Photography blog | FUJI X WEEKLY

If Fujifilm was a Person….

Posted on March 6, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Rusty Hoop* – Santa Rosa, NM – Fujifilm X-E4 – Kodak Portra 400 v2 Recipe

If a movie was ever made about your life, who would play you? That’s a fun question that is sometimes used as an icebreaker. I’ve never really thought much about it myself. I’ve been told several times that I have a slight resemblance to Elvis Presley (although I don’t really see it personally), so maybe someone like Austin Butler? If it were up to me, I’d choose Gerardo Celasco, who is not only a good actor, but a super cool guy who shoots with Fujifilm cameras.

In a recent YouTube video by Mango Street entitled If Camera Brands Were People, the portrayal of Fujifilm reminds me a lot of me. It’s a little too accurate. It hits close to home. The video is a lot of fun to watch—I literally laughed out loud several times. I’ve included it below, so if you haven’t seen it, you can do so now. The picture at the top of this post will make more sense afterwards.

So who played me? Unexpectedly, it was Rachel Gulotta (and, unfortunately, not Gerardo… maybe next time). Of course, the video was all in good fun, and meant as comedy. Is it accurate? Are you Fujifilm if Fujifilm was a person? Is Rachel playing the part of you? Tell me what you think!

It’s quite amazing that “Film Simulation Recipe” has become a part of camera culture. For several years the phrase was neologism and used only within a fairly small circle, but it has now become a normal part of photography phraseology. In the Fujifilm world it is (amazingly!) common jargon; “Fujifilm” and “Film Simulation Recipe” are almost inseparable. Now it is beginning to spill outside of that and into the general photography lexicon. It’s hard for me to wrap my head around that, because I never thought this would grow so big, and that so many people would use Fuji X Weekly Recipes on their Fujifilm cameras. Incredible!

Top 10 Film Simulation Recipes of 2022 (& 2023 So Far)

Posted on March 3, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

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

After yesterday’s Take the Blind Blind Film Simulation Recipe Test article, I’ve been asked a couple of times what were the 10 Film Simulation Recipes that I provided to Andrew Goodcamera. You see, he asked me to give him a list of the Top 10 most popular Film Simulation Recipes of 2022. Now, I have no way of knowing which are the most used; however, I can tell which are the Top 10 most viewed Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly website. Are page-views a good indication of use? Probably, but it’s also quite possible that some Recipes are overrepresented and others are underrepresented. Unfortunately I don’t have a more accurate metric, so this will have to suffice.

Below you will find the Top 10 most popular Film Simulation Recipes of 2022 based on page-views, in order from least to most popular. Seven of them are X-Trans IV Recipes (for the X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, & X-T30 II cameras), and three are X-Trans III Recipes (plus compatible with the X-T3 & X-T30). X-Trans V Recipes are pretty new—the oldest published in the third week of November—so it make sense that none made this list, and I suspect that they’ll become increasingly more popular throughout 2023. The Recipes for X-Trans I, II, Bayer, and GFX just aren’t nearly popular enough to crack this list (not likely a Top 20 list, either). The majority of people who shoot using Film Simulation Recipes are doing so on X-Trans III and newer cameras, and the largest group are shooting with X-Trans IV models.

Interestingly, the Classic Chrome Recipe, which is the second one ever published on Fuji X Weekly, ranks pretty high. Black-and-white Recipes aren’t usually as popular as color, so I’m happy to see the Kodak Tri-X 400 Recipe climb the list. I’m not surprised by much else, so let’s get to that list!

Top 10 Film Simulation Recipes of 2022:

Number 10:

Number 9:

Number 8:

Number 7:

Number 6:

Number 5:

Number 4:

Number 3:

Number 2:

Number 1:

Which of these Film Simulation Recipes do you use most? What is your favorite Recipe not found on this list? Let me know in the comments!

I also thought it would be interesting to see if 2023 is trending different so far, or if the Recipes rank the same. While the top half of the list looks nearly identical, there are some notable differences in the bottom half. Pacific Blues is one of my top-favorite recipes, so I’m happy to see it crack the Top 10.

Top 10 Film Simulation Recipes of 2023 (so far…):

Number 10:

Number 9:

Number 8:

Number 7:

Number 6:

Number 5:

Number 4:

Number 3:

Number 2:

Number 1:

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and nearly 300 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

Try These 5 Fujifilm Film Simulation Recipes Today for a Color Negative Film Look

Posted on February 21, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Abandoned & Trashed* – North Salt Lake, UT – Fujifilm X100V – Fujicolor Reala 100

Getting an analog color negative film look from your Fujifilm camera is super easy! Pick a Film Simulation Recipe, program it into your camera, and photograph with it. You can get straight-out-of-camera analog-like results that don’t require any editing. But with almost 300 Recipes published on this website and the Fuji X Weekly App, it can be difficult to know which ones to choose. If you are not sure, let me suggest to you the five below. Yes, there are many others that will also get you a color negative film look, so this list is by no means definitive, but it might be a good starting point.

I’m doing more to suggest to you Film Simulation Recipes to try in various situations and for different aesthetics. This article is simply a short suggestion of Recipes that will give you a color negative film-like look. If that’s what you want to achieve, I invite you to try these today!

Fujicolor Reala 100

Fujicolor Natura 1600

Fujicolor Pro 400H

Kodak Portra 400

Kodak Gold 200

Fujicolor Reala 100 is compatible with the Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak. Fujicolor Natura 1600 is compatible with the X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak. Fujicolor Pro 400H and Kodak Portra 400 are compatible with the X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II; for X-Trans V, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off. Kodak Gold 200 is compatible with X-Trans III plus the X-T3 and X-T30; for newer X-Trans IV models, set Color Chrome FX Blue to Off, set Clarity to 0, and choose a Grain size (I recommend Small).

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and so many more in the Fuji X Weekly App! Download for free today; consider becoming an App Patron to unlock the best experience and support the work of this website.

New Ricoh GR III & GR IIIx Recipes!!

Posted on February 21, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Captured with a Ricoh GR III using the new “Classic Emulsion” Recipe.*

I just published a new set of Ricoh GR III & GR IIIx Recipes: The Film Collection!

For those of you who (in addition to your Fujifilm X cameras) own a Ricoh GR III and/or GR IIIx, you now have five new Ricoh Recipes to choose from, and if you are a Ricoh Recipes App Patron, you have an additional Recipe available to you on the App. Be sure to check it out! If you haven’t updated the firmware of your GR III or GR IIIx recently, be sure to do so right away to get the new Negative Film Picture Control Effect.

Classic Emulsion

Positive Emulsion

Kodak Print

Film Look

Vintage Film

Nostalgic Print

See also: Ritchie’s Ricoh Recipes

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

Ricoh GR III Amazon B&H Moment
Ricoh GR IIIx Amazon B&H Moment

Creative Collective 041: Creative Faded Exposures

Posted on February 14, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

I love making retro faded-film-like looks on Fujifilm cameras using the multiple-exposure feature. I have created a number of Film Simulation Recipes which utilize double-exposures to achieve a faded aesthetic. Some of these Recipe are Faded Negative, Faded Color, Vintage Color Fade, Faded Monochrome, and Split-Toned B&W. This type of Recipe isn’t nearly as popular as the “regular” ones that don’t use multiple exposures, and I’m pretty sure it’s because these are a lot more difficult to use. They are way less convenient and practical; however, they can be a good challenge and a lot of fun, and you’ll achieve results that a fairly unique.

