If you're looking for a versatile beginner film that's a low ISO and great for shooting in sunny conditions, Fujifilm 200 might be your film stock of choice.
In fact, it was one of the first films I shot with on our travels in Japan, and very much as a beginner.
In this review, we'll delve into what makes Fujifilm 200 a go-to for both novice and seasoned photographers alike, along with some photos from this versatile 35mm film.
Overview of Fujifilm 200
Fujifilm 200, also known as Fujicolor 200, is a colour negative film that has been a staple in the film photography world for years.
It is a daylight-balanced film with an ISO of 200, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions.
Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or street photography, Fujifilm 200 offers a reliable and consistent performance.
Fujifilm 200 Review
As a beginner to film photography who used this as my first ever film roll, I can vouch for the fact that it is a great one to start with, but I also learnt a lot about what a lower ISO truly means, and how it can impact your photography, depending on the lighting conditions.
Colour and Tonality
One of the standout features of Fujifilm 200 is its vibrant yet natural color rendition.
The film is known for producing rich, saturated colors without being overly exaggerated. Greens and blues are particularly vivid, making it an excellent choice for outdoor photography where nature's hues can truly shine.
Skin tones are rendered with a pleasing warmth, which is ideal for portrait work.
Grain Structure
At ISO 200, this film strikes a good balance between grain and sharpness. The grain is fine and unobtrusive, adding just enough texture to give images that quintessential film look without detracting from detail.
This makes Fujifilm 200 a great option for enlargements and prints, as the grain enhances the image without becoming overly prominent.
However, the lower ISO means that it works best in sunny, fair lighting conditions. Therefore, it really is a great film for shooting with in the summer, or if you're holidaying in a place where good light is guaranteed.
We shot on this in Japan during April and well, conditions were mixed. Some days there was gorgeous blue skies, and others it was warm with a grey overcast and we found that Fujifilm 200 was just not adaptable to those less than forgiving conditions.
But, on the days of blue skies, the shots came out beautifully, with depth of colour and definition.
Versatility and Performance
Fujifilm 200 is known for its versatility. It performs admirably in various lighting situations, though as I've touched on, it truly excels in daylight and well-lit environments.
The film’s latitude allows for some flexibility in exposure, making it forgiving for beginners who might not yet be adept at perfect exposure settings.
Cost and Availability
One of the appealing aspects of Fujifilm 200 is its affordability. It is often priced lower than other premium films, making it an excellent choice for those who want to shoot film without breaking the bank.
Availability is generally good, with the film being stocked by most major camera stores and online retailers. It is priced at £11.50 here at FilmProcessing, and really is a great entry level film in my opinion.
Fujifilm 200 Photos
The proof is in the pudding after all, so enjoy some shots taken on Fujifilm 200 in Japan.
I have included a mix of the ones shot in blue skies, as well as those that came out overcast so you can identify and see for yourself just how well in shoots in different lighting conditions.
Despite, some of the shots coming out overcast, I still love the grain effect in the photos and the memories that they bring.
Fujifilm 200 remains a beloved choice for a reason. Its combination of vibrant colors, fine grain, and versatility makes it a reliable option for a wide range of photographic scenarios.
So grab your camera, load up a roll of Fujifilm 200, and rediscover the joy of capturing moments on film. Happy shooting! Don't forget to have your film processed with us when your roll is finished too.
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