In a market thronged by a variety of black and white film stocks, Rollei Retro 400s stands out with its unique character and historical roots. This review of Rollei Retro 400s takes a closer look at this distinctive film, exploring its attributes, and drawing comparisons with other 400 ISO film stocks including Kentmere 400, Ilford HP5 Plus, and Fomapan 400.
Manufacturing and Historical Lineage:
Rollei Retro 400s is manufactured by Agfa, a name synonymous with quality in the film industry, and distributed by Maco. Its lineage traces back to the Agfa-Gevaert Aviphot Pan 400S aerial film, known for its fine grain and high resolution, attributes that have seamlessly transitioned to Rollei Retro 400s.
Super-Panchromatic Nature:
One of the highlights of Rollei Retro 400s is its super-panchromatic nature. Unlike traditional panchromatic films, it has an extended sensitivity into the near-infrared range of the spectrum, allowing for a unique tonal rendition and increased contrast when used with a red filter.
Transparent Polyester Base:
The film is based on a transparent polyester base, which is thinner than the typical triacetate base used in many other films. This feature could potentially impact the flatness of the film in the scanner or enlarger, making it a bit more challenging to achieve sharp scans or prints. However, it also contributes to the film’s sharpness and clarity.
Comparative Analysis:
Rollei Retro 400s vs. Kentmere 400:
Compared to Kentmere 400, Rollei Retro 400s offers finer grain and better resolution, thanks to its aerial film heritage. While Kentmere 400 is more budget-friendly, Rollei Retro 400s is a step up in terms of image quality and unique tonal rendition.
Rollei Retro 400s vs. Ilford HP5 Plus:
Ilford HP5 Plus is known for its wide exposure latitude and forgiving nature, making it a favorite among street photographers. However, Rollei Retro 400s, with its super-panchromatic nature, provides a different aesthetic with the potential for creative infrared-esque photography.
Rollei Retro 400s vs. Fomapan 400:
Fomapan 400 is another budget-friendly option with a classic grain structure. Rollei Retro 400s, on the other hand, provides finer grain and a unique tonal palette, making it a more specialized film for those looking to experiment beyond the conventional black and white imagery.
Conclusion:
Rollei Retro 400s is a distinctive film stock that allows photographers to delve into a unique realm of black and white photography. Its fine grain, high resolution, and super-panchromatic nature set it apart from other 400 ISO film stocks. While it may require a bit more care in handling due to its transparent polyester base, the creative potential it offers makes it a worthwhile consideration for those looking to explore beyond the conventional. Its historical connection to aerial film and the manufacturing expertise of Agfa further accentuate its appeal, making Rollei Retro 400s a film stock worth exploring for both seasoned photographers and newcomers alike.