This article forms part 1 of 2. With this part focusing on Kosmo Foto Agent Shadow 400 and part two with a different film stock.
As a hobbyist, I find with film photography I currently have two modes of taking photos. One where I have a camera in my bag and slowly use up the film taking snaps interesting things I find while out and about. Then the other mode where I’ll set out to an interesting place and take as many photos as I can.
This time around I was keen to venture out and use a whole roll or two of film up. Living in London means there’s no shortage of interesting places to go to. Almost at random I felt Borough Market was worth a try not just for the photography but also for the food!
Having just acquired a roll of Kosmo Foto Agent Shadow 400 and I was keen to give this stock a try. I’ve used many panchromatic films before and 400 ISO is my go to speed as it’s a good general all rounder. The next thing was which camera to take. I’ve got a few 35mm film cameras, but I wanted something small ish, but fun, so I decided to take my Contax G2 out. It’s my every day camera at the moment.
With the Contax G2, it’s technically a rangefinder, but I’ve never used it as such. As you’ve got to dial in the distance from the dial on the front, rather than the lens itself. This can only be done while the camera is turned on too. However this makes it a bit awkward so I use autofocus, which makes it an extravagant point and shoot! It should be noted that the original G1 actually has a better range dial on the top of the camera, which lets you set the range without turning the camera on.
I found even in the dull December London light didn’t limit this black and white film stock. It wasn’t a bright day, just dull and average. The results here feel timeless. The blurb with the film talks about sending you back to the 1960’s, but some of the shots it’s not exactly when the photos were taken, it could have been in the 1960’s or a bit later and that’s half the fun of using this film. I’d happily shoot a few more rolls for fun. I’m going to have to order a few more rolls a try.
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