800Tungsten High-Speed Color Negative Film: A Neon Dream at Night
Shooting with Cinestill 800Tungsten is like stepping into a retro sci-fi movie, where neon lights, glowing streets, and dimly lit interiors come alive in a magical, cinematic glow. This film is specifically designed for tungsten lighting (those warm, indoor bulbs you’d find in classic movies), but it thrives in the wild, especially when you’re out at night capturing city lights.
First Impressions
I took this film out for a spin in New York City at night (because, honestly, where else does 800Tungsten truly shine). From neon-lit shop signs to moody, shadowy streets, it rendered everything with a rich, warm, almost nostalgic glow. You can practically feel the texture of the lights as they dance across the negative.
Color Tones
The high ISO gives you that stunning low-light performance without needing to push the film (though it can take a push well too!). The color temperature is balanced for tungsten lights, but under daylight, expect an ethereal blue shift that makes the world look like you’ve stepped into another planet—or maybe just a cool 80’s music video.
Grain and Texture
With its high speed, you’ll see some grain, but honestly, that’s part of the charm. It’s not overwhelming but adds character—like that warm feeling of coziness you get from seeing grain on the screen during a midnight movie marathon. In short, 800T isn’t trying to be perfect; it’s trying to be bold.
Best Used For
- Neon lights and nighttime cityscapes: Those hazy streetlights look like they’re melting into the night sky.
- Indoor scenes with tungsten lighting: Expect those warm colors to pop.
- Creative experimentation: Shooting this during the day without a filter? Get ready for some cool, unexpected results (hint: blue hues).
The Freaky Details
- Under natural daylight, without a proper filter, the film creates an icy blue look—almost as if you’ve transported yourself into a cold sci-fi thriller.
- Push it to 1600 ISO if you’re daring. It’ll hold up with grace, and you’ll get even more of that dramatic grain.
Final Thoughts
800Tungsten is not for the faint of heart. It’s a film for photographers who want mood, atmosphere, and a distinct look that stands out in the crowd. Don’t expect neutral perfection; instead, embrace the quirky, cinematic drama it offers in every frame.
Rating Matrix for 800Tungsten High-Speed Color Negative Film
| Feature | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|
| Color Accuracy (Tungsten) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Color Accuracy (Daylight) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Without filter) |
| Grain | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Low Light Performance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Fun Factor | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Quality | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Artistic Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
In summary, 800Tungsten is for those who are seeking an adventure in nighttime photography. Whether you’re capturing neon-lit streets or shooting indoors under tungsten lighting, this film transforms ordinary scenes into cinematic masterpieces. So grab your camera, head out when the lights go down, and let 800Tungsten take you on a visual journey.
Some Sample Photos
