Don Bell Photographing – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI – Kodak Portra 400 v2
I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (November 2024).
These types of lists are usually pretty predictable. There are often a few surprises—there is always some movement—but from one month to the next, it’s mostly the same. It’s unusual for Kodachrome 64 to not be in the #1 position, and this marks the second month in a row (and third time this year) that it isn’t. Beyond that, there aren’t many surprises.
Two Boats – Clinton, CT – Fujifilm X-E4 – Pacific Blues
Those Recipes with Kodak brand names in the title—Kodachrome, Portra, Gold, Tri-X, etc., etc.—are usually the most popular. Classic Chrome is the king of film simulations, as the majority of the most-viewed Recipes are based on that film simulation; however, the Number One Recipe this month is based on Reala Ace—the first time that has ever happened.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of November 2024
This is a new Recipe published on October 31st. It uses the Reala Ace film simulation as the base, which means it is compatible with X-Trans V cameras. I’m not surprised to see it make this list, but I’m pretty surprised that it is at the very top.
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. It’s rare that this one isn’t Number One; surprisingly, this is the second month in a row that it is ranked #2.
Reggie’s Portra, a popular Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras, usually ranks high. It’s position, along with the next three below, remain unchanged. This is the most versatile of the Portra Recipes, and the most popular for portrait photography.
Reala Ace is back in the Top 10! This was one of the most popular Recipes (even once #1), but then it fell down the list over the summer. It uses the Classic Negative film simulation (and not the Real Ace film sim), and is for X-Trans V cameras.
It is probably unfair to include the Film Dial Recipes in this list because it is not one Recipe, but 14. When it showed up in the Top 25, I was faced with the choice to included it (as unfair as that might be) or not. The Vibrant Arizona article is technically four Recipes, so there is a precedence for its inclusion. In October it was ranked #10.
This is an Eterna-based Recipe for X-Trans V cameras; however, it’s simply an adaptation of the X-Trans IV version that has been around awhile. It was #16 last month.
This version of Kodak Portra 400, which is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras, was commonly the third most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly for a long time; however, now it is more typically found in the 10-15 range. Last month is was ranked #14.
For awhile this was the highest ranked Classic Negative based Recipe, but lately is has been Number Two (if you don’t include Superia Negative from the Film Dial Recipe set). This particular version of Pacific Blues is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is also an X-Trans V version. It rose one spot since last month.
Vintage Kodachrome, which is based on Classic Chrome, is one of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It usually cracks the Top 15, and sometimes the Top 10. Last month it was #9.
This is the long-time most popular B&W Recipe on Fuji X Weekly. It’s based on the Acros film simulation, and has compatibility with X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V models. It fell one spot.
This is an App Patron Early Access Recipe, which means that right now it is only available in the Fuji X Weekly App to Patron subscribers. Eventually it will be available free to everyone, but that might take awhile. This Recipe uses the Classic Negative film simulation, and is compatible with X-Trans V cameras. Last month it was ranked all the way at the very top.
A Classic Negative based Recipe that’s compatible with X-Trans V cameras (there’s also an X-Trans IV version). This one typically either just makes the Top 25 or just misses it, and last month it just missed.
I published this Recipe, which uses Classic Chrome and has compatibility with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras, in April. It fell two spots since October.
This Recipe doesn’t usually crack the Top 25. Interestingly, is is the only one in this list that uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation (aside from Nostalgic Film in the Film Dial set).
I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (October 2024).
These types of lists are usually pretty predictable. There are often a few surprises—there is always some movement—but from one month to the next, it’s mostly the same. This time, I was shocked. Just shocked. Yes, some were not all that surprising, but some were highly unexpected. For just the second time this year, Kodachrome 64 has dropped out of first place, and for the first time ever a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early Access Recipe has reached #1. Also, this is the first time that a Monochrome-based Recipe has even made the list… in October, two of them cracked the Top 10, becoming the first B&W Recipes to rank higher than Kodak Tri-X 400 in a very long time.
Johnny’s BBQ – Nashville, TN – Fujifilm X100VI – Fujicolor Blue – by Jonathan Roesch
Those Recipes with Kodak brand names in the title—Kodachrome, Portra, Gold, Tri-X, T-Max, etc., etc.—are usually the most popular. Classic Chrome is the king of film simulations, as the majority of the most-viewed Recipes are based on that film simulation; however, the Number One Recipe this month is based on Classic Negative—only the second time that has happened this year.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of October 2024
This is an App Patron Early Access Recipe, which means that right now it is only available in the Fuji X Weekly App to Patron subscribers. Eventually it will be available free to everyone, but that might take awhile. This Recipe uses the Classic Negative film simulation, and was published only two weeks ago. It’s highly, highly surprising that it not only cracked the Top 10, but made it all the way to the top spot. Interestingly, it beat out #2 by a very large margin.
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. It’s rare that this one isn’t Number One, and I’d be surprised if it isn’t back on top next month.
Reggie’s Portra, a popular Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras, usually ranks high. Last time it was #2, and now it is #3. This is the most versatile of the Portra Recipes, and the most popular for portrait photography.
This is a new B&W Recipe for X-Trans IV & V cameras that was published about a month ago. Acros-based Recipes are the king of black-and-white, and Kodak Tri-X 400 is usually the only one to crack the Top 25. This one uses Monochrome+G, so it is quite surprising to find it ranked so high.
This is also a new B&W Recipe for X-Trans IV & V cameras that was published about a month ago. This one, too, uses the Monochrome+G film simulation. I was shocked to find both this one and the Hard Tone version above in the Top 10.
Vintage Kodachrome, which is based on Classic Chrome, is one of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It usually cracks the Top 15, and sometimes the Top 10. Last month it was #11.
It is probably unfair to include the Film Dial Recipes in this list because it is not one but 14 Recipes. Last month was the first time seeing it in the Top 25, and I was faced with the choice of included it (as unfair as that might be) or not. The Vibrant Arizona article is technically four Recipes, so there is a precedence for its inclusion. I think the sudden rise in interest in the Film Dial Recipes is due to three things: 1) people buying the X-T50, 2) the announcement of the X-M5 (which also has a Film Dial), and 3) people realizing that these Recipes can be used for a lot of other cameras, and not just those with the knob. In September it was ranked #7.
This is oftentimes the highest ranked Classic Negative based Recipe, but this month it is Number Two (if you don’t include Superia Negative from the Film Dial Recipe set). This particular version of Pacific Blues is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is also an X-Trans V version. It also rose one spot since last month.
This version of Kodak Portra 400 was commonly the third most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly for a long time; however, it has been slowly falling. Last month it ranked #9.
This is the long-time most popular B&W Recipe on Fuji X Weekly, although it places third this time (not including Neopan Negative in the Film Dial set). It’s based on the Acros film simulation, and has compatibility with X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V models. It remains in the same position.
This is an Eterna-based Recipe for X-Trans V cameras; however, it’s simply an adaptation of the X-Trans IV version that has been around awhile. It also remains in the same position.
Reala Ace used to be the most popular Classic Negative Recipe, typically found in the Top 10, and sometimes even the Top 5 (and even once at #1!), but it has fallen quite far in the rankings, including four spots since last month. This Recipe is for X-Trans V cameras.
I published this Recipe, which uses Classic Chrome and has compatibility with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras, in April. It fell two spots since September.
Published in June, this is the highest-ranked Recipe that uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation (aside from Nostalgic Film in the Film Dial set). It also remains in the same position compared to last month.
I asked, you answered. Below you will find the top color Film Simulation Recipes for portraits and people, as chosen by you! I appreciate everyone who took time out of their busy day to answer the survey—I’m sure this information will be quite helpful to many people, so thank you!
What makes a Recipe good for portraits? There’s no objective answer to this, as everyone has their own unique style and taste. Probably the best answer is: ones that produce good skin tone rendering—Classic Chrome might be the best film simulation for that, but, of course, that’s very subjective, and opinions vary. How a certain Recipe does depends a lot on the exact light situation—one might be great in a specific scenario but not in another. All of that makes it difficult to say with any level of certainty which Recipes are best for portraiture, but there are clearly some that are more universal than others.
I’m not a portrait photographer myself. I’ve dabbled in it here and there over the years, but it’s just not my thing. My wife, however, does do portrait photography, and her favorite Recipe is Reggie’s Portra. In fact, all of her top Recipes for portraits and people (aside from the brand-new Fujifilm Negative Recipe that I just published yesterday) cracked the Top 10. There are definitely some good options, and the poll results confirm a lot of my suspicions about which ones are best.
