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A Comprehensive History of Fujifilm Analog Film

24/05/08

A Comprehensive History of Fujifilm Analog Film

Few companies in the history of photography are as iconic as Fujifilm. With a history dating back 80 years, Fujifilm started as a small company in Japan and grew by developing some of the most advanced analog film and equipment in the world.

Fujifilm is one of the major photography companies in the world. In this post, we’ll take a quick journey through Fujifilm analog film history and what the future holds for this company.

01.

Fujifilm’s Early Years (1934-1950s)

Fujifilm was founded in 1934 as Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. by a group of entrepreneurs who shared a passion for photography.

The company’s early years were marked by a focus on producing photographic film and paper, which quickly established its presence in the photography market.

 Fujifilm Business Innovation Corporation Headquarters in Tokyo
Fujifilm Business Innovation Corporation, Tokyo

The founder of Fujifilm is not explicitly mentioned in the provided sources. However, it is known that the company was initially a subsidiary of Daicel Corporation, a Japanese chemical company. (1, 4)

During its early years, Fujifilm faced challenges, including a reputation for below-par film products and the dominance of Eastman Kodak in the global market.

  • 1934: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd. was established, and the company began selling Japan’s first domestically manufactured positive films for motion pictures and other photosensitive materials.
  • 1936: Fujifilm introduced its first film product and a motion picture negative film like the Orthochrome roll film and Fuji Neochrome film, which proved the company’s technical proficiency.
  • 1937: In this year they released 2 new camare films, the Fuji Neochrome Pack Film and Fuji Portrait Cut Film Ortho.
  • 1938: Fujifilm release the the Fuji 25mm Film SP, which became popular among Leica dn Contax shooters.
  • 1940s: Fuji Photo entered the optical glasses, lenses, and equipment markets.
  • 1948: Fujifilm introduces its first camera, the FUJICA SIX IA, a spring camera for medium-format roll films.
  • 1952: Fujifilm expanded its product range, releasing the NEOPAN roll film in 1952, which became a flagship product.
    The company also established overseas sales bases and entered the amateur consumer market.
  • 1958: Fujifilm introduces its first color negative 120 camera film.
Vintage camera  Fujica Super Six
Fujica Super Six, Image source: Jnoir.eu

 

Fujicolor 120 color film package
First 120 Fujicolor negative film, Image source: Holdings.fujifilm.com

Fujifilm’s early years were marked by significant innovations, including the development of color film and the establishment of a strong presence in the Japanese market.

02.

 The Rise of Fujifilm (1960s-1970s)

This period also saw the introduction of innovative products like the FUJIC, Japan’s first electronic computer, which played a significant role in the development of optical lenses. (1)

1960s:

  • Fujifilm diversifies its product portfolio, manufacturing cameras under the Fujica brand.
  • The company releases FUJICOLOR N50 in 1961 and FUJICOLOR N64, Japan’s first color film with automatic color calibration, in 1963.
  • Fujifilm develops the FUJICA Single-8 system, a popular home movie camera.
  • The company establishes directly operated developing facilities and color labs to expand its color lab network.

1970s:

  • Fuji introduced in 1976 the F-II 400 film, the first ISO400 color negative film.
  • Release of the popular Neopan black and white film

 

image shows a FUJICOLOR N64 film pack
FUJICOLOR N64

 

image of the Fujica Single-8 P1  Camera
Fujica Single-8 P1 Camera, Image source: Kamerastore.com

 

image of the Fujicolor F-II 400 package
Fujicolor F-II 400

Fujifilm’s rise during this period was marked by significant innovations, expansions, and diversifications, solidifying its position as a leading manufacturer of photographic film and paper.

03.

Fujifilm’s Analog Film Legacy (1980s-1990)

Fujifilm’s analog film products, such as Fujicolor and Velvia, became incredibly popular among photographers worldwide. These films were known for their accurate color reproduction and fine grain, making them a favorite among both amateur and professional photographers.

The company also developed the FujiChrome line of slide films, renowned for their vivid colors and sharpness. (2)

Fujichrome films released:

During the 1980s and 19980s, Fujifilm continued to innovate and expand its product line, focusing on high-quality film and camera technologies.

