May 2025 — Film of the Month
Kodak Ultramax 400 is a beloved color negative film known for its bold tones, reliability, and everyday versatility. It’s a favorite among beginners and casual shooters, yet still delivers solid results that seasoned film photographers can appreciate. With its vivid colors and forgiving nature, Ultramax 400 is an excellent choice for capturing life’s spontaneous moments; whether you’re traveling, hanging with friends, or just documenting the everyday.
Overview of Kodak Ultramax 400
Kodak Ultramax 400 is a daylight-balanced, ISO 400 color negative film. Designed with convenience and versatility in mind, it’s ideal for a wide range of shooting scenarios; from bright sunny days to overcast afternoons. It features a slightly punchier color palette than more neutral films like Portra, giving photos a nostalgic warmth and vibrancy that feels instantly classic.
Key Features of Kodak Ultramax 400
ISO 400 Speed: Great for flexible shooting across various lighting conditions, from sunny outdoors to indoor snapshots.
Vivid Colors: Rich, saturated hues with warm skin tones and strong contrast for a classic, vibrant look.
Forgiving Exposure Latitude: Offers room for minor exposure mistakes, making it user-friendly for those new to film.
Noticeable Grain Structure: A bit grainier than Portra, but adds to its character and retro aesthetic.
C-41 Processing: Easily developed at most film labs (like Perfect Image), making it convenient and accessible.
Why Choose Kodak Ultramax 400?
Kodak Ultramax 400 is an affordable, reliable film stock that punches above its price point. It’s known for its vibrant color rendition and ease of use, making it perfect for spontaneous shooting, point-and-shoot cameras, and everyday moments. If you’re after a film that brings energy and warmth to your photos without needing perfect technique, Ultramax is an easy win.
Its higher contrast and saturated tones make it a popular choice for those who love bold, lively images with a hint of nostalgic charm. Whether you’re documenting a vacation, weekend adventure, or just snapping memories with friends, Ultramax delivers a distinctly filmic feel that digital can’t replicate.
Ideal Uses for Kodak Ultramax 400
Everyday Photography: Great for casual shooting, family moments, and daily life documentation.
Travel and Adventure: Reliable for road trips, holidays, and spontaneous exploration.
Street Photography: Its vibrant tones and high contrast help subjects pop, especially in urban settings.
Outdoor Events: Perfect for festivals, markets, and sunny-day activities with friends.
Tips for Shooting with Kodak Ultramax 400
Overexpose Slightly: Overexposing this film can soften shadows and bring out even richer colors.
Lean into the Grain: Embrace the texture, especially when shooting in low light or scanning at high resolutions.
Watch Your Highlights: Ultramax has less latitude than Portra, so try not to overblow the brightest parts of your frame. Colors may become muddied.
Use in Natural Light: While it can handle indoor shots, it shines in daylight, especially during golden hour.
Process at a Quality Lab: Labs like Perfect Image will bring out the best in Ultramax’s color profile and tonal range.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fun, vibrant film to keep in your camera at all times, Kodak Ultramax 400 is an excellent go-to. It’s reliable, nostalgic, and ready for whatever you throw its way.