The specific question asked was: which color Film Simulation Recipe is your favorite for portraits and people? I gave 25 Recipe options that either I have used personally or I have seen others use for people pictures, so I knew they were a good group. Then, I provided a space to add any Recipes that were left out for those whose favorites weren’t in the list—since there are approaching 400 Recipes, most were left out. The results were fascinating, so let’s jump into it!
Reggie’s Portra was unsurprisingly the top pick; however, what did surprise me was that it absolutely dominated the poll. Almost half of you chose this Recipe as a favorite for people pictures. According to you, this is the Recipe for portraits. And I concur. This Recipe is compatible with X-Trans IV models (except the X-T3 & X-T30); for fifth-generation cameras, simply set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.
Kodak Portra 400 v2 is one of my all-time favorite Recipes. Portra film (as the name implies) is specifically intended for portrait photography, so it should not be a shock that this Recipe is popular for people pictures. One-in-five of you chose this in the poll, putting it in (a distant) second place. There is a version for fifth-generation models (linked above), one for X-Trans IV, and one for the X-T3 and X-T30.
Kodachrome 64 is the long-time number one most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly. For pictures with people, this one places third, which is still high, but far from the top spot. There is a version for fifth-generation models (linked above), one for X-Trans IV, and one for X-Trans II.
One film can produce many different looks depending on a whole host of factors (how handled, how shot, how developed, how scanned or printed, and how viewed); Kodak Portra 400 and v2 both produce a Portra-like look, but based on two notably divergent possible outcomes of the emulsion. There is a version of this Recipe for X-Trans IV models (linked above; for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off), one for the X-T3 & X-T30, and one for X-Trans III (although that one is significantly different).
Tied for Number 5 (with Kodak Portra 160 v2 below) is Reala Ace, which interestingly does not use the Reala Ace film simulation; instead, it is based on Classic Negative. It’s highly versatile and fairly popular, so I’m not surprised to see it ranked so high. It’s compatible with all fifth-generation models.
Also in fifth place is Kodak Portra 160 v2. This one has more of a softer rendering, and is especially great for taming high-contrast scenes. This is compatible with all fifth-generation models; for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3 & X-T30), simply set Color Chrome FX Blue to Strong.
Tied for seventh (with Kodak Portra 160 below) is McCurry Kodachrome, which is modeled after Steve McCurry’s famous last roll of Kodachrome 64. Think of it as scanned Kodachrome, while the Kodachrome 64 Recipe (a couple of spots higher) is more like projected Kodachrome. This recipe is compatible with all X-Trans IV cameras.
The Kodak Portra 160 Recipe, which is tied for seventh (with McCurry Kodachrome above), has a soft and warm Kodak color negative aesthetic. Recipes with Portra in the name account for five of the Top 8 in this list. There is a version of this Recipe for X-Trans IV (linked above), one for X-Trans III & X-T3/X-T30, and one for X-Trans II.
This was my very first Recipe that uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation. It’s an excellent all rounder, including for people pictures, but I am a bit surprised to see it at Number 9. Nostalgia Negative is compatible with all X-Trans V cameras.
Pacific Blues has a lot of contrast, so it’s not for every situation, but when it works, it really works. It’s tied for Number 10 with Fujicolor NPS 160 Pulled (below). There is a version X-Trans V (linked above), and one for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3 & X-T30).
Also tied for Number 10 is Fujicolor NPS 160 Pulled. This is a highly versatile Recipe with low-contrast and muted colors, and is especially excellent for artificial light situations. It’s compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (except the X-T3 & X-T30); for fifth-generation models, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
If you’re not sure which Recipes to try for portrait photography, I’d start with the 11 above. That’s a good group, and there’s enough variety that at least one should work well for you. But, in case those aren’t enough, I’ve included below the Recipes that received at least two votes in the poll (including a couple write-ins). I figure if at least two people voted one as a favorite, then it must be decent, and worthwhile to try. Also, there were a number of write-ins for Kodak Tri-X 400; this list was specific to color Recipes, but, for B&W, I definitely recommend that Recipe—it’s my personal favorite.
There are many Film Simulation Recipes that weren’t mentioned in this article that are probably pretty good, so just because one wasn’t listed here doesn’t mean it won’t produce good results for portraits and people pictures. Part of the fun is in the discovery. The one that could become your favorite might be in this list, or it might not, and you won’t know until you try. I invite you to pick a couple of these Recipes, and maybe one not in this list, and shoot some portraits to see if you like the results. You can find them here, or in the Fuji X Weekly App, which is available for both Apple and Android.
I’m not a portrait photographer. I have dabbled in it a little over the years, but it is just not my thing. So when people ask me which Film Simulation Recipes I recommend for portraits, it’s hard for me to provide a good answer. Now, I do have some experience to fall back on, plus I’ve seen some of your great pictures on social media, so I’m not completely clueless. I can give some recommendations that I’m confident will do well. I just wish that I could provide a bit more expert advice whenever I’m asked.
In yesterday’s post I included a survey. A couple years back I conducted a poll on Fuji X Weekly, but I was quite dissatisfied with the poll itself (how it was integrated, how it had to be configured), so I never bothered to do another. Just this week I learned of a much better and easier way to go about it, and I’m really happy with how it came together and turned out. So… you can expect a lot more surveys in the near future! I’m excited about this feedback—your opinions are immensely important.
Below you will find a poll question: Which color Film Simulation Recipe(s) is/are your favorite(s) for portraits? I want to know which Recipe you like best when photographing people. I picked 25 Recipes for the poll that I know some of you currently use or have used in the past for portrait photography, plus a couple that I have personal experience with. Pick one, two, three, or more—if you’ve used a particular Recipe for portraits and had good results, go ahead and mark it.
There’s a second question: Name a Recipe not found above that you like for portraits? I’ve published nearly 400 Recipes, so 25 is barely scratching the surface. I’m sure that I left out many that are good for portraits, included the two Recipes used for the photos above. Even if you marked some in the first question, go ahead and fill-in-the-blank for the second question if a Recipe that you have experience with was left out (if you’d rather, you can leave it as a comment instead). I appreciate your help with this!
I get asked all of the time when to use which Film Simulation Recipe. With over 350 in the Fuji X Weekly App to choose from, it can be difficult to know when each Recipe should be chosen, especially since many of them are specifically intended for sunny daylight conditions. With only seven Custom Settings presets on your Fujifilm camera (for most of you, anyway), which ones should you have programed? When should you select them?
The problem with trying to answer this question is that it’s a highly subjective endeavor. While I might like a certain Recipe for a particular situation, you might not. There’s not a right or wrong answer, just what works for you and what doesn’t—and I cannot say whether any particular Recipe will work for you or not. Only you can answer that for yourself, and you have to try a Recipe to know. With that said, I do attempt to give good advice. I’ve written many articles related to this topic, including the series Which Film Simulation Recipes, When? While that has likely been the most helpful, it’s nearly two-years-old now, and a lot of new Recipes have been published since. I think it’s time to update the series for 2024.
The premise of the original series is that Jason Kummerfeldt of Grainydays, a YouTube channel about film photography, gave some advice on when to use which film emulsion in a video entitled Which Film Stock, When? Since film choice is such a personal thing, how do you say when to use which? It’s the same thing for Film Simulation Recipes. His solution was simply to demonstrate what he uses and state what he likes, and maybe you’ll like it, too. In my series, I copied that approach for Recipes—I told you my preferences, and invited you to try them out. We’re going to follow that same formula for this update with just a small twist, which I think makes a little more sense.
What makes Part 3 more challenging than the first two articles is that the X-T3 and X-T30 cameras cannot remember a White Balance Shift within the C1-C7 Custom Settings presets. If two Recipes share the same white balance type but not the same shift, when you switch presets you must remember to adjust the shift, too. That can be inconvenient and frustrating, so my best solution is to program Recipes that use different white balance types and/or share the same white balance type and shift. The user experience is much improved, but you might not be able to program all of your favorite Recipes at the same time, which is the one downside to this solution. What I set out to do with this article is recommend seven Recipes, one for each C1-C7 Custom Settings preset, that don’t share the same white balance type, or, if they do, share the same shift. It’s a difficult task, but I think I came up with a good set for you; however, there were definitely some tough cuts.