I didn’t come up with a new double-exposure Recipe, but I did come up with a slight variation to this concept that I thought I’d share with you. If you are looking for something creative to try, this might just be what you are looking for. In any event, you’re sure to make some interesting images.

Note: this was a Creative Collective article, but now it’s available to everyone.

The concept of this project is pretty simple, and can be done with most Fujifilm cameras. I used my Fujifilm X100V, but you certainly don’t need that model for this project. As long as your Fujifilm camera has a multiple-exposure mode—and most do—you can join in on the fun.

Step one is to choose a Film Simulation Recipe. I went with Kodachrome 64 simply because I like that recipe. While you can use any Recipe, I find that ones with mid or high contrast tend to work better than low-contrast Recipes. So pick your favorite Recipe, whichever one that is, and let’s see what happens.

The second step is to set your camera to capture double exposures. Look for Multiple Exposures in the Drive Menu or on the Drive selector on the top-plate (depending on your camera model). For newer cameras, make sure that you have Average selected in the Multiple Exposure Control submenu. Refer to your camera’s manual if you are not sure.

After that, you’ll want to tape two colored pieces of paper together (I used simple construction paper—see above). You can use any two colors. I chose blue and yellow because they are contrasting colors, and thought it might make it more dynamic. Be creative or thoughtful with whichever colors you choose. A problem you will encounter is that the line between blue and yellow is fine and not feathered. It goes sharply from one color to the other, which is not what you want. We’ll address this in a moment, but for now keep it in mind.

Next, capture the first exposure. The subject can be whatever you want it to be. The camera will ask you if you are satisfied with the exposure or if you want to try again. If you are happy with it, press OK and get ready for the second exposure.

For the next step, which is the second exposure, you will capture an image of the two-colored paper, including a bit of both colors in the frame—it can go straight across or diagonal. You want the picture to be blurry, so flip the camera to manual focus and ensure that it is out-of-focus. This will make the sharp line fuzzy, and will blur out the paper’s texture. I also used a slow shutter speed and moved the paper during the exposure, to further grade the transition between yellow and blue. The camera will allow you to make multiple attempts until you are satisfied, so don’t be afraid to redo the second exposure if you aren’t happy with the results.

Exposure 1, Exposure 2 & Combined Double Exposure Example:

Examples:

I haven’t done a whole lot to explore this concept. I’m sure there are a ton of creative possibilities. Use your imagination, and you are likely to capture some intriguing images.

12 Frames: Desert Photography on Kodachrome 25 — Fujifilm X-T5 + Fujinon 18-55mm F/2.8-4 + Special Guest!

Posted on February 14, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Green Hills* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

A couple days ago I met up with Raymond from Leigh & Raymond Photography (formally The SnapChick) to do some desert photography. They have mentioned this website and the Apps on their YouTube Channel a few times, as they are big fans of Fujifilm cameras, Fuji X Weekly, and Film Simulation Recipes. Leigh and Raymond live in Arizona, and now I do as well, so we were able to finally meet—at least Raymond and I—for some photography.

I was actually very nervous for several reasons. First, I’m an introvert, and meeting new people always makes me a little apprehensive. Second, Leigh and Raymond are big names in photography. They have been successful YouTubers for many years. They are well connected within the industry. It’s kind of like meeting an actor, musician, or sports star. Third, Raymond does ultramarathons; while I might make a special effort to get to Dairy Queen if Blizzards are half off, I’m definitely not doing normal marathons let alone the David Goggins kind—and we were scheduled for a hike through the desert. I wasn’t sure what it would entail, or how intense this adventure might get.

It turns out that I had nothing to worry about. Raymond was super nice. The hike was easy and relatively short—definitely something someone with my “skills” and “experience” (or lack thereof) could accomplish. We had a great time. It was really good to meet up for some desert photography.

*Raymond and I — Captured with RitchieCam on my iPhone*

I used my Fujifilm X-T5 and Fujinon 18-55mm f/2.8-4 lens for this outing. I chose and programmed into the camera my Kodachrome 25 Film Simulation Recipe because I thought it would do well in this scenario (which I’ll get to in just a moment) and because I’m converting this Recipe for the X-T5. You see, X-Trans V renders blue more deeply on some film simulations, but the fix is simple: if an X-Trans IV Recipe that uses Classic Chrome, Classic Negative, Eterna, or Eterna Bleach Bypass calls for Color Chrome FX Blue set to Strong, change it to Weak on X-Trans V, and if it calls for Color Chrome FX Blue set to Weak, change it to Off. The Kodachrome 25 Recipe calls for Color Chrome FX Blue set to Strong, so I adjusted it to Weak on my X-T5.

I decided that the Kodachrome 25 Recipe would be good for this scenario because of its characteristics. Kodachrome 25 film had low contrast (for slide film), slightly subdued saturation, and true-to-life (yet Kodak-warm) colors. It was regarded as the sharpest, most fine grained emulsion on the market, and was a popular choice for commercial photography. With an ISO of 25, some found this film to be challenging to use, so the higher-ISO Kodachrome 64, which had a little boost in contrast and saturation, was a more common option. Still, plenty of Kodachrome 25 pictures graced the pages of publications such as National Geographic and Arizona Highways, and I wanted to replicate that classic aesthetic for my desert images. It was forecasted to be overcast with perhaps some peeking sun, and the Kodachrome 25 Recipe does well in that weather—not too warm or cool, and not too much or too little contrast.

If this had been film, I would have shot two rolls of 24-exposure Kodachrome 25 (yes, it was by chance exactly 48 exposures). Of course, Kodachrome has long been discontinued, so shooting with this Film Simulation Recipe on a Fujifilm camera is probably the closest you can get to shooting with the emulsion. The Kodachrome 25 frames in this article are my 12 favorites from that desert outing with Raymond. I hope you enjoy!

*Rock Ridge* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Raymond Photographing Flowers* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

Flowers in the Dry Desert – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Remnants of a Tree* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Prickles* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Sharp Friends* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Cholla Arms* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Dead Saguaro* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Old Saguaro* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Tall Cactus* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

*Morning Trail* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodachrome 25 Recipe

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly App!

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
Fujifilm X-T5 + 18-55mm in black:  Amazon  B&H  Moment
Fujifilm X-T5 + 18-55mm in silver:  Amazon  B&H  Moment
Fujinon 18-55mm f/2.8-4:  Amazon  B&H  Moment

Try These 3 Film Simulation Recipes, No Matter Your Fujifilm Camera (almost, anyway) + When To Use Them!

Posted on February 10, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Flock of Cranes* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Kodak Portra 400 v2 Recipe

I’m constantly asked which Film Simulation Recipes should be used in what situations. With approaching 300 Recipes to choose from, it can be hard to know which ones to program into your camera, and what situations to use them in. I’m trying to be more helpful with that, and this article will hopefully provide you with some good guidance.

