My Favorite Fujifilm Recipes
What I love most about my Fujifilm camera is the ability to use film recipes. These recipes are created by customizing settings that control a variety of parameters, such as white balance, contrast, and sharpness. Each recipe is designed to achieve a specific photographic effect, whether it’s enhancing the vibrant greens of a forest, creating smooth, flattering portraits, or capturing the moody atmosphere of a cloudy day. This level of customization allows me to get great images straight from the camera without spending hours editing in software. I do very little post-processing; most of the edits I make are done directly in the Photos app on my iPad or iPhone, making the editing process both simple and portable.
Since my camera can hold up to seven recipes at a time, I make it a point to try out new ones each time I use it. Every time I experiment with a new recipe, I get excited. It almost feels like playing, as I get to test each one and see what it can do. Using different recipes to create unique images takes creativity to a whole new level. You can either craft your own recipe or choose from hundreds available online. I rely on three main resources for recipes: Fuji X Weekly (which also has an app), Osan Bilgi, and Film Recipes for Fujifilm Cameras. There are plenty of other great sites and resources to explore as well.
My Top 5 Favorite Recipes
Honorable Mentions
Kodak Ultramax 400
Fuji X Weekly
Kodak Ultramax 400 was the first recipe I truly fell in love with. I’ve used it all over the world, from Washington to Iceland, across every season and weather condition. This recipe is incredibly versatile and brings out beautiful, natural colors with just the right amount of contrast, creating a clear separation between highlights and shadows. Furthermore, I’ve tried many recipes for nighttime street photography and this one consistently delivers the best results. Kodak Ultramax 400 continues to hold a spot in my top five favorite recipes.
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Auto, +1 Red, -5 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR-Auto
Highlights: +1
Shadows: +1
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: +3
Summer Chrome
Osan Bilgi
The first time I used this recipe was in Portugal. I was searching for a warmer recipe that would also enhance the vibrant colors of the architecture, and this recipe by Osan Bilgi delivered perfectly. I truly believe it’s one of the best travel recipes, especially for urban areas.
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Strong
WB: Auto, +5 Red, -6 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -2
Shadows: -2
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -4
Valenwood
Film Recipes
Valenwood truly shines in natural settings, especially in forested areas or places surrounded by greenery. It enhances the natural colors, which I love, as I don’t do much editing and prefer to keep my pictures looking as natural as possible.
Film Simulation: Astia/Soft
Grain Effect: Weak, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Fluorescent 3, +3 Red, -8 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -1
Shadows: -1
Color: -2
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Classic Cuban Negative
Osan Bilgi
You’ve probably seen this recipe on social media, as it’s quite popular and for good reason. Classic Cuban Negative is a strong contender for both street and nature photography. It’s extremely versatile and can be used in all kinds of situations. One unexpected area where this recipe really shines is in macro photography.
Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Strong
WB: Auto, +4 Red, -5 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -2
Shadows: +1
Color: +4
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -4
Kodak Gold 200
Fuji X Weekly
I fell in love with this recipe while capturing the beauty of the tropical island of Madeira. I’m a bit sad I didn’t try it sooner because I’m absolutely obsessed with the colors it produces. Whether it’s rain or shine, this recipe creates stunning images every time.
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Daylight, +4 Red, -5 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -1.5
Shadows: +0.5
Color: +3
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -2
Kodak Ektachrome E100VS V2
Fuji X Weekly
This recipe enhances and brings out pops of color. I use it whenever I want to capture a colorful building, sidewalk, statue, or anything else that needs a bold, vibrant touch. My favorite place to use this recipe was in Toontown at Disneyland. The colors there are already vibrant, but this recipe made them even more striking.
Film Simulation: Velvia
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Strong
WB: 5150K, +3 Red, -3 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlights: +1.5
Shadows: +0.5
Color: +1
Sharpness: -1
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: +3
Sherbert Sunrise
Film Recipes
This recipe is hands down my favorite to use when a sunrise and or sunset has a natural pink hue to it. Sherbert Sunrise takes these shades of pink to a whole new level, creating beautiful images. While this recipe can also be used in other situations, I prefer to use it during golden hour.
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Auto, +4 Red, +4 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: 0
Shadows: -1
Color: +3
Sharpness: -3
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -3
Lente Bok
Film Recipes
Lente Bok is a bold recipe. I’ve had fantastic results with it in the rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula, on lake hikes, and while capturing colorful mushrooms and flowers. It’s one of my favorite recipes to use when surrounded by greenery because its natural warm hue makes the greens pop beautifully.
Film Simulation: Velvia/Vivid
Grain Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Fluorescent 1, -2 Red, -4 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -1
Shadows: -1
Color: -4
Sharpness: -1
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Heartland
Film Recipes
Heartland has become one of my favorite go-to recipes for nature photography because it enhances natural colors while giving images a nostalgic feel. It’s versatile enough to be used in a wide range of conditions, from rainy to sunny days.
