Kentmere Pan 400 — Fujifilm X100V (X-Trans IV & V) Film Simulation Recipe

Cash for your Scrap – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Kentmere Pan 400 – Photo by Jon Roesch

Even though Kentmere Pan 400 is a fairly new film, the history of it is a bit grey (pun intended). Harman Technologies is the parent company of both Ilford and Kentmere; prior to the Harman purchase, Kentmere did not produce any photographic films (they did make photo paper), so it would seem that Kentmere 400, which was introduced in 2009, is essentially an Ilford emulsion. Sometime a few years ago “Pan” was added to the name, although it is unclear if the emulsion was modified, or if it stayed the same and the name change was only marketing.

Kentmere Pan 400 is a low-budget black-and-white negative film marketed towards photography students. Harman has stated that Kentmere Pan 400 is similar to Ilford HP5 Plus 400, and the reason that they can sell it for cheaper is that it contains less silver. For this reason some people have speculated that it is simply HP5 Plus with less silver; however, Ilford also makes a Pan 400 film, and so some others have speculated that Kentmere Pan 400 is actually Ilford Pan 400 with less silver. Oh, and then there’s AgfaPhoto APX 400 (2013 and onward, anyway), which apparently is the same emulsion as Kentmere Pan 400, and possibly even Rollei RPX 400. It’s hard to know exactly what the truth is, other than Kentmere Pan 400 is a cheap B&W film made by Ilford, who has produced many excellent B&W films for a long time.

This Film Simulation Recipe was developed by Dan Allen. He shot a few rolls of Kentmere Pan 400 film, and during that time also shot a bunch of frames side-by-side with his Fujifilm X-Pro3. Using X RAW Studio, he fiddled with the Fujifilm files until they closely matched the Kentmere scans. One film can produce many different looks—depending on a host of factors, including how shot, developed, and printed and/or scanned—and even within this experiment, Dan discovered that there were some variances; these settings aim at the middle ground of those results. For many pictures, this Recipe is strikingly similar to the film, and you can tell that he put a lot of work and care into creating it. Thank you, Dan!

Lockers – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Kentmere Pan 400

This Kentmere Pan 400 Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all X-Trans IV cameras—except the X-T3 and X-T30—and all X-Trans V cameras: the Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, X-T30 II, X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI (as of this writing). I’m sure you can also use it on newer GFX models, although it might render very slightly different (try it anyway). Because Kentmere Pan 400 film is intended for student photographers, I had my 14-year-old son, Jonathan, use this Recipe—half of the pictures in this article are his.

Film Simulation: Acros+G
Monochromatic Color (Toning): Off (WC 0 & MG 0)
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: Auto, +7 Red & +6 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR-Auto
Highlight: +1
Shadow: +1
Sharpness: +3

High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: +1
ISO: up to ISO 12800
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Kentmere Pan 400 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X100V:

Rentals – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Street Lamp – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Power Pole & Street Light – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Slug Bug – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Crushed Monster – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Back Alley – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Dark Parking Garage – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
I C – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Roadrunner – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Table & Chair – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
FED 5c & Yosemite – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Snowman – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Photo by Jon Roesch
Nicolas in a Window – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
White Flower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Courtyard – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Education Building – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Twin Palms & Building Corner – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Two Palms, One Shadow – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

See also: How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

My 5 Favorite Film Simulation Recipes that use PRO Neg. Hi

Wet Glass Bokeh – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T30 – Jeff Davenport Night

Provia — Velvia — Astia — Classic Chrome — PRO Neg. Std — Classic Negative — Nostalgic Neg. — Eterna — Eterna Bleach Bypass — Acros

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.

#1:

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).

#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.

#3:

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.

#4:

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.

#5:

This is probably one of my Top 5 favorite X-Trans II Film Simulation Recipes. Great for sunny daylight photography.

See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
Why Film Simulation Recipes are BETTER than default Film Simulations
Why Shooting JPEGs Is So Popular

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

My 15 Favorite Film Simulation Recipes that use Classic Chrome

Sunset Photography – Laguna Beach, CA – Fujifilm X100V – Kodak Portra 400 v2

Provia — Velvia — Astia — PRO Neg. Hi — PRO Neg. Std — Classic Negative — Nostalgic Neg. — Eterna — Eterna Bleach Bypass — Acros

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.

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

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.

#1:

Great for sunny daylight and especially golden hour photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30); for X-Trans V cameras use this one, and for the X-T3 and X-T30 use this one.

#2:

Kodachrome 64, which mimics the unmistakable colors of the iconic slide film, is perfect for sunny daylight photography. This is the X-Trans V version; for X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) click here, for the X-T3 and X-T30 click here, and for X-Trans II click here.

#3:

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.

#4:

A versatile Film Simulation Recipe that is great for most situations and subjects. This is for X-Trans V; for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) click here, and for X-Trans III, plus the X-T3 and X-T30, click here.

#5:

A facsimile of a Kodak Portra 160 aesthetic, this Recipe is a solid choice for sunny daylight photography. It’s for X-Trans V cameras, but to use it on X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30), simply set Color Chrome FX Blue to Strong. Click here for a version of Kodak Portra 160 for X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30), for X-Trans III, plus the X-T3 and X-T30, click here, and for X-Trans II click here.

#6:

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.

#7:

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.

#8:

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.

#9:

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.

#10:

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.

#11:

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.

#12:

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.

#13:

Vibrant and warm and great for sunny daylight photography. Compatible with X-Trans IV; for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off.

#14:

My favorite X-Trans II Recipe. It’s quite versatile, but is exceptional in sunny conditions.

#15:

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.

See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
Why Film Simulation Recipes are BETTER than default Film Simulations
Why Shooting JPEGs Is So Popular

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

iF gives Design Award to Fujifilm for Film Simulation Experience

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.

McCanyon – Williams, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 & TTArtisan 27mm – Kodachrome 64

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.

