Provia film simulation | FUJI X WEEKLY

I Was Never Meant to Like the Provia Film Simulation + Other Fun Film Sim Facts

*Oak Autumn* – Pine, AZ – Fujifilm X-E4 – Provia film sim – “KodaNeg VC” recipe

I’ve never really cared for Fujifilm’s Provia film simulation. I mean, it’s alright, but I like most of the other options better, and I wondered why they made it the “standard” film simulation. It doesn’t much resemble real Provia film—why even call it Provia?—yet it is front-and-center on all Fujifilm models.

I Recently stumbled across a fascinating article that helped me better understand why I don’t like Provia, and why the other film sims look the way they do. Exibartstreet.com translated and summarized an interview of two Fujifilm managers who discussed at length the different film simulations found on Fujifilm cameras (the original interview articles can be found here and here, and is two years old). I now have a little better understanding of Fujifilm’s philosophy behind the creation of their profiles.

*Truck Stop Cross Process* – Bowie, TX – Fujifilm X100F – Provia film sim – “Cross Process” recipe

Specifically to Provia, I discovered that I was never supposed to like it. It wasn’t designed for me. “When it comes to Provia,” one of the Fujifilm managers stated, “photographers that started with film find it hard, but photographers that only shoot digitally find it just right.” Well, I started with film; I don’t know if I’d describe it as “hard” but it is far from “just right” for me personally. “Provia aims at the greatest common denominator that makes you feel ‘beautiful’ at a glance.” In other words, they weren’t trying to mimic any emulsions, but create a profile that looks nice to those who have only ever shot with digital cameras. “In my personal opinion, I would like to change the name ‘film simulation,'” the Fujifilm manager said. “Film simulation is not film imitation.”

Diving into the interview, we discover that Velvia was, in fact, modeled after the film of the same name, but digital sensor and processor limitations have made it difficult to reproduce the film’s aesthetic; however, beginning with X-Trans III, Fujifilm has been able to get closer. Enabling Color Chrome Effect allows you to achieve the appropriate color depth.

*Wind from the West* – Hammond, OR – Fujifilm X-E4 – Astia film sim – “CineStill 50D” recipe

The Astia film simulation looks so much different than real Astia film. “We often receive comments that ‘reproducibility is different from Astia of silver salt,'” the manager explained. “The reason for this is that ‘the image quality design is not aimed at silver salt Astia.’ You may wonder what it means to bear the name of Astia even though it is different, but it is not completely unrelated. In fact, both film and digital are aiming at the same place. In other words, the film simulation ‘Astia’ was developed to bring it closer to the ‘ideal Astia’ that the development team aimed for when developing the silver salt film Astia.” Put more simply, the film simulation is the aesthetic that Fujifilm would have produced with the film if they could have.

Classic Chrome was modeled after an unmentioned slide film… they can’t say Kodak.

*Pilot* – Cordes Lakes, AZ – Fujifilm X-T5 – Classic Chrome film sim – “Kodachrome 64” recipe

PRO Neg. Std and PRO Neg. Hi were not modeled after any specific emulsions, but are for faithful color reproduction. “The main difference is the tone curve. PRO Neg. Hi is adjusted to tighten the shadows and tighten the highlights. On the other hand, the color design is the same.”

The Eterna film simulation was modeled after Eterna motion picture film. Regarding Eterna Bleach Bypass, “This setting is equivalent to ‘half of the silver remaining’ on film….”

*Coastal Blooms* – San Simeon, CA – Fujifilm X-E4 – Classic Negative film sim – “Pacific Blues” recipe

“Classic Negative is a very special kind of film simulation, designed so that the appearance of colors changes depending on the brightness. Therefore, I make adjustments so that dark tones are cyan, and bright tones are magenta. Classic Negative… was originally ‘Superia.'” It’s clear that this film simulation was carefully crafted to closely mimic Superia film. “To tell you the truth, I feel that Classic Negative was a little too bold.” I think Fujifilm should consider going “too bold” more often!

There’s a heck-of-a-lot more said in the interview that’s quite fascinating. I think Fujifilm doesn’t want its users to interpret “film simulation” as “film imitation” because not all of their film sims are intended to mimic film. Some are, and some are not. But, even the ones that are not, the digital side teamed up with the film side to assist in designing all of the film simulations—including Provia/Std—and I think their careful attention to detail and vast film experience translates into profiles that can be made to resemble film, even if the film sim was never intended to. Still, the film simulations that are, in fact, modeled after film are my favorites.

