3 Film Stocks You Might Be Sleeping On
3 Film Stocks You Might Be Sleeping On
(Because you’re better than just shooting Portra on repeat)
Let’s be real: film photography has exploded, and with it, the same handful of stocks get recycled like a broken record—Portra 400, HP5, Cinestill 800T. Cool. Safe. Predictable. But what if you want more than “creamy tones” and expensive hype?
Here are 3 film stocks flying under the radar that deserve a roll in your camera—and maybe even a spot in your regular rotation.
1. Flic Film Aurora 400
The Indie Color Sleeper
This Canadian-made color negative film is a boutique alternative to the big boys—and it’s got some real character. Aurora 400 isn’t trying to be Portra. It’s moodier, more textured, and has its own strange little soul.
Why it slaps:
Saturated, slightly vintage color palette. Think warmer mids and punchy greens, with a softness that doesn’t feel washed out.
Unexpected consistency. For a small-batch stock, it holds up surprisingly well across different lighting conditions.
Different without being weird. It’s got personality without screaming “I’m trying too hard.”
Best used for: Street photography, travel work, lifestyle portraits, and anywhere you want warmth and subtle grit without falling into cliché.
Heads up: Meter it carefully. It’s a bit more contrasty than Portra, and if you blow the highlights, they’re gone for good.
2. Candido 800
The Cult Classic Waiting to Explode
Candido is one of those stocks you hear about in hushed tones from the few who’ve actually shot it. Rated at ISO 800, it gives you low-light flexibility without looking like you dipped your negatives in acid.
Why it slaps:
Moody and cinematic. Candido leans into shadow detail and atmospheric grain. It feels like 35mm footage from a lost European art film.
Surprisingly tight grain for an 800-speed film. You expect chaos—what you get is controlled mood.
Takes a punch. Push it a stop and it still holds on like a champ.
Best used for: Nighttime cityscapes, live music, intimate indoor portraits—basically anywhere you want your shots to feel like they’ve lived a little.
Heads up: It’s rare, and it’s not always cheap. But if you score a roll, shoot it wide open and don’t look back.
3. Panther City Black and White
The Indie B&W Stock with Bite
This Texas-born emulsion is criminally slept on. Panther City B&W is bold, contrasty, and feels like a love letter to classic black & white photography—but with some extra edge.
Why it slaps:
Strong contrast, deep blacks. It doesn’t tiptoe around tonal range—it dives into it.
Handles like Tri-X with more attitude. Less flat, more definition. Shadows fall off hard, and that’s the point.
Looks killer in harsh light. If you’re shooting mid-day and want drama instead of disaster, this stock brings it.
Best used for: Urban grit, harsh light portraiture, architectural details, or anytime you want B&W that hits harder than your usual safe pick.
Heads up: It’s not for soft shooters. If you’re looking for creamy greys or gentle transitions—keep walking.
Final Thoughts: Break the Algorithm
Film photography isn’t just about nostalgia or “the look.” It’s about choice. It’s about resisting the urge to sleepwalk through your workflow and instead reaching for the unknown.
These lesser-known stocks aren’t just alternatives—they’re invitations to create differently. To think differently. To shoot with intention instead of influence.
So step off the Portra path, skip the halation parade, and try something with a little more bite.
Stay Gritty.
— Brendan