If you are new to Film Simulation Recipes, I recommend starting with these articles:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
Answers to the 10 Most Common Fujifilm How-To Questions
7 Tips To Get The Film Look From Your Digital Photos
The Essential 7 Film Simulation Recipes to Program Into Your Fujifilm Camera First

Which Film Simulation Recipe, When?
Try These 3 Film Simulation Recipes, No Matter Your Fujifilm Camera

My 5 Favorite Film Simulation Recipes that use Astia

Peach City Drive-In – Brigham City, UT – Fujifilm X100F – Kodak Ektar 100

Provia — Velvia — Classic Chrome — PRO Neg. Hi — PRO Neg. Std — Classic Negative — Nostalgic Neg. — Eterna — Eterna Bleach Bypass — Acros

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.

#1:

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.

#2:

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.

#3:

A versatile Recipe that can be used for most any situation and subject. Compatible with X-Trans III cameras, plus the X-T3 and X-T30.

#4:

A lovely Recipe for sunny daylight photography. Compatible with X-Trans II cameras.

#5:

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.

See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
Why Film Simulation Recipes are BETTER than default Film Simulations
Why Shooting JPEGs Is So Popular

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

Summer of ’59 — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) FXW App Patron Early-Access Recipe

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

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Kodak Royal Gold 400 — Fujifilm X-Trans IV & X-Trans V Film Simulation Recipe

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
Fast Car – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Dodge Vannin’ – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Six Palms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Stop All Way – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

See also: How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

My 5 Favorite Film Simulation Recipes that use Velvia

Engine 237 – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Ektachrome E100VS v2 Recipe

Provia — Astia — Classic Chrome — PRO Neg. Hi — PRO Neg. Std — Classic Negative — Nostalgic Neg. — Eterna — Eterna Bleach Bypass — Acros

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.

#1:

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.

#2:

Very similar to The Rockwell, except slightly less punchy. Compatible with X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.

#3:

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.

#4:

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.

#5:

This Recipe is probably the closest to actual Velvia film. Compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30 cameras, plus can be used on the GFX 50R and GFX 50S.

See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
Why Film Simulation Recipes are BETTER than default Film Simulations
Why Shooting JPEGs Is So Popular

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

My 5 Favorite Film Simulation Recipes that use Provia

Barn in the Field – Prefumo Canyon, CA – Fujifilm X-E4 – Provia 400 Recipe

Velvia — Astia — Classic Chrome — PRO Neg. Hi — PRO Neg. Std — Classic Negative — Nostalgic Neg. — Eterna — Eterna Bleach Bypass — Acros

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.

#1:

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.

#2:

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.

#3:

Mimics the look of slide film developed in C41 chemistry, this Recipe is for X-Trans III cameras. It’s a lot of fun when used occasionally.

#4:

A better look than default Provia, compatible with X-Trans IV (except the X-T3/X-T30) and X-Trans V cameras.

#5:

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.

See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
Why Film Simulation Recipes are BETTER than default Film Simulations
Why Shooting JPEGs Is So Popular

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

Top 25 Most Popular Film Simulation Recipes in February 2024

Window Plant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Agfa Ultra 100 v2

I get asked fairly regularly which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular. For me, this is a fascinating topic, but it’s definitely hard to know definitively. While I get a glimpse on social media, my best gauge is the Fuji X Weekly website statistics; specifically, which Recipe articles are viewed the most. I don’t collect any data on the Fuji X Weekly App, so that’s no help—although, if I did, it would likely offer the most accurate picture; however, it would still be impossible to know which Recipes people programmed into their Fujifilm cameras, or how often they used each. Perhaps a survey would be particularly useful, yet even it has its limitations. While certainly a flawed method, page-view website statics offer the best glimpse at which Film Simulation Recipes are the most popular, so that’s what I’m using for this article. These are simply the Top 25 most-viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website last month (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

#1:

Reala Ace is a Classic Negative based Recipe for X-Trans V cameras. It was ranked #8 last month.

#2:

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is almost always number one in these lists.

#3:

A Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras that is almost always number two in these lists.

#4:

Another Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras. It was published in January, and was ranked #3 last month.

#5:

Again, a Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras. It was ranked #4 last month.

#6:

A recently published Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V cameras.

#7:

Another Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV cameras. This was often ranked at #3 for a very long time, and was #5 last month.

#8:

Again, a Classic Chrome based Recipe for X-Trans IV and X-Trans V models. Was ranked #6 last month.

#9:

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.

#10:

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.

#11:

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.

#12:

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodachrome 64. It was ranked #24 last month.

#13:

This is the X-Trans V version of Kodak Portra 400 v2. It was ranked #18 last month.

#14:

The original Kodak Portra 400 Recipe, compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It was ranked #12 last month.

#15:

This was the very first Film Simulation Recipe on Fuji X Weekly, and is compatible with X-Trans III cameras. It was ranked #14 last month.

#16:

Another Classic Chrome based Recipe, Kodak Portra 160 is compatible with X-Trans IV cameras. Last month is ranked #13.

#17:

A newly published Recipe for X-Trans V models that is based on the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation.

#18:

The original CineStill 800T Recipe, intended for X-Trans III cameras. It is based on the PRO Neg. Std film simulation, and was ranked #15 last month.

#19:

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.

#20:

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.

#21:

A Classic Negative based Recipe that’s compatible with X-Trans V cameras (there’s also an X-Trans IV version). It was ranked #25 last month.

#22:

Yet another Classic Chrome based Recipe, compatible with X-Trans IV cameras (there’s an X-Trans V version). It was ranked #19 last month.

#23:

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.

#24:

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.

#25:

Lastly, there’s Kodak Max 800, another Classic Negative based Recipe that’s compatible with X-Trans IV cameras. It was ranked #20 last month.

