Bell Tower – Tumacacori, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Classic Color
This Film Simulation Recipe has a fascinating story behind it… but I can’t get into all of the details of it yet. When the time is right, I will explaining everything to you. What I can say in the meantime is that I was hired to capture some photos, and to use a Film Simulation Recipe for those images, but the Recipe name shouldn’t include a brand name. Ideally for this project, because of the subject matter and light, I would have chosen my Kodak Portra 400 v2 Film Simulation Recipe, but I couldn’t because of the name of the Recipe. Instead, I created a very similar look, with an attempt to fine-tune it slightly for this specific project.
The aesthetic of this Classic Color Film Simulation Recipe is bright and warm, with a Kodak-like color negative film rendering. It could be thought of as Kodak Portra 400 v3, as it has a strong Portra 400 resemblance, perhaps more similar to the old Portra 400 VC that was discontinued in 2010. This Recipe is best for sunny daylight situations, but it can sometimes produce good results in other light scenarios, too.
Birds on the Lake – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Classic Color
This Classic Color Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI, as well as “newer” fourth-generation X-Trans models: X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II. Just make sure that you are using the correct Color Chrome FX Blue setting for your camera. I’m sure it can also be used on newer GFX cameras, too, but I have not personally tried, and I’m certain that it will render slightly different (but try it anyway).
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome Dynamic Range: DR400 Grain Effect: Strong, Small Color Chrome Effect: Strong Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong (X-Trans IV), Weak (X-Trans V) White Balance: 5300K, 0 Red & -6 Blue Highlight: -0.5 Shadow: -2 Color: +3 Sharpness: -2 High ISO NR: -4 Clarity: -2 ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400 Exposure Compensation: 0 to +1 (typically)
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Classic Color Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-E4:
Gen Reflection – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Ten Feet – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Dam Ahead – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Water Under the Bridges – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Tempe Lake – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Reflected Sunset – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Dam Sunset – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Pedestrian Bridge – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Spirited Away – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Studio – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Mirrored Night – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Juggling Fire – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Classic Color Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5 & X100VI:
Sign on the Roof – Gila Bend, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Abandoned Filling Station – Gila Bend, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Unleaded Cash – Gila Bend, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
G S – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Half Moon – Tumacacori, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Cross on a Dome Tumacacori, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Cross & Bell Tumacacori, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Church Steeple – Bisbee, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Old Industrial Lamp – Palo Verde, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Abandoned Window – Arlington, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Dilapidated Agricultural Structure – Palo Verde, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Cow & Reflection – Mesa, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Rock Reflected in the River – Mesa, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Stones in the Water – Mesa, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Yellow Flowers on the Rocks – Saguaro National Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Leaning Saguaro in the Desert – Tucson, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Yellow Flowers, White Fence – Tumacacori, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Hall’s – Arlington, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
End of the Road? – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Music Box – Bisbee, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Lightning Strike – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Comparison:
Classic Color Film Simulation Recipe
Kodak Portra 400 v2 Film Simulation Recipe
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CineStill 800T is a motion picture color negative film with the Remjet layer removed so that it can be developed in standard C41 chemistry. It’s actually repackaged Kodak Vision3 500T, which requires the ECN-2 development process. The “T” in the name means that it’s Tungsten-balanced, and is intended for use in artificial light; in daylight, it has a strong blue cast (unless you pair it with a color correction filter, such as Type 85), so most people use it at night. Because the Remjet layer has been removed, it’s prone to a blooming effect around bright light sources, such as streetlights.
It’s really difficult to accurately replicate a CineStill 800T aesthetic because there’s only so much that can be done to approximate certain aspects of it on Fujifilm cameras. As with any film, it can produce a lot of different looks depending on a host of factors, including how shot, developed, and scanned and/or printed. I feel that this Recipe does a pretty good job considering those factors, but I’ll be the first to admit that it’s not perfect. This isn’t a new Film Simulation Recipe, but a slight modification of the X-Trans IV CineStill 800T Recipe for use on X-Trans V models. The only change is that Color Chrome FX Blue has been adjusted from Strong to Weak, since X-Trans V renders blue more deeply on certain film simulations.
