Ektachrome 100

The lineage of Ektachrome films from Kodak extends beyond its current iteration, Ektachrome 100, encompassing earlier precursors that paved the way for its development. Kodachrome was just that, introduced by Kodak in the 1930s, it stands as one of the earliest triumphs in color film technology. Initially gaining popularity for both still photography and motion pictures, Kodachrome employed a sophisticated development process. However, it was not without its limitations, including its intricate development process and relative lack of flexibility and versatility compared to subsequent advancements in color film technology. This later led into the production of Kodak’s Ektachrome line of film first produced in the 1940s.

Ektachrome was first introduced by Kodak in the 1940s as a color reversal film, allowing photographers to create positive transparencies directly from the film. The original Ektachrome films were designed for still photography, but the product line expanded to include motion picture films as well, allowing for photographers and videographers the capability to use slide film in various conditions.

There were multiple versions of Ektachrome that Kodak released throughout the years for different reasons and variations. The original Ektachrome films were introduced in the 1940s and went through various improvements over the years, refining color accuracy, grain structure, and overall image quality. In the early 1940s, Kodak introduced the Aerial Ektachrome, specifically designated for governmental, scientific, and military use. Subsequently, in 1946, Kodak released the KODAK Ektachrome Transparency Sheet Film rated at ASA 32 or ISO 32, this particular film allowed photographers to process it independently using newly marketed chemical kits.

The evolution continued in 1955 when Kodak’s Ektachrome Transparency Sheet Film became available in roll film and 135/20 cartridges. As time went on a pivotal moment arrived in 1959 with the introduction of the Kodak High-Speed Ektachrome Film, Daylight with ASA 160, and Tungsten with ASA 125, earning the distinction of being the fastest color film on the consumer market at the time. Notably, it boasted a speed of ASA 160, more than two stops faster than the regular Ektachrome film which was a 32 ASA rated film.

In 1964, the now sought-after Ektachrome Infrared Aero Film, a 65 ASA film was introduced. This film captured infrared light from the red spectrum not seen to the human eye and created for very interesting photos that turned green vegetation a reddish pink color.

Fast forward to December 24, 1968, when astronaut William Anders captured the iconic "Earthrise" photograph using a modified Hasselblad 500 EL and shot on Ektachrome film. A year later In 1969, Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin used Ektachrome EF and Ektachrome high-speed color reversal film to capture the first photos on the moon. Kodak marked this historic event by releasing a special commemorative issue of 12 shots taken on the lunar surface.

The year 1971 witnessed the introduction of Kodak Ektachrome 160 Movie Film (Type A) and two super 8 movie cameras, enabling "existing light" movies for at home use. In 1976, Process E-6 was introduced, bringing forth Ektachrome Pro 50 Tungsten, Ektachrome Pro 64 Daylight, and Ektachrome Duplication film.

As the years progressed, Kodak introduced a variety of consumer and professional Ektachrome films, each boasting improved characteristics over its predecessor. The timeline includes releases like Ektachrome 200, Ektachrome 400, Ektachrome Professional 200, Ektachrome 100, and Ektachrome 64T.

Kodak Ektachrome 100 was a specific variant of the Ektachrome film released in the 1990s. It had an ISO speed rating of 100, making it a medium-speed film suitable for a variety of lighting conditions. The film was known for its fine grain, vibrant colors, and sharpness, making it popular among photographers for its versatility, and very true to life color rendition.

Over the years, Kodak continually improved the technology behind Ektachrome films, introducing advancements to enhance color accuracy, sharpness, and overall image quality. Kodak Ektachrome 100 was available in various formats, including 35mm rolls, medium format, and large format sheets, catering to the diverse needs of the photographer.

In the early 2000s, with the rise of digital photography, traditional film usage declined significantly. This trend impacted the production and sales of film products, including Ektachrome. In 2012, Kodak faced financial difficulties and filed for bankruptcy. The company had to make tough decisions, leading to the discontinuation of some film products, including various Ektachrome films.

In 2017, a significant announcement was made as Eastman Kodak and Kodak Alaris declared the revival of Ektachrome 100, with the film initially available in 35mm, 36 exposure cassettes. This marked a nostalgic return to the beloved film, with subsequent releases in 8mm and 16mm formats.

The revival came in 2018, with the introduction of the new Ektachrome 100 or E100 for short. By September 25, Kodak Alaris officially released the new Ektachrome E100 in 35mm format, with 8mm and 16mm formats following suit. Additionally, in October, Kodak introduced Ektachrome 100D Color Reversal Film in Super 8 format, with a 16mm format release on the horizon. This revival brought a sense of excitement and nostalgia to both seasoned and new photographers alike.

Ektachrome 100 and other Ektachrome films left a lasting legacy in the world of photography. Many photographers fondly remember the unique color palette and aesthetic of Ektachrome, contributing to a sense of nostalgia and true to life colors in the film photography community, and to this day it is used by many photographers with the revival of the film.

In summary, Kodak Ektachrome 100 is a notable variant of the Ektachrome film series, known for its vibrant colors, fine grain, and versatility. Its history reflects the evolution of film technology, the challenges posed by the digital era, and the enduring appeal of analog photography.

Kodak T-MAX 100