Overview

The RETOCOLOR Prism 400 35mm Color Negative Film is a versatile option for photographers seeking a reliable and affordable film. With a standard ISO 400 sensitivity, this color negative film is well-suited for various lighting conditions, making it an ideal choice for both indoor and outdoor shoots. Each roll offers 36 exposures, providing ample room for capturing moments. Additionally, it is fully compatible with the popular C41 processing, ensuring vibrant, high-quality results. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, this film delivers a dependable, professional-grade experience.

Features & Benefits

This 35mm film offers high-quality color reproduction, making it suitable for a wide range of photography applications. The ISO 400 sensitivity ensures solid performance in different lighting, while the DX-coding feature enables automatic camera settings for ease of use. Whether you're shooting portraits, landscapes, or street photography, this ISO 400 film provides reliable results. Its versatility is enhanced by its compatibility with C41 processing, making it a great option for photographers seeking both convenience and quality. With 36 exposures per roll, it offers a good balance of value and performance.

Best For

This color negative film is a perfect match for film photography enthusiasts who are looking for an affordable yet high-quality option. It caters to a wide range of users, from those just starting with film to seasoned photographers in need of a versatile film. If you’re someone who wants a reliable alternative to more expensive brands without compromising on color vibrancy, this product will meet your needs. It's also a great choice for casual photographers looking to capture moments in both indoor and outdoor settings, providing consistent, vivid results.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the consistent results and vibrant colors this film provides, particularly when used for everyday photography. Many note that it is suitable for both beginners and advanced photographers, offering a user-friendly experience without sacrificing image quality. However, some photographers have mentioned that the processing time can feel a bit longer than expected compared to other films. Despite this minor drawback, the overall feedback is positive, with most users highlighting its excellent value for money and the enjoyable, creative experience it provides.

Pros

  • This color negative film delivers consistent and vibrant colors across different lighting conditions.
  • The ISO 400 sensitivity offers a versatile range for both indoor and outdoor shooting.
  • With 36 exposures per roll, it provides a good balance between cost and photo output.
  • Ideal for both beginner and experienced photographers due to its reliable and forgiving nature.
  • DX-coding allows for easy automatic camera settings, making it user-friendly for new photographers.
  • It offers an affordable alternative to more expensive 35mm films without compromising quality.

Cons

  • Some users reported that the processing time is longer than expected, which may be inconvenient for quick shoots.
  • It may not provide the same level of precision and control as higher-end films, especially in challenging lighting.
  • Advanced photographers may find this film lacks the depth and color accuracy of premium options.
  • The film may not be ideal for very low-light environments, where other films might perform better.
  • A few users mentioned occasional inconsistencies in exposure, particularly in high-contrast settings.
  • Not as durable as more premium film types, making it less suitable for rugged, long-term use in extreme conditions.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide from various languages and platforms, the ratings for the RETOCOLOR Prism 400 35mm Color Negative Film reflect a balance of both positive feedback and common areas of improvement. Spam, bot-generated, and exaggerated reviews were excluded, ensuring only authentic, high-quality feedback was considered. This thorough analysis highlights the product's strengths in certain areas while also acknowledging user-reported pain points.