You might ask why just three. Why not seven Recipes, since there are seven Custom Settings presets? First, it would make this article much too long. I would need to separate it into a handful of parts, published over a couple week period. Second, I think it might discourage discovery. If I said to use these certain seven, one could try them and perhaps even like all of them, and then they might stop searching for others; in doing so, they could miss out on discovering one or two that would become their favorites. So if I suggest just a few, then the opportunity to discover others later is still wide open. I have already published recently a number of articles to encourage discovery—and I plan to post many more—each with a unique approach, which hopefully will resonate with some of you, and be helpful in your quest to find which ones you like to use in various situations.

Another question you might have right out the gate is how can there possible be three Film Simulation Recipes that will work on almost all Fujifilm cameras. There’s not. So what I’ve done instead is suggest three for each of the different sensors or generations. You’ll find something for X-Trans I, II, III, IV, and V, as well as Bayer and GFX. I even included three for the X-T3 and X-T30, as well as three for the X-Trans II cameras that don’t have Classic Chrome. Almost everyone is covered, but for certain there are some cameras that got left out. If that’s your situation, I’m sorry. For the vast majority reading this, you will find below three Recipes to try on your Fujifilm camera, with some brief commentary on when to use each of them. I hope there’s at least one that you try and like; if not, there are so many others to choose from on this website and the Fuji X Weekly App.

X-Trans V

Fujifilm X-T5, X-H2, X-H2S

Kodachrome 64

Use the Kodachrome 64 Film Simulation Recipe for outdoor daylight photography. Can produce good results in overcast weather, shade, natural light indoors, and even sometimes nighttime photography, but is most ideal for sunny daylight and golden hour situations. Use for documentary, street, travel, landscape, still-life, and portrait photography.

Kodak Ultramax 400

Use the Kodak Ultramax 400 Film Simulation Recipe for almost any situation, as it is a highly versatile option. Sunny, cloudy, indoor, nighttime, landscapes, portraits—it’s good for them all and more.

1970’s Summer

Use the 1970’s Summer Film Simulation Recipe on sunny days. It produces a vintage aesthetic reminiscent of American New Color images, and is good for street, travel, and documentary photography.

X-Trans IV

Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, X-T30 II

Kodak Portra 400 v2

Use the Kodak Portra 400 v2 Film Simulation Recipe for outdoor daylight photography. An excellent option for golden hour or sunny situations. Use for portrait, travel, documentary, landscape, or still-life photography.

Pacific Blues

Use the Pacific Blues Film Simulation Recipe for a sunny summer day at the beach. Is also good for dreary overcast, fog, or most any natural light situation. Produces dramatic landscapes and portraits.

Fujicolor Superia 800

Use the Fujicolor Superia 800 Film Simulation Recipe for natural light situations, whether indoor or outdoor. Good for street, travel, documentary, and portrait photography.

X-Trans IV (Part 2)

Fujifilm X-T3, X-T30

Kodak Vision3 250D

Use the Kodak Vision3 250D Film Simulation Recipe for street, travel, documentary, still-life, and portrait photography. Excellent for sunny daylight conditions, but does well in overcast, shade, natural light indoor, blue hour, and some artificial light situations, too.

Kodak Gold 200

Use the Kodak Gold 200 Film Simulation Recipe in daylight conditions, especially golden hour. Is best for sunny situations, but also does well in overcast, shade, and indoor natural light. Use it for landscapes, street, documentary, travel, still-life, and portrait photography.

Classic Kodak

Use the Classic Kodak Film Simulation Recipe for sunny daylight and golden hour photography. Is good for street, travel, documentary, and landscape photography.

X-Trans III

Fujifilm X-Pro2, X100F, X-E3, X-T2, X-T20, X-H1

Ektachrome E100GX

Use the Ektachrome E100GX Film Simulation Recipe for daylight photography. Is best for sunny situations, particularly golden hour, but is also good for overcast, shade, and indoor natural light. Use for landscape, street, documentary, and portrait photography.

Kodachrome II

Use the Kodachrome II Film Simulation Recipe for daylight photography. Is best for sunny situations, particularly golden hour, but is also good for shade, overcast, and indoor natural light. Use for street, travel, documentary, still-life, portrait, and landscape photography.

CineStill 800T

Use the CineStill 800T Film Simulation Recipe for nighttime and artificial light photography. Excellent for street and urban scenes after dark.

X-Trans II

Fujifilm X100T, X-E2, X-E2S, X-T1, X-T10, X70, X30, XQ2

Classic Kodak Chrome

Use the Classic Kodak Chrome Film Simulation Recipe for almost any situation, as it is a highly versatile option. Sunny, cloudy, indoor, nighttime, landscapes, portraits, street, travel—it’s good for them all and more.

Kodak Color Negative

Use the Kodak Color Negative Film Simulation Recipe for daylight photography. Does especially well for golden hour, but is good for any natural light situation. Use this for landscape and documentary photography.

Ektachrome 100SW

Use the Ektachrome 100SW Film Simulation Recipe for almost any situation, as it is a highly versatile option. Sunny, cloudy, indoor, nighttime, landscapes, portraits—it’s good for them all and more. Produces vibrant results.

X-Trans II (Part 2)

Fujifilm X100S, X20, XQ1

Color Negative Film

Use the Color Negative Film Film Simulation Recipe for daylight photography. It is great for sunny situations, but is also good for overcast, shade, and indoor natural light. Use this for landscape, portrait, and documentary photography.

Fujichrome Slide

Use the Fujichrome Slide Film Simulation Recipe for outdoor daylight situations. Good for dramatic landscape photography.

Astia

Use the Astia Film Simulation Recipe for sunny daylight photography. Great for landscape photography.

X-Trans I

Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1, X-M1

Reminiscent Print

Use the Reminiscent Print Film Simulation Recipe for daylight photography. Great for sunny situations, but also good for shade, overcast, and indoor natural light. Use it for street, travel, documentary, landscape, still-life, and portrait photography.

Vivid Color

Use the Vivid Color Film Simulation Recipe for vibrant color images. Ideal for sunny daylight and especially golden hour photography, but also good for overcast, shade, indoor natural light, artificial light, blue hour, and sometimes nighttime situations. Use for landscape, travel, and documentary photography.

Color Negative Film

Use the Color Negative Film Film Simulation Recipe for daylight situations. Great for sunny daylight, but also good for overcast, shade, and indoor natural light. Use for landscape, travel, and documentary photography.

Bayer

Fujifilm X-A3, X-A5, X-A7, X-A10, XF10, X-T100, X-T200

Golden Negative

Use the Golden Negative Film Simulation Recipe for sunny daylight situations. Great for landscape, travel, and documentary photography.

Classic Chrome

Use the Classic Chrome Film Simulation Recipe for daylight photography. Excellent for sunny situations, but works well in many different light conditions, including sometimes indoor artificial light and nighttime. Use for street, travel, documentary, landscape, still-life, and portraits.

Analog Cool

Use the Analog Cool Film Simulation Recipe for sunny daylight conditions, or overly warm light such as indoor artificial light. Good for landscapes and documentary photography.

GFX

GFX-50R, GFX-50S

Classic Negative Industrial

Use the Classic Negative Industrial Film Simulation Recipe for dramatic landscapes, portraits, and documentary photography. Ideal for sunny daylight, it is also good for overcast, shade, and indoor natural light situations.

