Fomapan 200 is the middle child in the trio of Foma films that also includes Fomapan 100 and Fomapan 400. It is a black and white, panchromatic film with a low cost and an interesting look. The film is marketed as having a tabular film grain, similar to that of Kodak TMax 400 or Ilford Delta 400. In practice though Fomapan 200 has a more traditional, gritty look to its images, more akin to Kodak Tri-X than TMax. It does manage to have a certain element of crispness to it, perhaps that tabular grain coming through, but with an RMS film grain rating of 14, this is a very grainy film at the end of the day. Fomapan 200 also has a unique look to its tonality due to a heightened sensitivity to the red end of the spectrum.
Fomapan 200 tends to underexpose easily and can be rated 1/3 to 1 stop slower (ISO 160 to ISO 100) for better shadow detail. It is a mediocre candidate for push processing and also has below average reciprocity failure characteristics. It can do fine in low light, but it would not be our first choice of films.
Fomapan 200 also enjoys the distinction of being one of the more affordable b&w films on the market. In a world of ever-increasing film prices, this is a perk that should not be taken for granted.
Fomapan 200 35mm Sample Gallery - Pentax Spotmatic F
A sampling of images made with Fomapan 200 using a Pentax Spotmatic F by staff member Zeb Andrews.
Fomapan 200 35mm Sample Gallery - Canon T70
Sample images made on Fomapan 200 with a Canon T70 by staff member, Jackson Keller.
Fomapan 200 35mm Sample Gallery - Canon EOS 3
Sample images made on Fomapan 200, rated at ISO 200, with a Canon EOS 3 by staff member, Zeb Andrews.