Fujifilm X70 (X-Trans II) Film Simulation Recipe: Fujichrome Slide

Posted on September 9 by Ritchie Roesch

*Dying Garden Rose* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X70 – “Fujichrome Slide”

Sometimes you can get interesting results when you change the film simulation that a Film Simulation Recipe calls for. In this case, the recipe was Monochrome Red, which calls for Monochrome+R, and the film simulation that I used instead was Provia. I actually don’t like the Provia film simulation as much as most of the others, I think because it doesn’t much resemble Provia film; however, I do like how this recipe renders images, so perhaps I’ve been a little too critical of the “standard” film simulation.

This recipe doesn’t match Fujichrome Provia 100F film, but it is much closer to the film than just using default Provia. If you are looking for an X-Trans II recipe that’s in the neighborhood of Fujichrome Provia 100F, and don’t mind that it’s not exactly right, this one’s for you! It has a good deal of contrast (but not too much), and has vibrant colors (but not too vibrant)—definitely a (non-Velvia) Fujifilm color reversal film vibe. If you like this recipe, you should also consider trying Provia Negative.

*Fisherboy* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70 – “Fujichrome Slide”

This “Fujichrome Slide” Film Simulation Recipe is compatible with all X-Trans II cameras. Those with X-Trans I or Bayer models can use it, too; however, it will render slightly differently—I tried it on my X-Pro1 and the results were good; similar but not identical to my X70.

Provia/Std
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: -1 (Medium-Soft)
Shadow: +2 (Hard)
Color: +2 (High)
Sharpness: +1 (Medium-Hard)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Fluorescent 1, -4 Red & +7 Blue
ISO: Auto up to ISO 3200
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +1 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured on my Fujifilm X70 using this “Fujichrome Slide” Film Simulation Recipe:

*Beyond Orange* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Three Beams & Palm* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Palm Bush* – Goodyear, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Shriveling Bloom* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Trumpet Vine* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*A Yellow Trumpet Blossom* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Moth Wall* – Buckeye, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Rose Palm Evening* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Fisher Jon* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Tree & Home Reflection* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Little Boat in the Little Lake* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70

*Suburban Lake Reflection* – Litchfield Park, AZ – Fujifilm X70

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

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Standard Provia vs Provia/Standard

Posted on February 19 by Ritchie Roesch

*Clearing Clouds Over Winter Ridge* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3 – “Standard Provia”

A couple days ago I published a new Film Simulation Recipe: Standard Provia. This recipe is the first in a new series, in which I attempt to customize each film simulation to optimize the aesthetic that Fujifilm intended—in other words, make a nice-looking recipe that is similar to yet better than the stock look of a film simulation. Provia is Fujifilm’s standard film simulation (that’s why they call it “Provia/Standard” and even abbreviate it “STD”), but it’s one of my least favorite. Sometimes, because I don’t get excited over it, I force myself to use Provia, hoping that it will improve my feelings about it.

The Provia film simulation doesn’t look like Provia film. In fact, it’s probably closer to Astia film, although it’s definitely not an exact match for that, either. There’s something that is “not right” about it to me, but I think it’s just my personal tastes. There are a lot of people who love the Provia film simulation and use it all of the time.

After I published my Standard Provia Film Simulation Recipe, I received feedback from several of you that I should have included a comparison with default Provia/Standard. So here it is! The Provia/Standard images have all of the parameters set to 0 or Off except for Noise Reduction, which is -4. Dynamic Range is DR200 and White Balance is Auto 0R & 0B. It’s basically factory Provia. These were all captured on a Fujifilm X-Pro3. Let’s take a look:

*Move the bar left to reveal the default Provia/Standard image, and move it right to reveal the “Standard Provia” recipe image.*

The most notable difference you might notice is that my recipe has less red, with a cooler/greener color cast that is more like typical of Fujicolor film. My recipe also has more contrast and saturation, and, in my opinion, looks better, as I find the default settings to be too flat. If you are looking for a “standard” recipe that utilizes Provia, I believe that my Standard Provia recipe is a good option.

What do you think? Do you like the default Provia/Standard settings better, or do you prefer my “Standard Provia” recipe? Let me know in the comments!

