Film Photography with Ilford XP2 Super

What's so special about chromogenic B&W film and why should you consider giving Ilford's XP2 Super a try? In this video I scratch the surface of what makes this film so special and give you examples of the type of images that will work with it.
Still images can be viewed on my Instagram page I no longer post to my Flickr account.
Equipment Used
Nikon F80 with 28-100G lens
Preview App
Mark II Artists Viewfinder (App Store)
Vlogging Equipment
GoPro Hero 7 Black
iPhone Xs
Incidental Music
Cotton Dreams (Epidemic Sound)
Etsy Shop
steveonionsphoto.etsy.com
Contact Details
Email: [e-mail] Twitter: Steve_ONions / steve_onions Instagram: steveonions1 / steveonions1

[@jamesdecross1035]

Okay, you might convince me to give XP2 a go!

[@roywilkinson9879]

I love the spread of 1/3 on the ramble and 2/3rds on photography-give or take! In any event all are educational and interesting Thanks Steve!

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Roy 🙂

[@avengedart6648]

I feel great pleasure in the beauty of nature and the captured moments in your photos when I watch your videos.

[@SteveONions]

Thank you, that’s very kind.

[@MaartenvanHeek]

Same here! Then I started investigating MF, found out that I rather should just go get out with my camera instead of pretending that a different setup will make a difference :)

[@Ilfordphoto]

Thanks for this Steve. Great video and beautiful images:)

[@petervanorsouw2858]

Your view of photographery and your sense of humor are a delight. It is sad when you have to let us go, more ramblings on please 📸

[@SteveONions]

Thank you Peter, glad you like the videos.

[@andydreadsbmx]

I love XP2, thanks for pointing out some things I didn't know! Can't wait to see the exposure test!

[@mwiesener]

I like the xp2.. but the best on this Film is: You can develop this film also in Rodinal (1+25/18min) or D76 (stock /14min) and it works absolutely fine. Its a perfect flexible Film with fine Grain and good contrast

[@HesselFolkertsma]

Yes, a very underrated film. Love the ease and relative cheap processing. In my region, XP2 costs €1 more compared to average B&W films, but processing is €2 cheaper (when you don't process your films yourself).

[@SteveONions]

Pretty cheap Hessel, my hie processing also saves a bit more.

[@bjornsahlin]

A truly beautiful video, thank you for sharing this!

[@malcsayer7133]

I was pondering wether to give xp2 a look, think this video has made my mind up to get a roll.

[@ML-rm3vk]

time less photos very creative lovely work.

[@Guy_makes_thing]

Nice! It seems like i need to give xp2 a try. I'm really liking those pictures by the way, beautiful atmosphere. :)

[@andrewfrost8866]

Thank you Steve, this is excellent. I remember the introduction of XP1, it was a real step forwards and the ability to change the ASA from shot to shot was astounding!

[@SteveONions]

I still like working on my old XP1 negs Andrew.

[@koltface]

Looking forward to the follow up on XP2! Thanks for another great video!

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Kolton.

[@mikejankowski6321]

Another great video as always. The ramble out and about is always relaxing and enjoyable. Your video is right up there with the stills you capture. I quite liked the first tree with the waterfall in the background - marvelous! I have used XP-2 from time to time in the recent and far past. Might even have a roll loaded in one of my cameras now. I did pick up some useful tips about its exposure characteristics and application, thank you.

[@SteveONions]

I’m glad you found it useful Mike 👍

[@BehindThePhoto]

Steve! I really enjoy the realistic nature of your videos and the photos are always brilliant. Keep doing what you do and thanks for taking time to share your knowledge. Be well! Benjamin

[@SteveONions]

Thank you Benjamin 👍

[@markglore7196]

Definitely on my try list. Which is getting longer thanks to you and your outstanding videos!👍

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Mark.

[@michaelbailey1578]

Thank you for that walk and discussion, Steve. Those first two images were superb, they gave me the "I wish I had done that" feeling, but more importantly I got the sense of wanting to be there, in that magical place the image conveys. You really are an excellent photographer. As it turns out, I just found a roll of XP2 last night, buried in an old camera bag. Now I am definitely inspired to go out and use it. That latitude certainly opens up some interesting possibilities, artistic and practical. It also would remove the inherent problem of using the zone system with roll film. Stay well.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Michael, XP2 does remove the problem of over dense highlights and it’s my go to film for bright conditions.