This CineStill 800T Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which, as of this writing, are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI. I’m sure that it can also be used on newer GFX models, but I’ve not personally done so, and most likely it will render slightly different (try it anyway). This Recipe is a great option for after-dark photography, and it can sometimes produce interesting results in daylight situations, too.
Film Simulation: Eterna Dynamic Range: DR400 Grain Effect: Strong, Large Color Chrome Effect: Strong Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak White Balance: Fluorescent 3, -6 Red & -4 Blue Highlight: 0 Shadow: +2 Color: +4 Sharpness: -3 High ISO NR: -4 Clarity: -5 ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400 Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +2/3 (typically)
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this CineStill 800T Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5 & X100VI:
Nightwalker – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
GMC Van – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Street Lamp & Trees – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Corner Lamp – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Red Pill – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Lamplit Passage – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Arches in the Dark – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Red Means Stop – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Neighborhood Streetlamp – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Blue Water – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Lit Clocktower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Misty Sidewalk – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
VW Bug – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
City Bug – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunrise Night – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
White Building, Dark Night – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Mainstreet – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Hall Bench – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
Shadow – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI – Photo by Joy Roesch
Bricks & Powerlines – Bisbee, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Twisted Flag – Bisbee, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Unexpected Prayer Flags – Bisbee, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Lake Grass – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100VI
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Nature of Architecture – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2 – Provia Slide
This Provia Slide Film Simulation Recipe doesn’t necessarily do a great job of replicating real Fujichrome Provia 100F or 400X color transparency film. I did find some examples that weren’t far off at all, but I believe it was more in how they were scanned and edited than anything else. One film can have many different looks based on a whole host of factors, and there is a by-chance resemblance to some Provia 100F pictures, but this Recipe is not a good facsimile for most Provia transparencies. I wasn’t attempting to replicate Provia film, so the similarities that do exist are merely a happy accident. I do believe it has an analog-like slide film aesthetic, even if it’s only a moderately good match for Provia 100F.
More simply, I was going for a Recipe that’s vibrant, based on the Provia film simulation, and uses the Fluorescent 3 White Balance. I chose Provia because I’d like to have more Recipes that are based on the Provia film simulation. I decided on the Fluorescent 3 White Balance because X-Trans III cameras cannot save a White Balance Shift within the C1-C7 Custom Presets, but they will remember one WB Shift per WB type; if each C1-C7 Recipe has a different WB type, then you don’t have to remember to adjust the WB Shift when changing to a different C1-C7 preset. Since there is only one Recipe that uses Fluorescent 3 for X-Trans III (and two for the X-T3/X-T30), I thought it would be good to have another option.
This Provia Slide Recipe is compatible with all X-Trans III cameras: Fujifilm X-Pro2, X100F, X-E3, X-T2, X-T20, and X-H1, as well as the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30 (simply set Color Chrome Effect to Off). I’m sure it can also be used on the GFX 50R and GFX 50S, although it will likely render slightly different.
Film Simulation: Provia/STD Dynamic Range: DR200 Grain Effect: Weak White Balance: Fluorescent 3, -1 Red & -8 Blue Highlight: -1 Shadow: +1 Color: +3 Sharpness: -1 Noise Reduction: -4 ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400 Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Provia Slide Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm X-Pro2:
Patio Pot – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Dying Plant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Spring Wildflowers & Dead Wood – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Suburban Bougainvillea Blossoms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Closed Sidewalk – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Green Leaves & Rose Blossom – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Backlit Tree Leaves Abstract – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Bright Green Leaves – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Potted Green – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Peace & Happiness – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
Water Fountain Rainbow – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-pro2
Vines in the Arches – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-Pro2
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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.
