Kodak Portra 160 VC

The Kodak Portra 160 VC is a color negative film. The VC in the name of the film stands for Vivid Color.

Like the Portra 160 NC, it is well suited for portrait shots. However, it delivers more vivid colors than the NC version. Thus, it is also a good choice for landscape photos, such as on a sunny day. The sensitivity is specified at ISO 160.

Availability & Alternatives

Kodak has discontinued production of the Portra 160 VC. It was available for 35mm, medium format and large format cameras. It was replaced and the Portra 160 NC by the Portra 160. Of course, the “new” Portra 160 is also available for 35mm and medium format.

35mm film

If you find a roll of the Kodak Portra 160 VC, you can still use it today. On a roll of the color film fit 36 photos. A DX code is printed on the cartridge. It is possible for modern cameras to read the code printed on the film and automatically set the appropriate film speed. Among the manufacturers that offer / have offered suitable photo cameras for the 35mm format are Leica, Lomography and Nikon.

The medium format version (120) of the Portra 160 VC

Expired film material

It is likely that most film stock that is still available today has already passed the manufacturer’s expiration date, as new film is no longer being produced. It is important to note that expired film is not automatically unusable, unlike food.

Over time, the film’s sensitivity to light can decrease, resulting in loss of quality. The way the film is stored can affect this. It is possible that the photos will be underexposed if you use the specified ISO value. Therefore, you should set a lower ISO value on the camera.

In addition, the photos with the color film may suffer a loss in quality. This may show up as color shifts, lower contrast, or higher film grain.

Developing the Kodak Portra 160 VC

The Kodak Portra 160 VC must be developed using the C-41 process to obtain the final images when the film is full. The C-41 process is offered by most photo labs. The color negative process is standardized. With a little skill and the right chemistry, you can also develop the film yourself. The result of the development is the finished negatives.

This is usually followed by either the creation of prints or digitization. Most professional photo labs offer the possibility of making prints (prints of photos) in various sizes directly during development.

Digitization

To be able to use the images from the film strips in digital form, you should digitize them with a scanner. Photo labs often offer digitization of negatives, but you can also use a scanner for home use.