[@Nat.ImagesLarge.F.Photographer]

Magic place and atmosphere, superb photos Steve!!! I'll try it.

[@SteveONions]

Thank you 😊

[@JamesBellLandscapePhotography]

Good to see you again Steve. XP2 is my favourite B&W film. I appreciate your knowledge on the subject and how you deliver it. Good job. Will be good to see how your photos from various settings turn out sometime.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks James. I’ve always liked chromogenic B&W for the highlight control and ease of darkroom printing. Scanning is of course excellent too as it allows IR dust removal.

[@stephendeakin2714]

Hi Steve, just starting to use XP2 and wondering how your film speed video is going, hint hint. I'm following Ilford and your advice to give plenty of shadow exposure, cheers.

[@1717jbs]

great vid! i'm convinced.

[@mark-de-leeuw]

Lovely video and a stunning view at 2:50

[@federicomuciaccia9191]

I'll give XP2 a try. thank you for this video!

[@erichstocker8358]

Steve, thanks for reminding me about chromogenic BW films. I remember I was excited when they came out but then never used them. I'm happy to hear some are still available. I think I might try them. It is always good to have a film with this latitude about. Very informative and useful video

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Erich, I hope you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

[@ignacioargudoperez875]

Always learning with you Steve. Than you very much for sharing your knowledge! Be safe. Greets from Munich. Ignacio

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Ignacio.

[@Blue_Newt_01]

A lovely trip through some stunning landscape. Reminiscent of... All Who Wander Are Not Lost. Love these images and I’m going to give this film a try. Thanks for sharing ...again!

[@SteveONions]

Glad you found it useful 😊

[@joerainbow4173]

Excellent and clear as ever. Hugely informative thanks Steve. Not tried xp2 so might be next in the RZ.

[@SteveONions]

Ooh, those 6x7 negs will be beautiful 🙂

[@oldfilmguy9413]

Excellent information - haven't shot it yet but have some in the freezer - now I am motivated to give it a try! Oh and those early shots are truly beautiful! Cheers!

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Robert, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

[@perryjude1230]

Love this guy!

[@SteveONions]

😀

[@davidharle8794]

Another great video Steve. I was a fan of XP2 and like you also used XP1 when it first arrived. As you say, it is very forgiving to a novice photographer and also has a wide exposure latitude. I'm almost tempted to get a couple of rolls for old time's sake! Thanks for sharing your thoughts so well.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks David and definitely give it a go again.

[@williamorford6966]

Agree with you Steve. Great film to use. I started with XP 1 many years ago. I used to explore caves more then so the lighting was as you would expect flash so that often led to burnt out areas till XP 1 came along. As always enjoying your vlogs.

[@SteveONions]

That’s an interesting use of XP1 William, those highlights must have been very dense.

[@mathias12345678]

You really made me curious about XP2! I just bought two rolls of it and going to use them during my upcoming holidays.Hope a can fetch up a bit with your very nice pictures you took. Thank you!

[@SteveONions]

Hope the rolls turn out well Mathias 👍

[@tedsmith_photography]

I love how you travel about so much - always a new area. And your gag about shooting walls made me chuckle! So much of that these days...."here's a review of X"....snore. I used to have the F80 that I bought in 2008 - what a great camera it was. I used to use XP2 a while back around 2009 but not so much the last few years as I develop b&w in my usual DD-X setup and don't have colour chems. I might explore it again though - the characteristics curves you showed taught me something about XP2 that I didn't know before. Thanks for the vid.

[@SteveONions]

Glad you liked it Ted and this week I’ve picked up my fourth F80, just want the S version now with the exposure imprinting option 😊

[@photog1529]

Nice work, Steve...really liked the image at 3:25. Definitely going to give this film a try...need a break from Delta 100. Good luck with the new lock down.

[@SteveONions]

Thank you 👍

[@shokoufa69]

Thank you so much Steve very useful information. Take care.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Shahriar, glad you found it useful.

[@joeysartain6056]

I love the simplicity of xp2. Like you said, a great B&W film for beginners

[@SteveONions]

It is indeed Joey, also great for more experienced users.

[@PAULFROCCHI]

Thank you Steve

[@SteveONions]

You’re welcome Paul

[@DigitalMentorGroup]

Wonderful choice of music, Steve. It adds to the video shoot!