Ektachrome

Use the Ektachrome Film Simulation Recipe for daylight situations, including sunny, overcast, shade, and indoor natural light. Good for landscape, travel, documentary, and portrait photography.

Provia 400

Use the Provia 400 Film Simulation Recipe for sunny daylight situations, especially golden hour. Use for landscape and travel photography.

Why I Haven’t Published a Fujifilm X-T5 Camera Review

Posted on February 9, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

I purchased my Fujifilm X-T5 when it was released back in November. I’ve received several messages lately asking why I haven’t published a review of the new camera. I think it’s because they are considering buying one themselves, and they want to know if it’s actually “worth” upgrading to or if there is something they should be aware of. Basically, some people want to either be talked into buying it or talked out of buying it, as it’s a lot of money and a big decision—which can be paralyzing—and you want to be wise with it. Lots of research is essential, and finding opinions from those you trust can be invaluable. I’m honored and flattered that many of you consider this website to be trustworthy.

At the beginning of each year, I like to take some time to consider how things went the prior year, what the current trajectory is, and where I want things to go. For Fuji X Weekly, I really feel that a slight shift in trajectory is needed, and in some ways I began moving towards that last year, even if I wasn’t sure the why and where. After much consideration, I have a clearer vision of where I want this website to go in 2023, and how to achieve it. I haven’t communicated these changes to you (until now, I suppose), but you’ve probably already noticed some.

There’s actually a lot going on behind the scenes. Many different projects are in the works. I’m juggling quite a bit right now. When the time is right, there are many exciting things that I look forward to announcing and sharing with you. Some projects might never work out, which has happened before (that’s just they way it goes sometimes), but I do believe that most of these will come to fruition. Some will take much longer than others, so stay tuned for these announcements over the coming weeks and months.

*Lemon Bowl* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Superia Xtra 400”

One thing that I haven’t announced (but you might have already picked up on) is that I’m doing more to explain and suggest when to use various Film Simulation Recipes. There are so many to choose from, and it can be difficult to know which to try. Then, when you find one you like, maybe the weather or light changes, and you don’t like it nearly so much in that situation. Now what do you do?

The trouble with suggesting Recipes is that, while one person might love one for a certain light and situation, another person might hate it for the same light and situation. For example, in the very same day, one photographer told me that they used the Kodak Portra 400 Recipe for a professional portraiture photo shoot and they couldn’t be more happy with the results, while another photographer told me that they tried that same Recipe for portraits and the results were horrible. Each person has their own tastes and style, and what will work for one person won’t work for another. I could suggest to you the Recipes that I think are good for various situations, but you might completely disagree with my assessment. Still, it can be helpful have a starting point.

Some of the articles that I’ve published so far in 2023 to help out with this are Five Film Simulation Recipes Every Social Media Influencer Should Try on Their Fujifilm X100V, Using Film Simulation Recipes to Recreate Vintage Looks — 10 Recipes to Try Today!, Elevating Your Street Photography with Fujifilm Film Simulation Recipes + 5 Recipes to Try Today!, Creative Collective 040: FXW Zine — Issue 15 — February 2023 (with the article: 10 Film Simulation Recipes for Cloudy Days), The 10 Best Film Simulation Recipes on the Fuji X Weekly App, and 5 Film Simulation Recipes every Fujifilm X-T5 Photographer Should Try. This actually started late last year with the Which Film Simulation Recipe, When? series. You can expect a lot more similar content moving forward because this is where I want to focus more of my time and energy. Even when I’m publishing new Recipes, I’m trying to do a better job of briefly explaining what situations or light they might work best in. Hopefully this is helpful to you.

None of this is completely new. For example, in the SOOC Live broadcasts, not only have we discussed at length a Film Simulation Recipe in each show, but for awhile now we’ve suggested several Recipe for use in specific situations or for various genres of photography. Without giving away what’s in store of Season 3, which kicks off tomorrow, I can tell you that we’re doubling-down on that concept. Be sure to tune in, and subscribe to the new SOOC Live YouTube channel.

What does any of this have to do with a review of the Fujifilm X-T5? Simple: I’m moving away from product reviews. For now—and I don’t know if this will last forever or if it’s just for a time—I won’t be publishing any camera or lens reviews. I want to focus a lot less on telling you what is good or bad about various gear, and focus more on how to use your get to achieve the aesthetics you want straight-out-of-camera. I’m not going to publish a review of the X-T5, but instead publish more articles on using Recipes with that camera (and other camera, too, definitely not just or even mostly the X-T5). I want to help you get the results you want out of your camera, and product reviews, which take a lot of time to put together, get in the way of that. Besides, there are so many reviews of the Fujifilm X-T5 already, what could I possibly add? The only things I would say is that X-Trans V renders the color blue slightly deeper on some film simulations, Auto White Balance can be quirky, Nostalgic Neg. is similar to Eterna, and if you are doing long broadcasts the camera might overheat. Those are the only things that I would add to what others have discussed, and I’ve already said them. If you have been waiting patiently for my review (that won’t come), I hope this is somehow helpful to your decision to buy or not buy; mostly I would say trust your gut, because deep down you know whether or not you actually “need” that new camera, or if it’s just Gear Acquisition Syndrome, New Camera Envy, or Fear of Missing Out.

While not publishing camera and lens reviews might be seen as negative, I hope that the revised vision for Fuji X Weekly is very positive, and that the benefits of the changes far outweigh what must be left behind. I invite you to come along for the ride, and let’s see where all of this goes.

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

5 Film Simulation Recipes every Fujifilm X-T5 Photographer Should Try

Posted on February 7, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

The Fujifilm X-T5 was released just last November, and it’s already a big hit. Perhaps you just purchased one, or maybe you own an X-H2 or X-H2S (the other X-Trans V models), and you’re not sure which Film Simulation Recipes to try. While so far I’ve only published 15 Recipes that are specifically compatible with the X-T5, there are actually a lot more; in fact, on the Fuji X Weekly App (Android, Apple), there are 40! You see, some X-Trans IV Recipes are compatible with X-Trans V, and some require a slight modification (I’m working on getting those updated for X-Trans V, but it is a slow process). There’s also an App Patron Early-Access Recipe for the X-T5.

You might very well know exactly which Film Simulation Recipes to use on your Fujifilm X-T5, but in case you are unsure, below are five that you should definitely try.

Kodachrome 64

Kodachrome 64 replicates the aesthetic of the beloved Kodachrome color slide film from Kodak, which graced the covers of magazines like National Geographic and Arizona Highways. This is a great option for sunny daytime photography. Looking for a 1980’s or 1990’s vibe? Try this Recipe!

Kodak Portra 400 v2

The Kodak Portra 400 v2 Recipe is modeled after the popular Kodak color negative film. Excellent for sunny daylight and especially golden hour photography; as the name suggests, this is good for outdoor portraits. Looking for a contemporary film aesthetic? They this one!

Kodak Ultramax 400

Produces a look similar to the Kodak Ultramax 400 color negative emulsion. Because this Recipe uses Auto White Balance, it has a lot of versatility, and is good for many different situations, including daylight, shade, overcast, indoor, and nighttime. Want a 1990’s and 2000’s look? Give this recipe a try!