Fujifilm X-Pro3 (X-Trans IV) Film Simulation Recipe: Standard Provia

Posted on February 17 by Ritchie Roesch

This Film Simulation Recipe is the first in what will be a series, which will encompass several Fujifilm generations (not just X-Trans IV). I’m not exactly sure how many recipes will be in this series, but the intention is at least one for each film simulation offered by Fujifilm. This first recipe is compatible with X-Trans IV because Fujifilm sent me an X-Pro3 to try, and I have to return it soon, so I’m using it as much as practical so that I can write a review. The intention of this series is to customize each film simulation to optimization the aesthetic that Fujifilm intended. In other words, make a nice-looking recipe that is similar to yet better than the stock look of a film simulation. This first recipe, which I’ve titled simply Standard Provia, is my optimization of the Provia film simulation.

The Provia film simulation is not a facsimile of Provia slide film. I think Fujifilm just wanted to use the brandname for their “standard” colors, but there’s quite a divergence between the film simulation and the film. This recipe isn’t intended to mimic the film, but simply produce good results with the Provia film simulation (without modifying the overall aesthetic too much). The Provia film simulation is one of my least utilized, but I do believe this recipe makes good use of it.

*Backlit Ivy* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3 “Standard Provia”

Because this recipe uses Clarity and Color Chrome FX Blue, it is only compatible with the Fujifilm X-Pro3, X100V, X-T4, X-S10, X-E4, and X-T30 II cameras. If you have an X-T3 or X-T30, you could replace Clarity with a diffusion filter and ignore Color Chrome FX Blue and Grain size, and get similar results that will be just a little different.

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: +2
Shadow: +1
Color: +2
Noise Reduction: -4
Sharpening: 0
Clarity: -3
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
White Balance: Daylight, -3 Red & 0 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this “Standard Provia” film simulation recipe on a Fujifilm X-Pro3:

*Orange Traffic Barrier* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Vape On Main* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Small Table Decor* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Abandoned Ice Chest* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*End Post* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Hanging Around* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Blackberry Leaf in February* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Crossing With Falling Snow* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Cautious Dirt* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

*Winter Storm over Wasatch* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro3

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Fujifilm X-T1 (X-Trans II) Film Simulation Recipe: Winter Slide

Posted on December 13, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

*Winter Neighborhood at Sunset* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1 – “Winter Slide”

This recipe began with a weather forecast. It had been unusually dry and warm here in Utah, but cold temperatures and plenty of snow was on the way. At this time of year I get asked regularly which film simulation recipes are best for snow—there are plenty that will work well, but not many that are specifically made for it. A camera like the Fujifilm X-T1, which is weather-sealed, is great for these type of conditions, so I thought, with the forecasted wintry weather, I’d create a good-for-snow recipe for X-Trans II cameras that I could use on my X-T1. When the snow finally came, I’d be ready!

The initial inspiration for this recipe was Agfa Precisa CT 100 color slide film, which I read was one of the best film options for winter situations. I wasn’t having good luck recreating the aesthetic of it, but, in the process, I made some settings that I thought might be good for snow. So I failed at mimicking Agfa Precisa CT 100, but I succeeded at what I set out to do, which was a film simulation recipe that works well in snow. Interestingly, when I created the recipe, it wasn’t yet snowy, so I wasn’t completely sure how it would do. Luckily, it did every bit as well as I had hoped it would.

*Two Cold Horses* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1 – “Winter Slide”

The trick to snow photography is to overexpose (based on what the meter says) because the camera sees a lot of white and wants to make it grey. So if you follow the meter, you’ll get a lot of dark pictures. By increasing the exposure compensation, you’ll get brighter pictures—I found myself often using +1 exposure compensation. If you are using this recipe when it’s not wintry white, you won’t have to increase the exposure compensation quite as much, and +1/3 to +2/3 will likely be better. This film simulation recipe is compatible with all X-Trans II cameras.