[@SteveONions]

Thank you 😊

[@roberttaylor8488]

Thank you Steve, XP2 "is" Super and is a film I must try again but this time I'll do my own processing. Your results are stunning and inspirational I've shot XP2 Super in the past in 35mm and had the local lab process them yielding ho-hum results. After viewing this video I'm going to load up a few roll and give it another go. Many thanks Robert in Canada.

[@SteveONions]

Good luck with the film Robert, it’s better to process yourself if possible to avoid inconsistent results and damaged negatives.

[@jimarmstrong1458]

Very interesting and enjoyable!

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Jim.

[@tonyb2760]

Love the image at 3:20. I have never shot this film but may give it a go. Thanks for sharing

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Tony, it’s a very versatile film.

[@m00dawg]

I have heard good things about XP2, and the results coupled with the pros you mention speak for themselves! My hangup has been archival stability and that it isn't available in sheets. It really looks like a beautiful film though, lovely work and lovely outing!

[@SteveONions]

It is a really great film Tim and my home processed XP1 negs for 30+ years ago still look fine. Shame about sheet sizes but I do get to use it in my 6x12 back.

[@TeddyWandererCamera-Bear]

I have always enjoyed using XP1/XP2 it is a great film and I am so pleased they still make it today. There are not many KZbin photography channels that would include the word "Acutance", had to dig out my old Langford "Advanced Photography" to remind myself of the definition ;D This looks like a nice place you went rambling around thanks for taking us along and sharing some of your images . I really liked the waterfall one with the tree 2:27 it had a wonderful atmosphere about it .Take care :D Teddy

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Teddy, I recall Roger Hicks once retelling a story from an Ilford employee. He said XP2 was creamy whilst HP5 was gnarly.

[@TeddyWandererCamera-Bear]

@@SteveONions Ah yes Roger Hicks , he is sadly missed I always looked forward to his articles ; ) And that descroption is perfect

[@DavidHosten]

Used XP2 regularly back in the day. I also liked Kodak BW400CN, but my favourite film was probably HP5 in larger negs and T-MAX 100 in 35mm. Love your videos. Keep them coming. Canadian born in Surrey UK.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks David.

[@dasnordlicht7069]

XP2 and KodakBW400CN are/were my „go to“ films! I like(d) the consistency in the resulting pictures. Hopefully XP2 will be available for much more years.

[@stuartbaines2843]

Nice to see the Nice Landscape and your film expertise 👍

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Stuart.

[@alexjj]

XP2 was my first B&W film, which I only chose for the C41 processing but really loved the results. Learnt some reasons why from your video.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Alex 👍

[@catey62]

thank you for this Steve, as someone who has used XP2 in the past but has, over time gotten to love HP5 and FP4, I'll have to get a couple rolls again of XP2 and have a play with it.

[@SteveONions]

It’s definitely worth trying, a really lovely film.

[@phillipP8848]

Very interesting Steve. I will give it a try and especially if it is good in the darkroom. Thanks.

[@SteveONions]

It’s great in the darkroom Phillip.

[@johnjon1823]

Really excellent and useful information, absolutely unique for KZbin. You should do a guide for various films with guidance related to the results much as you described in this video. Push and pull characteristics as related to development time highlight and shadow and grain kind of thing . A small book on Amazon might be nice for that. Thanks for your efforts. Best wishes!

[@SteveONions]

Thanks John, the permutations are endless, probably part of what keeps it interesting 👍

[@tim_butcher]

Great video, Steve. Thanks. I’ve only shot a long-expired roll of XP2. It came out fine though. Gotta love Ilford. I hope they send you a couple of complimentary rolls 👍

[@SteveONions]

A couple of dozen rolls would be even nicer Tim 😊

[@alanandkarenbootholdfield6179]

Nice phots Steve really impressive ,and really informative

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Alan (and Karen) 🙂

[@earlofwickshire5416]

You explain these concepts well, thank you!

[@SteveONions]

Glad you liked it.

[@SteveONions]

Glad you liked it.

[@adrahc]

Used it quite a lot for portraits back in early 90's with a F90X

[@davidv.kutaliya]

Dear Steve, thank you very much. Best regards from Saint Petersburg.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks David.