Bougainvillea Day – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1 – “Reminiscent Print”
This Film Simulation Recipe came about as an experiment after reading that film photographers weren’t meant to like the Provia film simulation because they’d find it to be too hard. So, I thought, maybe that’s true, and perhaps I can make it less hard, and more like something that film photographers might find to be “just right” (as Fujifilm put it). It took some trial-and-error, but I do believe that I have succeeded! This is a much, much better “standard” setting than default Provia, and, if you have a background in film photography, you’ll appreciate this recipe.
I find this new recipe to be reminiscent of cheap color negative film shot in point-‘n’-shoot cameras and printed at a one-hour lab, probably on Fujicolor Crystal Archive paper. It’s not intended to resemble that, but to me it does. I’m reminded of the 4″ x 6″ prints from 20+ years ago that are sitting in a box in the closet, or are carefully arranged in a photo album at my parent’s house. That’s why I call it Reminiscent Print.
Classic Car Denim – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1 – “Reminiscent Print”
This Reminiscent Print Film Simulation Recipe is compatible the Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1, and X-M1 cameras. Those with X-Trans II and Bayer cameras can also use it, although the results will be just a little different. This was a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early Access Recipe, but now it’s available to everyone.
Provia Dynamic Range: DR400 Highlight: -2 (Low) Shadow: -2 (Low) Color: +1 (Medium-High) Sharpness: -1 (Medium-Soft) Noise Reduction: -2 (Low) White Balance: Auto, -4 Red & -1 Blue ISO: Auto, up to ISO 3200 Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +2/3 (typically)
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Reminiscent Print Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-M1:
Pier Post – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1– Photo by Jonathan Roesch
Light & Water – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch
Fine Morning for Fishing – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch
Line in the Lake – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch
Pier Reflections – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch
Better Days Behind – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Church Bells – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Unlit Canopy – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Red Bougainvillea Blossoms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Backyard Bougainvillea – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Autumn Orange – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Oranges – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Bucket Blossom – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Pink Rose Bud – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Peace & Minecraft – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
Ball Toss – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
All the World’s a Stage – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-M1
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 Classic Negative film simulation is closely modeled after Fujifilm’s Superia line of films. I’m not sure why they didn’t use the Superia brand name for the film sim, because that’s what it resembles. If you want a Superia look—or, really, any Fujicolor film that has their 4th-layer technology—your best bet is to use Classic Negative as the base. It was introduced on the X-Pro3, so cameras that are older don’t have this film simulation.
Reflection of a Broken Door – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Fujicolor 100 Gold
Classic Negative is one of my absolute favorite film simulations, and, as far as I can tell, it is the second most popular, trailing only Classic Chrome. I had a really difficult time narrowing down my favorite Classic Negative Recipes, and even though I tripled the number from five to 15 (like I did for Classic Chrome), there were a lot of tough cuts that I would have loved to include in this list. I could have doubled the length of it, and I still would have had some hard decisions. If you like Classic Negative, there are a bunch of excellent options to choose from.
The 15 Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Classic Negative as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 53 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Classic Negative, so you have plenty of choices. But, if you are unsure which Classic Negative Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
A highly versatile Film Simulation Recipe that uses Classic Negative to replicate the aesthetic of the new Reala Ace film sim. Compatible with X-Trans V cameras.
Perfect for a sunny day at the beach, but surprisingly great for many other scenarios, too. This is the X-Trans IV (except X-T3/X-T30) version; click here for X-Trans V.
This is the Classic Negative Recipe that I personally use the most. Highly versatile, and is especially great for artificial light situations. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) cameras; for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
This Recipe, which is great for sunny daylight, is similar to Fujicolor Natura 1600. This is the X-Trans IV (except X-T3/X-T30) version; click here for X-Trans V.
A versatile Recipe that works well anytime of the day or night. Compatible with X-Trans V cameras; click here for X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30).
Another option that’s great for sunny daylight. This Recipe is for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) cameras; for X-Trans V set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.
