Fine Grain: A Smooth Operator
Fuji Neopan ACROS 100 is like the James Bond of black-and-white films—smooth, refined, and always reliable. Its fine grain is its standout feature, making it a favorite among photographers who crave detail and clarity. While I personally use ISO 100 films more for shooting wide open than chasing grain perfection, I can’t deny that ACROS 100 delivers a level of smoothness that’s hard to beat in its price range.
That said, let’s be real: if you’re a grain-obsessed perfectionist, you’re probably already shooting 120 film. Let’s face it, 135 can’t compete with the sheer resolution of medium format. But for those of us shooting 35mm or even half-frame cameras, ACROS 100’s fine grain holds up beautifully under enlargement. It’s like the film equivalent of a high-definition TV—crisp, clear, and easy on the eyes.
Overexposure Woes: Handle with Care
Here’s where things get tricky. I’m the kind of photographer who loves to overexpose black-and-white film by half a stop (or even a full stop) to squeeze every last bit of shadow detail out of my shots. But with ACROS 100, overexposure can be a double-edged sword. Whether shooting 135 or 120, I’ve found that pushing this film too far results in lost highlight details. It’s like trying to have a conversation with someone who only speaks in whispers—sometimes, you just can’t hear what they’re saying.
To avoid this, I’ve started underexposing by half a stop or using a yellow filter to tame the highlights. It’s not my favorite workaround, but it gets the job done. If you’re someone who loves to push your film to the limits, ACROS 100 might feel a bit restrictive. But hey, every film has its quirks, right?
How to Use Fuji Neopan ACROS 100
Let’s be honest: I’m not ACROS 100’s biggest fan. Back in the day, it was a solid, affordable option, but now that it’s discontinued, prices have skyrocketed. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly black-and-white film, this might not be your best bet.
That said, I can see why so many photographers adore it. Portrait and still life shooters, in particular, seem to have a soft spot for ACROS 100. Its ability to render clean skin tones and delicate textures is almost magical. If you’re shooting people or objects that demand a touch of elegance, this film might just be your new best friend.
Final Thoughts: A Love-Hate Relationship
Fuji Neopan ACROS 100 is a film that inspires strong opinions. Its fine grain and smooth tonality make it a joy to use, but its limited highlight tolerance can be frustrating for overexposure enthusiasts. While it’s not my go-to film, I can’t deny its appeal for certain types of photography.
If you’re a portrait or still life photographer, ACROS 100 is worth trying—if you can find it at a reasonable price. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder that even the most refined films have their quirks. And isn’t that what makes film photography so endlessly fascinating?