Pacific Blues

Pacific Blues is modeled after Lucy Laucht‘s Spirit of Summer series, particularly the Positano Blues photographs. While it is intended for the endless sun of a summer day at the beach, it’s also good for dramatic results in a number of situations, including dreary overcast and fog. Want a contemporary analog aesthetic with nostalgic vibes? This Recipe is for you!

1970’s Summer

This Recipe produces a distinct American New Color aesthetic. For best results, use in sunny daylight conditions. Want a 1970’s look? Try this Recipe!

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

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

There’s an Easier Way — JPEG Photography for a Faster Workflow

Posted on February 3, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Arches National Park, Utah — iPhone 11 — RitchieCam App — Analog Gold filter*

“I’ve been working on my photos from October rather than reviews….”
—Ken Rockwell, February 2, 2023

I just stumbled upon that quote from Ken, which was followed by an iPhone photo from October (that’s why this article begins with an iPhone picture). I bet a lot of you can relate to his statement. When you photograph a lot, your post-processing workflow can get backed up quite a bit. I have thousands of unprocessed RAW files that have been sitting on a now-obsolete computer’s hard drive for at least seven years now. I get it: you’ve got stuff to do, and your limited time is being pulled every which way, so something’s got to give.

I discovered that there’s a better way. There’s no need to get four or five months behind. There’s no need to let your photographic work back up so much. You can can accomplish so much more with the time that you’ll save. What is this better way? It’s really simple: shoot JPEGs, and skip the picture editing step (called One Step Photography, as explained by Ansel Adams in his book Polaroid Land Camera). More and more photographers are embracing this approach.

*Sitting Above Horseshoe Bend* – Horseshoe Bend, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 & Pergear 10mm – “The Rockwell” Recipe

Ken Rockwell knows this. Not only does he often shoot JPEGs, but he once tried one of my Film Simulation Recipes on a Fujifilm camera. He shoots with a lot of brands, and Fujifilm isn’t his main make. I have Film Simulation Recipes for Fujifilm cameras, I have Recipes for Ricoh GR cameras, and I have an iPhone camera app called RitchieCam; if you don’t shoot with Fujifilm, Ricoh, or iPhone, your options are much more limited (I did make a few Recipes for Nikon Z, too, but it’s a pretty small number).

The reason why it’s important to shoot with Recipes is because the settings have been fine-tuned to produce a particular aesthetic that doesn’t require editing. The images look good straight from the camera, as if they had been post-processed or perhaps were even shot on film. Except they weren’t, which saves you a ton of time, money, and hassle. If you aren’t shooting with Recipes, you are most certainly doing some amount of post-processing, whether you shoot RAW or JPEG. There are some people who do still edit their camera-made-using-Recipes JPEGs, but they’re doing much less editing than they otherwise would be. The point of using Film Simulation Recipes is to edit less or (preferably) not at all, which has a huge upside, but it does require Recipes that produce excellent results, and a little extra care by the photographer in the field, since “I’ll fix it in post” isn’t really an option.

If Ken had used a Fujifilm camera programmed with Fuji X Weekly Recipes, surely he would not be busy right now post-processing pictures captured way back in October. Instead, he’d be writing those reviews that have been delayed, or out on some other photographic adventure. The October exposures would have been completed in October, or maybe early November at the latest. If he had used RitchieCam, there would be no need to process his iPhone images with Skylum software, because they would have been ready-to-publish the moment they were captured. Ken, you should try my iPhone camera app. And you should shoot with Fujifilm cameras more often.

*Captured at the end of October, posted to Instagram the next day, and published on this website November 8th.*

With the Canikony brands, shooting awesome straight-out-of-camera (SOOC) JPEGs isn’t as easy or prevalent. Sure, it can be done, but it is much more often done with other brands because of things like the Fuji X Weekly App, which contains approaching 300 Film Simulation Recipes for Fujifilm cameras, so no matter your desired aesthetic, there’s a Recipe for you. Download the Fuji X Weekly App for free today (Android here, Apple here), and consider becoming a Patron subscriber to unlock the best App experience. Ken is sitting at a computer right now fiddling with files, since he didn’t shoot with Fujifilm cameras programmed with Film Simulation Recipes.

People seem to either love or hate Ken Rockwell. To be clear, this article is not bashing him. I’ve actually had correspondence with Ken, and he seems like a very nice guy. I think his “real” personality is much more kind and genuine than his online persona, which can sometimes come across as abrasive and perhaps even offensive. If you hate him, I would suggest that you reach out to him with an open mind and heart, and try to get to know him a little, because your mind might get changed, even if just a bit. Personally, I have found some of his articles, insights, and commentary to be quite helpful; however, I certainly don’t agree with everything that he says, and I take his words with a grain of salt (as you should with mine). He’s very successful at what he does, so he’s obviously doing something “right” even if I don’t fully agree with what it is.

All of that is to say, if you don’t want your workflow backed up for months because you have so many exposures to edit, and you’d rather spend your time doing something else—including capturing more photographs—then SOOC JPEGs might just be the thing for you. If you don’t own a Fujifilm camera, consider picking one up. Download the Fuji X Weekly App. Select a few Film Simulation Recipes to try. Let your RAW editor subscription expire.

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-E4 in black: Amazon B&H Moment
Fujifilm X-E4 in silver: Amazon B&H Moment

Creative Collective 040: FXW Zine — Issue 15 — February 2023

Posted on February 1, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

Here is the 15th issue of FXW Zine! If you are a Fuji X Weekly Creative Collective subscriber, you can download it today!

In the February issue, we take a look at 10 different Film Simulation Recipes for use on dreary, overcast days. If you aren’t sure which recipe to use when the sky is grey, this issue is intended to be helpful. Also, my wife, Amanda, contributed six pictures to this publication, including the cover image.

If you haven’t joined the Creative Collective, consider subscribing today to get access to bonus articles and the FXW Zine—not just this issue, but the first thirteen issues, too!

Fujifilm Take Notice: Ricoh Just Did What You Won’t

Posted on January 28, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Captured with the new “Negative Film” Picture Control Effect on my Ricoh GR III*.

Fujifilm, pay close attention: Ricoh just did with their GR III and GR IIIx what you won’t do with your X-series cameras.

Fujifilm has stated that they’re moving away from Kaizen and to expect less of it going forward, but some other camera makers—including Ricoh—are embracing it. In fact, Ricoh just added a new Picture Control Effect, which is their Film Simulations equivalent, to their GR III and IIIx cameras. This new Effect is called Negative Film, and it looks pretty good so far to me. It’s not really like anything on Fujifilm exactly—perhaps it could be described as somewhat similar to a cross between Classic Negative and PRO Neg. Std—but it does produce an aesthetic that’s easy to appreciate.

I want to point out that the GR III was released almost at the same exact time as the Fujifilm X-T30. Since the release of the X-T30, Fujifilm has introduced three new Film Simulations—Classic Negative, Eterna Bleach Bypass, and Nostalgic Neg.—plus some other JPEG options like Color Chrome FX Blue, Clarity, and Grain size. None of it has trickled down to the X-T30 (or X-T3). Even the X-Pro3 and X100V—premium models, supposedly—weren’t given the Kaizen love that they (really, Fujifilm’s customers) deserve. Yet little ol’ Ricoh not only created a new Effect for apparently no reason other than the fun of it, and they gave it to the almost four-year-old GR III just because they wanted to make their customers happy.