[@Raychristofer]

Great job on this Steve, one of my subscribers gifted me a few rolls of xp2 and I noticed exactly what you said that it's very difficult to blow out highlights. Also the editing curved is slightly different from typical black and white . Interestingly a few days ago I uploaded a video of how to develop color film at room temperature, I'm going to try that also with my last roll of xp2. Carry on

[@SteveONions]

It’ll be fine at room temp Ray, a big advantage over colour C-41 is not having to worry about colour shifts during development.

[@ronsharmagaming]

To be honest, i ordered a set of 10 XP2S rolls earlier today without knowing much about it, simply because my supplier was out of Delta and Tri-X. I had no idea i bought such an awesome film that i can develop with C-41 chemicals. Plus the character of the film is extraordinary. Now i'm anxious to shoot with it. Awesome video and amazing pictures by the way.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Ron and enjoy using the XP2 👍

[@AliasJimWirth]

Enjoyed it all, Steve. Thank you.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks James. The grain is about as fine as on that shot of Ardvrek castle you purchased from me this year and that was shot on Delta 100.

[@AliasJimWirth]

@@SteveONions I wanted to mention that my framing appointment for the Ardvrek castle image did not take place until a month later. The original appt. fell through. So I really enjoyed just taking it out and holding it and looking at it, enjoying the tactile experience for a time before it became imprisoned behind glass. I will wait for a time before I move to frame this one so I can enjoy it for awhile in my hand as well. Ardvrek castle gets favorable comments from friends and family; I expect this new acquisition will as well. Thanks, always.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks James, glad to see the print is popular! All the best.

[@blackwingvisuals5017]

Got the prints :) many thanks!!!

[@SteveONions]

Thank for letting me know Paul 😀

[@garymaunder1399]

Keep up the wandering parts Steve, it makes me more determined to get out when i can.

[@SteveONions]

Will do Gary 👍

[@pauldisley2140]

High Steve. I used XP2 some years ago and wasn't enthused by it. But that was probably down to only having access to a colour lab and the prints coming out a dark Sepia on colour paper. It didn't suit the subject matter at all. I didn't know it was so versatile. Something to remember for the future. Love the photo @ 2.30. I do like Aber falls as well. Got some cracking Fungi near the Roundhouse on the walk in a couple of years ago Cheers Diz

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Diz, I’ll keep and eye out next time I’m at the falls. I have an idea for a shot there but it needs the right light and probably the 4x5.

[@IainHC1]

What James said!! Cheers Steve :-)

[@Larpy1933]

The print shown at t=11:01 is GORGEOUS! Thx for the guidance on using XP2 Super. Good luck eh! (from Victoria, BC).

[@SteveONions]

Thank you 🙂

[@marcp.1752]

One of my fave Films ever, besides the iconic Kodak Tri-X 400/TX 400, and for the cheap asking Price, AGFA APX-100, all into 135 35mm Film Format.

[@v-g-z3689]

The one time I shot this film, I got fascinating results. I had prints made on a fully optical, analogue Noritsu colour Minilab from the late 90´s here in Munic. That machine normaly only does colour, no black and white, but because of the films mask that is similar to the ones on coulour films, it was able to "see" something. The prints have a wonderful sepia colour, very nice, soft and distinguishable midtones, and all of a sudden the photos look like they were taken in the 1920´s. You´ll never get that with a digital minilab, and thanks to the technical aspects of the film it can be done the old, optical way.

[@SteveONions]

I used to get minilab prints too and loved that warm colour they had.

[@ivaa7777JAWA]

Great video

[@SteveONions]

Thanks 😊

[@roberttaylor8488]

Hello Steve, I've now purchase some XP2 Super in 35mm and medium format, once this lockdown ends I'll attempt to shoot this while employing your suggestion of iso 200/250. In the mid to late 1990's I used Kodak's T400CN for portraits and night photography landscapes with stunning results. My B&W photography basically died when Kodak ended production of this film. After watching your video a few times I'm hoping that XP2 Super will fill the B&W void in my portfolio. Thanks for an excellent review, Robert in Canada

[@SteveONions]

Hope you get in well with XP2 Robert, it’s a very fire giving film and one capable of extremely high quality results.

[@alangauld6079]

I used XP1/2 along with Ilford's multi-grade paper in the mid 80's when I still had a darkroom. Super flexible combo. I'm thinking about dusting off my old Yashica TLR so might buy a few rolls of XP2 to see how it goes. Thanks for the memories.