Also, if you have a newer X-Trans IV camera, you can use these Recipes, too, by simply setting Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Clarity to 0, and choosing a Grain size (either Small or Large). While the next installment will cover X-Trans III, some of these Recipes are compatible with X-Trans III cameras; the key is to look for whether they call for Color Chrome Effect or not—if not, it’s compatible with X-Trans III. Also, X-Trans III recipes are fully compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30 (just set Color Chrome Effect to Off), but I avoided those Recipes for this article because I wanted to save them for Part 4.
Below are seven Recipe suggestions for you to program into C1-C7 on your Fujifilm camera, with advice on when to use each. Since Recipes are (for the most part) generationally specific, each article will cover a different group of cameras. This is Part 3, and covers the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30.
Window to the City – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Kodak Portra 400 v2
Kodak Portra 400 v2 does well anytime during daylight hours, but especially for “golden hour” near sunrise and sunset. As the name suggests it is a good option for portrait photography, but is excellent for many genres. This really could be your primary use-most-of-the-time Recipe, and that’s why I suggest placing it in C1. This Recipe uses the Daylight White Balance type, as do the first four of the suggested alternatives below (but not the last one).
I like to reserve C2 for bright midday photography. The old rule of thumb was once the sun was high in the sky, it’s time to put the camera away. While Classic Kodak can be used anytime the sun is out, it is a great options for middle-of-the-day situations, and proves the old adage wrong. This Recipe uses the Shade White Balance type, as do the first two suggested alternatives below (but not the bottom three).
This is a good spot to have an alternative aesthetic compared to C1 and C2—as I don’t think you’d want to have all three up to this point to be essentially similar. Although each of the first three have a Kodak-negative-like look, Kodak Vision3 250D produces a notably divergent aesthetic. With the ones I’ve suggested so far, you’ve got a good set for all sorts of daylight situations no matter your subject. This Recipe uses the Fluorescent 1 White Balance type, as does the first suggested alternative below (but not the bottom four).
Pink Rose Blossom – Ogden, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Ektachrome E100GX
Ektachrome E100GX is excellent for sunny daylight photography, but it also does pretty well for dreary overcast conditions. It uses the Fluorescent 2 White Balance type, as does the first suggested alternative below (but not the bottom four).
Street Lamp Sunset – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Kodak Ultramax
I like to have at least one Recipe programmed into my camera that’s highly versatile and can be used no matter the situation. While there are not as many options for the X-T3 and X-T30 as there are for newer X-Trans IV cameras, there are still some excellent options; of those, my personal favorite is Kodak Ultramax. It uses the Auto White Balance type, as do all of the suggested alternatives below.
Wet Glass Bokeh – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Jeff Davenport Night
If it’s between dusk and dawn, especially if there are city lights, Jeff Davenport Night is the recipe to use on your X-T3 and X-T30 cameras. Period. It uses the Kelvin White Balance type, as does the first option below (but not the bottom four).
Minolta SRT303b – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-H1 – Analog Monochrome
Last but not least is B&W. Filling out the last slot is tricky, because most of the White Balance types have already been used. There are basically three options: choose an X-Trans III Recipe—which is fully compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30—that uses a different WB type (that’s what I’ve done here, as Analog Monochrome utilizes Incandescent); use an Auto WB Recipe—perhaps Ilford Delta Push Process—and disregard the WB Shift, and accept the results for what they are (which will be nearly the same, but not exactly the same); or use a Daylight WB Recipe—perhaps Kodak Tri-X 400—and substitute Daylight with Underwater, which is similar enough that you’re not likely to notice the difference.
I’ve been asked many times over the last couple of weeks which Film Simulation Recipes are the best for autumn photography. Sometimes the Recipes that work really well for the endless sunshine of summer aren’t quite as good for photographing fall foliage. I live in the desert; for the most part, the leaves here don’t change colors until November and December, and the show is rather mundane compared to most other places. Because of that, whenever I do get to experience the brilliant colors of the changing season, I’m learning as I go which Recipes work well and which ones don’t.
Last year I traveled a few hours up the road to the mountains near Flagstaff, Arizona, where there is an impressive autumn display. I tried seven different Recipes that I thought might do well, and it was interesting to compare the results. As you’d probably expect, some did better than others. If you are trying to figure out which Recipes to try this fall, I definitely recommend taking a look at that article (click here). I also published an article two years ago with some fall Recipe suggestions (click here), which is also worthwhile. Between those two posts, there are 17 potential options for your autumn photography.
Fujifilm X-T5 – Velvia Film Recipe
Last week I was up in New York and Connecticut. It might be “peak fall” right now—or maybe next week—for those up that direction. It was absolutely gorgeous when I was there, despite not being quite peak colors. I was thrilled not only for the opportunity to photograph the incredible scenery, but to also try out different Film Simulation Recipes for autumn photography. Specifically, I wanted to use ones that were not included in those two articles I mentioned in the last paragraph—between all three posts, you should now have a pretty good selection of potential options.
Everyone has different tastes, and the light and subject will be different wherever you go. That’s why it’s good to have options. My hope is that a few of these Recipes—or maybe some from those other two articles—will stand out to you to try for yourself. The idea here is not that you’ll use all 11 of these on your next fall foliage outing, but that you might try some. You might even decide that some of these are definitely not for you—knowing which ones to avoid can also be valuable.
Fujifilm X100VI – PRO Negative 160C Recipe
For myself, I did find a few that I will certainly use again whenever I have the opportunity to photograph fall foliage in the future. And I also found a few Recipes that I probably won’t. Just because I like (or don’t like) something doesn’t mean that you’ll agree with that assessment. Hopefully, though, if you are unsure which ones to program into your Fujifilm camera, this will give you some direction.
Without any further delay, below are 11 Film Simulation Recipes that I tried for fall photography in New York and Connecticut last week.
Velvia Film was one of the Recipes that I was most excited to try out for fall photography. I had high hopes for it, and it didn’t disappoint. In retrospect, I only wish that I had used it more—a lot more, actually. I will definitely utilize this one on my next autumn adventure!
This Recipe is quite vibrant, slightly warm, and fairly low contrast. If you want to emphasize the vivid colors of the changing leaves, this one will do it. Velvia Film is one of the Film Dial Recipes, and you are likely to get good results with Provia, Astia, PRO Neg. Hi, Reala Ace, Classic Chrome, Classic Negative, and Nostalgic Negative (and maybe others); however, Velvia is top-notch for this type of photography, and what I most recommend. It is compatible (as of this writing) with the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, X-T30 II, X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras.
I thought that I was going to love Vibrant Velvia for autumn, but I didn’t. Not that it was bad (because it wasn’t), but it didn’t quite emphasize the colors like I hoped it would. Green and blue stand out, but the warm colors of the changing leaves surprisingly get a little deemphasized. Situationally specific, it could still be a good choice for fall photography; however, I think there are several better options.
Where I think this Recipe works best is in a situation like the photo directly below this paragraph. The fall foliage add pops of warmth to the green and blue, which are the two most prominent colors in the scene. As of this writing, this Recipe is compatible with the Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, X-T30 II, X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras.
I like Appalachian Negative in general, so I thought I might also appreciate it for fall. Sure enough, I do! It has the right retro Kodak-like vibes to trigger nostalgia. This is another Recipe that I wish I had used more, because I like the results. I can imagine it being especially appropriate for photographing a pumpkin patch or fall decor or things like that.
Because this Recipe uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation, it is only compatible with the latest cameras, which (as of this writing) are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5. Of the three Recipes in this article that use the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation, Appalachian Negative is my favorite for autumn pictures.
I had pretty high hopes for 1976 Kodak when I programmed it into my X-T5, but ultimately I decided that it is just a bit too warm and contrasty for my tastes. It definitely does make the pictures look like they were captured in another era, but it just feels like too much warmth, particularly whenever the scenes are already especially warm. Situationally specific it might be a good choice—such as low-contrast cool light scenes—but overall it was not my favorite for fall photos.
If you are going for a 1970’s magazine vibe, you might consider this Recipe; otherwise, I would instead recommend the one directly below this or especially the one directly above. As of this writing, 1976 Kodak is compatible with the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras.
As far as the Nostalgic Neg. Recipes that I tried, I feel that Kodak Negative sits in-between Appalachian Negative and 1976 Kodak; however, it is divergent enough that I could see having it programmed as a companion to one of those Recipes. For fall photos, I like this one much more than 1976 Kodak, but not quite as much as Appalachian Negative.