See also:
How To Add Film Simulation Recipes To Your Fujifilm Camera
The Essential 7 Film Simulation Recipes to Program Into Your Fujifilm Camera First

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

Fujicolor Natura 1600 — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) Film Simulation Recipe

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

This Fujicolor Natura 1600 Film Simulation Recipe is intended for fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which (as of this writing) are the Fujifilm X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI. For X-Trans IV, use the X-Trans IV version (click here). For newer GFX cameras, you can use this Recipe, but know that it will render slightly different (try it anyway). Click here if you’re not sure how to program a Film Simulation Recipe into your Fujifilm camera.

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
Mini Wheel – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Car Rider – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

Comparison:

Fujicolor Natura 1600 Film Simulation Recipe

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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver:  Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

The first 7 Film Simulation Recipes to use in your Fujifilm X100VI

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.

Don’t know how to program Film Simulation Recipes into your camera? Click here to find out how.

Now, to the first seven Film Simulation Recipes to program into your Fujifilm X100VI (or any X-Trans V camera) first!

C1 — Kodachrome 64

Classic Kodak slide film aesthetic that’s great for sunny daylight situations. Alternatively, consider Kodachrome 25, Kodak Gold 200, or Kodak Negative.

C2 — Kodak Portra 400 v2

This is the Recipe for a Kodak color negative film look, and it’s perfect for golden hour photography. Alternatively, consider Kodak Portra 160 v2, Kodak Vision3 250D v2, or Agfa Ultra 100 v2.

C3 — Kodak Portra 800 v3

With warm summer-like analog colors, this Recipe is great for sunny daytime situations. Alternatively, consider Vibrant Arizona, 1970’s Summer, or Kodak Vericolor Warm.

C4 — Pacific Blues

The perfect Recipe for a sunny day at the beach, yet surprisingly great for other situations, too. Alternatively, consider Fujicolor Superia 100, Thommy’s Ektachrome, or CineStill 400D v1.

C5 — Reala Ace

Great for versatility, use this Recipe anytime of the day or night. Alternatively, consider Kodak Ultramax 400, 1976 Kodak, or Timeless Negative.

C6 — Fluorescent Night

Use this Recipe for after-dark photography. Alternatively, consider Pushed CineStill 800T, Fujicolor Super HG v2, or Superia Xtra 400.

C7 — Kodak Tri-X 400

Classic B&W aesthetic with strong grain and good contrast. Alternatively, consider Ilford FP4 Plus 125, Kodak T-Max P3200, or Ilford HP5 Plus 400.

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.

How to Program Film Simulation Recipes to your Fujifilm Camera

My Film Simulation Recipes are popular, but programming them into your Fujifilm camera can be confusing for those trying to use them for the first time. A little over three years ago I published an article explaining how, but I think, with the new X100VI coming out, it would be worthwhile to try again, and perhaps offer a little more clarity. If you are new to Film Simulation Recipes, then this article is for you!

To start with, there are some variances between models. It’s important to read your camera’s manual, which thankfully Fujifilm makes easy: click here to find your owner’s manual online. For most cameras, within the manual, navigate to the Shooting Menus set, select Image Quality Setting (Still Photography), and finally Edit/Save Custom Setting. For example, click here to view this for the X-T5. Also, I’ve included a screenshot of this section from the X100V manual below. Everything you need to know for your specific camera is found in your manual, so that’s why it’s important to review it first.

There’s an easy shortcut for navigating to the Edit/Save Custom Settings Menu. Simply press the Q-Button, which brings up the Quick Menu, then press-and-hold the Q-Button, which activates the Edit/Save Custom Settings Menu. This shortcut works on most Fujifilm cameras. A shortcut to edit the Quick Menu is to press-and-hold the Q-Button from outside of the Quick Menu.

A Film Simulation Recipe is simply a set of JPEG parameters that produce a certain look straight-out-of-camera, mostly inspired by film stocks. Each Recipe contains a specific set of settings that must be programmed into your camera, either in the Edit/Save Custom Settings Menu or the IQ Menu. The newer the camera, the more options and parameters there are to program.

Duck Pond – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – 1970’s Summer Recipe

On the latest cameras, a Film Simulation Recipe contains: Film Simulation, Dynamic Range, Grain Effect, Color Chrome Effect, Color Chrome FX Blue, White Balance and WB Shift, Highlight, Shadow, Color, Sharpness, Noise Reduction, Clarity, ISO, and Exposure Compensation. All of those settings together make up a Recipe. The older the camera, the fewer parameters there are, and might only include: Film Simulation, Dynamic Range, White Balance and WB Shift, Highlight, Shadow, Color, Sharpness, Noise Reduction, ISO, and Exposure Compensation. On the newer models, Noise Reduction was renamed High ISO NR (it is the same thing) and Highlight and Shadow were combined into Tone Curve.

One parameter that cannot be saved is “Typical Exposure Compensation.” On most Fujifilm cameras, there is an Exposure Compensation knob on the top of the camera, which is where this is adjusted (unless you are in Manual Mode, in which case you’ll have to do it manually). An important note is that the suggested Exposure Compensation in each Recipe is only meant to be a starting point, and not a rule; each exposure should be judged individually. Also, most often I use Auto-ISO, but it is certainly alright to manually set the ISO. You might prefer different ISO parameters than what I like, and that is perfectly fine. It’s always ok to “season to taste” any Recipe to make it work better for you.

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

Most Fujifilm cameras have seven Custom Settings (sometimes called Custom Presets), that are often referred to as C1-C7. The X-S10 and X-S20 have only four (C1-C4), and I believe there are some GFX cameras with six (C1-C6). Edit/Save Custom Settings is where you’ll program Film Simulation Recipes into your camera; however, some older Fujifilm models don’t have Custom Settings. In that case, you’ll program the desired Recipe parameters into the IQ Menu subset. Also, the newest Fujifilm models will allow you to program a Recipe into the IQ Menu subset in addition to the Custom Settings presets (basically, a bonus Recipe).

