If you're new to shooting on 35mm film, you're probably wondering where to start, and what film to shoot with.
Among the many options available, Kodak Ultramax 400 stands out as a beloved choice for both amateur and professional photographers alike. Known for its vibrant colours, fine grain, and exceptional versatility, this film brings a unique warmth and depth to images that digital simply can't replicate.
If you're curious about this film stock, join us as we take a deep dive into its performance, as well as sharing a collection of photos taken on Kodak ultramax 400 in Japan.
Kodak Ultramax 400 Specifications
Here's a glance at the main specifications for this popular film stock.
Brand | Kodak |
Type | C-41 Negative |
ISO | 400 |
Format | 35mm |
Lighting Conditions | Balances well with overcast lighting and bright, indoor shots |
Exposures | 24 or 36exp |
Kodak Ultramax 400 has earned a stellar reputation among photographers for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its ISO 400 rating makes it highly versatile, allowing it to perform well in a wide range of lighting conditions. This flexibility means you can confidently use Ultramax 400 whether you're shooting in bright daylight, cloudy weather, or even indoors with less-than-ideal lighting.
This adaptability is particularly beneficial for photographers who need a reliable, all-purpose film for various situations without constantly changing rolls. When we were travelling in Japan, this film performed notably better than other 35mm films we took on the trip due to the overcast skies and general changeability in the weather.
One of the standout features of Ultramax 400 is its ability to produce vibrant, saturated colours. This makes it an excellent choice for capturing vivid landscapes, colourful street scenes, and lively portraits. The film enhances natural colours without overly exaggerating them, providing a pleasing and realistic look that many photographers appreciate.
Additionally, Ultramax 400 is known for its fine grain structure. Despite its relatively high ISO rating, it maintains a good level of detail and sharpness, making it suitable for enlargements and high-quality prints. This fine grain also contributes to the film's overall aesthetic, giving photos a classic, timeless feel.
When it comes to specific lighting conditions, Kodak Ultramax 400 excels in:
Daylight: The film performs brilliantly in bright, sunny conditions, capturing rich colours and sharp details. It’s ideal for outdoor photography, including landscapes, architecture, and street photography.
Overcast and Cloudy Conditions: Ultramax 400 handles lower light scenarios effectively, maintaining good contrast and colour accuracy even when the sun isn’t shining brightly. This makes it a reliable choice for shooting in variable weather.
Indoor and Low Light: While not specifically a low-light film, Ultramax 400’s higher ISO sensitivity allows it to handle indoor and evening shots better than many lower ISO films. You can shoot indoors with natural light or with a flash, and still achieve pleasing results.
Kodak Ultramax 400 Film Photos
Here's a selection of shots taken in Japan on this film stock.
Overall, it's a versatile, great all rounder film that wins at adapting to different lighting situations and because of that, it's a great 35mm film for both beginners and experienced film photographers.
If you give this film stock a try, let us know what you think, and don't forget to get your film processed with us afterwards!
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