The Rollei RPX series is, in my opinion, film that never seem to get enough love. It’s easy to see why. The market is somewhat saturated with black and white film, with options from the major players like Kodak and Ilford as well as plenty more from smaller niche manufacturers like Bergger and Film Ferrania. Rollei is stuck in between in terms of size, being a name licensed by Maco Direct in Germany to distribute film with a complete lineup of various black and white film.
The RPX series consists of panchromatic black and white film ranging in speeds of 25, 100 and 400. While the 100 and 400 seem to be somewhat related, the 25 seems to be quite different. The extreme sensitivity makes it the slowest panchromatic film on the market, and the grain is close to non existent. Not only that, the contrast takes it up a notch from RPX 100 and 400, having a very distinct look to it.
You might think to yourself that shooting such a slow film might prove to be a challenge without a tripod, but no! It’s not. This lets you shoot wide open on a sunny day like the ones we’re having right now, and still maintain a high enough speed. Especially with vintage lenses, you are able to capitalize on that distinctive glow and bokeh so many of them have. For example, some of these pictures were taken with a 1960s Minolta 58mm f1.4 Rokkor, and it shines.
So it can be quite a dramatic film because of its contrast and ability to let you shoot wide open, as well as exhibit some very high resolution images. Available in 35mm ad 120, it will be 10% off this Friday and Saturday only, online and in store. Don’t let the slow speed deter you from shooting this wonderful film and grab a roll or two to shoot this summer!