Color Reproduction
91%
Many users praise this film for its exceptional color reproduction, even in challenging lighting conditions. The colors are vibrant and true to life, making it a reliable choice for both casual and more serious photographers. This makes it perfect for outdoor or portrait photography where color accuracy is key.
However, a few users noted that the color saturation can sometimes be inconsistent across different rolls. Some also mentioned that in certain lighting conditions, the colors may appear a little too warm or cool, depending on the scene.
Value for Money
92%
This ISO 400 film is widely appreciated for its excellent value. It offers a great balance of price and performance, making it an attractive choice for photographers looking for a high-quality film without the high-end cost. Its affordability has earned praise from both beginners and seasoned users alike.
Some users felt that while it offers good value, it isn't quite as premium as other higher-end films. A few buyers suggested that it might not perform as well in extremely low-light conditions compared to more expensive options.
Ease of Use
88%
This 35mm film is lauded for its ease of use, especially for beginners. Its compatibility with automatic cameras and DX coding allows users to focus on their photography without worrying about settings. The 36 exposures per roll also provide enough versatility for standard photographic needs.
However, a few users pointed out that while it's easy to use, the film can be less forgiving in terms of exposure tolerance compared to other films, especially for more advanced photographers who prefer fine-tuning their settings.
Processing Compatibility
85%
The film's compatibility with C41 processing makes it a convenient option for photographers who already have access to this standard processing method. This broad compatibility ensures that users don’t face difficulties when developing their images, whether in a lab or using DIY kits.
A handful of users expressed frustration with the slightly longer processing times, particularly when compared to faster processing films. Some noted that the time required for development can be a downside when working with a high volume of rolls.
Exposure Consistency
87%
The consistency of exposures across rolls has been generally praised by users. Most photographers found that the film performs reliably in different lighting conditions, ensuring that the results are predictable and of decent quality every time.
Nevertheless, a small number of reviewers experienced some inconsistencies, particularly with light or dark areas of images. Some users reported that certain photos came out underexposed or overexposed, even when using the same settings.
Suitability for Beginners
89%
This film is a top choice for beginners, as it offers a great combination of ease of use and high-quality results. Many first-time film users have appreciated its straightforward features, including automatic camera settings and its ability to deliver vibrant colors without a steep learning curve.
A few beginners mentioned that they found the film's exposure tolerance a bit challenging at times, especially when trying to achieve specific artistic effects. Some also felt that more advanced users might find the film a bit too basic for their needs.
Durability of Prints
84%
The durability of prints from this film is generally satisfactory, with many users noting that the colors and detail remain intact over time. It's a solid choice for capturing memories that will last in physical form, especially for casual photography.
However, some users reported that prints could sometimes fade or lose sharpness over long periods, particularly if exposed to direct sunlight or moisture. A few reviewers recommended proper storage to avoid this issue.
Speed of Development
70%
30%
For those who are patient, the development process works fine. Users who aren’t in a rush have found that this film's processing times are manageable, especially when using professional services.
On the downside, many users found the development speed to be slower than expected, especially when compared to some competitors. This can be frustrating for those who want quicker results, particularly when shooting on multiple rolls.
Packaging
82%
18%
The film packaging is functional and easy to handle, with clear labeling to indicate exposure and film type. It is compact and fits neatly into camera bags for convenient on-the-go use.
Some users felt that the packaging could be more protective, as a few noted that the film rolls arrived slightly damaged due to insufficient packaging during shipping. A more secure design could prevent this issue.
Camera Compatibility
86%
This 35mm film is compatible with a wide range of cameras, from manual to automatic. Its DX coding ensures seamless integration with most modern cameras, making it a great choice for users with different camera setups.
However, a small group of users found that the film did not work well with certain older cameras. While the DX coding is generally helpful, some vintage cameras didn’t recognize the film properly, leading to inconsistent results.
Color Saturation
90%
The color saturation of this film is highly praised, especially for outdoor and natural light photography. The colors pop without feeling overly saturated, providing a balanced yet vivid result that many users love.
Nevertheless, a few users mentioned that the saturation can vary depending on exposure settings. While most found it to be perfect for their needs, some wished for a bit more control over color intensity in specific lighting situations.
Consistency Across Rolls
85%
Overall, users report a decent level of consistency when shooting multiple rolls of this film. For general photography, it provides reliable and even results, ensuring that every roll delivers solid, consistent quality.
However, a few users have noted that some rolls of film didn’t match the quality of others. This led to minor inconsistencies in exposures or colors between different rolls, which could be frustrating when trying to maintain uniform results across a batch.