In the right light, this Recipe is phenomenal for capturing autumn colors. Next opportunity, I will definitely have this one programmed into my camera. Kodak Negative is compatible (as of this writing) with the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras.
I didn’t expect to like this Recipe for fall foliage because it is soft with muted colors; however, I ended up liking it for that very reason. The Kodak Portra 160 Recipe produces results that are somewhat the antithesis of what one expects from fall photos, which is what makes it work.
This isn’t a Recipe that I would use for all of my autumn images, but, as occasional relief to the vivid pictures that dominate this season, it is quite excellent. This Recipe is compatible with the Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II cameras; for fifth-generation models, simply set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak instead of Strong.
Kodak Portra 400 v2 is one of my absolute favorite Recipes, so it should be unsurprising that I appreciate the results for fall photographs. Interestingly, there are some similarities between this and Appalachian Negative, so perhaps having both Recipes programmed into the camera is a bit redundant; however, they are definitely divergent enough to justify both.
This particular Recipe is the version for the fifth-generation models, which (as of this writing) are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5. There is also a version for X-Trans IV cameras, and one for the X-T3 and X-T30.
Astia Azure is a Fuji X Weekly App Patron-only Early Access Recipe, which means that only App subscribers have access to it at this time. Eventually it will be made available to everyone once a different Early Access Recipe replaces it. I found it did alright in certain light situations (such as the above photo), but was mediocre in others.
While I didn’t necessarily dislike it, Astia Azure wouldn’t be my top choice for autumn photography—I think it’s more of a summertime Recipe, especially if there’s a lot of blue sky… it’s pretty good for nighttime, too. As of this writing, the Astia Azure Recipe is compatible with the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, X-T30 II, X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras.
I liked the PRO Negative 160C Recipe a lot for fall photographs. It combines a somewhat soft tonality with vibrant and slightly warm colors, producing anologue-like results. This is another one that I wish I had utilized more, and will use again for autumn images at the next opportunity.
Because this Recipe uses the Reala Ace film simulation, it is only compatible with fifth-generation models, which (as of this writing) are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras. There is a version that uses the PRO Neg. Hi film simulation, which is compatible with the X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II.
This is another Fuji X Weekly App Patron-only Early Access Recipe, which means that only App subscribers have access to it at this time. Eventually it will be made available to everyone once a different Early Access Recipe replaces it. I like this one, although it can be a bit too contrasty in high-contrast situations, so it isn’t for every scenario.
While I would certainly consider having this as one of my seven C1-C7 Recipes, I’m not certain if it would make the cut or not. It’s close, and it definitely can be useful, so if it didn’t, it would be a tough cut. The Ektachrome E100 Recipe is compatible (as of this writing) with the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50 and X-M5 cameras.
Last but certainly not least is Pacific Blues. This is another of my favorite Recipes, so it should not be surprising that I also like it for fall photography. This one has a lot of contrast, so it can be challenging to use, and is clearly not for every fall image. Even if the situation where it works well is only encountered occasionally, I would still have this as one of my C1-C7 Custom Settings presets.
This particular version of the Pacific Blues Recipe is for X-Trans IV cameras, which are the Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II cameras; for fifth-generation models, there’s a version for your camera.
Fujifilm X-E4 – Pacific Blues Recipe
Fujifilm X-E4 – Pacific Blues Recipe
Of these 11 Film Simulation Recipes, which seven would I program into my Fujifilm X-T5 or X100VI? Velvia Film, Appalachian Negative, Kodak Portra 160, Kodak Portra 400 v2, PRO Negative 160C, Ektachrome E100, and Pacific Blues—I think, anyway. Kodak Negative was a tough cut in that scenario, so I would probably take a longer look at it, and really consider if that’s what I want to do. In any event, that seems like an excellent set of seven for fall photography that covers most subjects and situations. But, don’t forget, there are also the seven I used in Flagstaff last year, and I would certainly consider including some of those, namely CineStill 400D v2, Kodak Ektar 100, Fujicolor Superia 100, and The Rockwell. This would be a lot easier if we had more than seven slots. More likely, the next opportunity to capture the autumn leaves, I will have different Recipes programmed into two or three cameras, so that I can use more than just seven.
The fall colors won’t last long. If you’ve been wanting to photograph them, don’t procrastinate. Grab your Fujifilm camera, program in a few of these Recipes, and head out the door. The time is now, so make sure that you don’t miss out.
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Travel by Change – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50 – Superia Negative Film Dial Recipe
I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (September 2024).
These types of lists are usually pretty predictable. There are often a few surprises—there is always some movement—but from one month to the next, it’s mostly the same. This time, I was shocked by some of the rankings. I’ll discuss most of the specifics within the list itself, but one Recipe in particular that I want to bring up here is Bright Summer. Prior to March, I had never noticed it in the Top 25, but suddenly it was, and even ranked as high as #6! In August it was #10. But in September it dropped out of the Top 25 altogether (it is #26, for those wondering). That’s a pretty sudden and significant drop, and I wonder if it is simply because the seasons are changing.
Cape Cod Bay House – Plymouth, MA – Fujifilm X100VI – Fujicolor Film Recipe
Those Recipes with Kodak brand names in the title—Kodachrome, Portra, Gold, Tri-X, etc., etc.—are usually the most popular. Classic Chrome is the king of film simulations, as the majority of the most-viewed Recipes are based on that film simulation—in fact, the Top 5 are all Classic Chrome Recipes. Reala Ace, Classic Negative and Eterna based Recipes are pretty far behind, but I’m glad to see them represented multiple times each in this list.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of September 2024
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. There is a pretty big gap between this and second place.
Reggie’s Portra, a popular Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras, usually ranks high, but this is the first time I’ve seen it at #2. This is the most versatile of the Portra Recipes, and was ranked #4 in August.
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is almost always ranked number two in these types of lists. In fact, this is only the second time this year that I’ve seen it drop out of the second-place position.
Cinematic Film is one of the 14 Film Dial Recipes for the Fujifilm X-T50 (and, really, all X-Trans V cameras). Initially I didn’t include it in the Fuji X Weekly App because adding all 14 would have been ridiculous, but by popular demand I did include it retroactively. Perhaps I shouldn’t be surprised, but I’m very shocked to not only see it in the Top 25, but all the way at #6! This isn’t just the highest rated Recipe based on the Eterna film simulation, but the highest that isn’t Classic Chrome.
It is probably unfair to include the Film Dial Recipes in this list because it is not one but 14 Recipes (including Cinematic Film above). This was the first time seeing it in the Top 25, so I was faced with the choice of included it (as unfair as that might be) or not. The Vibrant Arizona article is technically four Recipes, so there is a precedence for its inclusion. I think the sudden rise in interest in the Film Dial Recipes is due to two things: 1) people buying the X-T50, and 2) people realizing that these Recipes can be used for a lot of other cameras, and not just the X-T50.
This is a brand-new Recipe published less than three weeks ago, and already it is in the Top 10. Currently it is the highest-ranked Reala Ace based Recipe (if you don’t include Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm from the Film Dial Recipe set).
This version of Kodak Portra 400 was commonly the third most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly for a long time—it’s still in the Top 10, but hasn’t cracked the Top 5 in awhile. It fell three spots compared to last month.
Vintage Kodachrome, which is based on Classic Chrome, is one of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It usually cracks the Top 15, and sometimes the Top 10. Its ranking remains unchanged from last month.
This is the X-Trans V version of Kodak Gold 200. This is the highest that I’ve seen it rank (one spot higher than last month), and the second month in a row that it is above the old version.
Pacific Blues is currently the highest ranked Classic Negative based Recipe (if you don’t include Superia Negative from the Film Dial Recipe set). This particular one is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is also an X-Trans V version. It’s often in the Top 10; last month it was #8.
By far the most popular B&W Recipe, Kodak Tri-X 400 is based on the Acros film simulation, and has compatibility X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V models. It was ranked #12 in August.
This is an Eterna-based Recipe for X-Trans V cameras; however, it’s simply an adaptation of the X-Trans IV version that has been around awhile. It rose one spot compared to last month.
Reala Ace used to be the most popular Classic Negative Recipe, typically found in the Top 10, and sometimes even the Top 5 (and even once at #1!), but it has fallen quite far in the rankings; however, it is one spot higher than last month. This Recipe is for X-Trans V cameras.