Like the film, this Recipe can produce a few different looks depending on how much exposure you give it. It’s for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) cameras; for X-Trans V set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.
Another Superia-like Recipe that is best for sunny daylight situations. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) cameras; for X-Trans V set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.
This is the only Recipe to make this list modeled after an Agfa film stock. Thanks to its slightly cool cast, it’s surprisingly versatile. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) cameras; for X-Trans V set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak.
This is an unusual option that does really well in the right circumstances. 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. 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.
iF just awarded Fujifilm with a Design Award for their Film Simulation experience. For those who don’t know, iF (Industrie Forum) is a German institution that hands out awards each year for design innovations. It began in 1954 at the Hannover Fair, where 41 iF jurors gave awards to products that were being demonstrated on-site, and has since grown internationally to a pretty large organization. iF Design Awards are a big deal, but it’s also a pay-to-play system, so there is an element of self-awarding, despite the independent jurors. A company can pat themselves on the back by participating, but it still requires some level of innovation to qualify and achieve an award.
“The Film Simulation featured in Fujifilm’s X Series cameras captures the camera maker’s heritage through its unique ability to reproduce the rich colors and gradations of film with a digital camera,” iF said in their award, “and is widely loved by professional photographers and hobbyists alike. For users seeking to recapture the original experience of shooting on a film camera, and those not familiar with film, Film Simulation takes the photography experience to the next level by providing deeper insight into the film on a digital camera and helping them to create images that match their vision, all while using a digital camera.”
It’s pretty darn exciting that the “Film Simulation Experience” was given a 2024 iF Design Award, and it speaks volumes about just how big it has become. I mean, Fujifilm introduced film simulations 20 years ago, and they’ve been a part of every single X-series camera. It’s nothing new. What is new is how large the community of photographers is that use them. The experience of using film simulations is such a big draw to the Fujifilm system, and much more so in the last couple of years.
Since my 300+ Film Simulation Recipes are such an intrinsic part of the experience of using film simulations, I feel that I’m a part owner of the award (at least in a small way, anyway). Film Simulation Recipes have become quite popular; in fact, just this week, I learned that a couple of well-known, highly-recognizable names in photography are using my Film Simulation Recipes on their Fujifilm cameras. That’s great, but also the number of photographers in-general who are using Recipes has increased by probably 20% in just the last few months. Whether it is someone who is highly accomplished, or someone who is new to photography that just go their first “real” camera, Film Simulation Recipes are “helping them to create images that match their vision” while providing something more similar to the “experience of shooting on a film camera….” It’s an unofficial Fujifilm and Fuji X Weekly partnership.
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.
Stop Time – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Summer of ’59
This Film Simulation Recipe began as an attempt to recreate the aesthetic of some of Saul Leiter’s color photographs from the 1950’s and early-1960’s, particularly images like Paris 1959, Foot on El 1954, Bus 1954, San Carlo Restaurant 1952, Taxi 1957, Near the Tanager 1954, Phone Call 1957, and Pipes 1960—among others—with the greatest emphasis on Paris 1959. While I don’t think it’s possible to faithfully reproduce that look exactly on Fujifilm cameras, this Summer of ’59 Recipe is definitely at times pretty darn close. Also, some of Saul’s other photographs from that same era had a divergent aesthetic, and this Recipe isn’t good for replicating those.
During this time, Saul Leiter was using the first era of Kodachrome film. Something interesting that I learned while researching this is that Saul preferred shooting Kodachrome that was past the expiration date. He liked the way the film looked when expired, and especially the serendipity of not knowing what the precise aesthetic was going to be. An alternative name for this Film Simulation Recipe could be Expired Vintage Kodachrome.
Saul Leiter liked reflections, shooting through glass, and using layers. He kept his eyes out for catchy colors. He wasn’t afraid of shadows. His favorite lenses were telephoto, particularly 90mm and 150mm. If you are really trying to replicate his look, those are things you’ll want to consider. Vintage lenses might help, too.
