Film Simulation Recipes | FUJI X WEEKLY

Hidden Gems: Underrated Fujifilm Cameras for SOOC Photography

Fujifilm is renown in the photography world for blending modern technology with vintage styling, delivering an experience similar to classic film cameras with colors inspired by analog looks. While newer models often steal the spotlight, some older Fujifilm cameras remain hidden gems—overlooked, yet still highly capable. These cameras seem to pair especially well with my Film Simulation Recipes for straight-out-of-camera photos that don’t require editing. If you’re looking for a capable, budget-friendly camera that embraces the magic of Fujifilm’s film simulations, consider these four hidden treasures.

Fujifilm X-T1: The Classic Workhorse

Released in 2014, the Fujifilm X-T1 was a game-changer for the X-series. It introduced the rugged, SLR-style design with dedicated dials that many Fujifilm photographers love. With a 16mp X-Trans II sensor, the X-T1 may not have all the latest film simulations and JPEG options, or stats that impress compared to the latest models, but don’t let that fool you—it still produces fantastic images in 2025.

This was one of the first cameras with Classic Chrome, which is the long-time most popular film simulation for those who use Recipes. Kodachrome II, Kodachrome 64, Classic Kodak Chrome, and Kodacolor are a few of the Classic Chrome Recipes that work beautifully on the X-T1, producing a vintage film-like aesthetic straight-out-of-camera. The Fujifilm X-T1 is an excellent introduction to the Fujifilm experience without breaking the bank, and it’s easy to recommend as someone’s first interchangeable-lens model to learn photography on.

*Fujifilm X-T1 & Kodak Portra 160 Recipe*

*Fujifilm X-T1 & Ektachrome 100SW Recipe*

Fujifilm X-Pro2: The Soul of Film Photography

The Fujifilm X-Pro2 is a dream camera for photographers who love the rangefinder experience. Introduced in 2016, it was the first Fujifilm camera with the 24mp X-Trans III sensor and the first to feature Acros, one of my favorite film simulations. This camera was a notable step forward in emulating film-like results thanks to added JPEG options like faux grain. Of the three X-Pro iterations, the X-Pro2 is my personal favorite.

This camera is a fantastic choice for those who want an analog-like shooting experience. With its optical/electronic hybrid viewfinder and vintage aesthetics, it feels like using an old film camera. Recipes like Vintage Kodachrome, Kodachrome II, Kodak Gold 200, and Acros Push Process (to name a few) look great on the X-Pro2. This camera is especially great for manual vintage lenses, which makes the experience even more retro.

*Fujifilm X-Pro2 & Kodachrome II Recipe*

Fujifilm X-T20: The Compact Powerhouse

When I met Omar Gonzalez on a Manhattan rooftop last year, he seemingly wasn’t carrying a camera. So I asked him if he brought one with him, and, if so, which one? He smiled, and pulled out of his sweater pocket a Fujifilm X-T20. He then told me that the X-T20 is his everyday casual camera for just walking around with. That should speak volumes. He also mentioned that the C1-C7 Custom Setting Presets were filled with Fuji X Weekly Recipes.

With the same X-Trans III sensor as the X-Pro2 and X-T2, the Fujifilm X-T20 offers exceptional image quality in a more compact, lightweight body—ideal for street photographers, travelers, and creatives on the go. Despite its size, the X-T20 retains the essential dials that make Fujifilm cameras so enjoyable to use. Recipes like Provia Slide, Everyday Astia, Agfa Optima, and Agfa Scala produce stunning yet nostalgic images on this camera. The X-T20 is an excellent choice for photographers who want a mix of convenience, quality, and affordability.

*Fujifilm X-T20 & Fujicolor Pro 400H Recipe*

Fujifilm X30: The Forgotten Compact

The Fujifilm X30 might just be the most underrated Fujifilm camera. This fixed-lens compact camera from 2014 features a 2/3-inch 12mp X-Trans II sensor and a 28-112mm (full-frame-equivalent) f/2.0-2.8 lens that has a lot of character. It’s small size is ideal for everyday carry, yet it is quite versatile thanks to the zoom lens.

The pictures from this camera are amazing, with a ton of character—I especially love the lens flare. The photos are instant memories, and that’s the selling point of the X30, as the spec sheet is not especially impressive, and the camera seems a bit outdated in 2025. Recipes like Pro Film, Lomography Color 100, CineStill 800T, and Monochrome Red are excellent options. The X30 is an everyday-carry camera—just grab it while heading out the door on ordinary outings.

Conclusion

While the latest Fujifilm cameras have more features and film simulations, these four underrated models remain exceptional tools for photographers who appreciate the magic of film simulations and Recipes. Each one offers a unique experience: the rugged reliability of the X-T1, the rangefinder soul of the X-Pro2, the compact power of the X-T20, and the travel-friendly versatility of the X30.

When paired with the right Film Simulation Recipes, these cameras prove that you don’t need the newest gear to get great results. If you’re looking for a Fujifilm camera that delivers timeless images and an engaging shooting experience, don’t overlook these hidden gems. You might just discover your new favorite camera.

Find these Film Simulation Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Classic Negative is Perfect for Everyday Moments and Vacation Snapshots

Posted on February 24 by Ritchie Roesch

*Hello, I am at Disneyland* – Anaheim, CA – Fujifilm X100VI – Fujicolor Superia 800

If there’s one film simulation that perfectly captures the nostalgia of family vacations and everyday moments, it’s Classic Negative. Modeled after the Fujicolor Superia line of film, Classic Negative has a way of making images feel like cherished memories straight-out-of-camera. With its unique color palette and strong contrast, this film simulation is ideal for those who want their snapshots to have analog character.

Because of its distinctive colors—with a familiar retro aesthetic—Classic Negative works quite well for family and travel photography. Skin tones are rendered with a touch of warmth. Greens are subdued, while reds lean orange. Classic Negative is unique among the film simulations in that the exposure—whether brighter or darker—affects how the pictures are rendered, similar to how Superia film behaves to overexposure and underexposure. This produces photos that are reminiscent of prints from the ’90’s and 2000’s, evoking nostalgic emotions.

When you use Classic Negative, you get pictures that feel like instant memories. If you’ve ever flipped through an old photo album—perhaps filled with pictures from your childhood—you’ll recognize the charm. The colors and tones are reminiscent of one-hour photo lab prints. For many, this film simulation isn’t just about the colors—it’s about the built-in nostalgia.

*Spooner Cove* – Montaña de Oro SP, CA – Fujifilm X100V – Fujicolor 100 Gold

The last thing you want to do upon returning from vacation is to spend hours and hours at a computer editing hundreds or even thousands of RAW files. Classic Negative ensures that your images have a timeless quality right from the camera. It’s well-suited for candid moments, like kids running through the ocean waves, grandparents smiling at a birthday party, or lunch along a quiet street in a new city. Whether you’re on a roadtrip, at a amusement park, or simply documenting everyday family life, Classic Negative is a storytelling tool with a film-like aesthetic.

This film simulation turns everyday snapshots into pictures filled with emotion and nostalgia. Whether you’re documenting a once-in-a-lifetime vacation or a quiet moment at home, Classic Negative ensures that your photos feel as special as the memories themselves. The next time that you’re out with your Fujifilm camera, try a Classic Negative Film Simulation Recipe—watch your photographs come to life with timeless charm. There are nearly 60 Classic Negative Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App; if you’re unsure which ones to try, below are 10 Recipes that are quite excellent for everyday moments and vacation snapshots.

Reala Ace

Pacific Blues

Fujicolor Superia 100

Fujicolor Reala 100

Fujicolor NPS 160 Pulled

Superia Premium 400

Fujicolor Superia 800

Fujicolor Natura 1600

Kodak Max 800

Fujicolor 100 Gold

Classic Chrome is the Ideal Film Simulation for Travel Photography

Posted on February 20 by Ritchie Roesch

*Across the Grand Expanse* – Grand Canyon, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 64

When it comes to travel photography, nothing quite matches Fujifilm’s Classic Chrome film simulation. Inspired by Kodak’s color slide films—such as Kodachrome and Ektachrome—that were commonly used for documentary photography, Classic Chrome delivers muted tones, rich contrast, and a subtle warmth that evoke the look of classic photojournalism. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, vast landscapes, or quiet villages, this film simulation brings a distinct analog feel reminiscent of past eras to your images.

