Kodak Max Versatility Plus 800

The Kodak Max Versatility Plus 800 is a color negative film. It was offered by the American photo pioneer until the early 2000s. It was a consumer film.

The Max Versatility Plus 800 is designed for color photos. The manufacturer specifies the sensitivity as ISO 800. This sensitivity makes it a good companion in low light. The images are grainier, compared to images on lower sensitivity stock.

Kodak advertised the film as a good choice for use in zoom cameras. It offers optimal results in a variety of lighting conditions, as well as in action and still shots. The improved flash range also makes it suitable for situations where flash is required. The improved depth of field provides better focus on the subject and reduces blur effects, while the reduced influence of “camera shake” and blurring on moving subjects provides sharper images.

Use of old film material

Most film stock has passed its expiration date because fresh film stock is no longer produced. Expired film can still be used, unlike expired food.

Aging or storage in a warm place can affect the sensitivity of older film stock. One way to correct this problem is to expose the film more during shooting.

Expired color film may exhibit changes in color brilliance, shifts in hue, and increased film grain. The quality of subsequent photographs could be affected by the storage conditions of unexposed film stock.

It is recommended to store the film material in a cool and dry place and not to keep it longer than necessary to ensure the highest possible quality of the film. Storage in a place with high humidity or exposure to sunlight is not advisable. Prompt development of exposed film is also advantageous.

Development of the film

When the film is fully exposed, its development requires the C-41 process. One can simply take the film to a photo lab to develop it, as all photo labs use a standardized development process that is the same for all of them. Alternatively, one can purchase the necessary supplies and chemistry from online stores and perform the development at home. After the process is completed, you get film strips with captured images.

There are two common ways to use the Kodak Max Versatility Plus 800 developed negatives: Making prints or digitizing them for digital purposes. When developing, one can also opt for the option to print images in different sizes.

Digitizing

For digital processing, it is advisable to digitize the film strip using a scanner. There are several devices to choose from, varying in features and quality to suit any budget. The digitized photos can then be further processed in digital form or shared on social media.

Availability and Alternatives

The Max Versatility Plus 800 was manufactured in the USA and was only available in 35mm format. With a normal frame size, 36 frames fit on the film. However, there were also rolls with less space. This is marked on the cartridge and packaging.

The film cartridge was marked with a DX code. Various manufacturers offer a variety of camera models for the 35mm format, including Zorki, Leica and Porst. So should you find a roll

If you can’t find a Kodak Max Versatility Plus anymore, you can turn to alternatives. One possible alternative for 35mm film is the Kodak Portra 800*.