Mint Chocolate Shake – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Summer of ’59
This Summer of ’59 Film Simulation Recipe 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. It is fully compatible with X-Trans V cameras, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI.
One consideration is White Balance Shift: I wen’t back-and-forth on both Red and Blue, and I think +5 Red could alternatively be used, and/or -7 Blue could be alternatively used. All of the sample pictures in this article are with the WB Shift as published, and not the divergent options mentioned above.
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Summer of ’59 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:
Hanging Glass – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Falling Water in a Fountain – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Lion Water – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Pet Waste Station – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Red & White Blooms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bougainville & Palm Tree Trunk – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Summertime Feelings – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Founder’s Day Weekend – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Blue Flags – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Power Lines – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
An Arizona Home – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Corner – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Yellow Car – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bougainvillea Along a Sidewalk – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Jogger – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
CVS Pharmacy Sign – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Next Time – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunlit Lamp – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Fake House Plant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bedroom Plant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
1000 Record Covers – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Fountain Pot – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Jo in the Backyard – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bench End – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Twin Seats – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Fashion – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Outdoor Potted Plant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Desert Cactus Landscape – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
The Boys – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Red Hots – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Protection – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Pick Up – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
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This Old House is now a Business – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Kodak Royal Gold 400
This Film Simulation Recipe began as an attempt to achieve a “memory color” aesthetic of photographic prints from the 1990’s and early 2000’s; when creating this recipe I wasn’t concerned about the specific films or processes. After shooting with this recipe and reviewing the results, I was reminded of Kodak Royal Gold 400 film… sometimes. Of course, one film can produce many different aesthetics, depending on (among other things) how it was shot, developed, scanned and/or printed. Royal Gold 400 didn’t always or even usually look like this, but sometimes it did, and I found some examples in a photo-box and online that were quite similar—I’m not sure why, but my suspicion is that the film was mishandled, either from being stored improperly (possibly exposed to too much heat), waiting too long to develop after exposing, or maybe even improper storage. Film can be finicky, but that serendipity is something that makes it special.
Royal Gold 400 was introduced by Kodak in 1994 as a replacement to the original Kodak Ektar 400 film. The Royal Gold line, which also came in ISO 100 and 200 versions, was marketed as a “step up” from Kodak Gold, with finer grain and more vibrant colors. It was more-or-less an updated Ektar emulsion that was renamed for marketing reasons (Gold sold a lot more than Ektar). In the early 2000’s Royal Gold was replaced by the High Definition/Royal Supra line. This Kodak Royal Gold 400 Film Simulation Recipe is a “happy accident” facsimile of one possible aesthetics from the film.
Bougainvillea Among Trumpets – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – “Kodak Royal Gold 400”
This Kodak Royal Gold 400 Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with Fujifilm X-Trans IV cameras, specifically the X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II (but not the X-T3 and X-T30), as well as fifth-generation X-Trans camera, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI (just follow the Color Chrome FX Blue adjustment). This was a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe, and has been available to App Patrons for awhile; however, it’s been replaced by a different Early-Access Recipe, so now everyone can use it.
Film Simulation: Classic Negative Dynamic Range: DR400 Grain Effect: Strong, Small Color Chrome Effect: Strong Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong (X-Trans IV), Weak (X-Trans V) White Balance: Shade, +3 Red & +5 Blue Highlight:-1 Shadow: +1 Color: +4 Sharpness: -1 High ISO NR: -4 Clarity: -3 ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400 Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)
Example photographs captured using this Kodak Royal Gold 400 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X100V and Fujifilm X-T5:
Mending Blue – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Quality Auto Service – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
A-Town Garage – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Clubhouse – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
A Little Red – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
4 Sale – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Shapes – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Cactus Liquor – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Sideways Saguaro Stop – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Library – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Lock & Safe – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Going to the Dentist – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Sidewalk Bicyclist – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Red Car & Wine Bar – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Americana Icon – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Avon – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
N Recep – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Park Hoop – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Outfield – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Bougainvillea Among Trumpets 2 – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Butterfly Cage – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Pink Bloom in the Garden – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Sunlit Table Corner – Avondale, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Orange Soda Cup – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Lion Hair – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Promenade Palm – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Modern Bench – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Urban Plant – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Smiling for the Camera – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Pavilion View – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Potted Flowers at the Park – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
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.
