Rollei Retro 80S is a black and white film that stands out in the analogue photography world for its unique characteristics and vintage charm. This review explores the origins, features, and comparative aspects of Rollei Retro 80S, providing insights into its performance against other film stocks, including Rollei Retro 400S and Ilford Pan F Plus.
Origins and Background
Rollei Retro 80S is produced by Rollei, a brand with a rich history in the world of photography. The film is manufactured in Germany, known for its precision and quality in film production. Distributed by Maco, the company responsible for various innovative film products, Retro 80S is part of Rollei’s commitment to maintaining the tradition and quality of analogue photography.
Film Characteristics
Retro 80S is an 80 ISO black and white film, recognised for its fine grain and excellent sharpness. The film has a broad tonal range, providing rich blacks and detailed highlights. One of the distinctive features of Retro 80S is its extended red sensitivity, which allows it to render different tones in a unique way, especially in landscapes and architectural photography. Also worth mentioning is Retro 80S’s transparent film base. This attribute not only contributes to the film’s sharp appearance but also offers excellent archival properties. The clear base enhances scanning and enlarging capabilities, making it a favourite among photographers who demand the highest quality in both digital and print mediums.
Grain Structure and Contrast
The grain structure of Retro 80S is notably fine for its speed, contributing to its high-resolution capabilities. This makes it an excellent choice for detailed work and large prints. The contrast is well-balanced, offering depth and dimensionality to images without overwhelming the finer details.
Comparison with Rollei Retro 400S
Retro 400S, another film in Rollei’s lineup, is a higher-speed film at 400 ISO. It is known for its increased grain and higher contrast compared to Retro 80S. While Retro 400S excels in lower light situations and offers more versatility in varied lighting conditions, Retro 80S shines in its ability to capture finer details and smoother gradations in well-lit environments.
Comparison with Ilford Pan F Plus and Other Low-Speed Films
Ilford Pan F Plus, a 50 ISO film, is one of the closest competitors in terms of speed and image quality. Pan F Plus offers a similar fine grain structure and high resolution, but Retro 80S has a unique edge due to its extended red sensitivity, providing a different tonal rendition. Other low-speed films like Kodak T-Max 100 and Fuji Acros II also offer fine grain and sharp detail, but Retro 80S distinguishes itself with its unique spectral sensitivity and classic rendering.
Image Quality
The overall image quality of Retro 80S is outstanding. It produces images with clarity, depth, and a classic black and white aesthetic that is both timeless and expressive. Its ability to capture subtle nuances in lighting and texture makes it a preferred choice for photographers who are focused on the fine details and tonal range in their compositions.
Conclusion
Rollei Retro 80S is a film that embodies the essence of traditional black and white photography while offering modern performance. Its fine grain, extended red sensitivity, and balanced contrast make it a distinctive choice among low-speed film stocks. Perfect for photographers who value detail and a classic look, Retro 80S stands out for its ability to capture the world with a timeless elegance. Whether for landscape, portrait, or architectural photography, Rollei Retro 80S offers a blend of vintage charm and contemporary quality, making it a valuable addition to any photographer’s film repertoire.