I have a ton of advice that I’d give to Fujifilm if they were ever interested in hearing my opinions. I mean, I have a pretty good pulse on a big chunk of their customer base, and I’ve done more than most to bring them new customers, whether directly or indirectly, so you’d think they would be interested in hearing what I have to say. The very first suggestion that I would have for them is to do more Kaizen and not less. I get that it costs time and money, but fostering a happy long-term repeat customer base is priceless, and well worth whatever it takes to do that. A lot of photographers go from brand-to-brand-to-brand, or they begrudgingly put up with a brand for a long time because they don’t want to endure the cost and headache of switching, and there is a surprisingly large amount of disloyalty among customers. Yes, there are the outspoken fanboys—I am one for Fujifilm—but while their voices are loud, their numbers are surprisingly small. So if a brand can actually make more of their customers loyal, which they do by showing them that they matter and are appreciated, it can have a significant long-term impact. Of course, if your customers don’t think you care about them, they’ll be more quick to leave when another brand offers something new and exciting, or if they think that another brand cares more about their customers than the one they’re currently using.

Ricoh just made sure that their customers know that they care. Fujifilm, make sure that your customers know you care!

Below are some examples of photos captured using the new Negative Film Picture Control Effect on my Ricoh GR III.

See also: Ritchie’s Ricoh Recipes

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

Ricoh GR III Amazon B&H Moment
Ricoh GR IIIx Amazon B&H Moment

Vintage Cinema — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) FXW App Patron Early-Access Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 26, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Glimpse of a Fleeting Memory* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Vintage Cinema”

I recently binge-watched a number of classic movies from the 1950’s, and I was really inspired by their picture aesthetics. After some research, I discovered that Kodak ECN 5248 25T motion picture film was used in several of these flicks. The problem, of course, with trying to replicate the look of a motion picture film stock is that not only is the aesthetic dependent on the usual factors of how shot and developed, but also on the lighting and filters used, which can be different movie-to-movie and even scene-to-scene. Instead of attempting to mimic the look of any particular movie or cinema film stock, I wanted to create a certain feel or mood—a “memory color” reminiscent of color movies from the 1950’s.

This Vintage Cinema Film Simulation Recipe is a Fuji X Weekly App Patron Early-Access recipe, which means if you are an App Patron, you have access to it right now. The Fuji X Weekly App is free, yet becoming a Patron unlocks the best App experience! One benefit of being a Patron is you get early access to some new Film Simulation Recipes, such as this one. These Patron 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!

*Ball on a Wall* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Vintage Cinema”

The Vintage Cinema Film Simulation Recipe, which is the very first Patron Early-Access Recipe for X-Trans V, is only compatible with (as of this writing) the Fujifilm X-T5, X-H2, and X-H2S (and I’m sure the X-S20 when it’s released this spring). I assume that the GFX100S and GFX50S II can also use this recipe, but that it will render slightly different—I don’t have either of those cameras to test it to know for certain. This recipe is best for sunny daylight conditions, and seems especially well-suited for golden hour photography, but can sometimes produce interesting results in cloudy, shade, and indoor situations, too. I believe this recipe would pair especially well with vintage lenses and probably diffusion filters, but for these pictures I used Fujinon lenses, including the 27mm f/2.8, 35mm f/2, 90mm f/2, and 100-400mm, without any filters.

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

*Birds of a Feather* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Flipped Reflection* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Three Ducks in a Lake* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Bougainvillea Blooms & Blue* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Bougainvillea Beams* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Side Gate Cracked Open* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Bougainvillea Bush in Bloom* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Hanging Bougainvillea Blossom* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Desert Bunny* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Jo on a Dirt Path* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Jo on the Patio* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Late Autumn Yellow* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Leafless Tree* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Do Not Enter When Flooded* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Dry Leaves on a Patio Chair* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Pruner & Gloves* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

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

The SOOC Revolution

Posted on January 24, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Fence & Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 & Fujinon 35mm f/2 – “Vintage Bronze” Recipe

“The effect of one-step processing on both amateur and professional creative photography has been revolutionary.”
—Ansel Adams, Polaroid Land Camera

I woke up this morning unsure what to write about. It just so happened that I had a handful of exposures I captured yesterday evening still sitting on the SD Card in my Fujifilm X-T5. Using Fujifilm’s Cam Remote App, I transferred the pictures from the camera to my iPhone, cropped and straightened a few of them, and uploaded the images to cloud storage. It took maybe 10 minutes tops start-to-finish, and I don’t even think it was that long. One-step photography, which removes the second-step (the editing step), is truly revolutionary, just as Ansel Adams stated. Of course he was talking about instant film—something he was a big fan of—and we’re talking about straight-out-of-camera JPEGs, something that I’m a big fan of. Now I know what to write about today!

*First Sign of Spring* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 & Fujinon 35mm f/2 – “Vintage Bronze” Recipe

Why is shooting straight-out-of-camera (SOOC) JPEGs revolutionary?

First, it allows for a faster, more streamlined workflow. When you use Fujifilm cameras and Film Simulation Recipes, the camera does all the post-processing work for you. You don’t have to spend hours and hours sitting in front of a computer fiddling with images. This can save you an extensive amount of time and effort, which can significantly increase your productivity, plus make photography more enjoyable. It’s not only a faster workflow, but an easier workflow. Achieving a desired aesthetic is as simple as programming the correct recipe into your camera.

*Yellow Wildflowers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 & Fujinon 35mm f/2 – “Vintage Bronze” Recipe

Next, SOOC JPEGs allow you to be more consistent. Because the camera is applying the recipes, the photographer doesn’t have to worry about inconsistencies in their editing process. This makes achieving cohesive results for a photo series or project much easier.

Also, JPEGs are more efficient than RAW in terms of storage space. You don’t need to buy a larger SD Card or external hard drive or pay for more cloud storage nearly as quickly. Upload and download times are faster. You have a ready-to-share photo the moment that it’s captured—you don’t have to wait for a program to process it first.

*Jon at the Fishin’ Pond* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 & Fujinon 35mm f/2 – “Vintage Bronze” Recipe

Finally, SOOC JPEGs might be considered more authentic. Film Simulation Recipes often replicate the look and feel of classic film stocks and processes, and seem less digital-like in their rendering. There is a growing sentiment among photography consumers (not photographers, but those who view pictures) that “Photoshop” is bad, and picture manipulation equals people manipulation; however, unedited images don’t carry that stigma, and can come across as more authentic.

All of this and more are why there is a revolution in photography right now. More and more photographers—from first-camera beginners to experienced pros with recognizable names—are using Film Simulation Recipes and shooting SOOC JPEGs. It’s a growing trend, and I believe it will become much bigger in the coming years. I’m truly honored to be a part of it, and I’m glad that you’ve come along for the ride.

*Budding & Blooming* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 & Fujinon 35mm f/2 – “Vintage Bronze” 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
Fujinon 35mm in black:  Amazon  B&H  Moment
Fujinon 35mm in silver:  Amazon  B&H  Moment

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

Evergreen 35mm Film Canister Case

Posted on January 23, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

I used to shoot a lot of film. When I finally discovered the joy of Fujifilm cameras, with their incredible JPEG output, I practically stopped using analog cameras—not entirely, mind you, but almost. It was 25 years ago this upcoming fall (I cannot believe I’m that old…) that I began shooting film, yet I never once figured out a good storage system for my film canisters.

