Kodak TRI-X 400 - Film Review

TRI-X 400
film index
Rating
Rated 5 out of 5
User Ratings
Rated 4.5 out of 5
TypeBW
Brand Kodak
ISO400
Format35mm, 120
Price
$ $ $
Contrast
+ + + + +
Latitude
+ + + + +
GrainFine - Coarse
+ + + + +

Tri-X 400 one of the most popular film stock, not just in black and white, but of all film.  It’s known for its classic and absolutely beautiful grain that hasn’t changed since 1954 as well as its song contrast and rich tones.  It has amazing exposure latitude which allows it to easily push up to 3 stops and also means it does well with over exposure.  When metering this film, like most other black and white film, we highly recommend metering either mid-tones or shadows.  You don’t want to underexpose it.  When shot in contrasty light you’ll get dark blacks and bright pure whites.  It film is very versatile and works for pretty much any type of photography.  It’s commonly used for street photography and is a beautiful portrait film as well! 

Buy this film online – 35mm.  | 120

User Reviews

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4.5
Rated 4.5 out of 5
4.5 out of 5 stars (based on 8 reviews)
Excellent75%
Very good13%
Average0%
Poor12%
Terrible0%

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Iconic for a reason

Rated 5 out of 5
April 7, 2024

I’ve used this film since 76 and although I’ve changed camera systems a few times, I’ve stuck with Tri-X. You can confidently buy expired stock and use it for important work. It won’t let you down. It’s just got a look, you won’t find a serious rival and it’s been in production since 54. A new Leica, the all mechanical M-A was introduced a short while ago, a free roll of Tri-X was included. This is because the film and the M3 both debuted in 54. I use Tri-X in my very shabby 1955 M3, reputed to have been used in ‘Nam’.

David Murray

Pretty Good Film

Rated 4 out of 5
January 10, 2023

The photos I took with the film had some good lighting especially when taking portraits.

Bryce Aufrecht

4.75/5

Rated 5 out of 5
November 30, 2021

I think Tri-X is a fantastic b/w film but the reason it didn’t get a solid 5/5 is because it is kind of expensive. Often imitated but unique in its own way, Tri-X seems to have strong contrast perfected. I would shoot Kodak Tri-X at any ISO from 100-3200 and develop accordingly. I also can’t think of any situation where Tri-X wouldn’t be suitable for. Weddings: Check. Architecture? No problem. Abstract stuff? Got you covered. There’s nothing this film can’t do so if you’re looking for an all-around film, this one is hard to beat with the exception of HP5+ because HP5 is cheaper. I also highly recommend shooting anything “old” with Tri-X. From people to monumental buildings, it just seems to look right.

Tenmuter