Kodak Portra 800
Kodak Portra 800 Film needs little introduction. It is one of the most popular films on the market today and a favourite choice for a huge amount of film photographers.
If you have plenty of light, then this is the perfect film. It renders skin tones soft and natural-looking while the grain is fine. The colours tend to lean more towards Kodak Ektar compared to Portra 160 and 400, with tones coming out punchy and vibrant.
It is worth noting that while Portra 160 and 400 are based on the Kodak Vision technology, Portra 800 is not. Therefore there are some significant differences between how the films handle. Consequently, the 800 ISO label is slightly misleading, as it is arguable that Portra 400 does a better job at 800. While Portra 800 is better suited to being overexposed, therefore shot at a lower ISO such as 400. At the end of the day, it is down to personal preference, but it is certainly worth experimenting with the two films to find the right one for you.
It can take up to 4 stops of overexposure, and still maintain glorious results. However, underexposure quickly adds grain and renders colours muddy. So you need to be careful with your exposures, and make sure there is plenty of light available if you want to get that classic Portra look.
It is a part of the Kodak Portra range of professional quality, daylight-balanced, colour negative films. Well known for producing natural-looking skin tones, with high detail and fine grain. It is also known for its natural warmth, like most Kodak films.
Compared to its main rival, Fuji Pro 400H, it will produce warm tones. While the Fuji film will give cooler tones. The unique colour palette has made it an especially popular choice for portraiture and editorial work.
Kodak Portra 800 is available in single rolls or as a 5 roll pack. It is also available in 35mm.
Not for you? Why not have a look at the other Kodak films we stock. If you have never shot film before, here’s your beginners guide to film photography and shooting film.