At the pinnacle of my analog adventures, you’d find a half-dozen or so unused film canisters in the refrigerator, another handful in the fridge exposed and waiting development, and another handful stuffed into various pockets of my camera bag, waiting for their chance in the camera. I wasn’t nearly prolific enough to have hundreds of rolls of film in the refrigerator or freezer, but I was a regular at my local lab, buying more film once every week or two. Despite all of the film coming and going for years, not once did I ever have a good system for it. My wife once complained about all of the film in the fridge because it was in the way of the food.

The good folks at Evergreen Cases, who happen to be big fans of Fujifilm cameras and Film Simulation Recipes, sent me a Seahorse X Waterproof 35mm Film Canister Case (with the Fuji X Weekly logo printed on it!). Where was this 25 years ago? If I had had two of these cases, my film could have been a lot more organized. I would have had one case for the refrigerator, where film-in-waiting (either to be exposed or developed) would be stored, and a case in my bag, for the film waiting for its turn in the camera. Now that I shoot a lot less film, one case is enough for me. Film is extremely expensive nowadays, so I’m glad that I use Fujifilm cameras for the vast majority of my photography.

This article doesn’t have much to do with the usual topics of this website, so—to bring it back home real quick—let me tell you a little about the two photographs above, which (admittedly) are nothing special. I used my Fujifilm X-T5 with the Kodak Portra 400 v2 Film Simulation Recipe to capture them. With Fujifilm cameras and recipes, I’m able to quickly and easily snap pictures that are ready to share—whether on social media or this website or with friends and family—the moment that they’re captured. No waiting for the lab. No sitting in front of a computer fiddling with files. Eliminating that second step is revolutionary—at least that’s what Ansel Adams said.

Elevating Your Street Photography with Fujifilm Film Simulation Recipes + 5 Recipes to Try Today!

Posted on January 19, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Friendly Wave* – Carlsbad, CA – Fujifilm X100V – “Kodachrome 64”

Street photography is a unique and challenging form of photography that requires a keen eye for detail, a sense of timing, and a deep understanding of light and composition. One of the best ways to elevate your street photography is by using Film Simulation Recipes, such as Kodachrome 64, on your Fujifilm camera. These recipes can help you quickly and easily achieve a specific look and feel in your photographs that can be more difficult to replicate with other techniques.

One of the key benefits of using Film Simulation Recipes is that they allow you to emulate the look and feel of traditional film stocks. The Kodachrome 64 recipe, for example, is known for its warm, saturated colors and high contrast, which can add a sense of nostalgia and emotional depth to your street images. By using this recipe, you can give your photos a vintage look that is both timeless and evocative.

*SS At 35th* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – “Kodachrome 64”

Another benefit of using recipes on your Fujifilm camera is that they can help you achieve a more consistent aesthetic across your photos. This is especially important for street photographers who often work in rapidly changing light conditions. Using just one recipe over a series of pictures can ensure that your photos have a consistent color palette and tonal range, which can help to tie your photos together and give them a cohesive feel. With that said, it’s important to consider how to use recipes in a way that is true to your personal vision and style. While it can be tempting to simply use (for example) Kodachrome 64 with every exposure, it’s important to remember that each recipe has its own unique characteristics and should be used in a way that complements the subject and mood.

Also, it’s important to remember that Film Simulation Recipes are not a substitute for good technique and composition. While they can help to add a sense of style and character to your photos, they are not a magic bullet that can fix poor technique or composition. In order to achieve the best results, it’s important to combine the use of these recipes with good technical skills and an understanding of light and storytelling.

*Going Out of Business* – Prescott, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “1970’s Summer“

Using recipes with your Fujifilm camera can be a powerful tool for street photographers who want to add a unique and personal touch to their work. These recipes can help you quickly and easily achieve a specific look and feel in your photos. By combining the use of these recipes with good technique and composition, you can take your street photography to the next level and create truly stunning and evocative images.

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
Fujifilm X100V in black: Amazon   B&H  Moment
Fujifilm X100V in silver: Amazon B&H  Moment
Fujifilm X-E4 in black: Amazon   B&H  Moment
Fujifilm X-E4 in silver:  Amazon B&H  Moment

Five Fujifilm Film Simulation Recipes to try for street photography today:

Kodachrome 64

Kodak Vision3 250D

Fujicolor Superia 800

Fujicolor Natura 1600

1970’s Summer

Find these Film Simulation Recipes and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

Help Fuji X Weekly

Nobody pays me to write the content found on fujixweekly.com. There’s a real cost to operating and maintaining this site, not to mention all the time that I pour into it. If you appreciated this article, please consider making a one-time gift contribution. Thank you!

$5.00

CineStill 400D v2 — A Fujifilm X-Trans IV & V Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 17, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Orange & Blue* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “CineStill 400D v2”

CineStill 400D is a cinematic color negative film meant for C41 processing that’s been around for less than a year. Unlike other cinematic films, the “D” doesn’t apparently stand for “Daylight” (even though it is Daylight balanced), but “Dynamic” because it has a large latitude for push processing. I’ve had a number of requests to create a Film Simulation Recipe that mimics the aesthetic of CineStill 400D. The problem I encountered is that this emulsion has a lot more variance than most films. All films can produce different looks depending on a host of factors, including how shot, developed, and scanned, but CineStill 400D seems especially so. As I understand, this film “scans flat” and some degree of post-processing is necessary, which likely accounts for some of that variance, as each photographer will manipulate the file to their own tastes to produce a final image.

No one recipe will ever come close to replicating all of the possible aesthetics from CineStill 400D, so instead I’m publishing a series of CineStill 400D Film Simulation Recipes, each a facsimile of a different look produced by the film. This recipe—CineStill 400D v2—has less contrast and leans more red/purple than the previous version. I think it is especially well suited for “golden hour” photography, but it is also a good option for overcast, shade, and midday sun. While it is certainly usable for many genres of photography, I particularly appreciate this one for urban and street photography.

This CineStill 400D v2 recipe was a joint effort between myself and Nestor Pool (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube). We went back-and-forth on the settings, trying to match some examples of the film. After a few attempts, we decided it was best to focus on the “right feel” for what we wanted than an exact replication of the emulsion, especially since there was so much variance. After more fine-tuning, this is the recipe we created together. Nestor recommends using a 5% Moment CineBloom filter with these settings, although I didn’t do that with these pictures because my filter doesn’t have the right thread size for the lenses I used. It was a real honor to work with Nestor Pool, and I want to give him a special “thank you” for his efforts on this!

*City of Grace Tower* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “CineStill 400D”

This CineStill 400D v2 Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with “newer” Fujifilm X-Trans IV cameras—X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II—and all X-Trans V models—as of this writing, X-T5, X-H2, and X-H2S. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30. Those with newer GFX models should be able to use it, too, but the rendering will be slightly different (try it anyway). Click here for CineStill 400D v1.