An important side note is that the Fujifilm X-T3 and X-T30 (however, not the X-T30 II), along with all of the cameras that came before it—X-Trans I, X-Trans II, X-Trans III, and older GFX—cannot save a White Balance Shift within the Custom Settings. Only the newer cameras can: X-Trans IV (except for the X-T3/X-T30), X-Trans V, and newer GFX. For those models that cannot save a WB Shift within the Custom Settings, you’ll have to program it from within the White Balance Menu found within the IQ Menu set. Also, those cameras will only remember one WB Shift per WB type, so choosing Recipes that either share the same WB Shift or use different WB types will make the user experience more enjoyable.

Autumn in a Mountain Meadow – Flagstaff, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Fujicolor Superia 100 Recipe

I don’t have any step-by-step instructions to program a Film Simulation Recipe into your specific camera, because there are variances between some models, and each step can be slightly different. It’s not difficult to program a Film Simulation Recipe, and once you’ve done it a couple of times it becomes quite easy. It’s just getting through the first time or two that can be confusing. Should you find yourself stuck, there are a few videos on YouTube that walk you through the process. If you are a visual learner, you might find these especially helpful to you: How to Save Fujifilm Simulation Recipes by Scott Dawson, Fujifilm Film Simulation Recipes — How to Find & Save Them by Craig Pitts, and What are Fuji Film Simulation Recipes — Getting Started by TB-Photography. Even if you have a different model than what’s in those videos, the process for most cameras is similar enough that you should be able find your way through.

For those with the newest cameras, Custom Settings saves more than just your Recipes, but literally most camera settings, including focus preferences and even sound settings. My best recommendation is to program C1 with everything just as you want it to be, then copy that preset to the other C2-C7 (or C2-C4), so that they’re all exactly the same. Then, you just have to update them with the Film Simulation Recipe parameters for the specific Recipes that you wish to program. I also recommend disabling Auto Update Custom Setting. If your camera doesn’t have those options, then disregard this paragraph.

Arizona Barn – Sedona, Arizona – Fujifilm X-T5 – Vibrant Arizona Recipe

A common question is what about the settings that aren’t in the Film Simulation Recipe? What should those be set to? There are some options that are user-preference, so I don’t provide those as Recipe parameters. Choose whatever works for you. Let me touch on a few of them real quick, though.

I most often choose Image Size Large 3:2. I used to shoot with Image Quality Fine, but now choose Fine+RAW, as the RAW files can be reprocessed in-camera, which makes creating new Film Simulation Recipes much easier. My RAW files are Uncompressed. I choose JPEG over HEIF because Clarity isn’t available with HEIF (by the way, Clarity causes a short storing pause when set to anything other than 0). I don’t like Smooth Skin Effect personally, so I set it to Off. Lens Modulation Optimizer is often set to On, but it can be interesting when set to Off. Color Space is sRGB, as I had a bad experience once many years ago with AdobeRGB and have avoided it ever since. I usually use Multi Mode for metering (Photometry), but sometimes I use Spot.

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

There are over 300 Film Simulation Recipes in the Fuji X Weekly App, which is free (consider becoming an App Patron to unlock the best experience and to support this website), and available for both Android and Apple. Otherwise, find them here:

EXR Recipes
Bayer Recipes
GFX Recipes
X-Trans I Recipes
X-Trans II Recipes
X-Trans III Recipes
X-Trans IV Recipes
X-Trans V Recipes

If you are not sure which Film Simulation Recipes to try first, no problem! I have several articles that might help with this, including:
Which Film Simulation Recipe, When?
The Essential 7 Film Simulation Recipes to Program Into Your Fujifilm Camera First
Try These 3 Film Simulation Recipes, No Matter Your Fujifilm Camera
Helping You Decide Which Film Simulation Recipes to Choose

See also:
Answers to the 10 Most Common Fujifilm How-To Questions
How To Use The New Recipe Transfer Feature

Fujicolor Superia 1600 — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) Film Simulation Recipe

Senna Shrub Blossom – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Fujicolor Superia 1600

Fujifilm introduced Superia 1600 in 2000. It was the highest ISO version of Superia, and was one of the best ultra-high ISO color negative films ever made. There are some reports that both Natura 1600 and Press 1600 were the same emulsion as Superia 1600, but they might be slightly varied; Fujifilm was known for keeping their “best” emulsions in Japan, sometimes tweaking the film to best reproduce Japanese skin tones. Whatever the case, there were plenty of photographers who were disappointed by its discontinuation in 2016.

This is a quick update to the X-Trans IV Fujicolor Superia 1600 Film Simulation Recipe for compatibility for fifth-generation X-Trans cameras. Because X-Trans V cameras render blue more deeply on some film simulations, including Classic Negative, a small tweak to Color Chrome FX Blue is necessary. Aside from that small change, this Recipe is identical to the X-Trans IV version. If you have a fifth-generation X-Trans camera, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI, use this version of Fujicolor Superia 1600.

Desert Sunset 1 – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Fujicolor Superia 1600

Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak
White Balance: Daylight, +3 Red & +1 Blue
Highlight:0
Shadow: +2
Color: -3
Sharpness: -1

High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -4
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400 — for best results: 1600 to 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +1 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Fujicolor Superia 1600 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

Standing Saguaro – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Senna Along Fence – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Vines on Cinderblock Wall – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Window into the Abandoned – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bench & Trashcan – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Jon Roesch
Light on a Tree Trunk – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Jon Roesch
Unlit Light – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Crawling Thru – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
iMaGiNe – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Desert Sunset 2 – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Go – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Palm Trees at Night – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver:  Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

The Connection Between Fuji X Weekly & the New Fujifilm X100VI

Fuji X Weekly is intrinsically connected to the brand-new Fujifilm X100VI.

Let me explain.

This goes back about a year-and-a-half ago, when the Fujifilm X100V famously and suddenly became an instant hit, two-and-a-half years after its release. I later discovered that I played a significant role in that. You see, social media influencers on TikTok and Instagram began using the X100V, and when they shared their pictures, it caused a spike in interest in the camera, which led to an explosion in demand. As it turns out, those social media influencers were using my Film Simulation Recipes, and it was the film-like straight-out-of-camera pictures that ultimately caused the buzz.

