Best 400 ASA slide film?

External Since: Nov 08, 2003 Posts: 4

I was wondering if I could get a few opinions on which 400 ASA slide
film most closely fits the following criteria.

1. Good colour range and balance, particularly on the warm end. The
faster films I have tried so far seem to tend toward blue or lack of
overall colour intensity, even outdoors.

2. Maximum possible exposure latitude.

I can handle a little graininess.

As the film will be travelling with me, stability of emulsion is
another contributing factor.

Thanks,

Bob Martin

External Since: Jun 04, 2004 Posts: 1156

Bob Martin wrote:

> I was wondering if I could get a few opinions on which 400 ASA slide
> film most closely fits the following criteria.

I have an occasional need to shoot near that ISO, just to keep shutter
speeds within reason. After carefully evaluating and using many films in
that range, and pushing a few films to that range, I have determined
that pushing gives better results. However, if your lab does not offer
that service, stick to Fuji Provia 400F, and add an 81A filter.

>
>
> 1. Good colour range and balance, particularly on the warm end. The
> faster films I have tried so far seem to tend toward blue or lack of
> overall colour intensity, even outdoors.

Kodak E200 pushed one or two stops. Though not an ISO 400 film, the
results are very good at 320 and 640 ISO.

Kodak P1600 can also be used at 400 ISO. While it is warmer, it is also
more contrasty, and grainier.

The older Fujichrome MS100/1000 used at 400 ISO gave better results.
This film is largely discontinued, though you might find some rolls
still in date. Slightly cool colour range.

>
>
> 2. Maximum possible exposure latitude.

I have yet to find any transparency film that gives the best results
without being within 1/3 stop of accurate exposure. However, for very
long exposures, or under very low light conditions, almost anything
caught on the film could be very interesting and usable, even if another
1/2 stop would have been better. It depends more upon your lighting and
gear accuracy.

>
>
> I can handle a little graininess.

Fuji Provia 400F, but add an 81A for some warmth. Kodak Ektachrome 400X
is warmer, but the grain makes this look like colour TriX.

>
>
> As the film will be travelling with me, stability of emulsion is
> another contributing factor.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Bob Martin

Travel issues would likely count out the Kodak P1600. Anyway, it is
really expensive compared to other choices.

Only a few choices, but if you can try some E200, pushed one or two
stops, prior to your trip, you might find it to your liking. Whatever
you choose, enjoy your travels.

Ciao!

Gordon Moat
Alliance Graphique Studio
<http://www.allgstudio.com>