· film  · 13 min read

Best 35mm Black and White Film Rolls for Photographers

Discover the top-rated 35mm black and white film rolls, handpicked for their exceptional performance, quality, and ease of use. Explore our curated selection today!

In the realm of photography, 35mm black and white film retains its allure for enthusiasts seeking classic and evocative images. With a wide range of options available, choosing the right film can enhance your photographic journey. Join us as we unveil the best 35mm black and white film rolls, meticulously evaluated and handpicked for their superior performance, exceptional quality, and user-friendliness. Let's delve into the world of timeless black and white photography and discover the perfect film for your creative vision!

Overview

Kodak Tri-X: Capture Life's Moments in Crisp Black and White with Legendary 35mm Film
Immerse in the Timeless Charm of Analog with Kodak Tri-X: The Choice of Discerning Photographers
Kodak Tri-X: Capture Life's Moments in Crisp Black and White with Legendary 35mm Film
Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film (2-Pack of 36-Exposure Rolls)
Capture Life's Moments with Timeless Black and White Film
Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film (2-Pack of 36-Exposure Rolls)
Ilford HP5+ Black and White Film | 35 mm Rolls | Pack...
Unleash the Magic of Black and White with Ilford HP5+ 35mm Film for Astonishing Captures
Ilford HP5+ Black and White Film | 35 mm Rolls | Pack...
Ilford 35mm B&W Film, 3-Pack
Capture Timeless Moments with Ilford's Premium Black and White Film
Ilford 35mm B&W Film, 3-Pack
Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Black and White Film
Capture Timeless Moments with Ilford's Renowned Black and White Magic
Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Black and White Film
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Black and White 35 mm Film
Capture Timeless Moments with Ilford's Classic Black and White Film
Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Black and White 35 mm Film
Capture Timeless Memories with the Ilford Delta 100: Fine-Grain Black-and-White Film for Enchanting Results
Elevate your photography to an art form with Ilford Delta 100: Immerse yourself in the beauty of black-and-white
Capture Timeless Memories with the Ilford Delta 100: Fine-Grain Black-and-White Film for Enchanting Results
Kodak Tri-X: Capture Life's Moments in Crisp Black and White with Legendary 35mm Film Kodak Tri-X: Capture Life's Moments in Crisp Black and White with Legendary 35mm Film

PROS

  • Unveiling the beauty of black and white photography with unparalleled clarity and detail
  • Capture the essence of fleeting moments with sensitivity of ISO 400, allowing for versatility in various lighting conditions
  • Harnessing the power of 35mm film, immersing you in the authentic analog experience with each frame

CONS

  • Developing and handling require meticulous attention to ensure optimal results
  • The finite nature of film photography necessitates mindful shooting decisions

As a seasoned connoisseur of 35mm film photography, I eagerly delve into reviewing the esteemed Kodak Tri-X 400TX Professional Black & White Film. This legendary emulsion has graced the cameras of countless photographers, capturing iconic images that have shaped the art form. With its ISO 400 rating, Tri-X strikes a perfect balance, empowering you to freeze fleeting moments in both bright and dim lighting conditions.

Immersing yourself in the world of Tri-X is a journey into the timeless charm of analog photography. The crisp black and white tones it produces evoke a sense of nostalgia, inviting you to appreciate the beauty of simplicity. Its renowned grain structure adds an artistic touch, lending depth and character to your photographs. Whether you're an experienced film aficionado or just starting to explore the magic of analog, Kodak Tri-X is an exceptional choice, offering a gateway into the world of black and white mastery.

Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film (2-Pack of 36-Exposure Rolls) Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film (2-Pack of 36-Exposure Rolls)

PROS

  • Exceptional black and white rendering, delivering rich tonal range and smooth transitions.
  • Versatile ISO 400 speed, suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions.
  • Produces crisp, detailed images with excellent resolution and clarity.
  • Two-pack provides ample film for capturing extensive scenes and moments.

CONS

  • May exhibit slight graininess at higher ISO settings.
  • Requires meticulous handling and development process for optimal results.

Elevate your film photography with the Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film. This ISO 400 black and white film transports you to the golden era of black and white photography, empowering you to capture life's moments with timeless elegance. Its meticulously balanced emulsion yields exceptional tonal range and smooth transitions, ensuring captivating images with rich contrast and alluring shadows. With its versatile speed, the HP5 Plus film excels in various lighting scenarios, from vibrant daylight to dimly lit interiors.

Whether you're capturing portraits that evoke emotions or documenting landscapes that speak volumes, this 35mm film delivers sharp and detailed images with impressive resolution. The two-pack of 36-exposure rolls provides ample film for your creative ventures, allowing you to explore different perspectives and capture fleeting moments. While it may exhibit slight graininess at higher ISO settings, the HP5 Plus film's distinct aesthetic adds a touch of nostalgic charm to your images. By embracing the intricacies of film handling and development, you'll cultivate a deeper connection with your craft and unlock the full potential of this exceptional black and white film.