The magic of Classic Chrome for travel photography is that it adapts well to various lighting environments, from golden-hour sunsets to harsh midday light to dreary overcast scenes to neon nightscapes. The balance of true-to-life yet expressive colors and rich contrast make it perfect for unpredictable travel conditions, enhancing the mood of a scene, and producing images with a timeless and immersive feel. Classic Chrome doesn’t exaggerate colors—it enhances them in a way that lets the subject take center stage.

*Two Caballeros* – Culleoka, TX – Fujifilm X-E4 – Kodachrome 64

Whether you’re capturing a quaint coastal town, the details of a historic city, the vastness of a dusty desert, the vibrancy of a street market, or the bustle of an urban sidewalk, Classic Chrome adapts beautifully. It provides a vintage, editorial look that is just as effective for street photography as it is for landscapes. This film simulation enhances the story within the image, where emotion and authenticity matter more than exaggerated aesthetics.

Classic Chrome is the most popular film simulation among those who use Film Simulation Recipes, and it’s easy to understand why. With 90 Classic Chrome Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App, there’s bound to be a few that match your style. If you’re unsure which ones to try, below are 10 Recipes that are quite excellent for travel photography.

RedScale — Fujifilm X-Trans IV & V Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on February 18 by Ritchie Roesch

*The Red Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI – RedScale

Redscale is an analog film technique where you load a roll of color film into the camera backwards. The film is exposed from the wrong side—through the plastic backing—exposing the red layer first. The results are photographs with a predominately red color cast. Sometimes it’s yellow-ish, sometimes it’s orange-ish, sometimes it’s peach-ish, sometimes it’s purple-ish, but mainly it is red. Results can very from film-to-film, and also how the film is exposed and developed/scanned; however, a redscale photo is unmistakable—you know it when you see it.

You can buy film preloaded for redscale photography. Lomography has Redscale XR, which is an unknown Kodak emulsion loaded into the canister backwards (some have speculated it’s Ultramax 400). On Valentine’s Day, Harman released Red 125, which is backwards-loaded Phoenix 200. Harman Red 125 is what this RedScale Recipe was inspired by. Because the film is new, there aren’t a lot of examples yet. I’m not convinced that this Recipe is perfectly accurate, but it seems to be pretty close from the limited number of pictures I found online.

*Light on a Dark Wall* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – RedScale

Redscale photography isn’t for everyone or every situation—it’s a niche lomo-esque aesthetic. But if you want to get that look straight-out-of-camera, this RedScale Film Simulation Recipe will do that very convincingly. This is compatible with Fujifilm X-Trans IV (excluding the X-T3 and X-T30; use this Redscale Recipe instead) and X-Trans V cameras. While Classic Negative renders blue more deeply on X-Trans V than on X-Trans IV, because the color blue doesn’t really come through with this Recipe, it looks the same on both sensor generations. You can also use it on most GFX cameras.

Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Dynamic Range: DR200
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: 10000K, +9 Red & -9 Blue
Highlight: 0
Shadow: +2
Color: +4
Sharpness: -2
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -3
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this RedScale Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm X-E4, X100VI & GFX100S II:

*Classic Circles* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*The Very Best* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Tall Chair* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Hat Rack* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Nature & Structure* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI

*Chairs & Cart* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Promenade* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*CVS Sign* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Two Bikes* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI

*Suburban Bike* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Son, Shadow* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Reflected Structure* – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Unlikely Friends* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm GFX100S II

*Palm Canopy* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI

*Suburban Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Palm Abstract* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Closed for the Evening* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Fire Flowers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Red Hair* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Red Saguaro Fingers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujifilm X100VI in black:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X100VI in silver:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm GFX100S II:
Amazon, B&H, Wex

Find this RedScale Film Simulation Recipe and nearly 400 more in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

CitrusChrome — Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Full Spectrum Infrared) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on February 11 by Ritchie Roesch

*Orange Desert* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – CitrusChrome

CitrusChrome is a brand new Infrared Recipe for full spectrum (sensitive to light outside the visible gamut) X-Trans IV or X-Trans V cameras, like the Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”). It’s not for “normal” cameras. The Fujifilm X-T4 ES is a full spectrum camera briefly offered by Fujifilm to the general public—as of this writing, I believe that you can still buy the Fujifilm X-T4 ES from B&H, but it requires a phone call or in-person visit, and cannot be ordered from the internet. Otherwise, you’ll have to do a full spectrum conversion—an expensive and invasive procedure—from a third-party vendor like LifePixel, Kolari Vision, or Spenser’s Camera (to name a few).

This Infrared Film Simulation Recipe produces orange, red, pink, and peach false colors. What you get depends on the exact light situation and the specific materials—cloth or organic (leaves)—being photographed. As far as I know, none of the infrared films that were sold over the years produced the false colors seen here; however CitrusChrome can be in the ballpark of Aerochrome sometimes, so situationally specific it can be somewhat convincing as an Aerochrome facsimile. What this Recipe more resembles is modern (digital) IR photography, which has a much wider array of possible outcomes. With that said, I don’t believe that I’ve seen this exact look before, so it might be a brand-new aesthetic.

*Light, Color, Texture* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – CitrusChrome

Aside from having a full spectrum camera (like the X-T4 ES), this Recipe requires two filters: True Color Infrared Autumnizer (Turquoise) and True Color Infrared Crimson (Light Blue), which can be found on AliExpress. The True Color Infrared Autumnizer (Turquoise) filter is simply a QB19 Blue filter and LB18 Green filter combined into one, while the True Color Infrared Crimson (Light Blue) filter is simply a QB19 and GRB3 (heat) filter combined into one. You probably could use a QB19, LB18, and GRB3 combination instead of the two True Color Infrared filters, but I have not tested that personally. I was a little hesitant to buy the Autumnizer (Turquoise) and Crimson (Light Blue) filters because I had never purchased anything from AliExpress before, and saw mixed reviews regarding the platform; however (and thankfully), the process turned out to be smooth. I’m not sure if the order matters, but I have the Crimson (Light Blue) filter first (closest to the lens) and the Autumnizer (Turquoise) last (furthest from the lens).

Filters: True Color Infrared Crimson (Light Blue) & True Color Infrared Autumnizer (Turquoise)
Film Simulation: Astia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: 9000K, +9 Red & -4 Blue
Highlight: -0.5
Shadow: -1.5
Color: +4
Sharpness: -1
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +1 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this CitrusChrome Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES:

*Photography Ideas* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Curtains and Blinds* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Book & Fake Succulent* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Red Blanket* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Red Shoes* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Toilet Trash* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Cyber* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*House Behind Wall* – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Stripes* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Wall Shrub* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*CVS Exit* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Garages* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Main Street Market* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Corner* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Evening Palm Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Tempe Palm* – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Palm Tree & Contrail* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Craftsman* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Forked Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Yellow Bougainvillea Blooms* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Leaves in a Pool* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Orange Saguaro* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Papago Road* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Desert Tortoise* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

Find CitrusChrome and other Infrared Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App, available for both Android and Apple.

25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of January 2025

Posted on February 4 by Ritchie Roesch

*Moon Palms* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Kodachrome 64

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 (January 2025).

I didn’t make a list for December’s statistics, but instead did a recap of the whole year. From month-to-month there’s not usually a lot of surprises, as these types of lists are pretty predictable. Skipping a month tends to reveal more interesting trends. It is unsurprising to see Kodachrome 64 in the first position, as it is the long time most popular Recipe on Fuji X Weekly. Reggie’s Portra seems to now be the second most popular, surpassing Kodak Portra 400 v2, which has notably slipped. There are, of course, a number of other position changes between November and January.

*Window Ladder* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 – 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. Classic Negative and Reala Ace are battling for the second and third positions. Eterna is fourth, followed by Acros and Nostalgic Neg., for fifth and sixth.

Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!

Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of November 2024

#1:

Kodachrome 64

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. In November it was #2, but for all of 2024 it was the number one most popular Recipe.

