Harman Phoenix 200 Film Review: Rise and Shine!
In the magical year of 2022, when the world was still figuring out if wearing sweatpants could be formal, a small but mighty team at HARMAN Photo decided to embark on a top-secret mission. Their goal? To create a brand new color film from scratch, right in the heart of their UK factory. This isn’t just any factory—this is the place where all of Ilford’s iconic black-and-white films come to life. The result? Harman Phoenix 200, the film equivalent of a mythical creature. Cue the dramatic music.
A Fresh Start in Film
Much like the legendary Phoenix, this film represents a glorious rebirth for the color film world. For those of us who’ve been stuck in a monogamous relationship with one manufacturer for our color film needs, Phoenix 200 is a breath of fresh air (or maybe more like a gust of unpredictable wind). It’s bold, it’s quirky, and it’s got enough character to make your grandma’s stories look bland.
Quirks and Perks
Let’s just get it out there—Harman Phoenix 200 is not for the faint of heart. This film has high contrast, strong saturation, and colors that can make you feel like you’ve stepped into an alternate reality. It’s a bit like taking a ride in a time machine, except you’re never quite sure if you’ll end up in the 70s or on another planet. But that’s what makes it fun, right?
Now, I’ve tested this film in the hustle and bustle of the city, in moody low light, and along the dreamy coasts. Let me tell you, the sky in my shots came out looking positively “sick” (and I mean that in the coolest way possible). It’s got this almost surreal vibe that makes you wonder if you’re still on Earth. As for skin tones—well, let’s just say they can get a little “freaky.” But hey, if you’re looking for something traditional, you wouldn’t be using this film, would you?
Pro Tips for Shooting
Phoenix 200 doesn’t play by the rules, so you’ve got to be on your game. This film lacks a halation layer and an orange mask, which means you get those glorious halation effects and high contrast, but also a lower exposure latitude. It’s like balancing on a tightrope—one wrong move, and your highlights are gone. I recommend metering for the midtones to avoid blowing out those precious details. And if you’re shooting in bright light, keep a close eye on that exposure.
Color Explosion
Greens are the star of the show with this film—they’re strong, they’re bold, and they might just steal your heart. But be warned, the contrast is intense. Shadows can turn into deep, mysterious abysses, while highlights might just blind you with their brilliance. It’s all part of the charm.
Final Verdict
Harman Phoenix 200 is the lovable oddball in the film family. It’s far from perfect, but that’s exactly what makes it perfect for those of us who like a little adventure in our photography. This limited edition film is here for a good time, not a long time, so grab it while you can and let your creativity run wild. I love it, love it, love it!
Harman Phoenix 200 Film Rating Matrix with my personal experience and opinion about this film
| Category | Rating (Out of 5) | Comments and Opinion |
|---|---|---|
| Color Saturation | 4.5 | Strong, vivid colors with an emphasis on greens that pop. |
| Contrast | 4.0 | High contrast, deep shadows, and bright highlights—like a visual rollercoaster. |
| Exposure Latitude | 2.5 | Low latitude, similar to E-6 slide films; handle with care! |
| Halation | 4.0 | Noticeable halation gives images a dreamy glow, no filter needed. |
| Versatility | 3.0 | Best in controlled lighting; can be tricky in unpredictable conditions. |
| Grain | 3.5 | Moderate grain adds character without taking over the scene. |
| Uniqueness | 5.0 | A one-of-a-kind film with a look that’s anything but ordinary. |
| Fun Factor | 5.0 | It’s like a surprise party in every roll—unpredictable but exciting! |
| Quality | 4.0 | Solid build, but it’s an experiment, so expect a few quirks. |
| Artistic Value | 4.5 | Perfect for those looking to push the creative envelope and make a statement. |
Sample Photos – New York City. (Harman Phoenix 200 Film, ISO 200, Nikon FE camera)