Autumn in a Mountain Meadow – Flagstaff, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Fujicolor Superia 100

Last Christmas Eve I pointed out that a number of camera stores mentioned Fuji X Weekly and my Recipes. I concluded that they were doing so because Film Simulation Recipes sell Fujifilm cameras. Many camera retailers recognize this, and so they encourage new and potential customers to check out this website.

Yesterday evening I finally had a chance to view most of the articles and videos about the upcoming Fujifilm X100VI. I caught the X Summit when it was live at 10:30 PM my time, then in the morning did a live broadcast with Fujifilm X-Photographer Nathalie Boucry discussing the event and the new camera. Then I had all sorts of things going on, and finally found some time in the late afternoon to write an article about the new camera. It wasn’t until later that I could finally take a look at what others were saying, particularly those who had early-access to the camera.

A lot of people are surprised that Fujifilm doesn’t send me their new models. This website is one of the most popular for Fujifilm (2.4 million visitors in 2023), and (as I already said) Film Simulation Recipes do more to sell Fujifilm cameras—directly or indirectly—than probably almost anyone. I pay for my gear myself, except for a few inexpensive third-party lenses that were sent to me free of charge. Fujifilm gifted me a coffee mug three or four years ago, which I still use occasionally. If I’m being completely honest, it is a little disheartening when I see others who seemingly do less for Fujifilm get the goodies; however, I never imagined that all of this would go anywhere near as far as it has (and it seems to be still growing!), so I’m just thankful to be on this ride, whatever it does or doesn’t have in store for me. If that means not getting early-access to the latest models like others did, that’s perfectly ok with me. It’s better to be grateful for what you do have than be envious of what you don’t.

Golden Light in Abandoned House – North Salt Lake, UT – Fujifilm X100V – Fujicolor Reala 100

As I was going through the content posted about the new camera, something caught my attention. In a number of videos, there were mentions of—or even a focus on—the JPEGs produced by the X100VI. They talked about film simulations, no need for editing (or maybe only lightly editing), and even film-like results. I didn’t catch any specific mentions of Fuji X Weekly or Film Simulation Recipes, but many hints towards it. But, in the articles, there were indeed some direct mentions, and even links to this website. The Verge said, “Ask any Fujifilm shooter, and they’ll tell you one of the company’s core strengths is JPEG processing: there are entire websites devoted to tweaking these film sims and getting the best possible straight-out-of-camera results.” They included a link to Fuji X Weekly. That’s huge! Moment stated, “If you’re interested in creating custom film recipes using film simulations, you can easily do so with the Fuji X Weekly App or by visiting the Fuji X Weekly website.” Jonas Rask wrote, “…the community that revolves around making your own custom looks from Film Simulations has exploded in popularity, largely due to the popularity of sites such as FujiXweekly.com.”

There’s a seemingly universal understanding that many of those who have already ordered (or who plan to order) the Fujifilm X100VI will be shooting straight-out-of-camera JPEGs with it. Film Simulation Recipes will be such a big part of the experience of the new camera. Even those who aren’t all that familiar with Recipes (yet) are well aware of film simulations and Fujifilm’s out-of-camera output. It’s this ability to get film-like results without the need to edit that is a big driver of all the preorders that apparently are greatly exceeding Fujifilm’s expectations. If you wanted to buy the X100VI, I hope that you ordered it quickly after preorders opened, otherwise you might have to wait a little while. I’m “sorry, not-sorry” for any role that I may have played in that. Joking aside, I hope you enjoy your new camera, for all of those who took the plunge. For those who didn’t, let’s not forget how awesome our cameras are.

See also: The Essential 7 Film Simulation Recipes to Program Into Your Fujifilm Camera First — Part 1: X-Trans V

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
Fujifilm X100VI in silver: Amazon, B&H, Moment, Wex

Find over 300 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.

Agfa Ultra 100 v2 — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) Film Simulation Recipe

Yellow Blossoms Along a Fence – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Agfa Ultra 100 v2

Ultra 100 was a short lived color negative film made by Agfa from 2003 to 2005. After its discontinuation it gained a cult-like following; unsurprisingly, I’ve been asked many times to replicate the aesthetic for Fujifilm cameras. The supply of this emulsion has been getting smaller and smaller, and before long it will likely be completely gone. Nowadays, a digital approximation will be your best bet to achieve an Agfa Ultra 100 look.

Two years ago I published an Agfa Ultra 100 Film Simulation Recipe, using Classic Negative as the base. I said of it, “I’m actually not fully satisfied with this Recipe. I think sometimes it’s pretty spot-on, and I think other times it is significantly off.” Two years later, having just re-reviewed a lot of Agfa Ultra 100 photographs in preparation for this article, I completely agree with that assessment: some of the pictures captured with my Agfa Ultra 100 Recipe look extremely similar to some pictures I found captured with the film stock, while others don’t look especially alike. That shouldn’t be too surprising because one film can produce many different looks based on a host of factors, including how shot, developed, printed and/or scanned.

Vibrant Spring – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Agfa Ultra 100 v2

I recently received an email from a film photographer who has been shooting with Agfa Ultra 100 for many years. He purchased a large supply of the film back in 2007, and has kept it in his freezer ever since. With his supply now running low, he began to look for alternatives, and in the process stumbled upon Fuji X Weekly. Unfortunately, my Agfa Ultra 100 Film Simulation Recipe wasn’t a good match for his pictures, so he reached out to me to see if it would be possible to better replicate his photographs. He sent me some samples, and I noticed right away that it was dissimilar from my Recipe. His pictures had a distinct Nostalgic Neg. vibe, so I thought I could probably recreate the aesthetic using that film simulation.