#2:

Reggie’s Portra

Reggie’s Portra is a popular Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras. Reggie Ballesteros created it by modifying my Kodak Portra 400 Recipe to better suit his style and needs. It usually ranks high, but I’m confident to say that it’s officially the second most popular Recipe on Fuji X Weekly. Of the various Portra Recipes, this is the most versatile, and the most popular for portrait photography. It was ranked #3 in both the month of November and in all of 2024.

#3:

Vibrant Arizona

A Wes Anderson inspired Recipe based on Classic Chrome for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras. It moved up two spots since November; in 2024 it was ranked #4.

#4:

Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired

This is a new Recipe published on December 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 a little surprised to see it so high.

#5:

Kodak Portra 400 v2

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that was the long-time #2 most-popular Recipe on Fuji X Weekly (it was #2 in 2024), but has been slipping lately. It moved down one position since November.

#6:

Kodak Gold 200

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodak Gold 200. It rose six spots since November, and was ranked #15 in 2024.

#7:

Reala Ace

Reala Ace, which is for X-Trans V cameras, is the most popular Classic Negative Recipe. It’s in the same position as November, and two spots below its 2024 ranking.

#8:

Kodak Portra 400 v2

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodak Portra 400 v2. It fell two positions compared to November, and was ranked #7 in 2024.

#9:

CineStill 800T

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’s in the same position as November, and was ranked #24 in 2024.

#10:

Kodak Tri-X 400

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 climbed six spots since November, and was ranked in the same position in 2024.

#11:

Kodak Portra 400

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. It fell one spot compared to November, and was #6 for 2024.

#12:

Kodak Portra 800 v3

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras. It climbed one spot since November, and was ranked #9 in 2024.

#13:

McCurry Kodachrome

This Recipe is reminiscent of scanned Kodachrome 64 slides, and is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras. It rose four spots since November, and was ranked #12 in 2024.

#14:

Fujifilm Negative

This is a fairly new Recipe, published on October 31st. It uses the Reala Ace film simulation, which means that it is compatible with X-Trans V cameras. Surprisingly, it was ranked #1 in November.

#15:

14 Film Dial Recipes

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 November it was ranked #8, and in 2024 it was #18. I have no idea which of the 14 Recipes are the most used.

#16:

Pacific Blues

At one time this was the most popular Classic Negative Recipe, but now it’s second (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 fell five spots since November, and was ranked #8 in 2024.

#17:

Kodak Gold 200

Another Classic Chrome based Recipe, for use on X-Trans III models, plus the X-T3/X-T30. It rose one position since November, and was ranked #14 for 2024.

#18:

Kodachrome 64

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodachrome 64. It fell three spots since November, and was ranked #13 for 2024.

#19:

Vintage Kodachrome

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, but this month it barely made it into the Top 20. In November it was #14, and in 2024 it was #11.

#20:

California Summer

This is currently the highest-ranked Recipe that uses the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation (aside from Nostalgic Film in the Film Dial set). It’s compatible with X-Trans V cameras. It didn’t crack the Top 25 list for November or for 2024.

#21:

Classic Color

This Recipe uses Classic Chrome and is compatible with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V models. It was ranked #24 in November, and #22 in 2024.

#22:

1981 Kodak

This was an App Patron Early Access Recipe that recently became available to everyone. It uses the Eterna film simulation, and is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras.

#23:

Easy Reala Ace

This Recipe was published in June, and uses the Reala Ace film simulation, which means it is compatible with X-Trans V cameras. It fell three spots since November.

#24:

Classic Chrome

The very first Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly, this Recipe is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It fell three positions since November, and was ranked #16 for 2024.

#25:

PRO Negative 160C

This was the first Recipe I published that uses the new Reala Ace film simulation. It fell two spots since November, and was ranked #21 in 2024.

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and many more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

Can ChatGPT Replicate a Recipe??

Posted on January 29, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

Someone pointed out to me that ChatGPT can create a Film Simulation Recipe that replicates the look of any photo that you upload. Just share a picture with AI, and it will analyze the look and produce a Recipe that matches. But can it really do that? And, if so, is it accurate?

So I gave it a try. I uploaded a picture and asked AI to replicate the aesthetic of it with a Fujifilm Recipe. Sure enough, it produced one. I also asked ChatGPT to tell me which Fuji X Weekly Recipes are the closest. Let’s examine the results.

Test 1

The top picture is the camera-made JPEG captured on my Fujifilm GFX100S II using the Nostalgic Film Recipe (a Film Dial Recipe). I uploaded it to ChatGPT and asked it to make a Recipe based on that image. The second picture was reprocessed in-camera using the settings that AI provided. Quite obviously, they are pretty far apart and are not a good match.

Some of the settings are the same. Both pictures use DR400. Both are Grain Weak (although ChatGPT chose Grain size Large). Both have Color Chrome Effect Strong and Color Chrome FX Blue Weak. Noise Reduction is -4 on both. The White Balance Shift is +2 Red & -4 Blue. All of the other settings were different—for example, the Nostalgic Film Recipe calls for the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation, while AI chose Classic Chrome. The Recipe made by AI isn’t too dissimilar to Kodachrome II, although not an exact match. I asked ChatGPT to tell me which Fuji X Weekly Recipes were the closest, and it suggested Kodak Ektar 100 and Kodak Gold 200.

Test 2

The top picture is the camera-made JPEG captured on my Fujifilm GFX100S II using the Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm Recipe (which is also a Film Dial Recipe). The bottom picture was reprocessed in-camera using the settings that ChatGPT provided. They are far apart, and are not an especially good match, although it is slightly better than the first test.

The Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm Recipe uses the Reala Ace film simulation, while ChatGPT chose Eterna. Most of the settings are divergent. I don’t have a Recipe that’s especially close to the one made by ChatGPT, but Timeless Negative is probably the most similar. The Fuji X Weekly Recipes that AI suggested are the closest are CineStill 800T, Kodak Ektachrome 100SW, and Kodak Vision3 250D.

Test 3

The top picture is the bottom image from Test 1. I asked ChatGPT to make a Recipe that matches it, to see if it would suggest the same settings that I used to make it (which is the Recipe AI had made just a few minutes earlier). The Recipe that it came up with was not the same, and also not a great match. Instead of Classic Chrome, it wen’t with Classic Negative. While only somewhat similar, Fujicolor Blue is probably my closest Recipe. The Fuji X Weekly Recipes that AI thought were the closest are Kodak Portra 400 and Kodak Portra 160.

Test 4

I re-uploaded the first photo from Test 1, and asked the same question to see if it would suggest the same settings, or if it would change them. Unsurprisingly, it was completely different, this time choosing Astia for the film simulation (I didn’t bother to reprocess). It suggested that my Kodak Portra 400 Recipe would be the closest match.

Conclusion

I’ve said before that ChatGPT is a neat little card trick, but once you know how it works, it isn’t nearly as impressive. I’ve also said that it will only get better with time. Both of those statements still seem to be true. While AI can analyze a picture and produce some Fujifilm settings to try—which is amazing—it isn’t very accurate. It can also suggest Fuji X Weekly Recipes that might be similar, and it is a little better at that, but still not especially good.

I have zero doubts that with enough time—and it may only be a couple of years—ChatGPT will be able to analyze a photo and produce a Fujifilm Recipe that is pretty similar. It might be even closer to suggesting an existing Recipe that isn’t far off. It’s not there yet, though.

I’m certain that ChatGPT was trained on my website. When asked directly, it says that it wasn’t, but states that it was trained on various photography blogs and forums. When I asked it to name some specific ones, the very first it listed was Fuji X Weekly. So, yeah, AI did some of its learning from my website, which of course I did not consent to nor was I compensated for. I believe that this training is ongoing, and it probably will even learn from this article that you are reading right now. This is wrong, and eventually the courts will likely determine that it is completely illegal; however, by then, the damage is done, and there’s nothing that can be done.

With all of that said, I had a conversation with a friend of mine who is super intelligent (he’s a scientist) about AI and ChatGPT. He said that he is not concerned about being replaced by AI, but he is concerned about being replaced by someone who knows how to use it better than he does. I don’t think it is prudent to ignore ChatGPT completely. While undoubtably ethically sketchy, it is a tool that can sometimes be used effectively, if you understand its strengths and weaknesses. I’m not sure what that means for me specifically, other than it is good to test it now and again to see how far it has or hasn’t come. It definitely has made some progress since the last time I tested, but not a lot.

