Is Color 35mm Film Still Being Made?

Color 35mm film is not only still being made, but it's also thriving in the analog photography community! Despite digital photography taking over the mainstream, the resurgence of interest in analog processes has given new life to this traditional medium. Let's explore the current landscape of color 35mm film and some of its alternatives.

Current Manufacturers and Formats

As of August 2023, several reputable film manufacturers continue to produce color 35mm film. Kodak, Fujifilm, and Cinestill are among the brands that still cater to the demand for this format. Unlike the APS format, all other film types are still being manufactured today, making color 35mm a vibrant part of the photography world.

These films are available in various ISO sensitivities and formats, including color negative and color reversal films. Some of the well-known brands and types include:

Kodak: A stalwart in the film industry, offering a range of color films that satisfy the needs of both beginners and seasoned photographers. Fujifilm: Renowned for their vibrant and highly responsive films, Fujifilm continues to innovate and cater to enthusiasts. Cinestill: Known for their unique and high-quality films, Cinestill offers special editions and alternatives that cater to specific photography needs.

Additionally, some brands offer special films such as Psychedelic Blues Double Film and Lomography Revolog, which can add a unique touch to your photography projects.

Optimized for Scanning

The resurgence in analog photography has led many manufacturers to optimize their films for scanning, enhancing the hybrid film-digital workflow. This approach allows photographers to capture the richness of traditional film and enjoy the convenience of digital printing. Films like C-41 and E-6 are designed specifically for scanning and can produce excellent results when processed and scanned properly.

Other Film Formats

In addition to 35mm, color film is also available in other formats such as 120, 4x5, and 8x10. These formats are favored by medium format and large format photographers who want to capture stunning images with a level of detail and quality unmatched by digital sensors.

The top-tier manufacturers, Kodak and Fujifilm, offer C-41 film for color negatives and prints, as well as E-6 film for slide and transparency production. Both these films can be scanned and printed using various methods, from commercial labs to home inkjet printers.

Discontinued Formats and Special Cases

While a wide variety of films are still available, there are a few special cases worth noting. For instance, the K-14 process, used for Kodachrome, is no longer commercially available. Kodachrome required a complex processing method that added dyes to the film during processing, making it a unique and beloved format. The last lab capable of processing Kodachrome, Dwayne's Photo in Kansas, closed its doors on December 30, 2010, marking the end of this iconic film.

Conclusion

The world of color 35mm film is alive and well, thanks to the enduring passion of photographers and the continued support of manufacturers. Whether you're a traditionalist sticking to the formats that have stood the test of time or someone exploring the offering of newer and innovative films, there's a wealth of options available to capture your unique vision.

Whether your preference is for vibrant slide films or the rich tones of black and white transparencies, the world of analog photography remains a vibrant and meaningful pursuit. Dive into the nostalgia and quality of traditional film photography and see what it can do for your artistic expression.