[@SteveONions]

You’re welcome Alan and I hope the TLR gets some exercise soon.

[@alangauld6079]

@@SteveONions Thanks, two rolls of XP2 arrived today :-)

[@theblacksworde]

Great for scanning too...

[@SteveONions]

Absolutely!

[@Enevan1968]

It is becoming my favourite stock - but then again, it is super versatile IMHO.

[@SteveONions]

Totally agree

[@nigeldawson8218]

As a long-time Kodak Tri-X user, I’m willing to give this film a try for some change of pace and try something new experiences. Thanks for the info.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Nigel, I think you’ll like it.

[@SD_Alias]

You gave me a good hint. I never tested it because I had so much classic b&w Film in my fridge. But now I ran out of it and why not testing it and develop it together with my colour films.

[@SteveONions]

Just put them all in together, it saves a lot of time and money 👍

[@sameerrao5834]

Great video - informative, insightful and some wonderful photos! I love the special character of XP2 which gives the pictures a look that is totally distinctive from other B&W films. I wonder why photographers turn their noses up at it just because it is processed in C41? What does it matter what chemicals a film is processed in?

[@SteveONions]

It’s a snobbery thing Sameer, a lot of photographers like to master the art of metering and development and XP2 makes a lot of this unnecessary. I still use conventional films too but won’t hesitate to load XP2 if it suits the conditions.

[@belgocanuck123]

Fantastic video, as always. I tried my first roll of XP2 this past week, still need to develop. You made a comment about the faulty GPX map and I was wondering if it would be possible for you to share your GPX maps in the description somehow? I am fascinated by your walking routes and am planning a post-lockdown trip up to northern Wales / Snowdonia. thanks again for these great videos!

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Dale. I could put a link to the sites that have the gpx maps, that way the information is always up to date.

[@donball9777]

on the shopping list.

[@SteveONions]

😀

[@blackwingvisuals5017]

Half box speed and meter for the shadows!!!! Or just plus 4 it :) you can't fail! The fuji variant is the same film under a different brand! That shot you sold is off the clock Steve!! Beautiful! It's all about the way it makes you feel when you peer into it !! Pre flashing with a grey card works well with this film if you want to shoot it fast! Bring the shadows up for you whilst taming or even under exposing the highlights a little! Well that's the extent of my lip flapping over anyway :) love that shot !

[@SteveONions]

Thank you and that’s also a good tip to pre-flash the film, not done that for a long time (although I often do it in the darkroom).

[@SteveONions]

Thanks for the print order too Paul, I’ve just packed it and will take a walk down to the post office at lunchtime 👍

[@blackwingvisuals5017]

@@SteveONions :) the tips weren't for you lol the were for the weak of mind and constitution AKA digital freaks that are looking a challenge!

[@autisticlife]

Thank you for this video it was good to watch. I liked the opening scenes of and around Aber Falls. Did the online map suggest you go up the steep path to the left of the falls? I tried that one, did'nt feel safe up there and came down. Next to me I have a photo album from 1982, it contains three photographs of Aber Falls I made with my K1000 and 3M iso100 print film. I only had a 50mm lens so I made a top to bottom photograph by joining up two prints. I used to give print film lots of exposure back then and still do. I keep a roll of XP2 in a Canon AF35M II for family photographs. I expose it at iso 200 and like the results with creamy smooth skin tones. I recall an article in Amateur Photographer at the launch of XP2. They exposed it from iso50 to 800. They thought it made good immges at all these speeds. They suggested exposing it for the effect the photographer wants, super fine creamy smooth immages at iso 50, more conttrast and fine grain at middling iso's and a bit less shadow detail and over all contrast at iso 800.

[@SteveONions]

Hi Richard. I think XP2 is capable of very wide exposure tolerance and I’m thinking I’ll take the test up to EI3200. The gpx map I downloaded showed the route going directly up the falls themselves but I decided to make my own route up to the right via another hill - big mistake. I actually came back via the route you describe and yes, it was very precarious, barely wide enough for a small goat to traverse but I’ll probably use it next time I attempt the long route I’ve planned. All the best.

[@smitty112877]

I plan on shooting with XP2 more often, for sure. The darkroom benefits alone make it worth it. Would love a 4x5 stock of it

[@SteveONions]

I’d love it in 4x5 Matthew, one of the reasons I have a 6x12 back is to be able to shoot it with the large format camera.

