Analog Therapy/Film Test: Kentmere Pan 400 120

Before hearing about the release of Kentmere Pan 400 120 I had not really paid any attention to its 35mm variant. Had nothing against it. Just never thought to try it. Learned a few things due to its release and reading articles written about it.

• It is produced by Ilford and I have regularly used XP2 and HP5.
• Considered their lower priced tier of films and not as detailed as it contains less silver.
  • That is what I read anyway.
• As a result the 120 version is very affordable at around $6.
• And last but not least its greater surface area offsets the 35mm version’s lack of sharpness.

What is that you say? Lower price and acceptable results?

Yes, please.

So I picked up a couple of rolls each of 100 and 400. Decided to give 400 a try first.

Developed at home with Cinestll df96.

For a camera to run it through I chose to reduce human error as much as possible by using the nearly bulletproof Pentax 645N and 75mm f/2.8.

Here are all 16 (Rather than the typical 15 courtesy of the 645N.) photos from the test roll with some thoughts afterward.

Result? It is a great film. While it may not be as sharp as Ilford HP5 in 120 strength…

…or the B&W made to be developed in CS41 120 variant Ilford XP2…

…it does not need to be.

I like the look of it and would buy it on its own merits. Will not go on and on about the look of the film. Briefly stated it has a mellow, smooth look that is relatively free of grain while retaining an acceptable level of detail. If you like the sample shots it would not hurt to give it a try.

The fact that it costs a little over $2-$3 less than HP5 and XP2 is an added bonus. Definitely looking to try out Kentmere Pan 100 120 now.

-ELW