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 Provia film simulation (a.k.a. Provia/Std) is named after the Provia line of slide films by Fujifilm; however, it was not intended to closely mimic the emulsion. The Astia film simulation is actually a little closer approximation of Provia film, but it is not an especially close match, either. When Fujifilm designed the Provia film simulation, they intended to make a color profile that “looks beautiful” to those who come from a digital-photography background, and in doing so they discovered that those who have a film-photography background don’t tend to like it as much (I learned photography on film, so you can probably tell already which way I lean). In other words, if you want a close replication of Provia slide film, default Provia/Std will leave you disappointed.
Follow the Bird to Salt Lake – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-H1 – Cross Process Recipe
While the Provia film simulation can indeed “look beautiful” (as Fujifilm put it), it’s not my personal favorite. I would describe it as being true-to-life with just a hint of contrastiness and vibrancy. It’s kind of a middle-of-the-road option that can be used for anything; a Jack of all trades, but a master of none. I don’t find it to be especially analog-like, if you are hoping for a film look. That doesn’t mean it should be avoided, because it is possible to get good results from Provia—it can even be used to replicate some emulsions and analog processes—it’s just not my personal first choice. Or second choice. Or third. You get the idea. Still, there are some pretty good Film Simulation Recipes that use Provia as the base, and I definitely do enjoy using this film simulation from time-to-time.
The five Film Simulation Recipes below are my favorites that use Provia as the base. Everyone has different tastes, so you might like other ones more. I count 26 Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App that use Provia, so there are many to choose from. But, if you are unsure which Provia Recipe to try, let me suggest picking one from my list below.
Intended the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30, plus X-Trans III cameras; set Grain size to Small, Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, and Clarity to 0 for use on newer X-Trans IV models and X-Trans V. Great for sunny daylight and especially sunset photography.
This Recipe is for the GFX 50R and GFX 50S. It’s compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30, but will render slightly different; for newer X-Trans IV and X-Trans V, set Grain size to Small, Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, and Clarity to 0.
A vibrant and warm Recipe with some similarities to a couple of Kodak emulsions. 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 (February 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. 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.
Motor Hotel – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Portra 800 v3
For the month of February, however, I was quite surprised by many of the rankings. Reala Ace topped the list, which is the first time in a very long time that Kodachrome 64 wasn’t number one. It’s also the first time that I’ve ever seen a Recipe that uses Classic Negative reach the very top, or one specifically for X-Trans V cameras. Kodak Portra 800 v3, Agfa Ultra 100 v2, and Fujicolor Superia 1600 (for X-Trans V) were all published last month; Vintage Eterna was a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe that became available to everyone in February. The remaining Recipes were not surprising, but their rankings moved around compared to January; several moved out of the Top 25 altogether.
Without any further delay, below are the most popular Recipes of last month!
Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes of February 2024
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 #10 last month.
A Classic Chrome based Recipe that is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. This is almost always the most popular X-Trans III Recipe, and has been around for a very long time. It was ranked #7 last month.
Pacific Blues was the highest-ranked Classic Negative based Recipe in 2023. It’s compatible with X-Trans IV models (there is an X-Trans V version). Last month it ranked #9.
Another Classic Chrome based Recipe for use on X-Trans III models, plus the X-T3/X-T30 (there’s a new version for X-Trans V). Last month is was ranked #11.
Vintage Eterna is based on the Eterna film simulation, and is compatible with X-Trans IV and V models, plus the X-H1. This is its first appearance on the list.
