Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp – ISO 50 Super Fine Detail

Introduction:

When it comes to precision, clarity, and breathtaking detail in black and white photography, the Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp remains one of the most trusted films among analog photographers. Known for its ultra-fine grain structure and rich tonal depth, this film is designed for those who appreciate sharpness and subtle gradations of gray. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or still-life projects, the Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp consistently delivers professional-quality results.

What Makes Ilford PAN F Plus 135 36 Exp Special?

The hallmark of the Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp is its ISO 50 rating, which allows for outstanding image quality with extremely fine detail. This makes it ideal for large-scale enlargements, ensuring photographers can print big without losing clarity.

Key Features at a Glance:

• Film Type: Black & White Negative

• Format: 35mm (135) – 36 exposures per roll

• Speed: ISO 50/18°

• Grain: Ultra fine, perfect for enlargements

• Contrast: High with smooth tonal range

• Best For: Landscapes, architecture, fine art, still life, and controlled lighting

By choosing the Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp, you’re investing in a film stock that prioritizes detail and dynamic range—perfect for both beginners experimenting with slow-speed film and professionals seeking consistent quality.

Performance and Image Quality

The Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp is renowned for its sharpness and tonality. Thanks to its slow ISO speed, the film produces:

• Unmatched Fine Detail: The film captures textures, edges, and intricate details that faster films often miss.

• Smooth Tonal Transitions: Perfect for creating subtle shades of gray, from deep blacks to bright highlights.

• High Resolution Prints: Especially suitable for darkroom enlargements and high-quality scans.

Many photographers describe the results as “classic black and white,” with a timeless look that remains faithful to the analog tradition.

Best Uses of Ilford PAN F Plus 135 36 Exp

Because of its slow ISO speed, Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp performs best in bright daylight or controlled studio lighting. Here are some recommended scenarios:

1. Landscape Photography – Capture crisp details in rocks, trees, and skies with beautiful tonal range.

2. Portraiture – Delivers smooth skin tones and elegant contrast without overwhelming grain.

3. Architectural Shots – Perfect for rendering fine textures like stone, metal, and glass.

4. Fine Art Photography – Ideal for projects where tonal quality and detail matter most.

5. Studio Work – With controlled lighting, it ensures consistency and clarity.

For handheld shooting in low light, a tripod or longer exposure is recommended.

Developing the Ilford PAN F Plus 135 36 Exp

One of the strengths of Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp is its compatibility with a wide range of black and white film developers. It works especially well with fine-grain developers like Ilford Perceptol or Ilford ID-11, which maximize detail and sharpness.

Some recommended options:

• Ilford ID-11 Developer 

• ADOX NEUTOL Liquid NE 1000 ml

• FOMA Fix P U1 – Powder Fixer 

Processing times vary depending on the chosen developer, but Ilford provides detailed technical information on their official website. For reference, check the Ilford PAN F Plus technical data sheet.

Comparisons with Other Ilford Films

If you’re wondering how Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp compares to other Ilford films:

• Ilford HP5 Plus 400 – Higher ISO, more versatile in low light, but grainier.

• Ilford FP4 Plus 125 – A mid-speed film with fine grain, but not as sharp as PAN F.

• Ilford Delta 100 Professional – Also fine-grained, but offers a different tonal curve.

For ultimate detail and smooth tonal transitions, Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp remains unmatched.

Why Choose Ilford PAN F Plus 135 36 Exp?

1. Professional-Level Sharpness – For photographers who demand detail in every shot.

2. Versatility in Printing & Scanning – Produces negatives that scan beautifully and print with remarkable depth.

3. Timeless Aesthetic – A classic look in black and white film that remains highly sought after.

4. Trusted Brand – Ilford has been producing photographic film since 1879, making them one of the most reliable names in analog photography.

Tips for Shooting with Ilford PAN F Plus 135 36 Exp

• Use a tripod for stability in low light or long exposures.

• Pair with yellow, orange, or red filters for stunning contrast in skies and landscapes.

• Experiment with long-exposure photography, as the film’s fine grain is perfect for capturing motion blur.

• Store in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.

Internal Links (Onestopphoto.in Store)

• Ilford Kentmere 400ft Roll – 35mm x 30.5m Bulk Film

• Paterson PTP 115 Universal Film Developing Tank with Two Reels

• Kaiser Film Leader Retriever

External Authoritative Resources

• Ilford Photo Official Website

• Film Photography on Wikipedia

• Analog Community Resource – Emulsive

Conclusion

The Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp stands as a gold standard for photographers who demand ultra-fine grain, sharpness, and a wide tonal range. It is not a film for every situation, but when used under the right lighting conditions, it produces images of breathtaking quality. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a passionate film enthusiast, the Ilford PAN F plus 135 36 Exp deserves a place in your film collection.

By combining fine detail, classic tonality, and Ilford’s legacy of quality, this film is more than just a tool—it’s an artistic partner that helps you create timeless black and white photographs.