[@fergar0206]

I started using XP2 to save developing time for printing and just sending it to the drug store when I was studying photography in high school. I wound up really liking the fine grain and the sort of detail i could get. However now I kinda feel like I miss the sort of grain structure from B&W process film but I'll still shoot it from time to time.

[@SteveONions]

I get the same feeing sometimes Fernando which is why I also shoot HP5+.

[@franciscomolina7958]

nice video

[@nelsonm.5044]

I prefer XP2 over HP5 because of the prevalence of the grain with HP5 especially in 120 format, not much a grain lover but you are also right with the shadows

[@SteveONions]

I like both Nelson but XP2 is definitely a winner in landscapes.

[@jimgraves4197]

I used XP2 as my introduction to black and white film and instantly fell in love with it. Its versatility is great for beginners as it handles our mistakes with ease.

[@SteveONions]

It is very underrated Jim.

[@isthmusportrait608]

Wow, I really want to visit Wales now!

[@SteveONions]

It's wonderful Chris, all year round too, there's so much to see and do.

[@robhosailor]

Hello, Thanks for the video! I use Ilford XP2 super 400 and find it good black and white material. I like the very wide range of halftones. I have the impression that the grain is melted - comparing the photos from other negatives, I see a slightly less sharp drawing and no grain from the XP2. I don't always like it because I generally like the grain in analog photography. Conveniently, XP2 can be developed in any laboratory that has a C-41.

[@SteveONions]

It can look soft compared to a traditional film and it doesn’t suit everything I’d agree. When it does work though, wow!

[@robhosailor]

@@SteveONions Thanks!

[@DBWilliamsFilm36]

Tank you.Thought it was just a cheap film for C4. what a surprise.

[@SteveONions]

It’s a really high quality film that deserves more attention 🙂

[@lensman5762]

Loved the photo of the waterfall. Very you, very Adams if I may say so. On a different note, I still have a couple of rolls of Kodak BW 400 CN from mid 2000s. I have to give them a go. Sadly they are no longer in production as far as I know.

[@agylub]

lensman57 IMHO the 400CN was the worst BW film Kodak produced. It had a deservedly short retail life.

[@lensman5762]

@@agylub I said I was going to give them a go. I didn't say I was expecting miracles my friend. Come to think of it, I wasn't so hot on the original XP1. I tried a few rolls in the early 80s and it wasn't for me.

[@srfurley]

At one time Kodak actually made two chromogenic black and white films, I cannot remember what the other was called, or which was which. The difference was that one was similar to XP1 and was intended for darkroom printing on black and white paper while the other had an overall orange colour to look similar to the masking on colour films and was intended for amateur use and to be easier to get reasonably neutral results when printed on colour paper on mini labs.

[@SteveONions]

I’m sure the rolls will be fine, just allow plenty of exposure.

[@lensman5762]

@@srfurley I think it could have been the T 400 CN which was replaced by BW 400 CN.

[@JasonArcherPhoto]

Steve, your wanderings are part of the draw to this channel. It's a joy to see all of the beautiful outdoor locations you photograph. There are too many fast, loud sensationalist youtube photographers out there. Your love of photography and the process shines through in how you present these videos. Please keep it up.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Jason. Being outdoors is the most important part for me and the photographs are a real bonus. I’ve missed not getting to some of my favourite locations this year but I’m optimistic for 2021.

[@CymruRJW]

This takes me back 40 years when I used to develop Ilford B&W, and used FX1 as a developer. I highly recommend this high actutance developer, formula by Geoffrey Crawley and formula available on Google.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Ron. Geoffrey was a master in his field and sadly missed. It’s good that a lot of his formulas still survive.

[@carltanner9065]

Just bought a couple of rolls of XP2. Might try one out in a little Canon Demi half-frame camera I have and another out in one of my SRT's. See how it goes.

[@SteveONions]

Should work well in half frame Carl, just like the enlargement I showed.

[@carltanner9065]

I hope so!!

[@62smarty]

XP2-400 is my absolute favourate b/w film... because it isn't a real b/w film. I'm born in 1962 and shot lots of Kodachrome 25 and 64. And this was also a "special b/w slide film 😉". The XP2-400 is a great film with the exact amount of contrast I want. If I'm in Asia again (fu..ing Covid), I will use it again. Every C41 lab can develop and scan it. I use it on 35 xams from Canon via Nikon to Leica. I hope they will never stop production.