His Agfa Ultra 100 pictures were captured with Pantax MZ-S 35mm SLR, overexposed slightly to compensate for the film being expired, developed by MPix, and scanned on a Noritsu. No post-processing was done, other than whatever corrections the lab may have made while scanning. The resulting pictures looked different than my Recipe, and also different from most of the photographs captured with the film that I found online. In particular, his photographs were significantly warmer and a tad more vibrant than my original Recipe. After a few days of tweaking, I feel like I got really close to the specific aesthetic of his pictures. He only sent me a handful of images to examine, so it’s based on a small sampling; however, this new Recipe seems like a pretty good match overall.

Maricopa Trail – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Agfa Ultra 100 v2

My new Agfa Ultra 100 v2 Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with fifth-generation X-Trans cameras, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20, and X100VI cameras. Those with newer GFX cameras that have the Nostalgic Neg. film simulation can use it, too; however, it will render slightly different (try it anyway). While this Recipe is intended for sunny daylight situations, it does surprisingly well in a variety of light scenarios.

Film Simulation: Nostalgic Neg.
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Weak, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak
White Balance: 5800K, -3 Red & -3 Blue
Highlight:+1.5
Shadow: +1
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 Agfa Ultra 100 v2 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

SRT303 – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Empty Shell Station – Glendale, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Dusk Lamp – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Corner House at Dusk – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Groceries & Meat – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Joshua in Window Light – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Fake Orchid – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Curtains & Blinds – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bright Buzz People Happen – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
PARK – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunset from a Parking Garage – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunset Reflected in a Pond – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Golden Suburbia – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Roofline & Lens Flare – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bougainvillea Green – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Yellow Desert Flowers – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sharp Spikes – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Rad – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
American – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Red Stripe – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Repurposed Fire Hydrant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bell Tower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Do Not – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Fish Fan – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Girl on the Green Grass – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Pavement, Grass & Shadows – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Roofscape – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Open Window – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Broken Home – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Home in Ruins – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Mitsubishi – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Monroe Ave Sidewalk – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

Comparison:

New Agfa Ultra 100 v2 Film Simulation Recipe

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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver:  Amazon  B&H  Moment

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Kodak Portra 800 v3 — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) & X-E4 (X-Trans IV) Film Simulation Recipe

South Rim Sunrise – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Portra 800 v3

My wife recently challenged me to create a Film Simulation Recipe that mimics the aesthetic of Kodak Portra 800 film that Peter McKinnon has been sharing on Instagram and YouTube. I’m really drawn to his analog photography—I think they’re some of his best photographs. While there were plenty of examples of his Portra 800 to examine, I found it to be a difficult endeavor to replicate on my Fujifilm cameras.

As I’ve said many times, one film can produce many different looks based on a whole host of factors: how shot (film format, lens, exposure, filters, light, etc.), how developed (push/pull, brand of chemicals, freshness of chemicals, timing, temperature and pH of the water, etc.), how printed (paper, chemicals, timing, filters, etc.) and/or how scanned (brand of scanner, correction profiles, post-editing, etc.). Even within one photographer’s collection of one specific emulsion, there can be some noticeable variances. In the specific case of Peter McKinnon and his Kodak Portra 800, there is indeed significant divergences in the exact look of different pictures.

Mineral Stains on a Dry Fountain – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Kodak Portra 800 v3

Before I get any deeper into this, let me give a brief history of Kodak Portra 800 and my Film Simulation Recipes that mimic this film. Kodak introduced Portra 800 in 1998 at the same time as Portra 160 and Portra 400. Portra 160 and Portra 400 both originally came in a “VC” (vivid color) and “NC” (neutral color) versions, which were later merged into in-between emulsions that still exists today; however, Portra 800 only ever came in one variety. I don’t know if it is true, but I read that Portra 800 was based on the older Vericolor/Vision2 technology, while Portra 160 and Portra 400 were based on T-Grain/Vision3 advancements. In any event, all of these films have been tweaked and updated by Kodak several times over the years. While it has become increasingly expensive, all three ISO versions of Portra are still being manufactured today by Kodak. In fact, the current version of Lomography 800 is supposedly repacked Portra 800 (although it might be a run that didn’t pass quality control).

My original Kodak Portra 800 Film Simulation Recipe was a joint venture between myself and Thomas Schwab based on “memory color” (as Fujifilm likes to put it) of the film. The next version, Kodak Portra 800 v2, was created entirely by Thomas Schwab after he shot a roll of the film and his Fujifilm X-Pro3 camera side-by-side. This new third version was created by me after carefully examining Peter McKinnon’s pictures of Kodak Portra 800 film.

Pink Girl on a Green Slide – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Portra 800 v3

I divided Peter’s Portra 800 pictures into seven groups. Each group contained photos that seemed similar in overall aesthetics to each other. The commonality within each group tended to be (for the most part) the lighting condition that the film was shot in (although it was not universally so). I picked one group, and tried to replicate the look of it as closely as possible using the options available on my Fujifilm X-T5 (or should I say my Kodak Retina camera?), choosing similar light and colors for my pictures. Once I was satisfied that I was close, I used those settings to create images similar to the photographs in the other groups; however, this is where it fell apart. One Recipe was not able to replicate multiple aesthetics from the same film, which is not surprising. I made a bunch of small modifications until I had one Film Simulation Recipe that was a fairly faithful facsimile to multiple groups of Peter’s Portra 800 pictures. I say “fairly faithful” because compromises had to be made in order to match multiple groups. These settings are in the ballpark of four of the seven groups (and most similar to just two), and not especially close to the other three, unfortunately. This is not a 100% faithful recreation of any of his picture aesthetics, but in being less faithful to one specific look, I was better able to replicate the film examples overall.

This new Kodak Portra 800 v3 Film Simulation Recipe is intended for fifth-generation Fujifilm X-Trans cameras, which (as of this writing) are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20 (yes, the X-S20), and the upcoming X100VI. To make this Recipe compatible with some X-Trans IV models—specifically, the X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II—I simply set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak instead of Off, since X-Trans V cameras render blue more deeply on some film simulations. For those with the X-Pro3 or X100V, consider setting Shadow to 0 instead of 0.5. I do think that the original Kodak Portra 800 Recipe, as well as Kodak Portra 400 v2, are not very far off from Peter’s pictures, and could be good alternatives.