Provia/STD
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: 0 (Standard)
Shadow: +2 (Hard)
Color: -2 (Low)
Sharpness: -1 (Medium-Soft)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: 5000K, -1 Red & -3 Blue
ISO: Auto up to ISO 3200
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +1 1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured on my Fujifilm X-T1 using this “Winter Slide” film simulation recipe:

*Ice Cold Red* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Winter Red Berries* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Snow on Branch* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Snow on Tree Trunk* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Winter Tree* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Winter Bush with Red Berries* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Snow on a Bush* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Winter Girl* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*White House in Snow* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Lamp with Bow* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Winter Blue Home* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*One Light in a Tree* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

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Fujifilm X-Trans I Film Simulation Recipe: Color Negative Film

Posted on August 2, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

*Pink Roses* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1 – “Color Negative Film”

This Fujifilm X-Trans I film simulation recipe was the first that I created after getting my nine-year-old X-Pro1 camera in the mail. It wasn’t intended to mimic the look of any particular film. I was trying to create a good-looking recipe with a white balance shift inspired by my Fujicolor 100 Industrial recipe. It has a wonderful print film aesthetic, perhaps Kodak-like, that looks especially nice in sunny conditions. I call this recipe “Color Negative Film” because of that generic color negative film quality.

If you are a Patron on the Fuji X Weekly App, you’ve had early access to this recipe since May. A different recipe has replaced it, so if you are a Patron, look for that new early-access recipe in the app! For those who are not Patrons, this recipe is now available to you. If you have a Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1, or X-M1, this recipe is compatible with your camera.

*Diesel Cash Price* – Park City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1 – “Color Negative Film”

If you have a Fujifilm Bayer camera, I invite you to try this recipe on your camera, although results will be a little different. Technically, X-Trans II cameras can use it, too, although it definitely won’t look the same—maybe you’ll like it, maybe you won’t. If you have an X-Trans I camera, this is a must-try recipe that many of you are sure to love!

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: +2 (High)
Shadow: +2 (High)
Color: -2 (Low)
Sharpness: -1 (Medium-Low)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: 3000K, +8 Red & -9 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 3200
Exposure Compensation: 0 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this “Color Negative Film” recipe:

*Rising Up* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Red Leaves of Summer* – Layton, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Backlit White Blossom* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Yellow Bench* – Layton, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Tiny Fruit* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Blackberry Forest* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Building Mountain Storm* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Dead Stump* – Farmington Bay, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Log Bridge* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Cone Closed* – Weber Canyon, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

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Fujifilm X-Trans II Film Simulation Recipe: Kodak Platinum 200

Posted on June 7, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

*Bicycle 88* – West Valley City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1 – “Kodak Platinum 200”

Fuji X Weekly reader Corey Steib (Instagram here and here) shared with me an X-Trans II recipe that he created called Kodak Platinum 200. Corey named it this because it reminds him of vibrant Kodak film captured with a Panaflex Platinum motion picture camera, and because the best results are found at or near ISO 200. This recipe is nothing like the Eterna film simulation, but it does have a slight cinematic feel to it nonetheless thanks to the Shadow setting. It looks really nice, with vibrant colors and soft shadows, and is a great all-purpose recipe. Thank you, Corey, for creating this and allowing me to share it!

I have the ISO in my camera set to Auto, with the upper limit set to ISO 3200. I’m happy with the results from my X-T1 all the way to ISO 3200, but the intention of this recipe is to keep the ISO lower when you can. In bright light, depending on the contrast in the scene, because of the DR-Auto setting, the camera might select ISO 200 or ISO 400, and the idea is to use this recipe at those ISOs when practical. As the available light decreases, it’s perfectly fine to increase the ISO, and I feel good going as high as ISO 3200 when necessary.

*Touch of Red* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1 – “Kodak Platinum 200”

This film simulation recipe is compatible with all Fujifilm X-Trans II cameras. You can use it on X-Trans I and Bayer sensor cameras, too, but the results will be a little different (feel free to try, though).

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR-Auto
Highlight: +1 (Medium-High)
Shadow: -2 (Low)
Color: +2 (High)
Sharpness: +1 (Medium-High)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Daylight/Fine, 0 Red & 0 Blue
ISO: Auto up to ISO 3200 (but… the lower the better)
Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured with my Fujifilm X-T1 using this “Kodak Platinum 200” film simulation recipe:

*Snack* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Yellow Rope* – West Valley City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Unicorn Jo* – West Valley City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Curved Trunk* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Log Bridge & 3 Trees* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Bridge & Stump* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Pine Needles* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Tree Canopy* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

*Plastic Plants* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

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Fujifilm X-Trans I (X-Pro1, X-E1 & X-M1) Film Simulation Recipe: Provia

Posted on May 31, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

*Cradle Tree Branch* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1 – “Provia”

This film simulation recipe reminds me of a filter that I used frequently on a photo editing app on my old Nokia Lumia 1020 phone (sorry, I don’t remember the app name, it’s been many years). It produces a nice vintage feel, with perhaps a cross-processed aesthetic. I especially like how it renders green and blue. Because it uses the Provia film simulation, I’ve named this recipe simply “Provia” even though it doesn’t look all that much like real Provia film. Cameras that are older than the Fujifilm X-Pro3 can’t save White Balance Shifts with each Custom Preset, so it’s helpful to have recipes that use different White Balance options. That’s how this recipe began, and why it uses the Incandescent White Balance option.

