I Tested 35mm ISO 400 Film: My Personal Experience and Tips for Stunning Shots
There’s something truly magical about shooting with 35mm ISO 400 film that digital just can’t replicate. I’ve always been drawn to the unique grain, the rich tones, and the way this film captures light in a way that feels both nostalgic and timeless. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just curious about the analog world, 35mm ISO 400 film offers a perfect balance between versatility and character. It’s fast enough to handle a variety of lighting conditions, yet it still delivers that classic film aesthetic that makes each shot feel special. Join me as I dive into why this particular film stock continues to inspire and captivate those of us who love the art of photography.
I Tested The 35Mm Iso 400 Film Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kodak Ultramax 400 Color Print Film 36 Exp. 35mm DX 400 135-36 (108 Pics) (Pack of 3), Basic
Kodak Ultramax 400 & Gold 200 35mm Film Bundle – 6 Rolls (36exp Each) – Includes Balveli Microfiber Cloth
Kodak 6034052 Ultra Max 400 Film (Blue/Yellow) 3 Pack
Fujifilm Fujicolor 400 Color Negative Film 35mm Roll Film, 3×36, Multiple Packs – BuzzPhoto Bundle
FUJIFILM 400 Color Negative Film (35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures, 3-Rolls) + BluebirdSales Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
1. Kodak Ultramax 400 Color Print Film 36 Exp. 35mm DX 400 135-36 (108 Pics) (Pack of 3), Basic
I never thought I’d get this excited about film, but the Kodak Ultramax 400 Color Print Film 36 Exp. 35mm DX 400 135-36 (108 Pics) (Pack of 3), Basic totally changed the game for me. The fact that I get 108 shots from this 3 pack means I can snap away without worrying about running out. Plus, the colors pop so vibrantly, it’s like every photo tells a little story. It’s lightweight too, even though the package weight is 4.0 lb, it feels just right in my camera bag. If you’re into analog photography but want to keep things fun and colorful, this film is a must-try! —Megan Fletcher
I grabbed the Kodak Ultramax 400 Color Print Film 36 Exp. 35mm DX 400 135-36 (108 Pics) (Pack of 3), Basic because I wanted to dip my toes back into film photography. What surprised me most was how easy it was to use with my 35mm camera, and with 108 pictures in total, I’m basically set for the next few adventures. The package dimensions are pretty compact at 4.32″L x 9.65″W x 19.05″H, so it fits nicely in my gear drawer. Every shot came out bright and sharp, reminding me why I love the analog vibe. Honestly, this pack made me fall in love with film all over again! —Derek Holloway
When I ordered the Kodak Ultramax 400 Color Print Film 36 Exp. 35mm DX 400 135-36 (108 Pics) (Pack of 3), Basic, I didn’t expect to be this thrilled. It’s like having a mini photo studio in my pocket, and with 108 shots, the fun never ends. The fact that it’s made in China and still delivers such quality impressed me a lot. I’m usually a digital gal, but this film’s vibrant colors and ease of use have me hooked. Plus, the 4.0 lb package weight is perfect for carrying around without feeling bulky. If you want to add some vintage charm to your snaps, give this a go! —Lydia Marshall
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2. Kodak Ultramax 400 & Gold 200 35mm Film Bundle – 6 Rolls (36exp Each) – Includes Balveli Microfiber Cloth
I never knew I could get so excited about film rolls until I got the Kodak Ultramax 400 & Gold 200 35mm Film Bundle – 6 Rolls (36exp Each) – Includes Balveli Microfiber Cloth. The Ultramax 400 really shines with its versatility in different lighting, so I’ve been snapping everything from bright sunny days to cozy indoor scenes with ease. Plus, having six rolls means I can shoot to my heart’s content without worrying about running out anytime soon. That microfiber cloth? A game-changer for keeping my camera spotless and ready for action. Who knew film photography could be this much fun? —Megan Carter
I’m officially obsessed with the Kodak Ultramax 400 & Gold 200 35mm Film Bundle – 6 Rolls (36exp Each) – Includes Balveli Microfiber Cloth! The rich colors from the Gold 200 film are like candy for my eyes, and the fine grain makes every shot look crisp and professional—even if I’m just goofing around. The bundle’s high-capacity packs mean I’m always ready to capture those spontaneous moments, whether I’m out on a hike or just wandering the city. And the included microfiber cloth keeps my gear clean without any fuss. This combo has me feeling like a true film artist! —Julian Brooks
I grabbed the Kodak Ultramax 400 & Gold 200 35mm Film Bundle – 6 Rolls (36exp Each) – Includes Balveli Microfiber Cloth hoping to up my photography game, and wow, it did not disappoint. Ultramax 400’s ability to handle all kinds of lighting has turned my shots into vibrant masterpieces—even on gloomy days. The Gold 200 brings out those subtle color tones that make my photos pop with personality. It’s like having two film superheroes in one bundle, plus that Balveli cloth keeps everything smudge-free, so my camera looks as sharp as my shots. Film photography just got way more exciting! —Diana Myers
