Kodak TRI-X 400 - Film Review

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

Kodak Tri-X 400 – The Timeless Black & White Classic

Kodak Tri-X 400 is one of the most iconic film stocks ever made. Introduced in 1954, it’s been a favorite among photographers for decades thanks to its bold contrast, rich tones, and distinctive grain that has remained unchanged for generations.

Tri-X has excellent exposure latitude, making it a forgiving and versatile film that performs beautifully in a wide range of conditions. It looks fantastic at its native ISO 400, producing strong contrast and deep, expressive tonality – one of the many reasons it’s a favorite here at The Darkroom Lab. It also pushes extremely well, up to three stops, giving photographers plenty of flexibility in low light or when a punchier look is desired.

Like most black and white films, we recommend metering for the mid-tones or shadows to maintain detail and avoid underexposure. In contrasty light, Tri-X delivers deep blacks and bright whites, giving photos that classic black-and-white look it’s known for.

At The Darkroom Lab, Tri-X 400 is one of our two most developed black and white films, right alongside Ilford HP5 Plus. Its ability to handle different lighting and subjects makes it a go-to for street photography, portraits, and everyday shooting.

If you want a reliable, expressive film with a timeless black-and-white aesthetic, Kodak Tri-X 400 never disappoints.

Buy this film online – 35mm.  | 120

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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