This “Provia” film simulation recipe has been a Patron early-access recipe on the Fuji X Weekly app since January, but now it’s available to everyone! There’s a new Patron early-access recipe for X-Trans I cameras on the app that replaced this one. This recipe is compatible with the Fujifilm X-Pro1, X-E1 or X-M1 camera. If you have a Bayer or X-Trans II camera, this recipe will still work, although it won’t look the same; however, I invite you to try it anyway.

*Green Tree & Blue Sky* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1 – “Provia”

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: -2 (Low)
Shadow: -1 (Medium-Low)
Color: +1 (Medium-High)
Sharpness: 0 (Normal)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Incandescent, +6 Red & -9 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 3200
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs captured using this “Provia” film simulation recipe:

*Sun over Country Horses* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Target* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Bricks in the Wall* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1 – Photo by Joy Roesch

Strollin’ Jo – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Green Canopy* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Bunch of Little Blooms* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*White Bloom in a Green Bush* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Park Path* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

*Looking up Through The Trees* – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm X-Pro1

Find this film simulation recipe on the Fuji X Weekly — Film Recipes App!

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Fujifilm GFX-50S Film Simulation Recipe: Provia 400

Posted on February 27, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

*Big Sky Over Yellow House* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S – “Provia 400”

This film simulation recipe was a failed attempt to create a certain look, but I liked the results anyway. It reminds me of Fujichrome Provia 400, but it isn’t intended to mimic that film, it just looks a little similar by chance. As Lefty Gomez said, “I’d rather be lucky than good.” This Provia 400 recipe was indeed a lucky discovery.

Provia 400 is a color reversal (slide) film that actually dates back to 1980. It was originally called Fujichrome 400 Professional D, and had a couple emulsion updates before Fujifilm renamed it Fujichrome Provia 400 in 1994, Fujichrome Provia 400F in 2000, and Provia 400X in 2006. With each emulsion change the aesthetic of the film evolved slightly, which isn’t uncommon. This recipe might be closest to the 400X version. Fujifilm discontinued ISO 400 Provia in 2013.

*Tiny Niagara* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S – “Provia 400”

This film simulation recipe is intended for GFX-50S and GFX-50R cameras. I assume that it will also work on the GFX100 and GFX100S, but I’m not certain of that. Additionally, it is compatible with X-Trans IV; I tried it on my Fujifilm X-T30 and it looked pretty close, only ever-so-slightly different. On newer X-Trans IV cameras, which have some different JPEG options, consider setting Grain size to Small, Color Chrome FX Blue to Weak, and Clarity to -2.

Provia/STD
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: +1
Shadow: +2
Color: +4
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Sharpening: -2
Noise Reduction: -4
Grain Effect: Strong
White Balance: Fluorescent 2, -2 Red & -2 Blue
ISO: Auto up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Sample photographs, all camera-made JPEGs, captured with a Fujifilm GFX-50S using this Provia 400 recipe:

*Reeds & Birds* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Three Wood Poles* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Cattails & Reeds* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Fallen Down* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Boat Ramps Are Built* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Muddy Shore* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Bridge Over Shallow Water* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Closed Red Door* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Red Can Topper* – Weber Canyon, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Tree & Cold River* – Weber Canyon, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Hastings Cutoff* – Weber Canyon, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

*Reflection on the Cold Wet Road* – Weber Canyon, UT – Fujifilm GFX-50S

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New X-Trans I Patron Early-Access Film Simulation Recipe on App!

Posted on January 20, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

There’s a new Fuji X Weekly Patron early-access film simulation recipe available now on the Fuji X Weekly app! If you are a Patron, you can use it today! This new recipe is for X-Trans I cameras (X-E1, X-Pro1 and X-M1), and it replaces the Classic Analog recipe, which was a Patron early-access recipe, but is now available to everyone. Yea!