Suitable for:

The RETOCOLOR Prism 400 35mm Color Negative Film is ideal for both beginner and intermediate photographers looking for an affordable yet reliable film for general photography. Its ISO 400 sensitivity and compatibility with C41 processing make it an excellent choice for users shooting in a variety of lighting conditions, including outdoor and indoor environments. Its automatic camera settings, enabled by the DX-coding, simplify the process for those new to film photography. Additionally, this film is well-suited for casual shooters who want vibrant colors without the complexity of higher-end options, making it a go-to for hobbyists or students on a budget.

Not suitable for:

This film may not be the best choice for advanced photographers who require highly specialized or premium color reproduction. Some users noted that its performance can be less consistent compared to higher-end films, especially in terms of exposure tolerance and saturation control. Additionally, professionals or those shooting in extremely low-light conditions might find this film less versatile. While it’s suitable for general photography, those seeking precise control over every aspect of their exposure and color quality may prefer more advanced options. Furthermore, the slightly longer processing time could be inconvenient for those looking for faster turnaround on their images.

Specifications

  • Film Type: Color negative film suitable for general photography.
  • ISO: ISO 400 sensitivity, providing versatility in various lighting conditions.
  • Exposures per Roll: Each roll contains 36 exposures, ideal for standard photography needs.
  • Processing: Compatible with C41 processing, a standard for color negative films.
  • Film Format: 35mm film format, compatible with most 35mm cameras.
  • DX-Coding: DX-coding feature enables automatic camera settings for exposure.
  • Color Quality: Provides vibrant, high-quality color reproduction in various lighting.
  • Grain Structure: Fine grain that enhances the sharpness and quality of the images.
  • Recommended Use: Ideal for casual outdoor and indoor shooting, suitable for both beginners and experienced photographers.
  • Weight: Weighs 1.06 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to handle.
  • Dimensions: Dimensions are 2.4 x 1.54 x 1.5 inches, compact for storage and portability.
  • Light Sensitivity: ISO 400 allows for excellent performance in moderate lighting conditions.
  • Development Time: Typical development time is standard for C41 films, though some users report slight delays.
  • User Level: A versatile film suitable for both novice photographers and advanced users.
  • Compatibility: Works well with a wide range of manual and automatic 35mm cameras.
  • Application: Great for capturing natural colors in everyday moments and casual photo sessions.

FAQ

This film is ideal for general-purpose photography, offering high-quality color reproduction and suitable for a variety of lighting conditions. It is often used for casual and outdoor shooting, capturing vibrant colors with excellent detail in both bright and low-light environments.

Each roll of this color negative film contains 36 exposures, which is standard for most 35mm films, making it a convenient choice for casual photographers and enthusiasts alike.

The RETOCOLOR Prism 400 film has an ISO of 400, which provides a good balance of sensitivity to light. This makes it versatile for various shooting conditions, such as daylight, low light, and indoor settings. It’s ideal for those who need reliable exposure without the hassle of switching film types.

Yes, this film is compatible with any camera that supports 35mm format. It’s designed to work well with both automatic and manual cameras, making it a flexible choice for users with various camera types.

Yes, this film is compatible with C41 processing, which is a standard for color negative films. This makes it easy to develop the film at most photo labs that offer C41 processing, ensuring vibrant colors and reliable results.

This film performs well in a wide range of lighting conditions, from bright daylight to low-light indoor environments. Its ISO 400 rating makes it versatile, capturing vibrant colors and fine details in both outdoor and indoor settings.

Yes, users have praised this film for its high-quality color reproduction, with vibrant, accurate colors and fine grain structure. It is particularly well-regarded for casual photography and capturing natural, lifelike images.

This film is an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced photographers. Its user-friendly DX-coding allows automatic camera settings, making it ideal for beginners, while its reliable performance and vibrant color reproduction appeal to more experienced photographers as well.

Some users have mentioned that the processing time for this film can be a bit longer than expected. If you’re in a hurry, it’s a good idea to check with your lab about their processing times in advance or consider using a local lab with faster turnaround.

Yes, this ISO 400 film provides a high-quality, affordable alternative to more expensive 35mm films. It delivers reliable performance without breaking the bank, making it a great option for everyday use or when you need to shoot a lot without worrying about cost.