Film Simulation: Astia
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Weak
White Balance: Fluorescent 1, -2 Red & +4 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: -2
Shadow: 0
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 using this “CineStill 400D v2” Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

*Hiker, Birdwatcher & Fisherman* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Faded Trail Sign* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Masonic Walker* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Waiting in Yellow* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Alleyway Bike* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Green Land Rover* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Urban Palms* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Cross Palms* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Closed Church* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Building Blue* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Orange Reflection* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Building Within a Building* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Arrogant* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Sidewalk Dog* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Boarded Doors* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Cars & Closed Church* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Urban Skateboarder* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Spanish Baroque Tower* – Phoenix, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Night Beacon* – Phoenix, 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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver: Amazon B&H Moment

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

Help Fuji X Weekly

$5.00

CineStill 400D v1 — A Fujifilm X-Trans IV & V Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 17, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Illumination in the Dark Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “CineStill 400D v1”

No one recipe will ever come close to replicating all of the possible aesthetics from CineStill 400D, so instead I will publish a series of CineStill 400D Film Simulation Recipes, each a facsimile of a different look produced by the film. This recipe—CineStill 400D v1—has more contrast and leans more green/yellow than the other versions that will follow. I think it is especially well suited for sunny daylight conditions, but it is also a good option for dreary overcast days. While it is certainly usable for many genres of photography, I particularly appreciate this one for landscapes.

*Bougainvillea Warm* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “CineStill 400D v1”

This CineStill 400D v1 Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with “newer” Fujifilm X-Trans IV cameras—X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II—and all X-Trans V models—as of this writing, X-T5, X-H2, and X-H2S. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with the X-T3 and X-T30. Those with newer GFX models should be able to use it, too, but the rendering will be slightly different (try it anyway). Click here for the CineStill 400D v2 recipe.

Film Simulation: Astia
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue: Strong
White Balance: Fluorescent 1, -6 Red & -3 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: +3
Shadow: +1
Color: +2
Sharpness: -2
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: -4
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this “CineStill 400D v1” Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

*Red Pipe* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Dreary Bougainvillea* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Raindrop on Curled Leaf* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Fujifilm X100V on a Wet Table* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Autumn Sidewalk* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Suburban Bush* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Reflection on the Floor* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Dog Waste* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Stone Blooms* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Tree in the Cloudy Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Suburban Stop Sign* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Saguaro Storm* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Reflecting on Perspective* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Evening in the Desert* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Cactus Reflected* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Light & Clouds on Mountain Ridges* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Sunset Clouds* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Desert in Shadow & Light* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Last Sunlight Pouring Through a Pass* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Saguaro Fingers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Dark Saguaro* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Cactus in Golden Light* – Buckeye, 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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver: Amazon B&H Moment

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

Help Fuji X Weekly

$5.00

Kodak Ultramax 400 — A Film Simulation Recipe for the Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V)

Posted on January 17, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Spring is a Dream* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Kodak Ultramax 400”

This isn’t a new Film Simulation Recipe, but simply a tweak of the X-Trans IV Kodak Ultramax 400 recipe to make it compatible with X-Trans V cameras. Because blue in Classic Chrome is rendered deeper on X-Trans V than X-Trans IV, Color Chrome FX Blue needs to be set to Off instead of Weak. Otherwise, this recipe is identical to the X-Trans IV version. For those with an X-T3, X-T30, or X-Trans III camera, there’s a version for you, too.

Kodak Ultramax 400 is a consumer grade ISO 400 color negative film. Kodak has sold Ultramax 400 under many different names, beginning in 1987 with Kodacolor VR-G 400, rebranded Gold 400 one year later, called simply GC at one point, and finally, in 1997, Kodak settled on Ultramax 400. Kodak still sells Ultramax 400, although it’s not the same film as Kodacolor VR-G 400. This film has been tweaked and updated at least nine times over the years; however, the overall aesthetic is still substantially similar between all variations.

*Kissed by Light* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Kodak Ultramax 400”

This Kodak Ultramax 400 Film Simulation Recipe is intended for Fujifilm X-Trans V models, which (as of this writing) include the X-H2, X-H2S, and X-T5 cameras. It’s compatible with newer GFX models too, but will likely render slightly different on those cameras. This recipe is highly versatile—a great option for daylight, overcast, indoor, nighttime, landscapes, portraits, etc.—really, it’s good most any type of photography.

Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: Auto, +1 Red & -5 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR-Auto
Highlight: +1
Shadow: +1
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
High ISO NR: -4
Clarity: +3
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +1 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this “Kodak Ultramax 400” Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5:

*Watching Firecrackers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Red, Fire & Blue* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Sparkler* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Dressed for the Holiday* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Rainy Day Window* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Happiness and Wondering* – Gilbert, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Wet Bougainvillea* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Sunny Day Bougainvillea* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Lakeside Saguaro* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Cactus Bird* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Cactus on a Hill* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Rocks Among Clouds* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Victory Mountain* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Desert Ridge with Lifting Clouds* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Blue Sky Moon* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5

*Dusk Sky* – Buckeye, 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
Fujifilm X-T5 in silver: Amazon B&H Moment

Find this Film Simulation Recipe and over 250 more on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

Help Fuji X Weekly

$5.00

Vintage Bronze — Fujifilm X-T5 (X-Trans V) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on January 13, 2023 by Ritchie Roesch

*Autumn Rainbow* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Vintage Bronze”

This Vintage Bronze Film Simulation Recipe was an accident. It came about when Fuji X Weekly reader Dan Allen was first trying Anders Lindborg‘s Ilford FP4 Plus 125 recipe, and he accidentally selected the Eterna Bleach Bypass film sim instead of Monochrome. The results were pretty interesting, with a vintage alternative-process aesthetic—which I happened to really like—so I decided to make it an official recipe.

The Eterna Bleach Bypass film simulation is intended to replicate the look of motion picture film that has had the bleach step reduced or skipped. With this Vintage Bronze Film Simulation Recipe, there are some similarities to that (Michael Radford’s 1984 comes to mind), but it also reminds me a little of Kodak ColorPlus film cross-processed in E6 chemistry. Obviously, it’s not modeled after any specific film or process, so any similarities are simply happy accidents. I don’t think this recipe is necessarily a close facsimile to bleach-bypassed motion picture film or cross-processed ColorPlus, and not really an exact match to anything that I have seen, but it’s in the general neighborhood of those alternative-process aesthetics. I think an argument could be made that Kodacolor that’s faded a little is also somewhat similar.

*Paperflowers* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – “Vintage Bronze”

Because of the blue color rendering difference between X-Trans IV and V, this Vintage Warm Film Simulation Recipe is only compatible with (as of this writing) the Fujifilm X-T5, X-H2, and X-H2S. You can use it on those X-Trans IV cameras with Eterna Bleach Bypass, but the rendering will be slightly different (give it a try anyway). I assume that the GFX100S and GFX50S II can also use this recipe, but that it will render slightly different—I don’t have either of those cameras to test it to know for certain.

Film Simulation: Eterna Bleach Bypass
Grain Effect: Weak, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome FX Blue: Off
White Balance: Daylight, +6 Red & -8 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: 0
Shadow: -1
Color: 0
Sharpness: -2
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 Bronze” Film Simulation Recipe on my Fujifilm X-T5: