Fujifilm Superia Premium 400, what is it?

Not much is known in the western world about Superia Premium 400 and many people ask the question "what is the difference between Fujifilm Superia Premium 400 and Superia X-TRA 400?" Well there is a difference! I was first introduced to Superia Premium 400 about 2 years ago in Tokyo, I actually came across it in a convenience store. I picked up a few rolls, threw it in my bag not thinking anything of it other than it looking like some Exotic Japanese film. As soon as I got back to Australia, I shot my first roll and the love for this film started!

The Superia Premium 400 is a very versatile film and can work well under any conditions, being a 400 ISO film.  I find it better with colours overall (especially reds) compared to Superia X-TRA 400. The good thing about this film, is it also looks great with flash, portrait photography and landscape/street photography. Overall a great multipurpose film. I find myself shooting more of this than Porta 400, with it being a better price and very similar. Also when shooting people, I find it represents skin tones much nicer, especially on fair skin. Overall, it is one of my top film choices.

The big question that is always asked, is what is the differents?

1. Superia Premium 400 is a Japanese market film only, Fuji only make it for Japan (But lucky FilmNeverDie also stocks it!)
2. Superia Premium 400 is advertised in Japan as “reproduce lively and beautiful skin colour of Japanese” as quoted from their Japanese web site. But saying this it looks great with anyone really.
3. Superia Premium 400 photo colour is really very strong it seems, with particularly eye-catching red. Contrast is also high and there is no obvious colour cast.
4. For the technical details, the Superia Premium 400 has no "cyan sensitive layer". In addition the peak wavelength of Superia Premium 400 is about 650 nm, and the tail extends to about 680 nm, while X-TRA is about 640 nm to reach the peak, the tail extends to about 670 nm. This means that compared to Superia X-TRA 400, Superia Premium 400 responds to longer wavelength, wider red light.

Overall, this is a great film and if you are thinking about trying it I recommend you do. Stop by the store or order some online: Fujifilm Fujicolor Superia Premium 400 Color Negative Film (35mm Roll Film, 36 Exposures)

Written & Photos By James Juranke - Instagram | Website | Facebook