Film Simulation: Provia/Standard
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: Fluorescent 2, +4 Red, -5 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlights: -1
Shadows: -1
Color: -1
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -1
Grizzly Bear
Film Recipes
Grizzly Bear delivers bold colors, deep shadows, and plenty of character. While it can be used in any condition, I’ve found it produces the best results on overcast days, where it brings out beautiful greenish-blue tones.
Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Auto, +1 Red, -3 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: +0.5
Shadows: -1.5
Color: +2
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: +4
Emulsion ‘86
Fuji X Weekly
Emulsion ’86 is one of my favorite recipes for lush forests filled with water, moss, and rich foliage. It enhances the greenery while also adding a warm touch that brings out beautiful browns and oranges.
Film Simulation: Nostalgic Negative
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Daylight, +2 Red, -1 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -2
Shadows: +2
Color: +4
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -3
Summer of 1960
Fuji X Weekly
Summer of 1960 is another one of my favorites for vibrant woodlands. Like Emulsion ’86, this recipe is perfect for landscapes filled with greenery and water. It does an excellent job of enhancing cooler tones like green and blue.
Film Simulation: Nostalgic Negative
Grain Effect: Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Strong
WB: 5250K, -3 Red, -5 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: +4
Shadows: +2
Color: +3
Sharpness: -4
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -3
King Negative
Film Recipes
King Negative is rich and vibrant, enhancing the greenery in forests and performing well in both sun and rain. I’ve found it delivers the best results on overcast days in rainforests, especially when capturing mushrooms and waterfalls.
Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Shade, +1 Red, -4 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -0.5
Shadows: -1.5
Color: +3
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Oceanic 815
Film Recipes
Oceanic 815 is an incredibly versatile recipe. It works beautifully on sunny days by the ocean or during overcast walks along forested lakes. It enhances the blues of the sea and brings out the greens of the surrounding foliage.
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: Auto White Priority, -1 Red, -3 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: +0.5
Shadows: -1
Color: -3
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: +3
Olive Garden
Film Recipes
Olive Garden creates a mellow, soft vibe that adds a calming effect to images, like those I captured on a river hike. While it delivers the best results on overcast days, it also works well in sunny conditions.
Film Simulation: PRO Neg. Standard
Grain Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: Daylight, +2 Red, -7 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR100
Highlights: -1
Shadows: -1
Color: -4
Sharpness: +1
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Mistychrome
Film Recipes
As the name Mistychrome suggests, this recipe is ideal for overcast, misty conditions. The creator designed it specifically to capture the soft, pale atmosphere of mist and fog on cloudy days. It’s one of my favorite recipes to use on rainy days.
Film Simulation: Classic Chrome
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: 7200K, -2 Red, +2 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -2
Shadows: -1
Color: -4
Sharpness: 0
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Forest Ranger
Film Recipes
Forest Ranger is an excellent recipe for capturing the essence of the forest. It has a more muted, neutral look but still brings out the greens. I’ve found it works best in overcast conditions.
Film Simulation: PRO Neg. Standard
Grain Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: Daylight, +2 Red, -7 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR100
Highlights: -1
Shadows: -1
Color: -4
Sharpness: +1
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Pacific Blues
Fuji X Weekly
Pacific Blues is perfect for overcast beach days, though it works well in bright conditions too. I used it to capture Diamond Beach in Iceland, enhancing the blue tones of the glacier chunks and Jökulsárlón.
Film Simulation: Classic Negative
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: 5800K, +1 Red, -3 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -2
Shadows: +3
Color: +4
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -3
1970’s Summer
Fuji X Weekly
1970’s Summer is one of my go-to recipes for sunny days. It enhances greens and warm tones in landscapes, giving images a nostalgic, timeless feel.
Film Simulation: Nostalgic Negative
Grain Effect: Strong, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Strong
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Strong
WB: 6500K, -1 Red, -4 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: -2
Shadows: -0.5
Color: -2
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -3
Arthouse Cinema
Film Recipes
Arthouse Cinema gives images a mellow, soft look. While it’s probably my least favorite on this list because I tend to prefer more vibrant colors, it still has its uses. I’ve had great results with it on sunny beach days.
Film Simulation: Eterna/Cinema
Grain Effect: Weak, Large
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: Daylight, +2 Red, -7 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR100
Highlights: -1
Shadows: -1
Color: -4
Sharpness: +1
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Vintage Film
Film Recipes
Vintage Film is a fantastic recipe for a sunny beach day. It has a nostalgic feel and brings out soft pops of color.
Film Simulation: PRO Neg. Standard
Grain Effect: Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Weak
WB: Auto, +4 Red, -6 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR400
Highlights: 0
Shadows: -1
Color: -2
Sharpness: -1
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: 0
Eldorado
Film Recipes
Eldorado is a recipe designed for golden hour, but it also works beautifully during fall when the leaves begin to turn golden. I tested it out during my trip to Glacier National Park and ended up using it the entire time I was there.
Film Simulation: Astia/Soft
Grain Effect: Off
Color Chrome Effect: Weak
Color Chrome Effect Blue: Off
WB: Underwater, +6 Red, -7 Blue
Dynamic Range: DR200
Highlights: -0.5
Shadows: +1
Color: -3
Sharpness: -2
ISO Noise Reduction: -4
Clarity: -3
