
The best black and white films: A comparison of classics and modern favourites
Black-and-white photography offers a timeless aesthetic, supported by various film options on the market. Here are five of the best black-and-white films, highly regarded by photographers for their versatility and quality:
This classic is known for its flexible exposure latitude and distinctive grain. Particularly suitable for street photography and low-light shots, it can easily be pushed to ISO 1600 or even ISO 3200, making it ideal for various situations.
Ilford Delta 100 is the choice for photographers who prefer the highest sharpness and detail in bright lighting conditions. With its extremely fine grain and smooth tonal gradations, it is perfect for landscape shots or studio work. Its high sharpness and clarity make it particularly popular for well-lit subjects.
Ilford HP5 Plus is one of the most versatile black-and-white films on the market. With an ISO of 400, it is ideal for a variety of lighting conditions and can be easily pushed to ISO 3200, making it suitable for low-light situations. Its medium grain and fine detail reproduction make it a top choice for portraits, documentaries, and street photography.
Kodak T-Max 400 is known for its fine grain and exceptional sharpness. Thanks to its T-Grain technology, it delivers very fine detail and is particularly suited for situations where high resolution and clarity are required. With its flexibility and the ability to push it to ISO 3200, it is an excellent choice for photographers working in varying light conditions.
Fomapan 400 is the most affordable option on this list, yet it still delivers solid results. With its ISO 400, it is suitable for many scenes and provides a pleasant, classic grain. This film is ideal for photographers who prefer experimental or artistic work and are on a budget without compromising on quality.
Conclusion
The choice of the right black-and-white film depends on personal preferences and specific lighting conditions. Kodak Tri-X 400 and Ilford HP5 Plus offer flexible options for almost all situations, while Ilford Delta 100 and Kodak T-Max 400 are ideal for detail enthusiasts in well-lit scenes. Fomapan 400 is the perfect choice for photographers on a smaller budget who still want to experiment. Regardless of the choice, all options on this list deliver impressive black-and-white results.
Sample photo Ilford HP5+ / Berlin 2023