Film ISO: A Beginner’s Guide to ISO 100 and ISO 400

Connecting with my teenage daughter has been an incredible journey, and one recent adventure involved delving into the world of film photography. Watch my YouTube video to see a glimpse of a camera and film that I bought from Five Below!

In this blog post, I want to share some insights into film ISO, specifically focusing on ISO 100 and ISO 400. Whether you’re new to film or just looking to expand your knowledge, understanding these basics can make your film photography experience more enjoyable and rewarding.

Film ISO Basics:

ISO, or film speed, measures the sensitivity of your film to light. Lower ISO numbers, like ISO 100, are less sensitive and are suitable for bright conditions, while higher ISO numbers, such as ISO 400, are more sensitive and work well in low-light situations.

ISO 100 – The Low Sensitivity Gem:

ISO 100 film is fantastic for capturing scenes in bright daylight. Its low sensitivity results in finer grain and smoother tones, making it ideal for landscape photography, outdoor portraits, and situations with abundant natural light. When you want to emphasize details and achieve a more delicate aesthetic, ISO 100 is your go-to choice.

Examples of When to Use ISO 100:

  1. Outdoor portraits on a sunny day
  2. Landscapes with well-lit scenes
  3. Still life photography in controlled lighting

ISO 400 – The Versatile Workhorse:

ISO 400 film is a more versatile option that performs well in a variety of lighting conditions. Its higher sensitivity allows for faster shutter speeds, making it suitable for capturing action and scenes with less available light. This flexibility makes it an excellent all-around choice for everyday use.

Examples of When to Use ISO 400:

  1. Indoor photography with moderate lighting
  2. Street photography, where lighting conditions vary
  3. Capturing fast-moving subjects or action shots

Choosing the Right Film for the Situation:

When deciding between ISO 100 and ISO 400, consider the lighting conditions and the type of scenes you want to capture. If you’re shooting outdoors on a sunny day and want fine details, ISO 100 is your friend. For more dynamic situations or low-light scenarios, ISO 400 offers the flexibility to adapt to changing conditions.

Experimenting with different film speeds opens up a world of creative possibilities in film photography. Whether you choose the subtlety of ISO 100 or the versatility of ISO 400, understanding these basics will empower you to make informed decisions and capture moments with confidence. Embrace the unique qualities of each film speed, and let your creativity flourish!

========================= Products You Can Purchase on Amazon ========================

No Five Below in your area? Try out the items below!

Film Camera: https://amzn.to/40RxqVG (not the exact version but very close and this one is water proof!)

Color Film: https://amzn.to/3Gh4EnM (this is iso 200!) B&W Film: https://amzn.to/47KpyYf

======================== Products Used to Create Video =============================

DJI Pocket 3 Creator Combo: https://amzn.to/49T7JZ2

============================= Connect With Me =============================

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DISCLAIMER: This description contains affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission, but it does not cost you anything. The price remains the same for you. This helps to support the channel and allows me to continue creating videos like this. Thank you for the support!