Candido Collective has emerged as a noteworthy presence in the 35mm film market, presenting three distinct color negative film options that are garnering attention for their quality and affordability. These offerings, namely Candido 200, 400, and 800 Color Films, aim to democratize analog photography by providing cost-effective solutions without compromising image integrity. Sourced from European and Asian partners, Candido Collective's strategy focuses on making high-quality film accessible to a broader photographic community.
The company's founder, Harry Bell, established Candido Collective with the vision that photographers should prioritize experiences over exorbitant film costs, encapsulated by the motto, "pay for flights, not film." This philosophy underpins their pricing model, which initially saw rolls priced at $13.99 for 36 exposures. While prices have slightly increased to $15.75 per roll, they remain competitive, often undercutting established brands like Kodak Portra 400 and CineStill 800T. This affordability is particularly appealing in a hobby where expenses can quickly accumulate.
A significant aspect of Candido Collective's appeal lies in the composition of its films. Each variant is a modified version of Kodak Vision3 motion picture film, with the crucial remjet layer removed. This modification allows for standard C-41 processing, simplifying development for analog enthusiasts. The absence of the remjet layer also introduces a distinctive halation effect, characterized by a reddish glow around bright highlights, adding a unique aesthetic to images. This characteristic draws parallels to CineStill films, which employ a similar modification.
Specifically, Candido 200 is believed to be derived from Kodak Vision3 200T. It is lauded for its exceptionally fine grain and smooth image rendering, producing soft color palettes that make it an excellent choice for portraiture. The film's characteristics ensure a pleasing visual texture, enhancing the overall artistic outcome.
For outdoor photography, Candido 400, based on Kodak Vision3 250D, is a daylight-balanced film that delivers smooth contrast and low saturation. Its fine grain, relative to its speed, makes it highly versatile for various daytime scenarios. This film provides consistent performance and a balanced aesthetic, suitable for a wide range of subjects and lighting conditions.
Completing the trio, Candido 800 is a respooled, modified Kodak Vision3 500T. As a tungsten-balanced, high-speed film, it is best suited for indoor environments and low-light conditions. While it exhibits a higher grain structure, this contributes to its distinct character, making it ideal for capturing atmospheric scenes where a specific mood is desired.
Reviewers, including Blue Moon Camera and Machine, have largely praised Candido Collective's films. They highlight that despite some overlap in characteristics with existing products, Candido provides a more economical alternative. This cost-saving aspect is a considerable advantage for photographers dedicated to the analog medium. The enjoyment derived from experimenting with films that produce the halation effect further adds to their appeal, offering a creative dimension to photographic endeavors.