Lomography’s LomoChrome Metropolis film has carved out a unique niche in the world of analogue photography, offering a distinctive look that sets it apart from both traditional film stocks and other offerings in the LomoChrome range. Here’s an in-depth review of this intriguing film.
Background on Lomography and Their Film Range
Lomography, a company born out of a love for the LC-A camera, has grown into a global movement dedicated to experimental and creative photography. Known for their quirky cameras and innovative film stocks, they have consistently pushed the boundaries of traditional photography. Their film range, particularly the LomoChrome series, is celebrated for its unique color renditions and creative possibilities.
The LomoChrome Metropolis Film
LomoChrome Metropolis, available in both 35mm and 120 formats, is a standout in the LomoChrome lineup. It is designed for photographers looking to achieve a distinctive, almost moody aesthetic in their work.
Visual Characteristics
The most striking aspect of Metropolis is its ability to desaturate colours, mute tones, and add a significant amount of contrast. This results in images that feel at once both modern and reminiscent of a bygone era. It has a unique way of rendering scenes, often imparting a cinematic quality that can be both subtle and dramatic.
Comparison with Other LomoChrome Films
Compared to other films in the LomoChrome range, such as the LomoChrome Purple and LomoChrome Turquoise, Metropolis takes a different path. While Purple and Turquoise are known for their wild colour shifts and surrealistic hues, Metropolis takes a step back, offering a more restrained and nuanced colour palette. This makes it more versatile for a range of photographic applications, from street photography to landscape.
Use in Various Settings
Metropolis excels in a variety of lighting conditions. Under bright sunlight, it renders scenes with a soft, desaturated look, while in lower light, it brings out deeper, moodier tones. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for photographers who enjoy shooting in diverse environments and conditions.
Grain and Sharpness
The film exhibits a fine grain structure that contributes to its overall aesthetic. Its sharpness is adequate, providing enough detail to satisfy most photographers while maintaining the film’s characteristic softness.
Creative Potential
Metropolis encourages photographers to experiment and see the world differently. Its unique colour rendition and tonal range push artists to think beyond traditional colour photography, exploring themes and compositions that might not work as well with more conventional film stocks.
Conclusion
LomoChrome Metropolis is more than just a film; it’s a creative tool that opens up new avenues for artistic expression. Its ability to desaturate colours, mute tones, and add contrast creates images that are both distinctive and evocative. For photographers seeking to break away from the norm and experiment with a film that offers something truly different, Metropolis is an excellent choice. Its versatility across different formats, including both 35mm and 120, ensures that it can be enjoyed by a wide range of analogue enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned film photographer or new to the medium, LomoChrome Metropolis offers an exciting and unique photographic experience.