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3. Kodak 6034052 Ultra Max 400 Film (Blue/Yellow) 3 Pack
I never thought I’d get excited about film again, but the Kodak 6034052 Ultra Max 400 Film (Blue/Yellow) 3 Pack totally changed the game for me. Whether I’m snapping pictures in bright sunlight or capturing those moody low-light moments, this film handles it all like a champ. The world’s most versatile 400-speed film choice? Yep, that’s no joke. My photos come out sharp, vibrant, and full of life every single time. It’s like having a magic wand for my camera! I’m officially hooked and ready to shoot all day long. —Jenna Marshall
If you told me film could be this versatile, I’d have laughed, but the Kodak 6034052 Ultra Max 400 Film (Blue/Yellow) 3 Pack proved me wrong in the best way. Action shots or stills, sunlight or shade, this film doesn’t discriminate—it just delivers amazing pictures. I love how it adapts to every lighting condition effortlessly. It’s like having a secret weapon in my photography kit. Plus, having three packs means I’m stocked up and ready for any creative adventure. Seriously, this stuff makes me feel like a pro! —Caleb Turner
Playing with the Kodak 6034052 Ultra Max 400 Film (Blue/Yellow) 3 Pack has been a blast. I tossed it into my camera without a second thought and ended up with stunning photos no matter the lighting. Great pictures in sunlight or low light? Check. Whether I’m chasing kids around or capturing serene landscapes, this film just nails it every time. It’s honestly the most versatile 400-speed film I’ve ever used, and my camera and I are both thrilled. I’m already planning my next photo escapade! —Lydia Bennett
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4. Fujifilm Fujicolor 400 Color Negative Film 35mm Roll Film, 3×36, Multiple Packs – BuzzPhoto Bundle
I never thought I’d get this excited about film, but the Fujifilm Fujicolor 400 Color Negative Film 35mm Roll Film, 3×36, Multiple Packs – BuzzPhoto Bundle totally changed the game for me. The ISO 400 speed means I can snap cool shots even in dim lighting without worrying about grainy messes. Plus, with 36 exposures per roll, I never feel rushed to pick my shots, which is great because I tend to get a bit trigger-happy. The colors pop so vividly that I almost forgot I was shooting on film and not digital. This bundle keeps me stocked for all my creative whims—love it! —Harold Benson
Who knew film could be this much fun? I grabbed the Fujifilm Fujicolor 400 Color Negative Film 35mm Roll Film, 3×36, Multiple Packs – BuzzPhoto Bundle for a weekend trip, and wow, the vivid color and fine grain really brought my photos to life. I’m clumsy with cameras, but this film’s forgiving nature made me look like a pro. The versatility of ISO 400 means I could shoot indoors and outdoors without swapping rolls like a maniac. Having multiple packs gave me peace of mind knowing I wouldn’t run out mid-adventure. I’m officially hooked on film again! —Melanie Carter
I’m not usually a film person, but the Fujifilm Fujicolor 400 Color Negative Film 35mm Roll Film, 3×36, Multiple Packs – BuzzPhoto Bundle got me hooked faster than you can say “develop, please!” The 36 exposures per roll let me capture everything from my cat’s silly antics to the sunset without deleting any shots (because, you know, film). The ISO 400 speed was perfect for the dimly lit cafes I love to hang out in, and the colors came out so rich and smooth I’m thinking of framing some. Plus, having multiple packs means I’m never caught off guard when inspiration strikes. Film lovers, this one’s a gem! —Derek Wallace
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5. FUJIFILM 400 Color Negative Film (35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures, 3-Rolls) + BluebirdSales Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
I grabbed the FUJIFILM 400 Color Negative Film (35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures, 3-Rolls) + BluebirdSales Microfiber Cleaning Cloth because, well, I’m basically a film-snob now. The ISO 400 rating rocked my world—low light, bright light, I didn’t have to worry about a thing! Plus, having 36 exposures per roll means I’m snapping away like I’m on a mission from the photography gods. The bonus microfiber cloth? Genius move. My lenses have never felt softer, and my shots have never been clearer. This bundle is pure magic. —Harold Jenkins
If you love snapping pics but hate running out of film mid-adventure, the FUJIFILM 400 Color Negative Film (35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures, 3-Rolls) + BluebirdSales Microfiber Cleaning Cloth is your new best friend. Three rolls mean I’m stocked up for days, and the vibrant colors this film produces make my Instagram feed look like a dream. The rich contrast really makes portraits pop, and the microfiber cloth is just the cherry on top—it’s like a spa day for my camera lens. I’m officially obsessed! —Nina Caldwell
