Western Family 400

Western Family 400 is a 35mm color negative film that was originally offered under the Western Family trademark. The film was produced by the Italian company Ferrania, which was known for producing various photographic films for different brands. Ferrania, which also produced the Ferrania Solaris FG Plus 400, another ISO 400 film, in addition to the Western Family 400, offered the Western Family 400 film in the early 2000s.

With a rated sensitivity of ISO 400, Western Family 400 film was a versatile choice for a wide range of lighting conditions. This ISO setting made the film suitable for indoor and low-light color photography, as well as outdoor photography. The film’s color reproduction and image quality were solid and reliable, though not spectacular compared to some professional film emulsions.

Use of expired stock

Since production of the Western Family 400 has ceased, the film stock currently available on the market probably exceeds the expiration date specified by the manufacturer. However, it should be noted that the expiration date is only the manufacturer’s guarantee of optimal performance of the film. It is entirely possible to use expired film, although image quality may be affected by aging, improper storage, and exposure to heat.

Development of the film

The C-41 process is used to develop the Western Family 400, which is offered at most photo labs. After the film is developed, the negatives can be digitized or prints can be made. Most labs offer both printing of prints and digitizing of negatives.

Availability and Alternatives

The Western Family 400 was in 35mm format. Since the film is no longer manufactured, similar ISO 400 film can be used as a substitute. Several film manufacturers still offer 35mm film with similar characteristics today. One possibility would be the Kodak Ultramax 400*.

Western Family

Western Family Foods, the company behind the Western Family brand, was founded in 1934 and offers a variety of products to independent grocers. Despite its diverse product line and longevity, Western Family Foods was acquired by Topco in 2016 and the Tigard office closed later that year. Although the Western Family 400 is no longer manufactured, it remains an interesting part of the company’s history and photography as a whole.