When you ask photographers what they think about the Kodak Portra film they usually use words like dreamy, unique and muted colours. But if these are words that we actually use to define analog photography, can we say Portra film is the ultimate film?
More than curious to discover the beauties of this film, I was excited to shoot it and finally have my own opinion on it. And of course I would take you on my quest.
A little context…
The Portra film was created by Kodak in 1998. If we think about it, it’s a late birth, considering digital photography was not mainstreamed yet, but it was already known as the future of photography.
The film was marketed as a great option for portraits and wedding photography but rapidly conquered enthusiasts of a variety of uses. In 2010 Kodak announced a major update that improved the scanning results of the film so we can now have the best of both worlds.
My settings
One of the most popular uses of this film is the overexposing process, in general by setting the camera ISO at 200 instead of 400. After a lot of thought about whether I should experiment with it or getting to know it first, I asked myself why I should chose anyway and decided to try both options.
So, for my “experiment” I shot some frames in 400 and others in 200. And now I’ll let the internet fight about the best settings for Portra Film because, to be honest, I liked both ways.
Besides, I shoot films to have fun in the process, not to be stressed about the results. I totally get most people look for perfection and I understand some will swear that at 400 is the best and others the otherwise. For those, I leave my photos here so they can fight over. Enjoy!