I published this Recipe, which uses Classic Chrome and has compatibility with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras, in April. It fell four spots since August.
A Classic Negative based Recipe that’s compatible with X-Trans V cameras (there’s also an X-Trans IV version). This one typically either just makes the Top 25 or just misses it, and is one spot higher than in August.
Published in June, this is the highest-ranked Recipe that uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation (aside from Nostalgic Film in the Film Dial set). It was ranked #21 in August.
I get asked all of the time when to use which Film Simulation Recipe. With over 350 in the Fuji X Weekly App to choose from, it can be difficult to know when each Recipe should be chosen, especially since many of them are specifically intended for sunny daylight conditions. With only seven Custom Presets on your Fujifilm camera (for most of you, anyway), which ones should you have programed? When should you select them?
The problem with trying to answer this question is that it’s a highly subjective endeavor. While I might like a certain Recipe for a particular situation, you might not. There’s not a right or wrong answer, just what works for you and what doesn’t—and I cannot say whether any particular Recipe will work for you or not. Only you can answer that for yourself, and you have to try a Recipe to know. With that said, I do attempt to give good advice. I’ve written many articles related to this topic, including the series Which Film Simulation Recipes, When? While that has likely been the most helpful, it’s nearly two-years-old now, and a lot of new Recipes have been published since. I think it’s time to update the series for 2024.
Red Rock at Sundown – Sedona, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50 – Reala Ace Recipe
The premise of the original series is that Jason Kummerfeldt of Grainydays, a YouTube channel about film photography, gave some advice on when to use which film emulsion in a video entitled Which Film Stock, When? Since film choice is such a personal thing, how do you say when to use which? It’s the same thing for Film Simulation Recipes. His solution was simply to demonstrate what he uses and state what he likes, and maybe you’ll like it too. In my series, I copied that approach for Recipes—I told you my preferences, and invited you to try them too. We’re going to follow that same formula for this update with just a small twist, which I think makes a little more sense.
Below are seven Recipe suggestions for you to program into C1-C7 on your Fujifilm camera, with advice on when to use each. Since Recipes are (for the most part) generationally specific, each article will cover a different group of cameras. Part 1 is X-Trans V models, which (as of this writing) are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, and X-T50. You can use these Recipes on the latest GFX cameras; however, they will render slightly differently (try them anyway).
Motor Hotel – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Portra 400 v2
Kodak Portra 400 v2 does well anytime during daylight hours, but especially for “golden hour” near sunrise and sunset. As the name suggests it is a good option for portrait photography, but is excellent for many genres. This really could be your primary use-all-of-the-time Recipe, and that’s why I suggest placing it in C1. Personally, I use this one frequently.
I like to reserve C2 for bright midday photography. The old rule of thumb was once the sun was high in the sky, it’s time to put the camera away. While Vibrant Arizona can be used anytime the sun is out (also, try it at dusk and dawn), it is my favorite option for middle-of-the-day situations, and proves the old adage wrong.
Rainbows over Philly – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI – Fujicolor Film
This is a good spot to have an alternative aesthetic compared to C1 and C2—as I don’t think you’d want to have all three up to this point to be essentially similar—and the Fujicolor Film Recipe provides exactly that. With the ones I’ve suggested, you’ve got a good set for all sorts of daylight situations no matter your subject.
Pacific Blues is excellent for sunny daylight photography—it was specifically designed for a summer day at the beach—but I have fallen in love with it for overcast and foggy days. For dreary conditions, this Recipe is hard to beat.
Mountain Pines at Sunset – Flagstaff, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Reala Ace
I like to have at least one Recipe programmed into my camera that’s highly versatile and can be used no matter the situation. There are several excellent options, but my personal favorite is the Reala Ace Recipe (which, incidentally, uses Classic Negative and not the new Reala Ace film sim).
Most Recipes are intended for sunny daylight; while some can still do well at night, and the versatile options above are definitely good for after-dark, there are some Recipes that are specifically intended for night photography. Of those, CineStill 800T is my top recommendation.
I love black-and-white photography. As far as Recipes go, the monochrome options tend to be less popular than color; however, my favorite Recipe—and the one that I choose if I could only ever photograph with one—is Kodak Tri-X 400.
Oysters & Seafood – Denver, CO – Fujifilm X-T50 – Film Dial “Cinematic Film”
Whether or not you have a Fujifilm X-T50, you can program the universal Film Dial Recipe into your IQ Menu as a bonus option (explained here). With the X-T50, the Film Dial allows you to achieve up to 12 different looks (essentially 12 bonus Recipes); with other cameras, program one of the FN buttons to activate the Film Simulation submenu, and you can achieve up to 14 different looks (14 bonus Recipes). This adds a ton of versatility to your camera.
Manhattan from Pulaski Bridge – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X-T50 – PRO Negative 160C
I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (May 2024).
There was a lot of movement for May, especially in the bottom 80% of this list—the top five Recipes are pretty predictable. Those with Kodak brand names in the title—Kodachrome, Portra, Gold, Tri-X, etc., etc.—are usually the most popular. Classic Chrome is the king of film simulations, as the majority of the most-viewed Recipes are based on that film simulation.
Bright Summer has been on a rollercoaster lately, and its jump to number six is quite surprising. A lot of upward and downward movements overall. A couple Recipes that usually rank in the Top 25 didn’t make the cut. There are three Nostalgic Negative Recipes in this list, which is a bit unusual, two Classic Negative Recipes, one each of Eterna, Reala Ace, and Acros; otherwise, all the rest are Classic Chrome.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of May 2024
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. This is the king of Recipes!
Bright Summer—another Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV—is sometimes called Preetra 400, because it is modeled after Preet’s aesthetic (Preet himself is the one who gave it that nickname, btw). It doesn’t usually crack the Top 25, but in March it suddenly jumped to #9, for April it fell to #23, and now in May it up all the way to #6!
This is a recently published Recipe that uses Classic Chrome, and has similarities to Kodak Portra. It’s compatible with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V. This Recipe moved up one position from April.
This version of Kodak Portra 400 was commonly the third most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly for a long time. It fell one spot compared to last month.
Pacific Blues used to be the highest-ranked Classic Negative based Recipe, but Reala Ace has left it in the dust. This particular one is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is also an X-Trans V version. In April it was ranked #16, so it is definitely on the rise.
By far the most popular B&W Recipe, Kodak Tri-X 400 is based on the Acros film simulation, and has compatibility X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V models. It was ranked #17 last month.
Vintage Kodachrome, which is based on Classic Chrome, is one of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It was ranked #11 last month.
This is a fairly recently Recipe, and the very first to use the new Reala Ace film simulation. At the moment, it is only compatible with the Fujifilm X100VI and X-T50. In April it ranked #12.
This is a newly published Recipe that uses Nostalgic Negative as the base, which means that it is for X-Trans V cameras. This Recipe is what I used for my two pictures that are found on Fujifilm’s new film simulation page.
1976 Kodak doesn’t typically crack these lists, but it is a very good Recipe that I’m happy to see being used by more people. The base film simulation is Nostalgic Negative, so it is only compatible with X-Trans V cameras.
This is a recently published Eterna-based X-Trans V CineStill 800T Recipe; however, it’s simply an adaptation of the X-Trans IV version that has been around awhile. This is the highest ranking Eterna-based Recipe; however, it fell significantly, from #10 in April.
This is a Recipe that I’m surprised doesn’t rank higher; typically, it’s not even in the Top 25. This version is for X-Trans IV cameras, but there are also versions for X-Trans II, X-Trans III + X-T3/X-T30, and X-Trans V.
Kodachrome II is an older Recipe made for X-Trans III cameras. It used to often be in the Top 10, but has been falling for awhile. Last month it ranked the same.
The weather is getting hotter, so it’s not a huge surprise that 1970’s Summer is on the rise. This is a Nostalgic Negative Recipe for X-Trans V cameras.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims (and Film Simulation Recipes), I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. The new Reala Ace film simulation will be excluded from this because there aren’t many Recipes available for it yet. Also, I’m combining the four Acros film sims into one article (this one!), and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another (the next one).