[@SteveONions]

I hope they keep making it too, quite different characteristics and great tonality.

[@rasmusmunchovergaard906]

Thank you for a great video. I am just starting out on using Black and White film. I will follow your recommendation about this film as a great beginner film and try this as my first film. Many black and white films benefit from overexposure, but how should you develop an overexpoused film? If I shoot the film at ISO 200, should it then be developed as an ISO 400 og ISO 200 film? I will scan my film after development using SilverFast and then print some of the pictures if they are good.

[@SteveONions]

In general if you overexpose and under develop then your images will turn out just fine. A good starting point is to halve your film speed and knock 20% of the development time. Of course this isn’t always the best approach but overall it will give very good results (even Ansel Adams said so).

[@rasmusmunchovergaard906]

@@SteveONions Thank you very much for a quick reply. I will try what you describe and see how it goes :-)

[@davidpearce2981]

Thanks steve I’m trying a roll at the Brecon Beacons waterfalls next week

[@williamorford6966]

You lucky man David. I’ve had to cancel several planned trips to the Brecon’s but they will still be there for future visits.

[@SteveONions]

Good luck David, at least you are allowed out 😊

[@edwincampos7142]

So love the video, and. I’ve put xpsuper on my camera and took some shots, develop in fresh c41 rollei but when I scan on my Epson v850, it looks great on the silverfast software but not on my Lightroom app, it looks pixelated, might I be scanning it wrong?

[@SteveONions]

That sounds odd Edwin. I find that XP2 gives very smooth scans. Do the tiff/JPEG’s look good outside Lightroom?

[@edwincampos7142]

@@SteveONions i got it fixed I was using the software wrong and used the autopilot featured on the silvefast and got better results, now I just have to work on my focusing technique 😂

[@SilntObsvr]

Kodak had at least two different versions of their C-41 B&W film; T400CN and BW400CN, but neither one was as suitable for darkroom printing as XP2 Super (or the Fuji C-41 B&W, which as far as I know is still in production, coated by Harman Technologies, but distributed only in Asia) because they had the orange mask common to C-41 color films (this was a choice by Kodak; it let the films print better on RA-4 papers in mini-lab equipment; Ilford chose the other way, to make their film print better in an enlarger on B&W enlarging paper). XP2 Super can also produce excellent results when processed in B&W chemistry -- Ilford themselves link to a site showing process in HC-110, all the way from EI 50 to 1600 (though the site author did push and pull the same way you would HP5+). I've personally processed XP2 Super in Df96 monobath (if you do this, be sure to give the extra time recommended for T-grain films like T-Max and Delta to ensure full fixing). The grain, done this way, is comparable to Delta 400 or T-Max 400, and because there's no filter layer (as there would be in color films) the result is just as printable as in C-41. Finally, I've processed XP2 Super with *bleach bypass*, where I develop in C-41, but instead of bleaching away the silver image, I go directly to fixer, leaving the silver image present, intermingled with the dye cloud image. This gives a "free" speed increase (greater density for the same exposure) of 2/3 to 1 stop, letting me expose the film at EI 640-800 with almost indistinguishable image quality to the original C-41 processed film. For hand held shooting with older cameras (limited to f/2 to f/3.5 lenses in many cases) this is a great boon. I just bought five more rolls of XP2 Super -- and for me, that's something, because I've got a bulk roll of Fomapan 400 in the loader, generally my go-to B&W film (and costs barely more than half what XP2 Super does). Tempting to get a bulk roll of XP2 Super next time I've got an empty loader...

[@SteveONions]

Thanks for the detailed processing information, I’m particularly intrigued by the bleach bypass process that allows a useful speed boost. It’s truly a very flexible film and I only wish they made it in sheet film sizes too.

[@55lucinio]

Very nice film. But is it printable on Ilford MG paper with the same good results of traditional BW films? Because I I had read about contrast problems leading to rather flat prints, with difficulties of true deep whites and blacks.

[@SteveONions]

I’ve never had a problem printing chromogenic films in the darkroom on MG papers Lucinio, in fact I often find them superior.

