135 film

135 film is a photographic film format used in still photography. It was introduced by Kodak in 1934 and is also known as 35mm film, due to its width of 35 millimeters. The format quickly became popular for its convenience and versatility, becoming the most widely used film format for both amateur and professional photography. The 135 film cartridge makes loading and unloading the film easier and more light-tight compared to earlier formats.

History

The origins of 135 film date back to the early 20th century, with the first 35mm film being used in motion picture cameras. However, it was Kodak's introduction of the 135 film format for still cameras that revolutionized photography. The pre-loaded film cartridge allowed for quick changes of film and reduced the risk of exposing the film to light. Over the decades, 135 film became synonymous with 35mm photography, supporting a wide range of photographic work from snapshots to high-end commercial photography and photojournalism.

Technical Specifications

135 film is a perforated film strip, 35mm wide, typically used in cartridges containing 12, 24, or 36 exposures of 36 × 24 mm each. This size is known as the "full-frame" format in digital photography. The film has a standard ISO perforation at the edges, which engages with the camera's sprocket to move the film. The standard emulsion types available for 135 film include black-and-white, color negative film, and reversal film (slide film).

Cameras

A wide variety of cameras use 135 film, ranging from simple point-and-shoot models to high-end single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras. The format's popularity has led to the development of numerous camera systems around it, including rangefinders, SLR cameras, and compact automatic cameras. Despite the rise of digital photography, 135 film cameras remain popular among enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate the aesthetic and tactile nature of film photography.

Development and Processing

The development process for 135 film varies depending on the type of film used. Black-and-white film can often be developed at home with basic equipment, while color negative and slide films require more precise control of temperature and chemicals, often necessitating professional lab processing. After development, negatives or slides can be printed onto photographic paper or scanned for digital use.

Legacy and Current Status

Although digital photography has largely supplanted film in many areas, 135 film enjoys a resurgence in popularity among photographers who value its aesthetic qualities, such as grain, color rendition, and dynamic range. Many film manufacturers continue to produce 135 film, and a vibrant community of film enthusiasts supports its continued use.

135 film Resources
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