Amber T200

The Amber T200 is a color negative film. The film material is sold under the RETO Project brand. Kodak is the company responsible for the production. There, the film material is offered under the name “Kodak VISION3 200T”.

Actually, it is material for the analog production of motion picture films. Among other things, Kodak also offers the material for analog photography under the Amber brand.

The VISION3 200T / Amber T200 is a color film for analog photography under artificial light. In contrast to digital photography, it is not possible to simply adjust the white balance when using film. For this reason, there are special films for daylight and tungsten light.

This film is optimized for a light temperature of 3200 Kelvin and delivers color-accurate images under this condition. However, when used under daylight, a blue tint will result in the images.

If the film is still to be used in daylight, an appropriate filter can be placed in front of the camera. However, this will result in a reduction in sensitivity that must be compensated for.

The sensitivity of the film is specified as 200 in tungsten light (3200K), while it drops to 125 when used with a filter under daylight.

Development of the film

In order to obtain the finished images, it is necessary to develop the film material in the C-41 process when the film is full. Actually, Kodak’s material must develop in the ECN-2 process. However, since the rejet coating on the base material has already been removed, the C-41 process is also possible.

The C-41 process can be done by yourself with the right chemistry, but development in a photo lab is less complicated. Unlike black and white film, the development process for color film is standardized. One option is to take the film to Rossmann or DM-Markt for development with the Amber T200. After development, one receives the film strips with the captured images.

Afterwards, prints can be made in various sizes or the images can be digitized. Many photo labs offer the possibility to make prints. For further digital processing, the film strips can be digitized by scanning. There are various devices for digitizing negatives with different functions and quality, suitable for different budgets. The digitized photos can be further processed in digital form or shared on social media.

Formats

The format availability of the Amber T200 is limited to 35mm format. With a normal image size (24×36 mm), 27 photos will fit on the color film.

The cartridge that holds the film stock does not have DX encoding. Modern 35 mm cameras rely on DX encoding for automatic film speed adjustment. Without a manual setting option, limited use of the film with the camera is possible. However, a DX sticker is included, which allows use in these cameras as well.

Manufacturers that offer / have offered suitable still cameras for the 35mm format include Lomography, Zenit and Agfa.

Storage

The storage conditions of unexposed film stock can affect the quality of subsequent photographs. Cool and dry conditions are ideal for storage, while places with high humidity or direct sunlight should be avoided.

To prevent possible loss of quality, it is advisable to have the exposed film developed promptly. Kodak recommends developing the material within six months, which also applies to the Amber T200.