Fujifilm film shooters should brace themselves for another blow: Fujifilm recently unveiled an impending Medium Format slide film shortage due to supply chain constraints, forcing color-reversal fans to wait out a supply shortage that is projected to persist for some time. As long as 120 format film remains limited availability, color-reversal enthusiasts will have no other option but patience while waiting.
35mm shooters need not worry; at present only 120 format (Medium Format) slide films such as Fujichrome Velvia 50, 100 and Provia 100F are affected.
“With limited procurement of raw materials available, it has proven difficult to produce enough products in time to satisfy demand,” according to a company statement on its website.
Where to Find Provia 120 Five Packs We contacted three major US-based retailers in search of available rolls of Provia 120 film stocks but were left nearly disappointed; B&H and Adorama listed them as backordered; however, Amazon did have several five packs available through a third-party seller for approximately $20 over their current going rate ($85).
Glazer’s Camera in Seattle, WA stocks both Velvia 50 and Provia 100 cameras; therefore it would be wise to start your search here first!
This announcement follows on the heels of an unexpected price increase and shortage announcement by Kodak, which included plans to raise film prices by up to 60% this month; photographic paper, processing chemicals and other print products and services will also see price increases of up to 94%.
Fujifilm Imaging Systems Co. Ltd. recently responded to rising raw material prices, transportation costs, and reduced demand for photographic-related products with improved production efficiency and cost cutting measures; their website noted. Since it would be difficult to absorb costs entirely through corporate efforts alone, price revisions will also be implemented as necessary.
Can You Still Shoot Film on a Budget? With shortages and surging prices of film stocks like Provia and Velvia, one may ask “is it even worthwhile to shoot film anymore?” Luckily, yes! Shooting film remains entirely doable on a tight budget; simply opt for more affordable stocks such as Tri-X.
In this article, we provide three strategies to save some cash while satisfying your analog cravings. (For the price of one Nikon Z7 kit alone, it would be possible to shoot, develop and scan one 35mm roll per week for 12 years!!)
Just in time for holiday film shooting season, make sure that if your film of choice is affected. And remember: #staybrokeshootfilm