Below are a few examples of this new recipe, which is simply called Provia, captured with a Fujifilm X-M1. Bricks in the Wall (below) was captured by my daughter, Joy, who I let use the camera.

Fujifilm X-M1 (X-Trans I) Film Simulation Recipe: Classic Analog

Posted on January 20, 2021 by Ritchie Roesch

*Sticks & Dry Leaves* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1 – “Classic Analog”

I wanted to create a Portra recipe for X-Trans I cameras, such as the Fujifilm X-M1. All of my Portra recipes are based on the Classic Chrome film simulation, but X-Trans I cameras don’t have Classic Chrome. I did create a recipe for mimicking Kodachrome without Classic Chrome, but that’s intended for X-Trans II cameras, and, while the results are similar, it doesn’t look exactly the same on X-Trans I. This recipe was my attempt at Portra without Classic Chrome, but it’s not quite Portra enough for me to name it Portra. It’s close but no cigar, but it does look nice nonetheless, and I like how it renders pictures on my X-M1.

This was a Patron early-access recipe on the Fuji X Weekly app. Fuji X Weekly Patrons have had the opportunity to use it since December 1st, but now it’s available to everyone! There’s a new Patron early-access recipe for X-Trans I on the app in its place. If you have the app, go check it out!

*E.T.* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1 – “Classic Analog”

This recipe also marks the first one that includes a photograph captured by my 11-year-old son, Jonathan. I let him use my X-M1, and I liked one of the pictures he made, which you’ll find further down this article, entitled Frozen Pond Scum. The Fujifilm X-M1 can be found for cheap, and would make a great “first real camera” for a kid. Maybe I’ll give him mine at some point in the future.

Provia/STD
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: -2
Shadow: -1
Color: -2
Sharpness: 0
Noise Reduction: -2
White Balance: Daylight/Fine, +1 Red & -6 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 3200
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs made using this Classic Analog film simulation recipe on a Fujifilm X-M1:

*Thin Ice* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Falling Water* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Autumn Overcast* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Night at the Lake* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Frozen Drain* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Frozen Pond Scum* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1 – Photo by Jonathan Roesch

*Irrigation Cover* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Quadruple U’s* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Improbable* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Evening Euonymus* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Blue Sky Reeds* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

*Yellow, Lamp* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-M1

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Fujifilm X-T200 (Bayer) Film Simulation Recipe: Analog Cool

Posted on September 22, 2020 by Ritchie Roesch

*Squash Leaves* – Sunset, UT – Fujifilm X-T200 – “Analog Cool”

This new film simulation recipe, which is for Fujifilm cameras with a Bayer sensor, isn’t meant to mimic any specific film. I wanted to create something with a cool color cast, perhaps similar to Tungsten film. Kind of the opposite of my Golden Negative recipe. I call it Analog Cool.

I can’t tell you how many requests I’ve had for recipes compatible with Fujifilm Bayer cameras, such as the X-T200, X-T100, X-A7, X-A5 and XF10, but it’s been a lot! I don’t have very many recipes for these cameras, partly because you cannot save custom presets like you can on X-Trans models. You more-or-less have to use one recipe for a period of time, and only switch occasionally. This recipe will work on X-Trans I & II cameras, but it won’t look exactly the same.

*Leaves & Thistle* – Fruit Heights, UT – Fujifilm X-T200 – “Analog Cool”

This “Analog Cool” film simulation recipe works well in warm light, because it balances with that lighting condition. I didn’t test it under artificial light or for night photography, but I imagine it would be good for those situations. In cool light conditions, it will produce a pronounced blue cast that is similar to using Tungsten film in daylight, which is something you can try for creative effect or avoid if you don’t like it. Overall this is a pretty good recipe that produces interesting results under the right conditions, and I think some of you are going to really appreciate it.