Fujifilm’s JPEGs Are Revolutionizing Photography

Posted on January 29, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

*Sentinel & Merced* – Yosemite NP, CA – Fujifilm X100V – Vintage Color

When I first picked up a Fujifilm camera, I didn’t expect it to transform the way I approached photography. Like many others, I’d grown accustomed to shooting RAW, spending hours editing, and often feeling overwhelmed by it all, which can zap the joy right out of creating images. But then I discovered that Fujifilm’s straight-out-of-camera JPEGs are actually really good. I realized that I didn’t need to spend so much time tethered to a screen to create the photographs I loved. It wasn’t just a convenience; it was a revelation.

A lot of people are surprised to learn that Ansel Adams—the master of the darkroom—was a big fan of Polaroid cameras. He wrote a whole book about it, and dedicated a chapter to the concept of what he called one-step photography. Typically, the first step is image capture, and the second is image development, but Polaroids only required the first step (hence, one-step photography). Adams wrote, “The effect of one-step processing on both amateur and professional creative photography has been revolutionary.”

*Manhattan from Pulaski Bridge* – Fujifilm X-T50 – PRO Negative 160C

That’s exactly what Fujifilm cameras have achieved with their camera-made JPEGs. It’s the modern version of one-step photography. It’s not just about convenience (although it is certainly convenient); it’s a transformative approach to how we think about photography. It was a game-changer for me, and it might be for you, as well.

Fujifilm’s film simulations are at the heart of the SOOC JPEG magic. Drawing on their rich history in film photography, they’ve poured decades of analog expertise into their digital cameras. These film simulations—such as Classic Negative, Velvia, and Nostalgic Neg.—were inspired by iconic film stocks that once defined entire eras of photography. Each film simulation carries its own personality—Classic Chrome has muted tones and punchy contrast, Acros has rich monochrome depth, Eterna has cinematic softness—that give photographers a starting point that already feels curated and intentional, as if they were post-processed. The connection to Fujifilm’s film heritage makes their JPEGs feel authentic, reminiscent of analog photography—a nostalgic yet modern blend, fusing the convenience of digital with the soul of film.

*Doggles* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X-T50 – Nostalgic Americana

While Fujifilm’s film simulations are good on their own, what really sets the images apart is how customizable the JPEGs are. You can tweak the settings to create Film Simulation Recipes, which empowers photographers to achieve their style straight from the camera. It’s like having a personal darkroom built into your gear, which enables you to spend less time in front of a computer and more time actually making pictures. I have published nearly 400 Recipes for Fujifilm cameras, so there’s bound to be at least one that is a match for your personal style.

Fujifilm’s SOOC JPEGs encourage photographers to slow down and think more intentionally about their craft. Choosing a Recipe for the scene that is in front of you forces you to consider your creative choices upfront. This process brings a sense of mindfulness that some find refreshing. Getting the image right in-camera is a liberating shift. You can shoot with intent, knowing that the aesthetic you’re aiming for is baked into the photo as you press the shutter. Instead of relying on post-processing to fix an image, photographers are encouraged to get it right in-camera, which is a return to the ethos of film photography, where each frame mattered, and decisions were made before the shutter clicked.

*Sign on the Roof* – Gila Bend, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI – Classic Color

This one-step philosophy—made possible by Fujifilm and Film Simulation Recipes—is sparking conversations about the value of simplicity, the importance of craft, and the joy of photography as an experience rather than a chore. While technology can sometimes complicate photography, Fujifilm has managed to simplify it without compromising quality. In my opinion, the results speak for themselves: more time spent shooting, less time stuck behind a computer screen, and photographs that feel authentic and look great. It challenges the “RAW is best” mindset. Beginners, who might feel intimidated by the complexities of editing software, can achieve excellent results right out of the gate, while seasoned photographers are finding new inspiration in the simplicity and authenticity of this approach.

Camera-made JPEGs are more than just a convenience; they represent a shift in how to think about photography. Fujifilm has created a system that celebrates the art of getting it right in-camera by leveraging their film heritage with creative customization, which allows users to focus on intentionality. Because of this, many Fujifilm photographers are rediscovering the pure joy of making photographs. The revolution may be quiet, but—as more and more choose this approach—its impact is undeniable.

*Pacific Poppies* – Montaña de Oro SP, CA – Fujifilm X-E4 – Pacific Blues

Find Film Simulation Recipes for your Fujifilm cameras in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Film Simulation Recipes for Fujifilm GFX Cameras

Posted on January 23, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

One of the first things that I hoped to accomplish after buying a Fujifilm GFX100S II camera last month is to understand how compatible X-series Film Simulation Recipes are with GFX, and what adjustments should be made, if any. I had anticipated this being a fairly easy task, and in a sense it was, but I really struggled with this project.

Fujifilm has made a number of GFX models since February of 2017: GFX50S, GFX50R, GFX100, GFX100S, GFX50S II, GFX100 II, and GFX100S II. There are a few different sensors and processors, and the cameras can be separated into different generations. The GFX50S, GFX50R and GFX50S II share the same sensor, but the GFX50S II falls into a different generation than the original two. The GFX100 and GFX100S share the same sensor, but are different generations. The GFX100 II and GFX100S II share the same sensor, but not the same sensor as the first two 100mp GFX models. It’s a bit of a puzzle. The only GFX camera that I own is the GFX100S II, and I briefly had the opportunity to borrow a GFX50S four years ago. My GFX experience is very limited at this point.

One issue that I found when comparing Recipes captured on X-Trans vs GFX is that the lenses are not the same. Different lenses can produce slightly different results depending on the micro-contrast and coatings. While not a big deal, it would have been preferable to have used the same lens across all the tests; however, even if I could, the focal length wouldn’t be the same. For example, when I adapt my vintage Helios 44-2 lens, the focal length on X-Trans is 87mm while it is 46mm on GFX; aside from that, the Helios is noticeably softer on the GFX. So the comparisons I made were never fully 1:1, unfortunately.

*Fujifilm GFX100S II & Helios 44-2 – Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm*

I did make a number of comparisons between the photos captured with the GFX100S II and those made on an X-T5 and X-E4, utilizing the same Recipes. The main difference between X-Trans IV and X-Trans V rendering is that blue is a little deeper on X-Trans V with the Classic Chrome, Classic Negative, Eterna, and Eterna Bleach Bypass film simulations—there are some other minor differences, but the blue rendering is the main one. On the GFX100S II, blue behaves more like X-Trans V. The overall rendering is very similar to X-Trans V, but not 100% identical. For example, Grain is scaled differently on GFX. There are several insignificant differences that I noticed upon close side-by-side comparisons, but without carefully studying deep crops, the GFX images look pretty identical to the X-Trans V photos. Except they also don’t.

This is the paradox I discovered: the pictures look so similar when comparing colors, tints, shadows, etc., etc., but there is something that’s clearly different. But what? I couldn’t put my finger on it.

I asked a few people I know who have a GFX camera, and one suggested color fidelity, that the same exact colors just seem more alive (or maybe more lifelike) on GFX. My wife, Amanda, suggested that it’s depth, that it feels like you can step into the GFX photos, while the X-series photos seem a little flat in comparison. This could simply be the depth-of-field or the micro-contrast of the GFX lenses (or both). As I thought about it, I was reminded of the Sigma DP2 Merrill camera I used to own that similarly had a (so-called) “3D pop” to the pictures. High-ISO digital noise looks different on GFX, with splotchy colors that are typical from a Bayer sensor (and not the more film-grain-like noise from X-Trans); however, it’s not particularly obvious, buried in all that resolution. It’s probably a combination of all of those things and more that make the nearly identical colors and contrast appear different in a way that is difficult to describe, but it’s all so subtle that it’s easy to miss and dismiss, so perhaps it doesn’t matter.

