Negative film for landscapes / still lifes etc.

[digiconvert]

I use Kodak negative film, Portra 160 mainly, but even the VC version is bland for anything other than portraits (for which it is superb). I've tried the Elite 400 and it's Ok but I was wondering if anyone has any recommendations for a contrasty neg film . In slides I like Kodachrome if that's any guide - yes I do know I'm an awkward cus

 

[Helen B]

Which paper are you printing on?

 

[Silverhead]

You might want to try Kodak 100UC (Ultra Color).

 

[digiconvert]

Which paper are you printing on?

I'm new to printing and basicaly 'competent' no more. I print on Endura (I know it's not great either but I like 5 x 7). But even commercial prints on Fuji look washed out with Portra

 

[Nick Zentena]

What's wrong with Endura? Ba hum bug -) Endura Supra? Endura Ultra? Or Endura Portra ? Seems Kodak really likes reusing names.

 

[papo]

Isn't there a problem with exposure? Do the negatives have sufficient density? With color negatives it's always safer to overexpose than to underexpose, even slightly. Try to make a series starting with normal (measured) exposure and going up to, say, EV+2 (lens open two more stops) and compare the resulting prints.

 

[keithwms]

Along the lines of papo's answer.... try rating your portras at 120 or even 100. I do this with fuji pro s and am generally very pleased with it. The results can be quite 'velviesque'.

 

[nworth]

Kodak Portra 160NC does look a little blah for landscapes, but it is often very good for still lifes. It has about the most accurate color I've seen, but accuracy may not be what's wanted most in the prints. I've found that the UltraColor films (100UC and 400UC) do quite well for landscapes, although the most recent versions may be a bit too much. The new Portra 400VC is more saturated than the older version, and it may be about what you need. If you are using 35mm, you may want to investigate the Kodak Gold films (amateur line available in camera stores and supermarkets). They are excellent films with high saturation and a bit more contrast than the Portra line. Although the UC and VC films have high color saturation, they are low contrast films. If you are printing on traditional papers, this may a problem. I think the look of Endura Supra is fine, but you might want the higher contrast of Endura Ultra.

 

[digiconvert]

... If you are using 35mm, you may want to investigate the Kodak Gold films (amateur line available in camera stores and supermarkets). They are excellent films with high saturation and a bit more contrast than the Portra line..

A coleague at work has just given me 20 rolls of Kodak Gold 200 - FOR FREE !
so I may give it a try

Thanks to all for the advice.

 

[Sirius Glass]

I use UC 400, it is especially good for red rock in Utah and Arizona; fall colors and flowers everywhere. When I heard that they were discontinuing 120 UC 400, I went out a brought 55 rolls of 120 and 75 rolls of 135 to keep it from the hoarders!

Steve

 

[Peter Schrager]

kodak 100uc

I don't shoot much color but I recently did some photos with this film and I like it. Seems hard to get BAD pix with it...give it a try!!
Best, Peter