The 110 Film Market Just Doubled in Size Thanks to Two New Stocks From Reflx Labs
The world of film photography is a niche, and within that niche, 110 film is a niche within a niche. For the last 15 years, Lomography has been the exclusive provider of this cartridge-based film format. But now, Reflx Lab has entered the scene, doubling the number of companies offering 110 film to photographers. This is a significant development, as it opens up new opportunities for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Reflx Lab, based in China, has announced two new 110 film stocks: Fortuna C200 color and 100R Color Reversal film. The C200 is a respooled version of Lucky C200, while the 100R is derived from 16mm Ektachrome slide film. This move by Reflx Lab is a bold one, as it challenges the exclusivity of Lomography in this market. The company's Instagram page teases more expensive, high-quality 110 film in the future, indicating a commitment to pushing the boundaries of this niche market.
One of the unique features of Reflx Lab's 110 film is the 3D-printed cartridges. While this approach brings down the price, it also means photographers have to rely on the film advancing mechanism, as there's no back window to show remaining exposures. This adds an element of challenge and adventure to the shooting experience, as photographers must trust the film's advancement and know when to stop winding. It's a trade-off between convenience and the thrill of the unknown.
The Fortuna C200 and 100R Color Reversal films are perforated like standard 110 film, with 16mm perforations on one side and 110 perforations on the other. This is a clever design choice, allowing for compatibility with various cameras. Reflx Lab specifically recommends the Canon 110ED, Pentax Auto 110, Minolta 110 Zoom, and Rollei E110 for optimal performance. They advise against using cheap, toy-like models that might not handle the film's characteristics effectively.
The introduction of Reflx Lab's 110 film is a significant development in the analog photography world. It not only expands the options for photographers but also encourages innovation and experimentation. Content creator Isaias Osorio highlights the importance of Reflx Lab's efforts in keeping the 110 film format alive, despite its limitations. The lack of a back window adds a layer of challenge and adventure to the shooting process, making it a unique and engaging experience.
The Fortuna C200 is priced at $19.99, while the 100R Color Reversal costs $24.99. These films are available through the Reflx Lab website, offering photographers a chance to explore this niche within a niche. As the market expands, we can expect to see more experimentation and creativity in 110 film photography, further enriching the analog photography landscape.