*Fujifilm GFX100S II & 80mm f/1.7 – Kodachrome 64*

With that information, I made a decision regarding Film Simulation Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App. I added the GFX100 II and GFX100S II as compatible cameras to all X-Trans V Recipes, as well as X-Trans IV Recipes (excluding those for the X-T3/X-T30) that don’t use Classic Chrome, Classic Negative, Eterna or Eterna Bleach Bypass (the same Recipes as the X-T5, for example). Use those Recipes on the GFX100 II and GFX100S II, as they look great. I updated the App yesterday to show those Recipes as compatible with those two cameras. For the other (non-X-T3/X-T30) X-Trans IV Recipes, dropping Color Chrome FX Blue down one spot (Weak instead of Strong, Off instead of Weak) also makes them compatible.

After that, I thought about the other GFX models. Shouldn’t they be in the App, too? Why should they be left out? I don’t own any of those other GFX models, so I dug through the manuals—plus did several Google searches—to try to piece together how they should be categorized in the Fuji X Weekly App. That took a few verified and unverified assumptions. Also, I realized an assumption I made several years back was incorrect.

I categorized GFX100S the same as the newer X-Trans IV cameras; Recipes that are compatible with (for example) the X-T4 are also compatible with the GFX100S. I categorized the GFX100 the same as the X-T3 and X-T30.

*Fujifilm GFX100S II + 80mm f/1.7 – 1970’s Summer*

The 50mp GFX cameras are a bit of a problem because shadows are rendered slightly lighter, and a .5 Shadow increase is necessary for those models (the GFX50S and GFX50R don’t have .5 Highlight and Shadow adjustments). A few years ago when I had the GFX50S for a few weeks, I created three Recipes for 50mp GFX. I made an assumption that those Recipes would also be compatible with the GFX100, but I believe that camera has deeper shadow rendering like the other 100mp cameras, so that assumption was incorrect; however, I left it alone in the App. If not for the shadow rendering, X-T3/X-T30 Recipes would be compatible with the GFX50S and GFX50R—you can still use those Recipes, just know that it will look slightly different (try them anyway, you might like the results). The one camera that was left out of the App is the GFX50S II. You can use X-Trans IV Recipes the same as the GFX100S; however, a .5 Shadow adjustment should be made. If a Recipe calls for -1 Shadow, use -0.5 instead, and if a Recipe calls for +2 Shadow, use +2.5 instead.

This isn’t a perfect categorization of the GFX models, but I think it’s good. If I made a mistake in this, please let me know—like I said, my GFX experience is quite limited. For those with GFX cameras, I hope this provides a little clarity as to which Recipes to use. I’m sure that having these cameras in the App will be helpful to some photographers with GFX models, so if you have a GFX camera, open up the Fuji X Weekly App and take a look.

*Fujifilm GFX100S II + 80mm f/1.7 – Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired*

Find Film Simulation Recipes for your Fujifilm cameras in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Provia Summer — Fujifilm X-Trans IV & X-Trans V FXW App Patron Early-Access Recipe

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

*Evening Palm Fronds* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Provia Summer

This Provia Summer Film Simulation Recipe kicks off a new series. Each Recipe in this series will use a different film simulation, beginning with Provia and ending with Sepia. None of them will be modeled after any specific emulsions, but more simply will be aesthetics that I like, that I want to create photographs with. Even though they won’t be mimicking specific films, I do intend for them to have an analog vibe. My goal is to publish a new Recipe in this series every three or four weeks. Lastly, they will each begin as an App Patron Early-Access Recipe.

I never wanted the Early-Access Recipes to be unavailable to non-subscribers for so long. Some have been 18 months or longer, most over a year. My initial idea was that they would be Patron-only for about six months or so, and then be made available to everyone; however, I’ve only reached that goal a few times. This series of Recipes will hopefully clear out the backlog, and the Recipes that some of you have long been waiting for will be available soon.

*Golden CVS* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-S20 – Provia Summer – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

Provia Summer is in a similar neighborhood as Bright Summer, Bright Kodak, Eterna Summer, Summer of ’59, 1970’s Summer, and I’m sure a few others. Obviously it’s not exactly like any of them, as it has its own unique aesthetic. This Recipe is warm and colorful, producing images that have a summer-like feel. It’s not the most ideal option for artificial light indoors or nighttime photography, but in the right situations it can be alright for that; for best results, use on a sunny day.

This is an App Patron Early-Access Recipe. If you are a Fuji X Weekly App Patron, you have access to it right now. If not, no worries, as it will eventually be made available to everyone, once it is replaced by a new Early-Access Recipe. With the exception of the X-T3 and X-T30, it is compatible with all fourth and fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which (as of this writing) are 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. It can also be used on the newer GFX models, and I’ve included a few examples of that at that bottom.

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Provia Summer Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm X-E4 and X-S20:

*Vibrant Bougainvillea* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Dying Frond* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Sunlit Window* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Golden Arch* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Bright Bougainvillea* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Palm Grove* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Tower Window* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Duel Window View* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Welcome to Wellness* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Water Drops* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Faux Beauty* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Dusk Steeple* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Electric Open* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Red Tree Trunk* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

*Yellow Fountain* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Provia Summer Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm GFX100S II:

*Bougainvillea Trestle* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm GFX100S II

*Broken Palm Bark* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm GFX100S II

*Jonathan in the Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm GFX100S II

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 350 more in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

1981 Kodak — Fujifilm X100V (X-Trans IV) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 22, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

*Vintage Barn* – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X100V – 1981 Kodak Recipe

My wife, Amanda, ran across some old family pictures in her mom’s photo box. These prints were made in July of 1981—a date stamped on the back—and printed on Kodak paper. The other technical details are unknown, but most likely they were captured with a cheap point-and-shoot of some sort (possibly even a 110 camera) with Kodacolor II color negative film, which was the most popular amateur emulsion of that era. Due to age and improper storage, the prints are fading, with a pronounced orange (sometimes yellow, sometimes red) cast, and colors overall less vibrant than they once were. The set was mostly personal family pictures, and many of them were scratched and damaged, but I did scan two of the prints, which you’ll find below.

I thought that the aesthetic was interesting, so I began to develop a Film Simulation Recipe inspired by these photographs. It took a couple of days—and a few compromises, as I was unable to match it exactly—but I was able to create a look that mimics the general feel of those old pictures made in 1981 and printed on Kodak paper, which is the reason why I call this Recipe 1981 Kodak.

This 1981 Kodak Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all Fujifilm X-Trans IV cameras except the X-T3 and X-T30, which is to say that you can use it on the X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II. For the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30, ignore Grain size and Color Chrome FX Blue, and use a diffusion filter (such as a 10% or 20% CineBloom) in lieu of Clarity. For X-Trans V, because some film sims render blue more deeply, it will look slightly different, but try it anyway.

Film Simulation: Eterna
Dynamic Range: DR200
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: Daylight, +7 Red & -7 Blue
Highlight: -0
Shadow: +4
Color: -4
Sharpness: -2
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -4
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this 1981 Kodak Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X100V:

*Coastal Hills* – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Dilapidated Barn* – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Rural Rancher* – Cambria, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Tree Fallen on Abandoned Car* – Cambria, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Old Ford* – Cambria, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Classic Grill* – Cambria, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Tree-Covered Road* – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Light over Fallen Tree* – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Sawed Log* – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Cliffs of Pismo* – Pismo Beach, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Ken Rockwell & ’61 Pontiac Tempest* – Cayucos, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Old Van* – Cayucos, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Classic Rear Fender* – Cayucos, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Beach Boys* – Cambria, CA – Fujifilm X100V

*Mrs. Peacock* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*Guitar Neck* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*Drummer* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*Corner* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*Suburban Bougainvillea* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*Orange Car* – Laveen, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

*Biting Horses* – San Simeon, CA – Fujifilm X100V

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 350 more in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Agfa 400S — Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Full Spectrum Infrared) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 9, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

*Monochrome Founders* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Agfa 400S

This is my first B&W Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm full spectrum cameras, like the Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”). It’s not for “normal” cameras; you must have a full spectrum X-Trans IV or X-Trans V model, which requires an expensive and invasive procedure from a third-party vendor like LifePixel, Kolari Vision, or Spenser’s Camera. Otherwise, the Fujifilm X-T4 ES is a full spectrum camera (is sensitive to light outside the visible gamut) briefly offered by Fujifilm to the general public. As of this writing, I believe that you can still buy the Fujifilm X-T4 ES from B&H, but it requires a phone call or stopping by in-person, and cannot be order from the internet.