The Acros film simulation is modeled after Neopan Acros black-and-white negative film, which Fujifilm introduced back in 1952. Neopan Acros came in three ISOs: 100, 400, and 1600. Neopan Acros was briefly discontinued in 2018, and reintroduced in 2019 as Neopan Acros 100 II. Curiously, the new version is actually manufactured by Harman (the parent company of Ilford), although it behaves quite similarly to the original. Acros is one of the most analog-like film sims, and one of my absolute favorites. One unique aspect about it is that it has built-in Grain that increases with the ISO. For grittier pictures, simply use higher ISOs. If you are unsure what the +Y, +R & +G filter options do, I wrote about it here.
Playing with Waves – Cambria, CA – Fujifilm X100V – Kodak Tri-X 400
While there are a number of Acros-based Film Simulation Recipes, which produce a variety of results, there’s only one that I use regularly: Kodak Tri-X 400. It’s always programmed into at least one of my cameras. I often tell people that it is my all-time favorite Film Simulation Recipe, and if I could only ever use just one Recipe for the rest of my life, it would be Kodak Tri-X 400.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Acros as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 22 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Acros, so you have some choices. But, if you are unsure which Acros Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
Not only is this, by far, the most popular black-and-white Film Simulation Recipe, it’s also my personal favorite. I use it all of the time, and it’s an easy one to recommend for you to try. There’s compatibility with X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V cameras.
This Recipe has some similarities to Kodak Tri-X 400, so—unsurprisingly—it is quite excellent, too. It has compatibility with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3 & X-T30) and X-Trans V.
This used to be my favorite B&W Recipe before Kodak Tri-X 400. You have to be careful with the exposure, and watch the highlights carefully so that they don’t clip. It’s compatible with X-Trans III and the X-T3/X-T30; for use on newer cameras, set Color Chrome Effect and Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size Small, and Clarity 0.
This is the original B&W Recipe published on this website, and one that helped convince me that camera-made JPEGs can actually be good. It’s intended for X-Trans III cameras, but can also be used on the X-T3 and X-T30.
This is the newest B&W Film Simulation Recipe. It’s actually quite excellent—I personally like it a lot—and is a good alternative to the ones above. It’s compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3 & X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.
I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (April 2024).
I was quite surprised by the rankings for April. Most of the time these lists are pretty predictable. Those with Kodak brand names in the title—Kodachrome, Portra, Gold, Tri-X, etc., etc.—are the most popular. Classic Chrome is the king of film simulations, as the majority of the most-viewed Recipes are based on that film simulation. This time there was a lot of movement, and even some surprises (at least to me, anyway).
Gen Reflection – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Classic Color
Vibrant Arizona jumped up to number two, surpassing Kodak Portra 400 v2, which almost always occupies that spot. There are five newcomers to the list. A lot of upward and downward movements. Several Recipes left the Top 25. Some of these Film Simulation Recipes have only been published for a few months or less. Two of these are only currently compatible with one camera: the Fujifilm X100VI.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of April 2024
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. This is the king of Recipes!
Typically, Classic Chrome dominates these lists, Classic Negative makes a few appearances, and Acros will occupy one spot, as well as some other film sim sometimes, such as PRO Neg. Std. The new Reala Ace film sim makes two appearances this time, and Fujicolor 100 Industrial takes the lead among them. Right now, this Recipe is only compatible with the X100VI, so #6 is incredibly (and surprisingly) high, all things considered.
This version of Kodak Portra 400 was commonly the third most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly for a long time. It moved up one spot from March.
This is a newly published Eterna-based X-Trans V CineStill 800T Recipe; however, it’s simply an adaptation of the X-Trans IV version that has been around awhile. Eterna makes two surprise appearances this month, and this one ranks the highest, just reaching the Top 10.
Vintage Kodachrome, which is based on Classic Chrome, is one of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It was ranked #15 last month; oftentimes it’s in the Top 10.
This is a fairly recently published Recipe, and the very first to use the new Reala Ace film simulation. At the moment, it is only compatible with the Fujifilm X100VI. In March it ranked #22.
This is a somewhat new Recipe, published in January of 2024. It is based on Classic Chrome, and is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras. Last month it was ranked one spot lower.
Pacific Blues used to be the highest-ranked Classic Negative based Recipe, but Reala Ace has left it in the dust. This particular one is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is an X-Trans V version. In March it was ranked #12.
By far the most popular B&W Recipe, Kodak Tri-X 400 is based on the Acros film simulation, and has compatibility X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V models. It was ranked #11 last month.
Provia Slide is a newly published Recipe, and the first in awhile to reach the Top 25 that uses the Provia film sim. It’s compatible with X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 & X-T30.
Bright Summer—another Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV—is sometimes called Preetra 400, because it is modeled after Preet’s aesthetic (Preet himself is the one who gave it that nickname, btw). It doesn’t usually crack the Top 25, but in March it suddenly jumped to #9, and for April fell to #23.
Kodachrome II is an older Recipe made for X-Trans III cameras. It used to often be in the Top 10, but has been falling for awhile. Last month it didn’t even crack the Top 25, so I’m happy to see it return.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. The new Reala Ace film simulation will be excluded from this because there aren’t many Recipes available for it yet. Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The Eterna Bleach Bypass film simulation is an approximation of Eterna motion picture film that has had the bleach stage of development skipped, or at least reduced. Think Saving Private Ryan. It has harsh tonality, and is the least saturated of all the color film simulations. While you can make a fairly close facsimile using Eterna (by increasing Highlight and Shadow and lowering Color), Eterna Bleach Bypass has its own unique look. Fujifilm introduced this film sim on the X-T4, so only “newer” models have it.
Golden Light on Water – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Ferrania Solaris FG 400
Eterna Bleach Bypass produces stunning results sometimes. It requires the right subject and lighting, which varies from Recipe-to-Recipe. It can be challenging to use, so I think a lot of people avoid it, and consequently it is probably the least-utilized film simulation, aside from Sepia. Personally, I like Eterna Bleach Bypass, and hope that it catches on more in the future.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Eterna Bleach Bypass as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 16 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Eterna Bleach Bypass, so you have some choices. But, if you are unsure which Eterna Bleach Bypass Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
This is, by far, my favorite Eterna Bleach Bypass Recipe. I’ve used it in a variety of locations and have had good success with it. Ferrania Solaris FG 400 is best for sunny daylight situations, but I have had some good results in overcast, shade, and natural light indoors. This Recipe is for X-Trans IV cameras, specifically the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for use on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.
This is the most popular Eterna Bleach Bypass Recipe. Best in sunny daylight; however, works fairly well in most light situations. LomoChrome Metropolis is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras, specifically the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for use on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
This is one of my favorite Film Simulation Recipes for nighttime photography, but it can also be fun to use in daylight occasionally. Ektachrome 320T is for X-Trans IV cameras, specifically the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for use on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
The Pushed CineStill 800T Recipe was intended for daytime photography, but is actually most well suited for nighttime situations. This one is compatible with X-Trans V cameras; for “newer” X-Trans IV (Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4 & X-T30 II) use this version, and for the X-Pro3 and X100V use this one that has Eterna as the base.
Kodachrome Blue is currently a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe, so only App Patrons have access to it right now. It mimics the look of improperly color-corrected scans of Kodachrome film. While it does best in sunny daylight, it has some versatility, and works well in a lot of different light situations. Kodachrome Blue is for X-Trans IV cameras, specifically the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for use on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. The new Reala Ace film simulation will be excluded from this because there aren’t many Recipes available for it. Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The Eterna film simulation is (somewhat loosely) modeled after Fujifilm’s line of motion picture films of the same name. It has the softest tonality of all the film sims, and second lowest saturation (only Eterna Bleach Bypass has less). As you might expect, it has a cinematic quality to it. It’s also the best color film simulation for high ISO photography. For cameras that don’t have Eterna, PRO Neg. Std is the next closest, and can be used to approximate Eterna. Also, there are some similarities between Eterna and Nostalgic Neg., so if your camera doesn’t have Nostalgic Neg., you can sometimes approximate it with Eterna.
Windmill – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X-E4 – Vintage Color
Eterna is one of my favorite film simulations; only Classic Chrome, Classic Negative, Nostalgic Neg., and Acros rank higher for me. I think it’s often overlooked by Fujifilm photographers, and is one of the less popular film sims, which is a shame because it’s really good. A few of my absolute favorite pictures were captured with an Eterna-based Recipe.
The 10 Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Eterna as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 28 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Eterna, so you have some good choices. But, if you are unsure which Eterna Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
The Vintage Color Film Simulation Recipe is one that is kind of hit-or-miss; however, when it hits, it really hits! Some of my top favorite pictures of all time were captured with this Recipe. Vintage Color is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (except the X-T3/X-T30); for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak instead of Strong.
