Film is back - and it’s bigger than ever. Whether you're just loading your first roll or you’ve been shooting for years, choosing the right 35mm film can completely shape your final image.
This guide breaks down five of the most popular 35mm film stocks and helps you decide which one suits your style, lighting, and creative goals.
Kodak Gold 200
Kodak Gold 200 is the definition of classic colour film. It thrives in bright conditions and delivers that unmistakable golden warmth that feels straight out of the 90s.
If you're shooting outdoors, at the beach, on road trips, or just capturing friends in natural light - this is a safe, affordable, and beautiful option.
Buy this if:
- You mostly shoot in daylight
- You love warm skin tones
- You’re starting out and want reliable results
Best for: Sunny days, everyday moments, beginners
ISO: 200
Look: Warm, nostalgic, vibrant
FujiFilm 200
FujiFilm 200 is a favourite for shooters who want clean, natural colours with a subtle cool tone. It performs beautifully in daylight and produces balanced, true-to-life colours without being overly saturated.
It’s also budget-friendly, making it perfect for travel, practice rolls, or everyday shooting.
Buy this if:
- You shoot outdoors often
- You prefer natural, true-to-life colours
- You want consistent quality at an affordable price
Best for: Nature, travel, casual shooting
ISO: 200
Look: Cool, fresh, natural
Kodak Ultramax 400
Ultramax 400 is the all-rounder. The higher ISO makes it more flexible in overcast or lower light, while still maintaining strong colour and good sharpness.
It’s ideal if you don’t want to constantly switch rolls depending on conditions.
Buy this if:
- You shoot in unpredictable light
- You want one roll that does it all
- You like bold, saturated colour
Best for: Mixed lighting, events, everyday carry
ISO: 400
Look: Punchy, versatile, bold
Kodak Portra 400
Portra 400 is the industry favourite for a reason. It has incredible exposure latitude, meaning it handles overexposure beautifully - perfect for that bright, airy look.
Skin tones are natural and flattering, grain is smooth, and it performs well in mixed lighting situations.
Buy this if:
- You shoot portraits regularly
- You want a premium, editorial finish
- You need flexibility in changing light
Best for: Portraits, weddings, golden hour
ISO: 400
Look: Soft, creamy, professional
Ilford HP5 Plus 400
If you want pure storytelling, HP5 delivers. This black and white legend has beautiful grain and strong character.
It’s especially popular for street photography and low-light situations because it pushes exceptionally well without falling apart.
Buy this if:
- You love dramatic contrast
- You want to experiment with pushing film
- Colour feels distracting to your vision
Best for: Street, documentary, moody portraits
ISO: 400 (pushable to 800 or 1600)
Look: Classic, contrasty, timeless
Which Film Roll is Right for You?
There’s no single “best” 35mm film - only the one that fits your style and shooting conditions.
- If you’re new to film, start with a 200 or 400 film.
- If portraits are your focus, Portra 400 is hard to beat.
- If you want timeless storytelling, HP5 is your roll.
Film slows you down, makes you intentional, and rewards you with character that digital simply can’t replicate.
Shop Film at Camera House
Seek advice from Camera House’s knowledgeable staff in-store and online to find the film that is right for you! Check out our shipping information online and enjoy free regular delivery on orders over $99, or view our store locator to visit a Camera House store near you.
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