The reason why it took me so long to publish a B&W Recipe for full spectrum IR cameras is because I had trouble creating one that I was fully satisfied with. I experimented with many different filters and settings, but just couldn’t find the right combination that produced the results that I desired. Initially, this was another one of those failed experiments, until I added a third filter (QB2), and instantly fell in love with the aesthetic that this Recipe creates.

*Water in the Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Agfa 400S

The emulsion that this Recipe is most reminiscent of is Agfa AviPhot 400S, which is also sold under Rollei Retro 400S, Rollei 400 IR, Japan Camera Hunter Street Pan 400, Astrum Foto 400, and Svema Foto 400. This film was made for aerial surveillance—hence: AviPhot, which is short for “Aviation Photography”, and “S” for surveillance—and is both infrared and UV sensitive, although only a little. In order to get good IR results, the film requires a 720nm filter and adding two or three stops to the exposure.

This Agfa 400S Film Simulation Recipe doesn’t use a 720nm filter; instead, it requires three filters: Kolari Vision IR Chrome, Tiffen Deep Yellow 15, and QB2 blue. The QB2 was given to me and I have no idea what brand it is, but here are some that I found online: JTSF, PMP, Nantong, Shanghai Longway, Tangsinuo. This is a fairly uncommon filter (that’s why none of the name brands make it), but it is used by some in the IR world (my Cotton Candy Chrome Recipe also uses the QB2 filter). I’m not sure if the order matters, but I have the Deep Yellow filter first (closest to the lens), the IR Chrome next, and the QB2 last (furthest from the lens).

*Tree in Grey* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Agfa 400S

While this Recipe was designed on and intended for the Fujifilm X-T4 ES camera, it should be fully compatible with any full spectrum converted X-Trans IV (except the X-T3 and X-T30) and X-Trans V models. For a grainier look, use higher ISOs, such as 6400 and 12800 (Water in the Desert is an ISO 12800 image). For a cleaner look, use lower ISOs.

Filters: Tiffen Deep Yellow 15, Kolari Vision IR Chrome, & QB2 Blue
Film Simulation: Acros+R
Monochromatic Color: WC 0 MG 0 (Off)
Dynamic Range: DR200
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: 2500K, +9 Red & -2 Blue
Highlight: +4
Shadow: +4
Sharpness: -1
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 12800
Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Agfa 400S Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES:

*Sunlit Jon* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Sunglasses* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Flower Girl* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Photographer Jon* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Hand in Hand* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Dogs out a Truck Window* – Laveen, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Dramatic Light* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Lamp Post* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Second Floor Windows* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Neighborhood Eucalyptus* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*White Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Grey Saguaro* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*17th Green* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Closed Umbrella in Monochrome* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Second Floor* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Sunlit Stucco* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Empty Cart* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Shade* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Coffee Work* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Open Umbrellas* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*White Bougainvillea 1* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*White Bougainvillea 2* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Palm Fronds* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*V Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Evening Light* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Tis but a Scratch*– Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Desert Road* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Last Light on the Peaks* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Trees & Flare* – Surprise, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

*Saguaro Fingers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES

Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

Posted on January 2, 2025 by Ritchie Roesch

*Red Rock at Sundown* – Sedona, AZ – Fujifilm X-T50 – Reala Ace

It’s quite fascinating comparing this list to last year’s. First and second place are the same, but otherwise there’s a lot of change, with several not making the Top 25 this year. I could have guessed the Top 10, maybe the Top 15, but I was surprised by a couple near the bottom—I didn’t think they’d make the cut, but here they are!

*Dumbo Crowd* – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X-T50 – Reala Ace

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, including the first four, as well as 12 of the Top 15.

Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last year!

Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

#1:

Kodachrome 64

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time most popular Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm cameras. It was #1 last year, too.

#2:

Kodak Portra 400 v2

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is the long-time #2 most-popular Recipe on Fuji X Weekly. Last year it was ranked #2.

#3:

Reggie’s Portra

Reggie’s Portra, a popular Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras, is the most versatile Portra Recipe. It was #9 last year—it saw a significant rise in 2024.

#4:

Vibrant Arizona

A Wes Anderson inspired Recipe based on Classic Chrome for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras. It was ranked #4 last year, too.

#5:

Reala Ace

This Recipe uses the Classic Negative film simulation (and not the Real Ace film sim), and is for X-Trans V cameras. While it was published in 2023, it did not crack the Top 25 last year. Those Recipes published during the year are at a notable disadvantage compared to the long-established ones.

#6:

Kodak Portra 400

This version of Kodak Portra 400, which is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras, fell three spots compared to 2023.

#7:

Kodak Portra 400 v2

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodak Portra 400 v2. It was ranked #17 in 2023.

#8:

Pacific Blues

This particular version of Pacific Blues is compatible with X-Trans IV models, but there is also an X-Trans V version. It fell two spots since last year.

#9:

Kodak Portra 800 v3

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras, published in February of this year. It has quickly established itself as one of the essential Fuji X Weekly Recipes to try.

#10:

Kodak Tri-X 400

#11:

Vintage Kodachrome

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 #5 last year.

#12:

McCurry Kodachrome

This Recipe—published in January—is reminiscent of scanned Kodachrome 64 slides, and is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras.

#13:

Kodachrome 64

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodachrome 64. It was ranked #21 in 2023.

#14:

Kodak Gold 200

Another Classic Chrome based Recipe, for use on X-Trans III models, plus the X-T3/X-T30. It has the same ranking as last year.

#15:

Kodak Gold 200

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodak Gold 200. While it was published in 2023, it didn’t make the Top 25 list last year.

#16:

Classic Chrome

The very first Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly, this Recipe is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It fell six spots since 2023.

#17:

Bright Summer

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 didn’t crack the Top 25 list last year, but grew significantly in popularity in 2024.

#18:

14 Film Dial Recipes

It is probably unfair to include the Film Dial Recipes in this list because it is not one Recipe, but 14; however, the Vibrant Arizona article is technically four Recipes, so there is a precedence for its inclusion. Published in May, this is the newest Recipe in this list.

#19:

Fujicolor Super HG v2

A Classic Negative based Recipe that’s compatible with X-Trans V cameras (there’s also an X-Trans IV version). While it was published 18 months ago, it didn’t crack the Top 25 last year.

#20:

Kodak Portra 160

This version of Kodak Portra 160 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. It’s another Recipe that was published in 2023, but didn’t make the Top 25 list last year.

#21:

PRO Negative 160C

This was the first Recipe I published that uses the new Reala Ace film simulation, published in March of this year.

#22:

Classic Color

I published this Recipe, which uses Classic Chrome and has compatibility with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras, in April.

#23:

Kodachrome II

Kodachrome II is an older Recipe made for X-Trans III cameras. It was ranked #12 in 2023.

#24:

CineStill 800T

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 for awhile. This version was published in April of this year.

#25:

Kodak Ultramax 400

This is the X-Trans IV version of this Recipe, but there’s also a version for X-Trans III plus the X-T3 and X-T30 cameras, and also a version for X-Trans V. In 2023 it was ranked #11.

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and many more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired — Fujifilm X-Trans V Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on December 31, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Half Moon Over Central Park* – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X100VI – Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired

This new Film Simulation Recipe came about after someone shared with me some photographs they captured with a roll of long-expired Kodak Gold Max 400 film. Kodak introduced this color negative emulsion in 1987 under the name Kodacolor VR-G 400. Later, they renamed it GC 400, Gold 400, Ultra Gold 400, Gold Max 400, Max 400, Max Versatility 400, then Ultramax 400, which is still available today. Over the years the emulsion has been updated a few times, but it is still essentially a 1980’s Kodacolor film.

Even though the roll was long-expired, it looked pretty good. Sometimes expired film has a much different aesthetic than a fresh roll, and sometimes it’s only subtly different. In this case, it seemed more muted and grainy than Ultramax 400, and with a little different color cast, but overall not overtly divergent. The photographer did edit the scans a little, which I’m sure affected the outcome. I wasn’t able to perfectly match it, but I feel this was pretty close. I also found some examples of expired Kodak Gold Max 400 film online, and this Recipe seems to similarly match those images fairly well but not perfectly.