This is the newest Eterna-based Recipe, and it’s especially great for sunny daylight situations. It’s compatible for both “newer” X-Trans IV (X-T4, X-S10, X-E4 & X-T30 II) and X-Trans V cameras.
I shoot with the Timeless Negative Recipe a lot during the November and December holiday season. It’s highly versatile, and can be used for a large variety of subjects and light situations. This version is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (except the X-T3/X-T30); there’s a version for X-Trans V that uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation.
Summer of ’59 is currently a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe, so only App Patrons have access to it right now. While it does best in sunny daylight, it has some versatility, and works well in a lot of different light situations.
This Recipe is specifically intended for nighttime photography, where it excels. It’s compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (except the X-T3/X-T30); for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak instead of Strong.
A lovely film-like rendering. This Recipe is compatible with the Fujifilm X-H1, X-T3, and X-T30; for “newer” X-Trans IV cameras, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size Small, and Clarity to 0.
Great for replicating a motion picture aesthetic. This Recipe is compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30; for “newer” X-Trans IV cameras, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size to Small, and Clarity to 0.
My favorite color Recipe for high-ISO photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (except the X-T3/X-T30); for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak instead of Strong.
Round Window – Pismo Beach, CA – Fujifilm X100V – Kodak Tri-X 400
I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (March 2024).
Most of the time these lists are pretty predictable. Those with Kodak brand names in the title—Kodachrome, Portra, Gold, Tri-X, etc., etc.—are the most popular. Classic Chrome is the king of film simulations, as the majority of the most-viewed Recipes are based on that film simulation—in fact, 17 of the 25 below are Classic Chrome Recipes. X-Trans IV Recipes, especially for the X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II cameras, tend to be the most popular, although I see a spike in interest in X-Trans V.
Reflection of a Broken Door – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Fujicolor 100 Gold
For the month of March, there weren’t too many surprises, but there were a few. Fujicolor Natura 1600 jumped right up into the Top 10 despite being new; Bright Summer doesn’t usually rank high enough to make these lists, but suddenly jumped all the way to number nine. Some Recipes dropped—for example, McCurry Kodachrome fell from number four to number sixteen. As usual, the rankings moved around compared to the previous month.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of March 2024
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. In February it was number two—a rare occurrence—but now it is back in the top spot.
A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is almost always number two in these types of lists. In February it briefly slipped to number three; however, for March it returned to its usual second place.
Reala Ace is the most popular Classic Negative based Recipe, and the most popular Recipe for X-Trans V cameras. It was ranked number one in February, but slipped to third place for March.
Published at the very end of February, Fujicolor Natura 1600 was quite surprisingly the second most popular Classic Negative based Recipe in March. This one is for X-Trans V models, but there is a version for X-Trans IV.
This version of Kodak Portra 400 was commonly the third most popular Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly for a long time; however, it’s been slowly slipping over the last half a year or so. Last month it was ranked one spot higher.
Bright Summer—another Classic Chrome based Recipe—is sometimes called Preetra 400, because it is modeled after Preet’s aesthetic (Preet himself is the one who gave it that nickname, btw). It doesn’t usually crack the Top 25, so it’s surprising that it is suddenly in the Top 10.
By far the most popular B&W Recipe, Kodak Tri-X 400 is based on the Acros film simulation, and has compatibility X-Trans III, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V models. It was ranked number nine last month.
Pacific Blues used to be the highest-ranked Classic Negative based Recipe, but in March it was third. This particular one is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is an X-Trans V version. It fell one spot compared to February.
This had been an App Patron Early-Access Recipe for a long while, but in March it became available to everyone, and quickly shot up to number fourteen. It is the fourth most popular Classic Negative based Recipe currently.
Vintage Kodachrome, which is based on Classic Chrome, is one of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It was ranked #10 last month—this is the first time that I remember it not being in the Top 10.
This is a fairly new Recipe, published in January of 2024. It is based on Classic Chrome, and is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras. Last month it was ranked #4, so it fell quite a bit in March.
This is the original Kodak Portra 400 Recipe, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. This used to be commonly in the Top 10, but has been very slowly falling over the last year. It was number fourteen in February.
A Classic Negative based Recipe that’s compatible with X-Trans V cameras (there’s also an X-Trans IV version). It was ranked #21 last month, and has been slowly rising.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. So far I only have one Recipe that uses the new Reala Ace film simulation, so that one will be excluded from this. Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The Nostalgic Neg. film simulation (sometimes called Nostalgic Negative) is modeled after 1970’s American New Color photographic prints by famed photographers William Eggleston, Stephen Shore, Joel Sternfeld, and Richard Misrach. Obviously there are quite a few differences between the aesthetics of those photographers, and even from the same photographer there can be some significant variances; however, Fujifilm found some commonalities, and used that to make a film simulation. Nostalgic Neg. is fairly new, and only fifth-generation X-Trans cameras (as of this writing: X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI) and some GFX models have it.
Cold Rim, Warm Light – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Vision3 250D v2
Nostalgic Neg. is one of my favorite film sims, along with Classic Chrome, Classic Negative, Acros, and Eterna. There are some resemblances between Eterna and Nostalgic Neg., so if your camera doesn’t have NN but does have Eterna, you can sometimes achieve a similar look using that. Because Nostalgic Neg. is fairly new, I have only a limited number of Film Simulation Recipes that use it, but many of these have become personal favorites of mine, and it was difficult to pick only five for this article.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Nostalgic Neg. as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 15 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Nostalgic Neg., so you have some good choices. But, if you are unsure which Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
The Kodak Vision3 250D v2 Recipe replicates one look of a daylight motion picture film. Best for sunny daylight, but decent for other situations, too. There’s also a version for the X-T3 and X-T30 that uses Eterna, plus another for the other X-Trans IV cameras.
Agfa Ultra 100 v2 is a lovely Recipe that produces an obvious analog-like look. While it is best for sunny daylight, it is decent for other situations, too.
A versatile Recipe that is a modification of Fujifilm’s recommended Nostalgic Neg. settings. I use this one a lot around the Thanksgiving and Christmas timeframe. I also have a version for X-Trans IV that uses Eterna.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. I don’t (yet) have access to the new Reala Ace film simulation, so that one will be excluded from this. Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The PRO Neg. Std film simulation was inspired by, but not specifically modeled after, Fujifilm’s PRO line of films, such as PRO 400H and the various PRO 160 emulsions. It’s not exactly like any of those films, but is, generally speaking, similar. It’s specifically intended for portrait photography with a faithful color reproduction. This film sim has noticeably less contrast and slightly decreased vibrancy compared to PRO Neg. Hi, but otherwise the two are identical; personally, I prefer Std over Hi. Also, PRO Neg. Std has some similarities to the Eterna film sim, and can be a fairly convincing facsimile for cameras that don’t have Eterna.
Purple Flowers by Lake – Culleoka, TX – Fujifilm X-E4 – Fujicolor Superia 800
I like the PRO Neg. Std film simulation, but I find myself using it much more often on the “older” models (X-Trans III and prior) than on the newer ones. I think, in a way, both Eterna and Classic Negative have replaced this film sim for me. Even so, I do like PRO Neg. Std, and appreciate it for night photography in particular.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use PRO Neg. Std as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 30 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use PRO Neg. Std, so you have plenty of choices. But, if you are unsure which Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
This is an X-Trans II Film Simulation Recipe, and my personal favorite that mimics CineStill 800T film. Those with a compatible camera should definitely give this one a try for nighttime photography.
This is the X-Trans III version of CineStill 800T. It’s compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30 simply by setting Color Chrome FX Blue to Off; for newer cameras, additionally set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size Large, and Clarity to 0 (or -2, if you prefer). There is also a CineStill 800T Recipe that uses Eterna.
This is probably one of my Top 10 Film Simulation Recipes for the X-T3 and X-T30 cameras. For newer models, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size to Small, and Clarity to 0.
Reminiscent of some old color prints, this Recipe is best for sunny daylight photography, but can be decent in other conditions, too. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.
Fujicolor Superia 800, which is for X-Trans III cameras, was my first attempt at a Superia-like Film Simulation Recipe. It’s especially great for rainy days. For use on the X-T3 and X-T30, simply set Color Chrome Effect to Off; for newer cameras, additionally set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size Small, and Clarity to 0. There is also a Fujicolor Superia 800 Recipe that uses Classic Negative (for X-Trans V set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off).