This used to commonly be in the Top 10, but it has been slipping in popularity lately. It’s based on Classic Chrome, and is compatible with X-Trans III models (there’s an X-Trans IV version). It was ranked #16 last month.
A newly published Recipe for X-Trans V cameras (there is a version for X-Trans IV that’s been around awhile), Fujicolor Superia 1600 is based on the Classic Negative film simulation.
Lantana Blooms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Fujicolor Natura 1600
Fujifilm produced Fujicolor Natura 1600, a high-ISO color negative film, from 2003 through 2017. It was only sold in Japan, but it became renown worldwide as word got out about this wonderful emulsion. A lot of speculation has surrounded it. Is it simply renamed Fujicolor Superia 1600? Many people think so. Is it slightly modified Superia 1600 for Japanese skin-tones? Some people think so. Is it slightly modified Superia 1600 made specifically for the Fujifilm Natura camera? Perhaps so. I haven’t found any definitive evidence to conclude if Natura 1600 is unmodified Supera 1600 or a slightly modified variant of it; if it isn’t identical, it’s very similar.
I have a Fujicolor Superia 1600 Film Simulation Recipe already, and it’s a Recipe that I personally quite like. One film can have many different aesthetics, depending on a whole host of factors, including (but not limited to) how it was shot, developed, and scanned. In a sense, you could consider this a v2 of the Fujicolor Superia 1600 Recipe; however, it was modeled after examples of Fujicolor Natura 1600 scans that I found online (and not Superia). This Fujiclor Natura 1600 Recipe isn’t new, but simply a modification of the X-Trans IV version for use on X-Trans V cameras. Because X-Trans V renders blue more deeply on some film simulations, a slight change was needed to Color Chrome FX Blue, but otherwise the two versions are identical.
Fiat – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Fujicolor Natura 1600
Film Simulation: Classic Negative Dynamic Range: DR400 Grain Effect: Strong, Large Color Chrome Effect: Strong Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak White Balance: 5500K, -1 Red & -2 Blue Highlight:-1.5 Shadow: +1.5 Color: -2 Sharpness: -2 High ISO NR: -4 Clarity: -4 ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400 Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +1 (typically)
Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Fujicolor Natura 1600 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:
Newly Sprouted Bougainvillea Branch – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bougainvillea in the Neighborhood – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
A Frame, Dormant Tree – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bougainvillea by Twin Windows – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Americana Suburbia – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Suburban Spanish Architecture – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunset over Suburban Home – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Apartments behind Pond – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Tree Reflections – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Reflection Abstract – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunset Light on Jonathan – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Parking Garage at Dusk – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Parking Garage at Night – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Library Shelves – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Don’t Look – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Dying Blossoms – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Pallets & Blocks – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Caution Light – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Car Light – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Rover Mini Headlamps – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
So you purchased a Fujifilm X100VI, but you’re not sure which Film Simulation Recipes to program into your camera’s C1-C7 Custom Presets first. Well, let me help with that! I’ve got just the seven Recipes for you to try. If you have any other X-Trans V camera, this set will work for you, too.
Like film, many Film Simulation Recipes have specific use cases where they work best. The majority are intended for sunny daylight situations; however, they can sometimes work really well in other scenarios, too. For example, I’ve gotten great results pairing Kodak Portra 800 v3 with flash for indoor photography, even though it was intended for sunshine. This set is meant to provide you with at least one Recipe that will work great in nearly any light situation and with almost every imaginable subject.
It’s important to note that everyone has different tastes and preferences. Your style might be different than mine. If you don’t like one or more of these seven Film Simulation Recipes, no problem. Simply try the suggested alternatives until you do. Perhaps you won’t like Kodachrome 64, but you’ll love Kodak Gold 200. Or maybe you’ll love both Reala Ace and Timeless Negative. The only way to know for sure is to give them a try! You can pick any from the X-Trans V list, and I’m always making more.
Find these Film Simulation Recipes and many more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.