Minolta – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Portra 800 v3

The Kodak Portra 800 v3 Film Simulation Recipe is great for both golden-hour and midday light. While it is intended for sunny daylight conditions, it does pretty well in shade, too. It’s alright for overcast days, depending on the specific cloud cover conditions. It’s great for natural-light indoors, and surprisingly decent for nighttime photography, but I’d avoid it for artificial light scenarios with warm bulbs. This Recipe is fairly versatile, despite it’s warm Kodak-like colors. In the right light, it can look pretty darn close to some of the Kodak Portra 800 scans that Peter McKinnon has been sharing on his social media channels. Interestingly, there’s also similarities to some of the Kodak Portra 400 images in Kyle McDougall’s An American Mile series. I have a feeling that this will quickly become a favorite option for many of you—personally, I really love this one!

Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off (X-Trans V); Weak (X-Trans IV)
White Balance: 6600K, -1 Red & -3 Blue
Highlight: -2
Shadow: -0.5
Color: +3
Sharpness: -2

High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -3
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +1 1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Kodak Portra 800 v3 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-E4:

Morning Lightbulbs – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Read Leaves on a Block Wall – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Rounded Light on an Circular Table – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Orange Tables and Leaf – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Main Street Market – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Sunny Suburbia – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Ready for an Adventure – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Rainy Day Rose Blossom – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Kodak Portra 800 v3 Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

Sunrise Beyond Grandeur Point – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Dead Tree at the Rim’s Edge – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Golden Sunset inside the Grand Canyon – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Morning at the Rim – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Maricopa Point at Midday – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Canyon Ridge in Golden Light – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunrise over icy South Rim Trail – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bright Angel Trail from Above – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Too Close to the Icy Ledge – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Lookout Studio – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Grand Canyon Railway 237 – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Williams Flyer – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
American Painted Horse – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Swift Trailer – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Blue Barrel, Red Bricks – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Raindrop on a Lightbulb – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Raindrops of Fall Leaves – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Hanging Lightbulbs – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Fingers as Carrots – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sitting Siblings – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Minolta & Film Book – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Camera, Books – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Busy Parking Lot – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Window Paperclip – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Window Light – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Hanging Plastic Golfballs – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Blossoming Trumpet Flower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Hazy Tree Leaves – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Desert Spring – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Hill behind Yellow – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Go Right – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

Comparison:

This new Kodak Portra 800 v3 Film Simulation Recipe

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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver:  Amazon  B&H  Moment

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Vintage Eterna — Fujifilm X-Trans V, X-Trans IV, & X-H1 Film Simulation Recipes

Cactus Spikes – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Vintage Eterna Recipe

The premise of this Film Simulation Recipe was simple: what would my Vintage Kodachrome Recipe look like if I used Eterna instead of Classic Chrome? As it turns out, it looks alright; however, after I made a few more modifications, it looks much better!

The Vintage Eterna Film Simulation Recipe is actually three Recipes: one for the X-H1, X-T3, and X-T30, another for the other X-Trans IV models (X-Pro3 and newer), and one for X-Trans V cameras. I initially created this on my Fujifilm X-E4, but then I wanted a version for my X-H1, so I made a recipe compatible with that camera, and also used it on my X-T30. Later, I made a small modification for use on my X-T5, since X-Trans V cameras render blue more deeply on some film simulations. If you have an X-H1 or any X-Trans IV or V camera, you can use the Vintage Eterna Recipe—just find the version below that’s compatible with your model.

Bougainville Branch Blossom – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1 – Vintage Eterna Recipe

While this Recipe wasn’t modeled after any specific emulsion, it definitely has a vintage film vibe. It’s vaguely reminiscent of color photographs from the 1950’s or ’60’s shot on Kodak film. It also has a bit of a cinematic quality to it. I don’t think this will be anyone’s favorite Recipe for everyday photography, but I suspect that some of you will love it for occasional use when retro results are desired. It pairs well with vintage glass or cheap third-party lenses with character.

This was a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe, but it has been replaced by a different Early-Access Recipe, so now everyone can use it! One perk of being an App Patron subscriber is that you get early access to some new Film Simulation Recipes, including the one that replaced this Recipe.

Rainy Day in the Neighborhood – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Vintage Eterna Recipe

Vintage Eterna for the Fujifilm X-H1, X-T3, & X-T30

Film Simulation: Eterna
Dynamic Range: DR100
Grain Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect: Off or N/A
White Balance: Auto, +2 Red & -5 Blue
Highlight: +3
Shadow: -1
Color: +2
Sharpness: -1

High ISO NR: -4
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -2/3 to 0 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Vintage Eterna Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-H1 and Fujifilm X-T30:

Cloud Above Roof – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Summer Blossoms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Sky Vines – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Backlit Leaves of Summer – Fujifilm X-H1
Hummingbird Feeder – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Golden Trumpets – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Yellow Trumpet Flower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Red Trumpet Flower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-H1
Garden Wall Light – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T30

Vintage Eterna for Fujifilm X-Trans IV

Film Simulation: Eterna
Dynamic Range: DR100
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: Auto, +2 Red & -5 Blue
Highlight: +3
Shadow: -1
Color: +2
Sharpness: -1

High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -2/3 to 0 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Vintage Eterna Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-E4:

Labyrinth – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Sky Dome – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Little Desert Berries – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Saguaro & Storm – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Birdie Footprints – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Distant Downtown – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Sky Rays – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Saguaro Silhouette – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Purple Plant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

Vintage Eterna for Fujifilm X-Trans V

Film Simulation: Eterna
Dynamic Range: DR100
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak
White Balance: Auto, +2 Red & -5 Blue
Highlight: +3
Shadow: -1
Color: +2
Sharpness: -1

High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -2
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -2/3 to 0 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Vintage Eterna Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

Sunset Light on the North Rim – Grand Canyon NP, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Covered Horse – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
See Fingers as Carrots – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Buckets – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Wet Bougainvillea Flower – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Wet Lightbulb – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Sunlit Yellow Bloom – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and over 300 more in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.

