I finally got around to loading some cat labs film into my old Nikon last weekend, and honestly, the results kind of blew me away. If you've been hanging around the analog community for more than five minutes, you've probably seen these distinctive white boxes with the minimalist branding popping up in your social media feed or on the shelves of your local lab. While the "big three" (Kodak, Ilford, and Fujifilm) still dominate the market, there's something incredibly refreshing about shooting a boutique stock that feels like it was made specifically for people who actually give a damn about the craft.
The thing about cat labs film is that it doesn't try to be everything to everyone. It's not trying to replicate the clinical perfection of digital, and it's certainly not trying to be a cheap "toy" film. Instead, it feels like a throwback to a time when film had a distinct personality—high silver content, deep blacks, and a certain "soul" that you just don't get with some of the more modern, T-grain emulsions.
What's the Deal with CatLabs Anyway?
Before we dive into the specifics of the images, it's worth chatting about who these people actually are. Based out of Massachusetts, CatLABS has been a staple in the large format and traditional photography world for a long time. They don't just sell film; they refurbish legendary cameras, sell high-end darkroom equipment, and generally act as a life-support system for analog photography.
When they decided to launch their own line of film, people were skeptical. Was it just rebranded surplus? Was it some weird industrial film? While the exact origins are often kept a bit mysterious (as is common with boutique brands), the proof is really in the negatives. Whether they are sourcing specialized emulsions or commissioning custom runs, the cat labs film lineup has a consistency that keeps people coming back.
Breaking Down the CatLABS X FILM 80 Experience
If you're just starting out with this brand, the X FILM 80 is probably where you'll land first. It's their flagship, and for good reason. This is a slow-speed, traditional grain film that screams "classic."
When I first took it out for a spin, I was worried that an ISO of 80 might be a bit restrictive. We're so used to 400 speed everything these days that 80 feels almost snail-like. But here's the secret: because of that high silver content, the tonal range is massive. I shot a few frames in harsh, midday sun—the kind of light that usually blows out highlights and turns shadows into black holes—and the film handled it like a champ.
The grain is almost non-existent if you develop it right, but it still has a physical presence that gives the image texture. It's particularly great for portraits if you want that "Old Hollywood" glow. There's a certain way it renders skin tones that feels creamy and smooth without losing the fine details of the face.
When You Need a Bit More Speed: The X FILM 320
Now, if you're more into street photography or you just don't want to carry a tripod everywhere, the X FILM 320 is going to be your best friend. This one is a bit of a different beast compared to the 80. It's got a bit more "bite."
What I love about the 320 is the contrast. It's punchy. If you're shooting architecture or gritty urban scenes, this stuff makes the textures of brick and concrete absolutely pop. I've found that it's actually quite versatile, too. You can shoot it at 200 for a cleaner look or even push it to 800 or 1600 if you don't mind a bit of "soot and chalk" aesthetic.
The grain is definitely more noticeable here than in the 80, but it's a beautiful, organic grain. It doesn't feel muddy. Instead, it feels like it's adding a layer of atmosphere to the shot. I've used cat labs film in 120 format for some forest landscapes, and the way it separated the dark greens and shadows was really impressive for a mid-speed film.
The Aesthetic: Why It Doesn't Look Like Everything Else
One thing you'll notice quickly is the base. A lot of modern films use a very thin, almost flimsy acetate base. Cat labs film tends to feel a bit more substantial. This might sound like a nerd-level detail (and okay, it probably is), but it makes a difference when you're loading it onto reels for development or scanning it. It stays flat. No annoying "cupping" or curling that makes you want to throw your scanner out the window.
But beyond the physical film, the "look" is all about the blacks. This film produces some of the richest, deepest blacks I've seen in a long time. It gives the images a sense of weight. If you're tired of the "airy, faded" look that's been trending for a while and want something that feels grounded and dramatic, this is definitely the direction you want to head in.
Tips for Getting the Best Results in the Darkroom
If you're developing this yourself, you're in for a treat. I've found that cat labs film is pretty forgiving, but it definitely has its preferences. For the X FILM 80, I've had the best luck using a standard developer like D-76 or ID-11 at a 1:1 dilution. It keeps the contrast under control and lets the mid-tones breathe.
For the 320, if you want to lean into that gritty, high-contrast look, try Rodinal. Just be warned: Rodinal will make the grain stand out. If you prefer things a bit smoother, HC-110 (Dilution B) is a solid choice.
Another tip: don't be afraid to experiment with your exposure. I've found that both the 80 and the 320 love a little extra light. I usually rate the 80 at about 64 and the 320 at about 250. This ensures you're getting plenty of detail in those deep shadows that the film is so famous for.
Supporting the Analog Underdog
There's a bigger picture here, too. Every time we buy a roll of cat labs film, we're voting for the future of the medium. We all love the big brands, but we've seen how quickly they can discontinue a beloved stock or hike prices until it's unaffordable to shoot on a weekend.
Small companies like CatLABS are the ones taking risks. They are the ones listening to what photographers actually want—like bringing back unique formats or focusing on high-silver emulsions that the big guys have moved away from for cost reasons. Plus, their packaging is cool. I know we're not supposed to care about the box, but there's something about that clean, professional design that makes the whole experience feel a bit more special.
Final Thoughts on the Journey
Is it the perfect film for every single situation? Probably not. If you want the most clinical, scientifically perfect rendition of a scene, you might stick with something like T-Max. But photography isn't usually about clinical perfection. It's about how a photo makes you feel.
Whenever I see a fresh scan of a photo shot on cat labs film, I feel like I'm looking at something timeless. It has a character that demands your attention. It's moody, it's sharp where it needs to be, and it has a tonal range that rewards photographers who take the time to understand light.
So, if you've got an old camera sitting on a shelf or you're just bored with your usual routine, grab a few rolls. Whether you're shooting the slow, meditative X FILM 80 or the versatile 320, it's bound to give you a different perspective on your subjects. At the end of the day, that's what this hobby is all about—trying new things, making mistakes, and occasionally capturing something that looks better than you ever expected.