Enrich Your Monochromatic Masterpieces with Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film Enrich Your Monochromatic Masterpieces with Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film

PROS

  • Delivers exceptional image quality with fine grain and rich tonal range
  • Ideal for capturing both indoor and outdoor scenes with its versatile ISO 400 speed

CONS

  • May be challenging for beginners to develop due to its higher sensitivity
  • Prone to reciprocity failure if not properly exposed for extended durations

Prepare to embark on a photographic journey like no other with the Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Film. This legendary monochrome film has been prized by discerning photographers for decades, renowned for its exceptional image quality and versatility. Whether you're capturing the intricacies of nature or preserving precious memories, the HP5 Plus will undoubtedly elevate your photographic endeavors.

With its fine grain and ability to render rich tonal gradations, this film empowers you to capture stunning black and white images that are both captivating and evocative. The ISO 400 speed provides ample versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions. Whether you're freezing fleeting moments in bright sunlight or seeking atmospheric low-light shots, the HP5 Plus will deliver exceptional results time and time again.

Kentmere Black and White Film: A Timeless Classic for 35mm Photography Kentmere Black and White Film: A Timeless Classic for 35mm Photography

PROS

  • Produces stunning black and white images with a timeless aesthetic
  • Delivers exceptional sharpness and detail, capturing every nuance and emotion
  • Versatile film, perfect for a wide range of subjects and lighting conditions
  • Conveniently packaged in 35mm rolls, ideal for both beginner and experienced photographers

CONS

  • Requires careful handling and processing, especially in darkroom conditions
  • May not be suited for fast-moving subjects or low-light conditions

Immerse yourself in the nostalgia and artistry of black and white photography with the Kentmere 400 ASA Black and White Negative Film. This exceptional 35mm film transports you into a world of classic imagery, capturing the essence of moments with a timeless charm.

With a sensitivity of 400 ASA, the Kentmere film offers a balance between speed and grain, producing sharp and detailed black and white prints. Its versatility adapts to various lighting conditions and subjects, making it a favorite among both seasoned and emerging photographers. Compatible with 35mm roll film cameras, this film empowers you to explore the art of black and white photography with ease and precision. Experience the magic of analog photography and create images that transcend time with the Kentmere Black and White Film.

Kodak T-Max 100 ISO Black And White Negative Film for Sharp, High... Kodak T-Max 100 ISO Black And White Negative Film for Sharp, High...

PROS

  • Exceptional image quality with fine grain and high sharpness
  • Wide exposure latitude for capturing details in various lighting conditions
  • Suitable for a variety of subjects, from portraits to landscapes
  • Produces stunning black and white tones with rich contrast
  • Versatile film for both beginners and experienced photographers

CONS

  • Requires specific development process for black and white photography
  • May not be ideal for low-light conditions due to its slow speed

Kodak's T-Max 100 Speed 35mm Black & White Film is a high-quality choice for photographers seeking sharp, detailed images with a classic black and white aesthetic. This ISO 100 film offers fine grain and a wide exposure latitude, making it suitable for capturing a range of subjects and lighting conditions.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your black and white photography journey, Kodak T-Max 100 delivers exceptional results. Its ability to produce stunning tones and rich contrast makes it a favorite among photographers who value artistic expression and archival quality. Its versatility extends to various subjects, from portraits and landscapes to street photography and photojournalism.

Ilford HP5+ Black and White Film | 35 mm Rolls | Pack... Ilford HP5+ Black and White Film | 35 mm Rolls | Pack...

PROS

  • Exceptional black and white images with fine grain and sharp details
  • Versatile film with wide tonal range and superior dynamic range

CONS

  • Requires careful development and handling to achieve optimum results
  • May exhibit slight reciprocity failure in low-light conditions

For enthusiasts and professionals seeking the timeless charm of black and white photography, Ilford HP5+ 35mm film stands as an exceptional choice. With its unparalleled grain structure and remarkable tonal range, this film empowers photographers to capture stunning images that evoke a sense of nostalgia and artistry.

The HP5+ emulsion boasts an extended tonal range, allowing for both delicate highlights and deep, rich shadows. Its fine grain structure ensures exceptional image clarity, making it ideal for detailed work and enlargements. With its medium speed of ISO 400, this film offers flexibility in both bright and dimly lit environments.

Ilford 35mm B&W Film, 3-Pack Ilford 35mm B&W Film, 3-Pack

PROS

  • Excellent for capturing high-contrast images
  • Fine grain and sharp details for stunning prints

CONS

  • Requires careful exposure and development
  • Not ideal for low-light conditions

The Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Black and White Print Film offers an exceptional photographic experience for capturing timeless moments in striking black and white. Its high contrast rendition creates dramatic images, while the fine grain structure ensures sharp details and enlargements. With a speed of ISO 400, this film is versatile for various lighting conditions, allowing you to capture rich tonality and expressive shadows.

The pack of three 24-exposure rolls provides ample opportunities to explore the possibilities of black-and-white photography. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your journey into film photography, Ilford HP5 Plus will inspire your creativity and produce captivating results. Experiment with different shooting and development techniques to uncover the full potential of this classic film and create stunning prints that will endure the test of time.

Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Black and White Film Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Black and White Film

PROS

  • Exceptional image quality with fine grain for sharp and detailed results
  • Versatile ISO 400 speed suitable for diverse lighting conditions

CONS

  • Minimal dynamic range requires precise exposure
  • Prone to reciprocity failure in low-light conditions

Immerse yourself in the realm of classic photography with Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm Black and White Film. Renowned for its exceptional image quality, this film produces stunningly sharp, high-contrast images with a captivating grain structure. Its versatility is equally impressive, as the ISO 400 speed empowers photographers to capture moments in diverse lighting conditions, from bright sunlit scenes to dimly lit interiors.

However, it's essential to note that the HP5 Plus film has a relatively narrow dynamic range, demanding precise exposure to achieve optimal results. Additionally, low-light conditions may present challenges with potential reciprocity failure, so accurate exposure calculations are crucial. Overall, Ilford HP5 Plus is a solid choice for discerning photographers seeking the timeless allure of black and white photography.

Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Black and White 35 mm Film Ilford HP5 Plus 400 Black and White 35 mm Film

PROS

  • Excellent image quality with sharp details and rich tones
  • Versatile ISO 400 speed suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions
  • Panchromatic sensitivity for accurate reproduction of all colors

CONS

  • Requires careful handling and proper development techniques
  • May exhibit reciprocity failure at longer exposures

Ilford HP5 Plus 35 mm film is a legendary choice among photographers seeking classic black and white aesthetics. Its ISO 400 speed strikes a balance between sensitivity and grain, enabling sharp and detailed images even in challenging lighting. The panchromatic emulsion captures the full spectrum of light, resulting in accurate tonal reproduction and natural-looking results.

HP5 Plus excels in both daylight and artificial light, making it a go-to for a variety of subjects, including landscapes, portraits, and street photography. Its medium grain structure adds a subtle texture to images, giving them a timeless and evocative quality. However, it's crucial to note that proper handling and development are essential to optimize results with this film. With care and precision, photographers can unlock the full potential of HP5 Plus and produce stunning black and white prints that stand the test of time.

Capture Timeless Memories with the Ilford Delta 100: Fine-Grain Black-and-White Film for Enchanting Results Capture Timeless Memories with the Ilford Delta 100: Fine-Grain Black-and-White Film for Enchanting Results

PROS

  • Exceptional sharpness and fine grain delivers exquisite image quality
  • Wide exposure latitude for capturing details in diverse lighting conditions

CONS

  • Requires meticulous handling and processing
  • May not be suitable for low-light photography

Immerse yourself in the timeless art of black-and-white photography with the Ilford Delta 100 film. This 35 mm, 36-exposure film provides exceptional sharpness and exquisite image quality, ensuring your precious moments are preserved in captivating detail. Embrace the wide exposure latitude, empowering you to capture the full spectrum of light and shadows, enhancing the emotional depth of your photographs.

The fine grain of the Delta 100 film beautifully translates into rich and nuanced images, capturing the subtlest details and textures. This film invites you to explore the creative possibilities of black-and-white photography, rendering images with an evocative and timeless quality. Its ability to withstand various lighting conditions makes it an ideal choice for both natural and studio settings. With careful handling and meticulous processing, the Ilford Delta 100 film will become an indispensable tool in your artistic journey, enabling you to create enchanting and memorable images that transcend time.

Our comprehensive guide presents the finest 35mm black and white film alternatives, catering to diverse photographic styles and preferences. From the renowned Kodak Tri-X 400TX, known for its versatility and exceptional low-light capabilities, to the esteemed Ilford HP5 Plus, celebrated for its fine grain and wide exposure latitude, our selection empowers you to capture captivating images with ease. Whether you're an experienced photographer or just starting your black and white film adventure, we've got you covered. So, embrace the timeless charm of 35mm black and white photography and elevate your artistic expression to new heights!

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors should I consider when choosing 35mm black and white film?

When selecting 35mm black and white film, consider factors such as film speed (ISO), grain structure, contrast, and exposure latitude. These elements influence the film's sensitivity to light, image quality, and tonal range.

Which 35mm black and white film is suitable for beginners?

For beginners, the Kodak Tri-X 400TX is an excellent choice due to its versatility, wide exposure latitude, and forgiving nature. It allows for greater flexibility in exposure settings and produces consistent results.

What are the advantages of using 35mm black and white film?

35mm black and white film offers a unique aesthetic with timeless appeal. It provides exceptional sharpness, control over contrast and tonality, and the ability to create stunning prints.

How do I develop 35mm black and white film?

Developing 35mm black and white film requires a darkroom or specialized equipment. The process involves controlled exposure to light and chemical solutions to create a negative or positive image.

Where can I purchase 35mm black and white film?

35mm black and white film can be purchased at photography stores, online retailers, and specialized film suppliers. Ensure you choose reputable sources for high-quality film.

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