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlight: +1
Shadow: -1
Color: +2
Noise Reduction: -2
Sharpening: 0
White Balance: 4200K, -2 Red & -5 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: -1/3 to +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this “Analog Cool” film simulation recipe on a Fujifilm X-T200:

*Thistle Alone* – Fruit Heights, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Green Forest Leaves* – Fruit Heights, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Better Days Behind* – Fruit Heights, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Suburban Sunflowers* – Sunset, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Red Fruit in a Green Tree* – Fruit Heights, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Pear Tree* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Wasatch Ridge & Contrail* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Summer Garage* – Sunset, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

*Pillow on a Chair* – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T200

See also: Film Simulation Recipes

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Fujifilm XQ1 (X-Trans II) Film Simulation Recipe: Kodachrome Without Classic Chrome

Posted on August 2, 2020 by Ritchie Roesch

Red Greens – Kaysville, UT – Fujifilm XQ1 – “Kodachrome”

I’ve made a lot of Kodachrome film simulation recipes for Fujifilm cameras (click here, here, here, here, here and here), and they’re very popular. Kodachrome was an iconic slide film made by Kodak for many, many years, so it’s no surprise that people want to get that look out of their Fujifilm camera. All of my Kodachrome recipes use Classic Chrome because it has a Kodak-esque slide film aesthetic, but some cameras don’t have Classic Chrome, such as the Fujifilm XQ1. Yes, the XQ1 is an X-Trans II camera, and most X-Trans II cameras have Classic Chrome, but this one doesn’t, only Provia, Velvia, and Astia for color images.

I created this recipe by capturing an image on my X-T1 using my Kodachrome 64 recipe for that camera, and then as best as possible recreated the look not using Classic Chrome. While I tried Velvia and Astia, I ended up using Provia. It’s a surprisingly close match, although not exact. I think you’ll like this Kodachrome recipe if your camera doesn’t have Classic Chrome.

!!! Ride !!! – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1 – “Kodachrome”

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: +2 (Hard)
Shadow: +1 (Medium-Hard)
Color: -2 (Low)
Sharpness: 0 (Standard)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Daylight (Fujifilm calls it “Fine” for some reason), -1 Red & -4 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 1600
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 to +2/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs made using this “Kodachrome Without Classic Chrome” film simulation recipe on a Fujifilm XQ1:

Lights & Reflections – Kaysville, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Flag Poles – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Drive Thru Gas & Wash – Kaysville, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Flowers in a Pot on Concrete – Kaysville, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Horse Ranch – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Closed Umbrella, Threatening Clouds – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Drawing Jonathan – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Breakfast – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

See also: Film Simulation Recipes

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Fujifilm XQ1 (X-Trans II) Film Simulation Recipe: Cross Process

Posted on July 20, 2020 by Ritchie Roesch

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A Fuji X Weekly reader sent me his camera, a Fujifilm XQ1, so that I might create some film simulation recipes for it. For those who don’t know, the XQ1 is a premium compact-zoom that Fujifilm made six or seven years ago, and it has a 2/3″ 12-megapixel X-Trans II sensor. While the sensor is much smaller than APS-C, it has the same processor and software as other X-Trans II cameras, although it is missing some options (Classic Chrome, PRO Neg. Hi and PRO Neg. Std, for instance). I discovered that some of the X-Trans II recipes I’ve created, such as Ektachrome 100SW, Agfa Optima, Velvia and Monochrome, all work great on the XQ1. My intentions are to create some more recipes that will work on this camera, and, really, all X-Trans II cameras.

The first film simulation recipe that I created for the XQ1 (and, again, it’s compatible with all X-Trans II cameras) is Cross Process. I have a couple Cross Process recipes that I’ve created for newer camera models (here and here), but never for older models. This one was rather easy to make, and so that’s why I started with it. While I set the maximum ISO to 1600, if you are using an APS-C X-Trans II camera, I’d go as high as ISO 3200. Feel free to try this recipe on X-Trans I or Bayer cameras, if you have one of those, and see how it turns out.

Summer Evening Dream – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1 – “Cross Process”

Cross processing is a technique where you develop a film in chemicals intended for another film. For example, the most common cross process is to develop color transparencies, which require the E-6 process, using color negative film chemicals, which is known as C-41 process. For slide film, the photographs typically increase in contrast and grain and the colors shift dramatically. There are other types of cross processing, as well. I’ve done cross processing before, and the results can be fun. Different films will look different when they are cross processed. Overexposing or underexposing or even how the development is handled can effect how the image is rendered. The aesthetic can vary significantly, but usually you can spot a cross processed photograph when you see it.