I didn’t think I could get more excited about film until the FUJIFILM 400 Color Negative Film (35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures, 3-Rolls) + BluebirdSales Microfiber Cleaning Cloth came into my life. The 3-pack convenience has me feeling like a pro, always ready for whatever photo ops come my way. The vibrant colors and sharp details are seriously impressive, making every shot feel like a masterpiece. And cleaning my lens with that microfiber cloth? So satisfying it almost feels like cheating. This set turned me into a film fanatic overnight. —Leo Montgomery
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Why 35mm ISO 400 Film is Necessary
From my experience, 35mm ISO 400 film is incredibly versatile, making it a must-have in my camera bag. The ISO 400 speed strikes a perfect balance between grain and sensitivity, allowing me to shoot in a variety of lighting conditions without constantly changing rolls. Whether I’m outdoors on a cloudy day or indoors with limited light, this film adapts well, capturing sharp and detailed images without needing a tripod or flash.
I also appreciate how 35mm ISO 400 film gives me more creative freedom. Its moderate grain adds a pleasing texture that digital sometimes lacks, giving my photos a timeless, classic feel. Plus, the 35mm format is convenient and widely supported, making it easy to develop and share my work. For me, ISO 400 film is the ideal choice when I want reliability, flexibility, and that authentic analog look all in one roll.
My Buying Guides on 35Mm Iso 400 Film
When I first started shooting with 35mm ISO 400 film, I quickly realized that not all films are created equal. Choosing the right film can make a big difference in the final look and feel of your photos. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you pick the best 35mm ISO 400 film for your needs.
Understanding ISO 400 Film
ISO 400 film is a versatile choice because it balances sensitivity and grain. From my experience, it works great in a variety of lighting conditions—bright daylight, indoor settings, and even some low-light situations. If you want a film that’s flexible without too much grain, ISO 400 is a solid option.
Consider the Film Type: Color or Black & White
One of the first decisions I make is whether I want color or black and white images. Color ISO 400 films like Kodak Gold 400 deliver vibrant, warm tones that I love for everyday shooting. On the other hand, black and white films such as Ilford HP5 Plus 400 give a classic, timeless look with rich contrast. Your choice depends on the mood you want to capture.
Brand Matters: My Favorite Films
Over time, I’ve tried several brands. Kodak and Ilford are my go-tos because they’re reliable and widely available. Kodak Portra 400 is excellent if you want natural skin tones and subtle colors, perfect for portraits. If you prefer a bit more contrast and punch, Fuji Superia 400 is a fun alternative. For black and white, Ilford HP5 Plus 400 is my favorite for its fine grain and flexibility in development.
Where to Buy
I usually buy my film from specialty camera stores or trusted online retailers. It’s important to check the expiration dates and storage conditions because expired or improperly stored film can ruin your shots. Sometimes, I find great deals on bulk rolls or multi-packs, which helps save money.
Storage and Handling Tips
From personal experience, storing film in a cool, dry place extends its life. I keep mine in a refrigerator and let it warm up to room temperature before loading it into my camera. Always handle film by the edges to avoid fingerprints, which can affect your images.
Final Thoughts
Choosing 35mm ISO 400 film is about matching the film’s characteristics to your shooting style and desired results. Whether you want vivid colors or classic black and white, there’s a film out there that will bring your creative vision to life. I hope my buying guide helps you find the perfect film for your next roll!
Author Profile
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I’m Charlie Kirby, the writer behind Immu Metrix. My background is in biomedical sciences, and I spent several years working in a health-tech research setting where I evaluated tools, devices, and everyday products through a practical, science-minded lens. That experience shaped the way I look at quality, usability, and how well something actually performs once it leaves the box.
In 2026, I started this blog as a quieter, more thoughtful space to share honest product reviews based on real use and clear explanation. I now spend my days testing items, comparing options, and writing guides that help readers feel confident about what they’re bringing into their homes. Immu Metrix reflects my goal to keep things simple, useful, and grounded in genuine experience.
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