What I love about this Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired Recipe is that it has an obvious analog vibe. The pictures captured with it just seem film-like to me. You could probably convince some people that you didn’t use a digital camera. These photographs don’t look like typical camera-made JPEGs.

*Sand Trail* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired – Photo by Amanda Roesch

This Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which, as of this writing, are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, X100VI, X-T50, and X-M5. You can use it on newer GFX cameras, too. I have a couple of photos at the bottom that were captured with a GFX100S II, and it seems pretty close to the X-Trans V rendering.

Film Simulation: Reala Ace
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: 6700K, +1 Red & +4 Blue
Highlight: -1.5
Shadow: +1.5
Color: -2
Sharpness: -2
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -3
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +2/3 to +1 1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Kodak Gold Max 400 Expired Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm X100VI, X-T5 & X-S20:

Oh – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X100VI

*Street Portrait* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI

*Model Photography* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI

*Two Ladies and a Dog* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI

*Light on a Dark Building* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI

*Pentax Photographer* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI

*Bench Corner* – Philadelphia, PA – Fujifilm X100VI

*Three Story Home* – North Bergen, NJ – Fujifilm X100VI

*Alien Dunkin’* – Roswell, NM – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Tractors is dumb* – Tularosa, NM – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Family Boating* – Clinton, CT – Fujifilm X100VI

*Three Leaves in the Water* – Clinton, CT – Fujifilm X100VI

*Flag on a Windy Day* – Roswell, NM – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Wood Fence* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm X-S20 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Christmas Sand* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Amanda Roesch

*Roesch Kids* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Amanda Roesch

*Dry Brush* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Amanda Roesch

Fujifilm GFX100S II:

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujifilm X-T5 in black:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X100VI in black:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X100VI in silver:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex, Nuzira
Fujifilm X-S20:
Amazon, B&H, Moment, WEX, Nuzira
Fujifilm GFX100S II:
Amazon, B&H, Wex

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 350 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

10 Frames in New Mexico — Fujifilm GFX100S II XPan Photographs

Posted on December 30, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Sand & Sky* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm

The main reason why I purchased a Fujifilm GFX100S II camera a couple of weeks ago was for XPan photography. For those who don’t know, XPan cameras were a joint venture between Hasselblad and Fujifilm in the late-1990’s through the mid-2000’s, right at the pinnacle of film. XPan models were interchangeable-lens rangefinder cameras that used approximately two frames of 35mm film to capture panoramic pictures in a 65:24 aspect ratio.

You can crop images from any model to the XPan ratio without much trouble, but composing it in-camera is different than doing it after-the-fact because you can better visualize the outcome. Also, I prefer straight-out-of-camera photography over sitting at a computer editing, but that’s just me. All GFX models, including the GFX100S II, have the 65:24 aspect ratio built-in; however, X-series cameras do not (in my opinion, Fujifilm should add the XPan ratio to all of their 40mp cameras via a firmware update). If you are serious about XPan photography and you use Fujifilm cameras, GFX is the preferable route.

*Sand Wall* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Velvia Film

Since the 65:24 aspect ratio cuts out about half of the resolution, having a high-megapixel sensor is important. With that said, you can’t truly appreciate XPan when viewing on a computer or your phone. XPan from a GFX100S II isn’t going to look any more impressive than (for example) an XPan crop from a Fujifilm X-T10. These pictures need to be printed to be appreciated, and that’s my goal. I plan to print a couple of these to see what they look like, and if I create any in the future that are worthy, I hope to make some really large prints that are two-feet tall by five-feet-five-inches wide. For that, the 100mp sensor of the GFX100S II is essential.

All of these photographs, which were captured yesterday and the day before in New Mexico, were made using a Fujifilm GFX100S II camera with a Fujinon 80mm f/1.7 lens. These pictures are camera-made JPEGs using a few different Film Simulation Recipes. Over the coming days and weeks I’ll be testing various Recipes to see what works best on GFX, and I’ll be sure to share the results with you, so stay tuned! In the meantime, I hope that you enjoy these 10 XPan images.

*Cars* – Tularosa, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Fujicolor 100 Gold

*House Fire* – Lordsburg, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – 1970’s Summer

*Yucca in the Sand* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Velvia Film

*Yucca and Grass*– White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Velvia Film

*Sandscape* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm

*Dune Brush* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Fujicolor PRO 160C Warm

*Sunset Behind Brush* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Velvia Film

*Sand at Sunset* – White Sands NP, NM – Fujifilm GFX100S II – Velvia Film

This post contains affiliate links, and if you make a purchase using my links I’ll be compensated a small amount for it.

Fujifilm GFX100S II:
Amazon, B&H, Wex
Fujinon GF 80mm f/1.7:
Amazon, B&H, Wex

Top 10 Most Popular Classic Negative Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

Posted on December 21, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Flowers & Fruit* – Austin, TX – Fujifilm X100VI – Fujicolor Blue

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 10 most-viewed Classic Negative Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website so far in 2024.

It’s close enough to the end of the year that there is unlikely to be much movement, if any, between now and January 1st, so I thought it would be a good time to begin looking at year-end statistics. When I share the Top 25 most popular Recipes of any given month, the results are pretty predictable: color Recipes dominate, especially those that mimic Kodak film stocks and use Classic Chrome. On the suggestion of a Fuji X Weekly reader, I’m going to share some Top 10 articles for Recipe categories where few are likely to crack the Top 25 overall. I started with B&W, followed that up with Fujicolor, then Eterna Recipes; X-Trans III was next; now we’ll look at Classic Negative based Recipes.

*Two Boats* – Clinton, CT – Fujifilm X-E4 – Pacific Blues

This list looks similar to Top 10 Fujicolor Recipes because many of those use the Classic Negative film simulation. In my mind, when I decided to do this one, I thought it would be a little more divergent. Since I had pretty much finished putting this together when I realized the similarities, I decided to publish this list anyways. I hope you don’t mind a little redundancy.

Without any further delay, below are the most popular Classic Negative Recipes of 2024!

Top 10 Most Popular Classic Negative Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

#1:

Reala Ace

This is one of the most popular Recipes (even briefly #1) of 2024, so I wasn’t surprised in the least to see it at the peak of this list. It uses the Classic Negative film simulation and not the Reala Ace film sim, and is for X-Trans V cameras.

#2:

Pacific Blues

Pacific Blues used to be the highest ranked Classic Negative based Recipe until I published Reala Ace. This particular version of Pacific Blues is compatible with X-Trans IV models; you’ll find the X-Trans V version a couple spots further down.

#3:

Fujicolor Super HG v2

This Recipe is highly versatile and is compatible with X-Trans V cameras (there’s also an X-Trans IV version).

#4:

Pacific Blues

The X-Trans V version of Pacific Blues.

#5:

Kodak Max 800

One of my favorite Recipes for use with flash photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV cameras.

#6:

Fujicolor Blue

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 is compatible with X-Trans V cameras, and is very new, published in late October.

#7:

Superia Xtra 400

This is the X-Trans V version of this Recipe (the X-Trans IV version is a little further down).

#8:

Kodak Royal Gold 400

Compatible with both X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras.

#9:

Fujicolor Superia 800

This Recipe is for X-Trans IV cameras; however, for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.

#10:

Superia Xtra 400

The X-Trans IV version of this Recipe.

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and many more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

Top 10 Most Popular X-Trans III Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

Posted on December 18, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Summer Feeling* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2 – Kodacolor

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 10 most-viewed X-Trans III Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website so far in 2024.

It’s close enough to the end of the year that there is unlikely to be much movement, if any, between now and January 1st, so I thought it would be a good time to begin looking at year-end statistics. When I share the Top 25 most popular Recipes of any given month, the results are pretty predictable: color Recipes dominate, especially those that mimic Kodak film stocks and use Classic Chrome. On the suggestion of a Fuji X Weekly reader, I’m going to share some Top 10 articles for Recipe categories where few are likely to crack the Top 25 overall. I started with B&W, followed that up with Fujicolor, then Eterna Recipes; now we’ll look at X-Trans III compatible Recipes.