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlight: +2 (Hard)
Shadow: +2 (Hard)
Color: +2 (High)
Sharpness: -1 (Medium-Soft)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Auto, -3 Red & -9 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 1600
Exposure Compensation: +1/3 (typically)

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs made using this Cross Process film simulation recipe on a Fujifilm XQ1:

SkyWest Sunset – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Eagle TT-12 – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

SkyWest Carts – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Ford Truck – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Ranger – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Warehouse Deliveries – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Stop! – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Cross Process Red Roses – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Yellow Stump – Salt Lake City, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Sand Toys Without Sand – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Spirit of Photography – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Blessed – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Message From Space – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

Green Leaves – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm XQ1

See also: Film Simulation Recipes

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Fujifilm X-T1 Agfa Optima (Provia) Film Simulation Recipe

Posted on March 22, 2020 by Ritchie Roesch

Reeds & Mountain – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1 “Agfa Optima”

The film simulation recipe in this article is my Agfa Optima recipe, which is compatible with X-Trans III & IV cameras, converted for use on my Fujifilm X-T1. While the X-T1 is an X-Trans II camera, you can also use this recipe on X-Trans I and Bayer sensor cameras. Agfa Optima is a color negative film that was around from the mid-1990’s to the mid-2000’s.

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR100
Highlight: -1 (Medium-Low)
Shadow: +1 (Medium-High)
Color: -2 (Low)
Sharpness: 0 (Medium)
Noise Reduction: -2 (Low)
White Balance: Daylight, -3 Red & +1 Blue
ISO: Auto, up to ISO 3200

Example photographs, all camera-made JPEGs using this Agfa Optima recipe on my Fujifilm X-T1:

Eggs in a Bowl – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Take a Picture Pronto – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Fruity Cereal – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Stealth Mode – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Suburban Alleyway – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Windows & Shadows – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Pine Tree & Sky – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Green & Fence – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Rural Metal Fence – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

Marshland Sky – Farmington, UT – Fujifilm X-T1

See also: Film Simulation Recipes

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Fujifilm Provia Film Simulation Settings – Or, My Agfa Optima 200 Recipe

Posted on February 14, 2019 by Ritchie Roesch

Colorful Chalk – South Weber, UT – Fujifilm X-T20 “Agfa Optima”

With the start of the new year I decided that I wanted to rethink my Fujifilm film simulation settings and make new recipes with each option. I wanted to start with Provia, not only because it’s the “standard” option on Fujifilm X cameras, but also because I’ve been asked many times to create a film simulation recipe that uses Provia as the base. I do have a film simulation recipe that uses Provia, but it’s definitely not for everyone. This one could actually be someone’s standard recipe on their camera.

I’ve never been a fan of the Provia film simulation on Fujifilm X cameras, partly because the film simulation looks very little like the film that it derives its name from. Curiously, Provia film actually more closely resembles the Astia film simulation and Astia film more closely resembles the Provia film simulation (although neither are close to being an exact match). I don’t think Fujifilm ever considered making the Provia film simulation resemble the film that it was named after or really any film, they just wanted to use the trademark name for their standard setting. The Provia film simulation is designed to give generally pleasing results to the masses. Some people love it, but I personally find it to be the least interesting of the color options available.

While I never intended to mimic the look of any specific film with this recipe, I think that it fairly closely resembles Agfa Optima 200. If you are looking for an Agfa Optima recipe, look no further! Agfa made many different films over the years. They were never as big as Kodak or Fujifilm, but they weren’t that far behind, either. Agfa Optima 200 was a color negative film that was introduced in 1996, replacing AgfaColor XRS 200, and was discontinued in 2005. I never used this film myself, but I have seen it in person and on the internet plenty of times, so I have a good idea of what it looks like. Even though I didn’t intend to recreate the look of a film with this recipe, the fact that it happens to resembles one is a very happy accident. Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than good.

Morning Egg Bowl – South Weber, UT – Fujifilm X-T20 “Agfa Optima”

I’ve found that this particular film simulation recipe looks best when using an ISO between 1600 and 3200. That’s not to say that you shouldn’t use a lower or higher ISO, because I certainly do, but for some reason that ISO range seems to produce the most pleasing result. I have flirted with the idea setting the ISO range to be between 1600 and 3200, but I have yet to do that. This recipe says to set ISO to Auto up to ISO 6400, but please don’t feel like you have to set it to that just because that’s what settings I typed out. As always, choose what works best for you and your photography.

Provia
Dynamic Range: DR100
Highlight: -2
Shadow: +2
Color: -2
Noise Reduction: -3
Sharpening: 0
Grain Effect: Weak
White Balance: Auto, -1 Red & -1 Blue
ISO: Auto up to ISO 6400
Exposure Compensation: +2/3 to +1 (typically)