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Exploring the F1 Show at Excel Arena
The Excel Arena near Victoria Docks hosted an unforgettable daytime event: the F1 Show, focusing on the rich history of Formula 1. As a photography enthusiast, I saw this as a perfect opportunity to test Kentmere 400, a budget-friendly 35mm film known for its versatility. My day revolved around photographing the event—a unique blend of motorsport heritage, iconic cars, and an energetic atmosphere—using this affordable kentmere pan 400 film stock.
Formula 1 has a storied past, and this show highlighted its evolution through the decades. From early racing machines to modern aerodynamic marvels, every display had a story to tell. The indoor lighting presented its challenges, but Kentmere 400’s forgiving nature and solid performance in various lighting conditions made it an excellent choice for the day.
Why Kentmere 400?
Affordability Without Sacrificing Quality
For those unfamiliar with Kentmere 400, it’s a black-and-white film often described as “cheap” due to its low price point. However, don’t let that label fool you. This film offers a surprising level of quality, with consistent results that make it a favorite for many photographers, both beginners and seasoned shooters.
For an indoor event like the F1 Show, where lighting can vary drastically between exhibits, I needed a film that could handle shadows and highlights effectively. Kentmere 400 delivered just that. Its latitude allowed me to capture details in darker areas while preserving highlights, making it a reliable choice for this type of environment.
Perfect for Indoor Settings
The show’s indoor setup meant I had to contend with artificial lighting, reflections, and occasional low-light conditions. Kentmere 400’s ISO 400 sensitivity made it versatile enough to adapt to these challenges. I could shoot handheld without worrying about camera shake or the need for excessive adjustments.
While higher-end films like Ilford HP5+ or Kodak Tri-X might be more forgiving in extreme conditions, Kentmere held its own remarkably well. For a fraction of the cost, it provided results that were more than satisfactory for this indoor shoot.
Shooting the F1 Show
The Camera Setup
For this session, I used my Canon 300v, which has consistently delivered excellent results with 35mm film. Equipped with a prime 50mm f1.8 lens, I had the flexibility to capture both wide shots of entire exhibits and tighter compositions highlighting intricate details of the cars.
The simplicity of shooting film added an extra layer of mindfulness to the process. Every frame mattered, and with only 36 exposures per roll, I had to carefully compose each shot, considering the lighting and subject placement.
Metering and Adjustments
Metering for indoor environments can be tricky, but Kentmere exposure latitude gave me some room for error. I used an in-camera meter to guide my settings, often erring on the side of slight overexposure to retain shadow detail. This approach worked well, particularly in areas where the lighting was uneven or dim.
The film’s natural grain added character to the images, complementing the historical theme of the F1 Show. Rather than detracting from the shots, the grain provided a vintage feel that aligned with the nostalgic atmosphere of the event.
Reflections on Kentmere Pan 400
The Pros
- Affordable Price: Kentmere is significantly cheaper than many comparable black-and-white films, making it a great option for photographers on a budget.
- Good Exposure Latitude: The film handles a range of lighting conditions well, making it suitable for indoor events like the F1 Show.
- Timeless Aesthetic: The grain and tonal quality of Kentmere 400 give images a classic look, ideal for capturing subjects with historical significance.
The Cons
- Less Fine Grain: The grain, though aesthetically pleasing in many situations, may not suit photographers looking for ultra-fine detail.
Overall, Kentmere offers incredible value for its price. It’s not perfect, but for the cost, it’s hard to beat.
Final Thoughts
Shooting the F1 Show at Excel Arena with Kentmere 400 proved to be a rewarding experience. This “cheap” 35mm film rose to the occasion, capturing the essence of Formula 1’s rich history with character and authenticity. Whether you’re a film photography beginner or an experienced shooter looking for a cost-effective option, Kentmere 400 is worth considering.
If you’ve used Kentmere 400 or have thoughts on shooting indoor events with black-and-white film, I’d love to hear your experiences. Feel free to share them in the comments below!
