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35mm Film Buying Guide

35mm film  is the most popular film used in photography. It is compatible with 35mm film cameras which are a staple in amateur as well as professional photography.  This film is wound inside single-spool, light-tight, metal cylinders that allow cameras to be loaded during the daytime. But with so many different subjects available for photographing in this world, the right film will make all the difference.

What to Look For

  • The right film speed will determine the quality of the photos. Match your subject to your ISO number.
  • Avoid film with foreign language labelling. It may have been intended for different climates and flesh tones.
  • Most film come in 4 or 5 packs. They can be stored in a refrigerator and will last beyond their expiration date.

Choosing the Right Film Speed

  • 100 ISO is ideal for shooting non-moving outdoors subjects in daylight such as landscapes. It is also good for indoor shots with flash. 
  • 200 ISO is the default film speed for outdoor photos in both sunny and cloudy days. It is also good for indoor shots with flash
  • 400 ISO, as well as 800 ISO, is best for moving subjects, like wildlife and sports. The faster the speed, the lower the definition, but they can also produce better low light shots.
  • Other speeds, such as 1600 ISO, is only ideal for those looking to shoot very fast moving objects, such as race cars.
  • If you intend to blow up your images, it would be good to use 100 ISO, for they will still maintain good definition. 

Consumer vs. Professional

  • Professional film offers subtle colours and contrasts needed for specific assignments for professional photographers.
  • Professional film is pricey and unnecessary for standard point-and-shoot cameras.
  • Consumer print film can be under or over exposed.
  • The best option is to go for pro-sumer film which offers professional features with affordable prices, such as Fujifilm Reala  and Kodak Select 

Quick Picks

Kodak 400 Speed 35mm High Definition 

Fujifilm Superia 

Kodak Portra 160NC 

Lomography 35mm Colour Negative Film 

Popular 35mm Film Brands

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