link to our product page of 35mm colour film. (some if them might not have samples but we are working on it!)
____________________________________________________________________________
All images featured in this blog are produced by J&A Studio – a professional photo studio and film lab! Follow our Instagram if you love film photography and want to see the latest from our studio!
Leave a comment