Kodak Emulsion — Fujifilm X100V (X-Trans IV) FXW App Patron Early-Access Film Simulation Recipe

Blooms by the Pavilion – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Kodak Emulsion Recipe

I love this new Kodak Emulsion Film Simulation Recipe, even though it was a happy accident. I was trying to replicate the aesthetic of some Kodak ColorPlus 200 film scans that someone shared with me, but I was unsuccessful; however, in the process of failing, I discovered these settings, which are absolutely great!

Even though this Recipe doesn’t accurately mimic any specific emulsion (as far as I’m aware), it still looks very analog-like, and highly reminiscent of a few different Kodak negative stocks. I bet you could convince some people that you actually shot with film, and not a modern digital camera. While I used my Fujifilm X100V to capture these pictures, if I were to choose an interchangeable-lens model paired with vintage glass, I’m certain it would be even more convincing.

This Kodak Emulsion Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all “newer” X-Trans IV cameras (X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II), but not the X-T3 or X-T30. Technically it is compatible with X-Trans V models, but, because X-Trans V renders blue more deeply on some film simulations, it will look slightly different (try it anyway!). I’m sure that you can also use this Recipe on newer GFX cameras; however, I don’t have any personal experience with that, and I’m sure it will render slightly different (again, give it a try, as you might like it).

Fallen Giant – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Kodak Emulsion Recipe

This Kodak Emulsion Film Simulation Recipe is an App Patron Early-Access Recipe. The Fuji X Weekly App is free, yet becoming a Fuji X Weekly Patron unlocks the best App experience! One benefit of being a Patron is that you get early access to some new Film Simulation Recipes. These Early-Access Recipes will eventually become available free to everyone in time, including this new one. Patrons help support Fuji X Weekly and, really, without them there would be no App. So I want to give a special “thank you” to all of the Patrons!

If you are a Fuji X Weekly Patron, it’s available to you right now on the App!

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

Autumn Sun – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Autumn Tree Leaves on a Shrub – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Minolta SLR – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Homework – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V – Flash On
Vines Along a Shaded Wall – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Sunlit Table & Chairs – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Potted Flowers & Pavilion – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Flowers at a Neighborhood Park – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Palm Tree & White Building – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Hanging Lightbulbs – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Flag in the Wind – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Bougainvillea Branch on a Bright Day – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Yellow Wildflowers in the Desert – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Yellow Flowers Blooming – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Tall Saguaro Behind Dead Tree – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Reaching Saguaro Fingers – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Damaged Saguaro – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
A Desert Landscape – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V
Dirt Road After Rain – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X100V

Expired ECN-2 100T — Fujifilm X-Trans IV & X-Trans V Film Simulation Recipe

Palm Trunk & Arches – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – “Expired ECN-2 100T”

Eastman Color Negative II 100T, which was also known as ECN-2 Type 5247/7247, was a 100 ASA Tungsten-balanced motion picture film made by Kodak between 1974 and 1983 (although, apparently, it could still be found and was used into the early 1990’s). A lot of iconic movies used this emulsion for at least some shots, including Star Wars, Back to the Future, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and many more. This Film Simulation Recipe is intended to mimic the aesthetic of this film stock that’s long-expired and developed in C41 chemistry after having the Remjet layer removed. In other words, this recipe isn’t intended to look like the film as it’s seen in the movies, but expired film that’s been developed in C41 chemistry instead of the ECN-2 process.

Tungsten film was intended for use in artificial light; for use in daylight, a Color Correction filter would be attached to the lens to adjust the white balance. This “Expired ECN-2 100T” Recipe does not replicate the use of Color Correction filters, and is more like shooting without it. The results can be quite unusual, especially in daylight. But if you are looking for something unusual, maybe this Film Simulation Recipe is for you. I don’t think it will be anyone’s go-to option, but for occasional use, if you want a lomo-like look, give this one a try. Also, it’s pretty decent for nighttime. This Recipe produces a green or yellow cast (depending on the light) when used at night, and a strong teal-ish cast when used in daylight.

Truck Tire – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – “Expired ECN-2 100T”

The Expired ECN-2 100T Film Simulation Recipe was a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access Recipe; however, it has been replaced by a different Early-Access Recipe, so now everyone can use it. It is compatible with the Fujifilm X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II cameras, plus fifth-generation models, which are the X-H2s, X-H2, X-T5, X-S20 (yes, the X-S20), and the upcoming X100VI, by selected Color Chrome FX Blue Weak (instead of Strong). I believe it will also work on newer GFX cameras, although I have not tried it myself.

Film Simulation: Eterna Bleach Bypass
Dynamic Range: DR400
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong — Weak for X-Trans V
White Balance: 6000K, -9 Red & -6 Blue
Highlight: +0.5
Shadow: -1
Color: +1
Sharpness: -3

High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -4
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Expired ECN-2 100T Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-E4:

Saguaro Green – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Stop, All Ways – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Truck Mirror – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Lightning McQueen’s Home – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Truck – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Texting & Walking – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Bougainvillea Over Wall – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Backlit Bougainvillea & Lens Flare – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Light Pink Blooms – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Sunlit Trumpets – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Shaded Hummingbird Feeder – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Sidewalk Chalk & Red Bucket – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Red Soccer Ball – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Friendly Skeleton – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4
Kodak Instamatic Camera – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this Expired ECN-2 100T Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

Night Board – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Empty at Night – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Flag and Lights – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Plant at Night – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Closed Door – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Bokeh Behind Chainlink – Tempe, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Lamp & Gated Patio – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
A-Team – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Blue Barrel – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Mailbox, Maybe – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Unlit hanging Bulbs – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
No Teasing – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5
Patriotic Equine – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 300 more in the Fuji X Weekly App! Consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience and to support Fuji X Weekly.