February 2026 — Film of the Month
Kodak Tri-X 400 is one of the most iconic black and white films of all time. Known for its gritty contrast, distinctive grain, and unmatched versatility, it has been a favorite of photojournalists, artists, and street photographers for decades. If you’re looking for a film with character, history, and the ability to handle just about any lighting situation, Tri-X 400 is the real deal.
Overview of Kodak Tri-X 400
Kodak Tri-X 400 is a traditional black and white film with an ISO of 400. First introduced in the 1950s, it quickly became the standard for documentary photography and photojournalism. Its look is instantly recognizable with bold contrast, beautiful midtones, and a textured grain that gives every image a sense of depth and drama.
This film is designed for those who love the raw, emotional edge of black and white photography. It responds beautifully to different developers and darkroom techniques, making it a favorite for photographers who enjoy full creative control.
Key Features of Kodak Tri-X 400
ISO 400 Speed: Flexible enough for daylight, overcast skies, and indoor shooting with available light
Bold Contrast: Deep blacks and crisp whites with strong separation across the tonal range
Classic Grain Structure: Noticeable but beautiful grain that adds mood and texture
Wide Exposure Latitude: Can be pushed to ISO 800, 1600, or even 3200 with dramatic results
Why Choose Kodak Tri-X 400
Tri-X is a film with a legacy. It has been used to document everything from wars and protests to jazz clubs and quiet city streets. Its look is unmistakable with punchy contrast and bold grain that gives every frame a sense of energy and realism.
Unlike chromogenic black and white films like Ilford XP2, Tri-X offers more control in the darkroom and greater flexibility when pushing or pulling. It’s perfect for photographers who want to experiment, develop at home, or simply fall in love with the timeless look of true black and white.
Ideal Uses for Kodak Tri-X 400
Street Photography: Handles unpredictable lighting and adds drama to everyday moments
Documentary and Journalism: Classic look and feel with reliable performance
Portraiture: Bold contrast adds emotion and depth, especially in natural light
Low-Light and Push Processing: Push to higher ISOs for night scenes, concerts, or moody interiors
Darkroom Printing: Great tonal range and development flexibility make it ideal for printing your own work
Tips for Shooting with Kodak Tri-X 400
Try Pushing It: Tri-X is famous for its ability to be pushed to ISO 800 or beyond with character and contrast
Meter for the Shadows: Especially when pushing, this helps retain important detail
Use Natural Light: Window light, overcast skies, or golden hour all bring out the film’s moodiness
Develop at a B&W Lab: Traditional processing unlocks the full potential of the film’s grain and tone
Scan for Texture: Embrace the grain in high-resolution scans for a powerful, cinematic look
Kodak Tri-X 400 is black and white film at its most iconic. Whether you’re documenting the streets, making art, or learning to shoot and develop your own rolls, Tri-X delivers timeless results that never go out of style.