7 Options to Consider When Choosing Kodak Motion Picture Film Stocks
Kodak offers a wide range of options for film stocks. Here, we take a look at what’s available for your next project — and what you should expect.
Although digital has largely taken over as the primary capture format, many filmmakers are now choosing to shoot their projects on film. Whether you’re looking for a specific creative aesthetic or just enjoying the process of film, understanding film stock options will help you in this stage of the creative process.
1. Ektachrome Color Reversal Film (16mm and 8mm)
Kodak re-releasing Ektachrome is one example of the current resurgence of filmmakers shooting their projects on film. Previously discontinued, this stock is back on the market.
Ektachrome is a daylight-balanced, color-reversal film offering a unique blend of vibrant, saturated colors. At an ASA of 100, this film is great for outdoor scenarios or situations with plenty of light. It’s currently available in Super 8 and 16mm options.
2. Kodak VISION3 500T Color Negative Film 5219/7219 (35mm, 16mm, and 8mm)
As Kodak’s most sensitive motion picture film, the 500T offers a beautiful grain structure to complement its low-light performance.
As a low-light performing stock, this film would be perfect for indoor applications, or when your lighting package may be smaller. With the 500 ASA and tungsten balance, it could make a perfect independent film or documentary stock, thanks to its versatility.
3. Kodak VISION3 250D Color Negative Film 5207/7207 (35mm, 16mm, and 8mm)
The 250D is the perfect middle-of-the-road film stock. Offering 250 ASA and a daylight balance, it’s sensitive enough to use indoors with plenty of natural light, or outdoors without risk of overexposure. As a result of the lower sensitivity, this stock offers a cleaner grain structure than the 500T. This stock also offers an increased highlight latitude, preserving your imagery.
4. Kodak VISION3 200T Color Negative Film 5213/7213 (35mm, 16mm, and 8mm)
The Kodak 200T is a 200 ASA and tungsten-balanced film, introducing reduced grain and beautifully vibrant color renditions. Perfect for studio applications with tungsten lighting fixtures, this stock creates a beautifully cinematic and filmic image.
5. Kodak VISION3 50D Color Negative Film 5203/7203 (35mm, 16mm, and 8mm)
The 50D stock is slated as the finest grain structure of all Kodak’s motion picture stocks. As a result of the fine grain, it displays a clean, crisp, and stable image structure that is worthy of archival applications.
As a 50 ASA and daylight-balanced film, it’s ideal for bright daylight exterior scenarios, where you have a torrent of available light.
6. TRI-X Black and White Reversal Film 7266 (16mm and 8mm)
As a reversal film, this stock offers a steady degree of contrast across the entire image. It’s ideal for studio applications with a controlled lighting environment.
Kodak TRI-X Reversal Film 7266 is a high-speed, panchromatic black and white film, offering fine grain and sharpness suitable for general interior photography with artificial light. And because our films don’t require processing in a bleach containing heavy metals, they’re easier on the environment.
7. Eastman Double-X Black and White Negative Film 5222/7222 (35mm and 16mm)
As a more traditional black and white option, the Double-X provides a classic look and approach to this timeless aesthetic.
Eastman Double-X Negative Film 5222 / 7222 has the subtleties in tone scale that you’ve come to expect. Designed for general production use outdoors and in the studio, in dim light, and anywhere you need greater depth of field, without increased illumination.
If you’re looking to shoot your next project on film, discovering which stock to use is a fun, exciting process. Even if you have no experience shooting film, you’ll quickly discover that the film community is a vibrant, inviting scene, willing to answer any questions you may have.
Cover image via thanasus.
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