Key developments include:

  • 1980s: Fujifilm develops the Fujifilm DL (Drop-in Loading) series, featuring a unique drop-in film loading system that simplified the process of loading film and made photography more accessible to a broader audience.
  • 1988: Fujifilm introduces its first digital camera, the Fujifilm DS-1P.
  • 1989: Fujifilm continues to develop its digital camera technology, releasing the FUJIX DS-X, the world’s first commercially-produced digital camera.
image of the Fujifilm DL camera
Fujifilm DL

 

1989 Fuji DS-X Card Camera
1989 Fuji DS-X Card Camera, Image: Digitalkameramuseum.de

Fujifilm’s iconic analog film legacy during this period was marked by significant innovations and advancements in film technology, camera design, and imaging capabilities. The company’s commitment to quality and innovation helped establish it as a leading player in the photography industry.

04.

The Digital Era (1990s-2000s)

The rise of digital photography in the 1990s posed a significant challenge to Fujifilm’s analog film business. However, the company adapted by developing its own digital camera system. (3)

Fujicolor Pro Films released:


  • 1998: Fujifilm releases the Fujifilm FinePix 1300, a compact digital camera.
  • 1999: A billion rolls of film are sold, marking the peak of analog photography.
  • Early 2000: Growth of broadband internet and the beginnings of social media.
  • Mid to late 2000: Smartphones become widespread, changing the way people communicate and access information.
  • 2000s:
    Fujifilm shifts its focus to solutions and services, moving beyond just camera and film products.
  • 2005: Fujifilm introduces the Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro, a professional-grade digital SLR camera.

This period saw Fujifilm adapt to the digital revolution, expanding its product line to include digital cameras and shifting its focus towards solutions and services.

image of Fuji FinePix 1300 Digital Camera
Fuji FinePix 1300 Digital Camera

05.

Fuji’s Recent Developments (2010-Present)

Despite the decline of analog film, Fujifilm continued to invest in its analog business, introducing new film products like the Neopan 100 Acros II in 2018. This black and white film was praised for its fine grain, sharpness, and tonal range, and many photographers were thrilled to have a new high-quality option. (1)

  • 2010s:
    Fujifilm continues to develop its digital imaging technologies, including advancements in mirrorless cameras and instant photography.
    The company introduces the Fujifilm Instax line of instant cameras and films, which become hugely popular worldwide.
  • 2018:
    Fujifilm releases the Neopan 100 Acros II, a new high-quality black and white film that is praised by analog photography enthusiasts.
  • Actual available Fujifilm rolls in production
    Fujifilm 200
    Fujifilm 400
    Fujicolor Pro 400H
    FujiChrome Velvia 50
    FujiChrome Velvia 100
    FujiChrome Provia 100F
    Fujifilm Neopan 100 Acros II
  • Present:
    Fujifilm maintains a strong presence in both digital and analog photography, catering to the needs of a diverse customer base.
    The company continues to invest in research and development to drive innovation across its product lines.
Image of the Neopan 100 Acros II packing
Neopan 100 Acros II

 

image of an ad with Instax cameras
Instax cameras, Image source: Instax.ie

Despite the challenges posed by the digital era, Fujifilm has demonstrated its ability to adapt and evolve, leveraging its expertise in imaging technologies to remain a leader in the photography industry.

FAQ

What is the primary focus of Fujifilm’s early years?

Fujifilm’s early years were focused on producing photographic paper and other related products.

What was the key feature of Fujifilm’s Fujicolor film?

Fujicolor film was known for its excellent color reproduction, fine grain, and wide exposure latitude.

What was the primary use of Fujichrome slide films?

Fujichrome slide films were primarily used for slide photography, known for their vivid colors and high contrast. We ave a whole range of Fujifilm Presets for Lightroom, simulating the look of popular film.

What was the notable feature of Fujifilm’s Neopan 100 Acros II film?

Neopan 100 Acros II film was known for its finest grain quality among ISO 100 films, making it a favorite among photographers who prefer black and white photography.


Give your images that classic Film Look, explore our largest selection of film presets here.


Further Readings:

How to spot a Daguerreotype (1840s–1850s)

Any questions or inspirations let us know in the comments.

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