Fujifilm cameras are special. With 20 Film Simulations (on the latest models) that are crafted using Fujifilm’s vast experience with analog film, and the ability to fine-tune them into Recipes, you can achieve incredible straight-out-of-camera results. I’ve published nearly 400 Film Simulation Recipes, most of which are modeled after the aesthetics of classic film stocks. Some Recipes get all the attention, particularly those that are Classic Chrome-based, like Kodachrome 64 and Kodak Portra 400 v2. In this article, I’m going to suggest some lesser-used gems.

If you’re looking for something new to try—maybe one that is less commonly used—these five underrated Film Simulation Recipes deserve a spot in your camera’s Custom Settings. Give them a try, and you might just find your next go-to look!

1. Fujifilm Negative

Fujifilm has a long history of producing amazing film stocks, and this Fujifilm Negative Recipe is inspired by their color negative films of the past, particularly Fujicolor PRO 160NS. With soft contrast, balanced colors, and a subtle vintage warmth, it creates a beautiful everyday look. Whether you’re shooting portraits, street photography, landscapes, or travel, Fujifilm Negative delivers a timeless feel that works in a variety of lighting conditions. Since this Recipe uses the new Reala Ace film sim, it is only compatible with fifth-generation X-series cameras, plus the newest GFX models.

2. Kodak Ektachrome E00VS v1

If you love vibrant colors, the Kodak Ektachrome E100VS v1 Recipe is a fantastic choice. With an aesthetic similar to the slide film of the same name, which was one of my favorites 20 or 25 years ago, this Recipe produces deep blues, rich reds, and strong contrast that make images pop with its bold colors (thanks to the Velvia film sim that it uses). It’s perfect for colorful urban scenes, sunsets, landscapes, and travel photography. Since it uses Auto White Balance, it’s quite versatile; however, just like the film, it’s not a good choice for portrait photography. This Recipe is compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras, plus newer GFX models.

3. Eterna Summer

The Eterna Film Simulation is often associated with soft, low-contrast tones, but the Eterna Summer Recipe adds warmth, vibrancy, and contrast. Sunlit scenes have a dreamy, vintage, and almost cinematic feel, with soft shadows and bright highlights. It’s especially great for roadtrips, urban scenes, portraits, and hot summer afternoons when you want to capture the golden essence of the season. For best results, use in sunny daylight situations. This Recipe is compatible with “newer” X-Trans IV cameras, all X-Trans V, and many GFX models.

4. CineStill 400D v2

The CineStill 400D v2 Recipe is inspired by CineStill 400D film, which is known for its cinematic feel and warm tones. This Recipe produces soft highlights, slightly punchy colors, and a dream-like quality, making it a good choice for both daytime and blue-hour photography. CineStill 400D v2 uses the Astia Film Simulation, and is great for landscapes and street photography, especially during golden-hour. This Recipe is compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras, plus the 100mp GFX models.

5. Kodak Negative

The Kodak Negative Recipe, which is reminiscent of some vibrant negative film stocks by Kodak, is quite versatile, thanks to the use of Auto White Balance. It has the right amount of warmth, saturation, and contrast for many subjects and situations. Because it uses the Nostalgic Neg. Film Simulation, it has a vintage feel that is easy to appreciate. This Recipe is only compatible with the fifth-generation X-series cameras, plus the newest GFX models.

Final Thoughts

These five underrated Film Simulation Recipes are waiting to be discovered! Whether you’re after a nostalgic analog look, a punchy slide film aesthetic, or a dreamy cinematic feel, there’s something here for your next photographic adventure. The best way to find out which Recipes are your favorites is to get out and try them—so load one of these Recipes into your Fujifilm camera and see what magic you can create!

See also: Hidden Gems: Underrated Fujifilm Cameras for SOOC Photography

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