The Darkroom Film Index: Rate, Review & Explore Every Film Stock

The world of film photography has exploded in popularity over the last few years, but with so many film stocks, disposable cameras, and formats available, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s exactly why we created the Film Index at The Darkroom.

The Darkroom’s Film Index is designed to be one of the most comprehensive film photography resources online, built to help both beginners and longtime film shooters discover the films that best fit their style. Whether you shoot 35mm, medium format, large format, black and white, color negative, E6 slide film, or disposable cameras, the goal is simple: provide real-world information, honest feedback, and sample images all in one place.

Unlike many film databases that simply list technical specifications, the Film Index is built around actual experience. Every film page includes ratings, reviews, sample images, descriptions, and insights from both The Darkroom team and the film photography community itself.

We’re constantly adding and updating film stocks, including newer releases, experimental emulsions, classic favorites, and even single-use cameras. From iconic films like Kodak Portra 400 and Ilford HP5 Plus to newer options like Harman Phoenix 200 and harder-to-find emulsions, our goal is to help photographers better understand the strengths, weaknesses, and character of each film stock before loading it into their camera.

One of the biggest things that makes the Film Index unique is that it’s community-driven. Anyone can contribute by rating films, leaving reviews, and even uploading their own sample images. We want this to become a living resource built by the film photography community itself, not just a static database.

And importantly, we encourage honest reviews.

Not every film is for everyone, and that’s okay. Some photographers love heavy grain and strong contrast, while others prefer softer colors and fine detail. Some films work beautifully in bright sunlight but struggle in low light. Others may simply not fit your style or workflow. That’s why we want people to share both their favorite films and the ones they didn’t connect with. Honest, insightful feedback helps everyone make better decisions and discover films they may genuinely enjoy shooting.

The Film Index also includes links to purchase films and cameras, helping photographers find where certain stocks are currently available, which is especially helpful as film availability and pricing continue to change.

At the end of the day, this is our attempt to create a resource we wish existed when many of us first started shooting film. A place where photographers can compare films, see real results, learn from others, and better understand the ever-growing world of analog photography.

If you haven’t explored it yet, we’d love for you to dive in, leave a few ratings and reviews, upload some sample images, and help us continue building one of the most useful film photography resources online.