*Spring Wildflowers & Dead Wood* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2 – Provia Slide

These Film Simulation Recipes are compatible with all X-Trans III cameras—Fujifilm X-Pro2, X100F, X-E3, X-T2, X-T20 & X-H1—as well as the X-T3 and X-T30. The majority of people use Recipes on X-Trans IV and V cameras, but X-Trans III isn’t too far behind. Some of these Recipes do routinely crack the Top 25 list, but most of them do not.

Without any further delay, below are the most popular X-Trans III Recipes of 2024!

Top 10 Most Popular X-Trans III Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

#1:

Vintage Kodachrome

One of the older Film Simulation Recipes on Fuji X Weekly, and typically one of the Top 15 most popular. Uses Classic Chrome as the base.

#2:

Kodak Gold 200

This Classic Chrome based Recipe is for the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30, but is fully compatible with X-Trans III cameras because Color Chrome Effect is set to Off. This one usually cracks the Top 25.

#3:

Classic Chrome

The very first Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly, unsurprisingly uses Classic Chrome as the base. Another Recipe that is commonly in the Top 25 list.

#4:

Kodak Portra 400

This was the first Portra Recipe that I created. It requires a difficult-to-get-right Custom White Balance measurement.

#5:

Kodachrome II

One of my favorite Recipes for X-Trans III cameras. Like the four above, it uses Classic Chrome.

#6:

Cinestill 800T

This Recipe is specifically for nighttime photography, and uses the PRO Neg. Std film simulation.

#7:

Classic Kodak

One of the newer X-Trans III Recipes, it uses Classic Chrome.

#8:

Fujicolor Superia 800

This Recipe uses PRO Neg. Std, and is one of my favorites for dreary days.

#9:

Kodak Ultramax

Another Classic Chrome based Recipe.

#10:

Kodak Ektar 100

This Recipe uses the Astia film simulation, and is the most vibrant on this list.

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and many more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

Top 10 Most Popular Eterna Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

Posted on December 13, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*11th Avenue* – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X100VI – SantaColor

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 10 most-viewed Eterna Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website so far in 2024.

It’s close enough to the end of the year that there is unlikely to be much movement, if any, between now and January 1st, so I thought it would be a good time to begin looking at year-end statistics. When I share the Top 25 most popular Recipes of any given month, the results are pretty predictable: color Recipes dominate, especially those that mimic Kodak film stocks and use Classic Chrome. On the suggestion of a Fuji X Weekly reader, I’m going to share some Top 10 articles for Recipe categories where few are likely to crack the Top 25 overall. I started with B&W, followed that up with Fujicolor; now we’ll look at Recipes that use the Eterna film simulation.

*Hotel Chelsea* – New York City, NY – Fujifilm X-T50 – Cinematic Film

Inspired by yesterday’s SOOC Live broadcast (if you missed it, you can watch it now), I decided that Eterna needed to be included in this project. In my opinion, it’s probably the most under appreciated film sim of them all. Perhaps that’s my fault, as I probably could have done more to demonstrate just how good it is. There’s a good chance that some of you have never even used an Eterna-based Recipe—if not, perhaps now is a good time.

I had a very good hunch that the X-Trans V version of CineStill 800T would rank #1, because it’s been routinely in the Top 25 ever since I published it in April. Beyond that, I was really unsure how this list would look. I expected both SantaColor and Cinematic Film to crack the Top 10, but to my surprise neither did. I count 30 Eterna-based Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App, so obviously some had to be left out.

Without any further delay, below are the most popular Eterna Recipes of 2024!

Top 10 Most Popular Eterna Film Simulation Recipes of 2024

#1:

CineStill 800T

This is an adaptation of the X-Trans IV version (which you’ll find a little further down) for use on X-Trans V cameras. Like the film it is named after, this Recipe is specifically intended for nighttime photography.

#2:

Kodak Vision3 250D

This is one of my favorite Eterna-based Recipes. It’s an adaptation of the X-T3/X-T30 version (which you’ll find a little further down) for use on “newer” X-Trans IV models.

#3:

CineStill 800T

For X-Trans IV cameras, this Recipe is specifically intended for nighttime photography.

#4:

Vintage Color

Vintage Color is an artist’s Recipe. It either works very well or not especially well, and should be used thoughtfully. It’s for X-Trans IV cameras; on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.

#5:

Cine Teal

This Recipe can produce interesting results in the right light, but is definitely not for everyday use. I’m surprised to see it rank so high. It’s for use on X-Trans IV cameras; on X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.

#6:

Cinematic Negative

This one is for the X-T3 and X-T30 cameras; for all other X-Trans IV models, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, Grain size Small, and Clarity 0.

#7:

Eterna Summer

One of the more recently published Recipes that use Eterna. It’s compatible with “newer” X-Trans IV and all X-Trans V cameras.

#8:

Kodak Vision3 250D

This version is for the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30 cameras.

#9:

Vintage Eterna

This Recipe has a lot of compatibility—it can be used on the X-H1, X-Trans IV, and X-Trans V cameras.

#10:

Timeless Negative

I use this one a lot during November and December, and occasionally throughout the year. It’s the most versatile Recipe in this list.

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and many more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

Eternal Recipes — SOOC Live Season Finale

Posted on December 10, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

The season finale of SOOC Live is just two days away! Join Nathalie Boucry and myself on December 12th at 9:00 AM Pacific Time (noon Eastern), as we finish off Season 4 with what will surely be an epic broadcast. This one will be especially fun, so you’ll want to tune in if you’re able. Since these shows are interactive, your participation makes them better. I hope to see you this Thursday!

For those who don’t know, SOOC Live is a (sometimes) monthly live YouTube broadcast where Nathalie Boucry and I discuss Film Simulation Recipes, give tips and tricks for achieving the results you want straight-out-of-camera, talk Fujifilm news, and answer your questions. Basically, we’re trying to help you master your camera, with a focus on simplifying your photographic workflow. This is a community event, helping each other along our photographic journeys.

Below is the upcoming show, so you can easily find it on Thursday (here is the direct link, in case you need it):

Cotton Candy Chrome — Fujifilm X-T4 ES (Full Spectrum Infrared) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on December 6, 2024 by Ritchie Roesch

*Cotton Candy Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Cotton Candy Chrome Recipe

This is a super fun Film Simulation Recipe for Fujifilm full spectrum cameras, like the Fujifilm X-T4 ES, which turns trees a soft pink. It’s not for “normal” cameras; you must have a full spectrum X-Trans IV or X-Trans V model, which requires an expensive and invasive procedure from a third-party vendor like LifePixel, Kolari Vision, or Spenser’s Camera. Otherwise, the Fujifilm X-T4 ES (“Extended Spectrum”) is a full spectrum camera (is sensitive to light outside the visible gamut) briefly offered by Fujifilm to the general public. As of this writing, I believe that you can still buy the Fujifilm X-T4 ES from B&H, but it requires a phone call or stopping by in person—you can’t order it from the internet.

I’m pretty new to infrared photography, and I’m still learning and experimenting. Larry Adams, a Fuji X Weekly regular, kindly mailed to me a few filters to try out, and one of those—a QB2 blue filter—was used for this Cotton Candy Chrome Recipe. I’m not certain which brand the filter is (it doesn’t say), but here are some that I found online: JTSF, PMP, Nantong, Shanghai Longway, Tangsinuo. This is a fairly uncommon filter and that’s why none of the name brands make it, but it is used by some in the IR world. I have no idea which brand might be best. The other filters I used for this Recipe are Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green filter and Tiffen Yellow 2 #8 filter. I don’t know if the order matters, but I have the Yellow filter closest to the lens, the Yellow-Green filter in the middle, and the QB2 furthest from the lens.

*Union Pacific 1579* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T4 ES – Cotton Candy Chrome Recipe

Since this Cotton Candy Chrome Recipe uses the Classic Negative film simulation, it will render blue slightly deeper on X-Trans V than on the Fujifilm X-T4 ES, which is X-Trans IV. This Recipe works best in sunny daylight conditions, but I also enjoyed it for nighttime situations, where it produces results somewhat similar to the Fluorescent Night Recipe.

Filters: Tiffen Yellow 2 #8, Hoya G(XO) Yellow-Green & QB2 Blue
Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Dynamic Range: DR200
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: Fluorescent 1, -9 Red & +6 Blue
Highlight: -1.5
Shadow: -1.5
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Cotton Candy Chrome Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T4 ES: