Harman Photo Phoenix 200 C41 Color Negative Film User Manual

Product Overview

HARMAN Phoenix 200 is an experimental C41 color negative film, marking a significant milestone as the first color film entirely produced at the HARMAN factory. This film is characterized by its high contrast, strong visible grain, and distinct analog character, offering unique results unlike other color films. It is designed for photographers seeking an experimental and characterful photographic experience.

Image: Harman Photo Phoenix 200 film roll and its packaging box, illustrating the product's appearance.

Key Characteristics

• Film Type: C41 Color Negative Film
• ISO Speed: 200/24° (DX coded 35mm 36 exposure film)
• Contrast: High contrast
• Grain: Strong, visible grain
• Manufacturing: First ever color film fully made in Mobberley by HARMAN Photo
• Unique Traits: Delivers punchy, vibrant colors; possibility of halation in bright or backlit conditions; occasional coating anomalies.

Operating and Exposure Guidelines

HARMAN Phoenix 200 film has a speed rating of ISO 200/24° (200ASA, 24DIN, EI 200) to daylight. While its box speed is ISO 200, it can be rated between ISO 100 and 400. For optimal results, the film performs best in good, consistent light.

Exposure Recommendations:

• Metering: Meter for the mid-tones to retain shadow or highlight detail. Over or under exposure is not recommended for this film.
• Contrast: This film produces higher contrast negatives than most conventional color films. Bracketing of exposure may be required to correctly capture the scene's brightness, especially on bright days.
• Halation: On brighter days or when shooting into the light, there is a possibility of halation effects around bright light sources and reflections. This is a characteristic of the film due to limited anti-halation incorporation.
• Filters: HARMAN Phoenix 200 film can be used with all types of filters (e.g., Polarizing or neutral density filters) in the usual way.

Image: Example photograph taken with Harman Photo Phoenix 200 film, demonstrating the film's unique color rendition and grain structure.

Processing

HARMAN Phoenix 200 film is processed using the standard C41 color negative film process. It is fully compatible with C41 type processing chemicals and can be processed alongside all makes of color negative film without adjustment to processing speed, temperature, or replenishment rates.

Processing Guidelines:

• Safelight: Handle HARMAN Phoenix 200 film in total darkness.
• Drying: To avoid drying marks when processing by hand, use a clean squeegee or chamois cloth to wipe the film before hanging it to dry. Dry the film at 30–40°C (86-104°F) in a drying cabinet or at room temperature in a clean, dust-free area.
• Push Processing: Push processing is not recommended for HARMAN Phoenix 200.

Storage and Handling

Unexposed Film:

For immediate use, store HARMAN Phoenix 200 in a cool (10–20°C / 50-68°F), dry place in its original packaging. The film may be stored in a fridge/freezer, but allow plenty of time for the film to acclimatize to room temperature prior to use.

Exposed Film:

Once exposed, process HARMAN Phoenix 200 as soon as practical. Exposed films should always be stored in cool, dry conditions, as recommended for unexposed film.

Processed Negatives:

Store processed negatives in a cool (10–20°C / 50-68°F), dry place, in the dark. Suitable storage sleeves include those made of cellulose triacetate, Mylar, paper (pH6.5–7.5), or inert polyester. Correctly processed HARMAN Phoenix 200 negatives usually have a magenta/purple tint, though the exact image color depends on the processing method.

Emulsion Side Identification:

Unlike some negatives, HARMAN Phoenix 200 emulsion has a glossy surface. To determine the emulsion side, view the negatives towards a light source; with the edge signing reading correctly, the emulsion is facing away from you.

Scanning and Printing

Print Making:

HARMAN Phoenix 200 negatives can be printed in the same way as other color C41 films, either via scanned negatives or direct analog exposure.

Scanning:

HARMAN Phoenix 200 does not have an orange mask, which is typical for more traditional color negative films. This absence can affect scanner response, and some adjustments may be required to achieve optimal results. It is recommended to consult scanner settings guides or resources from HARMANLab, The Darkroom.com, Analogue Wonderlab, SilverPan Film Lab, and Blue Moon Camera and Machine for best practices.

Specifications