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. I don’t (yet) have access to the new Reala Ace film simulation, so that one will be excluded from this (for now, anyway). Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The PRO Neg. Hi film simulation was inspired by, but not specifically modeled after, Fujifilm’s PRO line of films, such as PRO 400H and the various PRO 160 emulsions. It’s not exactly like any of those films, but is, generally speaking, similar. It’s specifically intended for portrait photography with a faithful color reproduction. PRO Neg. Hi is comparable with Astia; definitely not identical, but surprisingly similar in certain ways. This film sim has noticeably more contrast and slightly increased vibrancy over PRO Neg. Std, but otherwise the two are identical; personally, I prefer Std over Hi.
Orange Flower – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Fujicolor Pro 160NS
I don’t dislike PRO Neg. Hi, but I rarely ever use it. I think it can be quite good sometimes, especially for portraits. I’ve had positive experiences with it at night. Perhaps I should use it more often than I have lately, as I feel like I’ve unfairly ignored it.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use PRO Neg. Hi as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count seven Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use PRO Neg. Hi, so there are only a couple of others to choose from. If you are unsure which PRO Neg. Hi Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
This is one of my favorite Film Simulation Recipes for nighttime photography. It’s only compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30; however, for use on newer cameras, simply set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, choose Grain size Small, and set Clarity to 0 (or even -2).
This Film Simulation Recipe is actually seven different Recipes! It’s a unique approach, so you’ll definitely want to read the article if you’re curious about it. Fujicolor Pro 160NS is compatible with X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 and X-T30; for use on newer cameras, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, choose Grain size Small, and set Clarity to 0.
Like #2, this Film Simulation Recipe is also seven different Recipes. Fujicolor Pro 400H is only compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30; for use on newer cameras, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, choose Grain size Small, and set Clarity to 0.
Probably my favorite everyday portrait Recipe. Compatible with X-Trans III cameras. For the X-T3 and X-T30, simply set Color Chrome Effect to Off; for newer cameras, additionally set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, choose Grain size Small, and set Clarity to 0.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. I don’t (yet) have access to the new Reala Ace film simulation, so that one will be excluded from this (for now, anyway). Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The Classic Chrome film simulation is not modeled after any specific emulsion, although it does have a strong Kodak palette, with obvious similarities to some of their classic slide films. Fujifilm won’t ever say “Kodak” because, you know, that’s a long-time competitor, and it would require some licensing, I’m sure. If you are after a Kodak look, Classic Chrome is your film simulation. I believe that Classic Chrome is the most widely used film sim of them all, as Film Simulation Recipes that are based on it are often the most popular. Kodak was the largest film manufacturer, so it shouldn’t surprise anyone that the film simulation that mimics those emulsions is so popular.
Classic Chrome is one of my absolute favorite film simulations—many of my most-loved pictures were captured with a Film Simulation Recipe that uses it. I had a really difficult time narrowing down my favorite Classic Chrome Recipes, and even though I tripled the number from five to 15 for this article, there were a lot of tough cuts that I would have loved to include in this list. I could have doubled the length of this list, and I still would have had some hard decisions. I also had a difficult time picking the order, aside from the first two, which are my personal clear-cut Top 2. If you like Classic Chrome, there are a bunch of excellent options to choose from.
The 15 Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Classic Chrome as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 85 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Classic Chrome, so you have plenty of choices. But, if you are unsure which Classic Chrome Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
Reminiscent of the quintessential Kodak color negative film, this Recipe is great for sunny daylight photography. Compatible with X-Trans V cameras; for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30), set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak. For X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 and X-T30, click here.
Reggie’s Portra is a versatile Recipe that’s excellent for many subjects and situations. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30); for use on X-Trans V cameras, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.
This Film Simulation Recipe is reminiscent of Wes Anderson, and is intended for sunny daylight, but is also surprisingly good for blue-hour photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.
I don’t like this one quite as much as v2, but I still very much like this Recipe. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30); for use on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off. Click here for the X-T3 and X-T30.
An especially warm replication of Portra 800 that works well in sunny daylight conditions. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) and V cameras.
This Film Simulation Recipe is an older one, yet it’s still one of my favorites. Perfect for sunny daylight, but still quite versatile. Compatible with X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 and X-T30. For X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) click here (for X-Trans V set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off), and for X-Trans II click here.
Modeled after the very last roll of Kodachrome 64 that was shot by Steve McCurry, this Recipe is great for sunny daylight conditions. Compatible with X-Trans IV cameras, including the X-T3 and X-T30.
This Recipe produces a distinct 1980’s Kodak color negative film rendering. Great for sunny daylight photography. Compatible with X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 and X-T30. Click here for X-Trans II.
Serr’s 500T is my personal favorite Recipe for nighttime photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (except the X-T3/X-T30); for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. I don’t (yet) have access to the new Reala Ace film simulation, so that one will be excluded from this (for now, anyway). Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The Astia film simulation (a.k.a. Astia/Soft) is named after the Astia line of slide films by Fujifilm; however, this film simulation does not faithfully replicate the emulsion. Astia 100F had low color saturation (for a slide film), and was specifically intended for portrait photography. While the film sim is notably divergent from the film of the same name, Fujifilm states that the Astia film simulation is the “ideal Astia” and is what the film would have looked like had it been possible to do so.
City of Grace Tower – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – CineStill 400D v2
While intended for vibrant portraits, the Astia film sim can be good for many situations, with a rendering in-between Provia and Velvia, yet not exactly like either. Personally, for vibrant landscapes, I prefer Velvia, and for pictures of people I prefer some of the less-saturated options, like Classic Chrome, PRO Neg. Std, or even Eterna. Since Astia is a bit bolder than Provia and not quite as bold as Velvia, some might find it to be a happy medium. I don’t often choose it for my photography—it’s one of my least-used film simulations.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Astia as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 10 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Astia, so there are only a handful of others to choose from. But, if you are unsure which Astia Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
Great for sunny daylight, and decent enough for dreary conditions, CineStill 400D v1 replicates one possible aesthetic of a cinematic film. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.
This Recipe replicates a different possible aesthetic of the same cinematic film. While this one is also great for sunny daylight, it’s a good option for shade and blue-hour photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.
This was my very first attempt at replicating Kodak Ektar film. Colorful, and surprisingly versatile. Compatible with X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 and X-T30.
There are 20 different film simulations on the new Fujifilm X100VI. Since there are likely many newcomers to Fujifilm who aren’t all that familiar with the various film sims and Film Simulation Recipes, I thought it would be worthwhile to discuss each one in more detail, and offer my personal favorite Recipes for each. I don’t (yet) have access to the new Reala Ace film simulation, so that one will be excluded from this (for now, anyway). Also, I’ll combine the four Acros film sims into one article, and the four Monochrome film sims (and probably Sepia, too) into another.
The Velvia film simulation (a.k.a. Velvia/Vivid) is named after the Velvia line of slide films by Fujifilm. Back in the film days, Velvia was a popular choice for vibrant landscapes, with it’s over-the-top wild colors. When Fujifilm designed the Velvia film simulation, they brought in some people from the film department who had developed the actual Velvia emulsion to assist with the film simulation; however, it wasn’t until X-Trans III cameras, plus the introduction of Color Chrome Effect, that they were satisfied with the results.
Arizona Aspens – Flagstaff, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – The Rockwell
The Velvia film simulation is great for colorful landscape photography. It’s the most vibrant of all the film sims, so it will make your pictures pop. It has a little more contrast than Provia. If you are after bold pictures, consider using Velvia. It’s probably one of the last film simulations that you’d choose for portrait photography, as it can give someone a sunburn who doesn’t have one. While Velvia isn’t especially versatile, it’s very good at what it does: colorful pictures.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Velvia as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 20 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Velvia, so there are many to choose from. But, if you are unsure which Velvia Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
This is the most punchy Velvia Recipe; however, be careful, as it can be too bold sometimes. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras. And, yes, Ken Rockwell actually used it.
Mimics the look of Kodak’s most vibrant slide film. More contrasty but less vibrant than the two Recipes above. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.
Bright and colorful; not too dissimilar from the Vibrant Velvia Recipe (above) and the Velvia Recipe (below). Compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30 cameras, plus can be used on the GFX 50R and GFX 50S.
