Film Test/Analog Therapy: Rollei Ortho 25 – Konica Hexar RF – 7Artisans 35mm f/1.4

I am all over the place about this film.

At first, I was intrigued by the detail such a low ISO may produce and a bit concerned that this same ISO may prove problematic in less than very bright environments.

While shooting with the film the latter concern raised its head and I was so concerned that the whole roll would be a blurry mess. This persisted while I was waiting for the film to be developed rather than developing it myself (More on this below.). I swore that I would never buy this film again.

Then I saw the negative when I picked up the film days later…

Wow. Er. Do you have any more Ortho film in stock?

Camera? A favorite rig of mine.

Due to such a low ISO I was going to go with the 7Artisans 50mm f/1.1 “Knock-off-ti-lux” at first. But this film’s sharpness and this lens’ IQ “uniqueness” wide open may not get along. For that reason, I chose the far sharper than it has any business being 7Artisans 35mm f/1.4.

This is a wonderful lens that I should really use more. I typically fall for the goofier 7Artisans 50mm f/1.1 instead, but I am blown away by the 35mm every time I use it… That being said I do believe I snuck few shots in with the 50mm f/1.1 at the camera shop to finish the roll.

Usually would develop B&W film at home with Cinestill df96 monobath. But this time no. Rollei Ortho 25 is not listed in the instructions for df96. I have learned that this is an issue before and have no plans to repeat this.

Most images came out. Those that did not had to do more with my impatience focusing than any fault with film, camera, or lens. My favorites from the roll below with some thoughts after.

Last thoughts.

I really like this film. Not crazy about not being able to develop it at home, but this is a small price to pay (Aside from the $12 out of pocket for developing.). Sure. I could buy the chemicals and do it myself, but I do not plan on shooting this film enough for that to make sense. That being said I will continue to shoot this film now and again for sure.

-ELW