[@stefflus08]

Am I to understand that someone has been complaining about your outdoor segment? Infuriating! I think they should be hours long.

[@SteveONions]

Not really Steffen but I’m probably over conscious that some viewers just want the tech stuff and don’t like me going for a wander 😊

[@autisticlife]

@@SteveONions I like you ooutdoor walking segments. It is good to see the places you go and get an idea of how you are relating to the landscape.

[@shlawchablaas]

@@SteveONions Steve, I've always enjoyed your videos regardless of the ratio of outdoors footage to studio time, but the wanders are something I particularly enjoy from your videos. I live in Brooklyn but in a normal year try and spend a month annually hiking, biking and camping around Ireland with my best friend-sadly not this year of course. It's always lovely to see where your rambles take you and the scenery around to shots.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Christopher, I’m missing my mountain hikes lately I’ll be honest.

[@johntruman6571]

Hi Steve. I realy enjoyed the video. A great, unsung camera the F/N80 once you deal with the rubber problem. You have rekindled my interest and wish to shoot XP2 and have just ordered three rolls. Are you able to tell me where you were for this shoot? I have a Welsh wife and she would love to know (as would I). Thanks again.

[@SteveONions]

Thanks John and good luck with the XP2. The location is Aber falls between Conwy and Bangor - super accessible and quite spectacular.

[@johntruman6571]

@@SteveONions I really appreciate that Steve. Thank you for taking the time and effort for the reply. I look forward to more great content from you.

[@totalrecone]

Thanks for a brilliant rundown on XP2, Steve. As a photographer who has Acros II dreams on a Foma budget, how does XP2 fare in the Rodinal versus C-41 chemistry cost stakes? Rodinal is my 'go to' because of it's price point and longevity, whereas C-41 is substantially more expensive on a per roll basis. Do you find the C-41 chemistry cost per-shot make any substantial difference ? Cheers from ɐᴉlɐɹʇsn∀

[@SteveONions]

I really use my C-41 until well past it’s shelf life and this makes it a lot cheaper. I’ll happily keep it for up to 6 months part used (fridge, protectan) and put more films through it than recommended. Still not as cheap as Rodinal though.

[@mattiashaggstrom2049]

A great aspect of XP2 super is that the infrared dust removal on Epson scanners can be used, which is not possible on normal black and white films.

[@SteveONions]

A definite win.

[@4CardsMan]

I tried this back in the day, but I settled on FP4 for controlled situations, Delta 3200 for low light, and Tri-X for everything else. Back then it was easy to get C-41 chemicals and I had a Jobo CPP-2, so processing XP-2 was no problem, but it just didn't seem to produce the look I get with FP4. BTW, do you have your own C-41 process?.

[@SteveONions]

There’s certainly a time and place for chromogenic B&W and I wouldn’t see it replacing the likes of HP5+ for everything I shoot. I usually process my own C-41 in a very basic CPE-2 but I’ve happily done it in Patterson tanks and a water bath.

[@richball3260]

'Steve - I am reminded of the quote from the American frontiersman Daniel Boone when asked if he had ever been lost his reply ". There are several versions of this quote but all bring a bit of a smile to ones face. Questions - are you developing the C41 yourself? How many rolls of film can you develop from a 1liter kit? What is the life of the chemicals once mixed? All the best - Rich Ball

[@SteveONions]

Thanks Rich. I do develop at home and the capacity of each manufacturers kit will vary. I typically use 1l kits and mix up in 500ml batches. Each of these is designed to do between 6 and 8 films and the manufacturer states that it is good for 6 weeks once mixed. I find I can do many more films than this If I want and in a recent test I used a fully exhausted 9 month old mix and the results were great. I do store it in the fridge and also use Protectan spray after each use.

[@richball3260]

@@SteveONions Steve - Thank you for the info. You tube left out the actual Daniel Boone Quote. I tried to put it in bold face type and it was deleted. His reply was "I have never been lost, but I will admit to being confused for several weeks". I just purchased a 1 liter C41 kit. The store owner claimed that all of the kits come from the same manufacturer. The kit had his store label on the bag but has Unicolor instructions inside. I also noted that KZbinr Kyle Mcdougall just had a video "Should You Over Expose Color Film" which essentially confirmed you experience with XP2. Based on your input I will be doing color film processing again. My previous experience was with color slide film long ago both with the E3 process (That should date me) and E6 process.