Custom black and white film settings on Sony cameras is similar to Fujifilm’s built-in film simulations

Using these custom black and white film settings on Sony cameras is similar to Fujifilm’s built-in film simulations because both approaches aim to replicate the unique tones, contrast, and grain structure of classic film stocks. Fujifilm’s Acros, Monochrome, and Neopan simulations digitally mimic the characteristics of real film, while on Sony cameras, adjusting Creative Style, Contrast, Sharpness, and D-Range Optimizer allows photographers to achieve a similar effect manually. This gives greater control over the final look, much like how film photographers would choose different stocks based on mood and lighting conditions.

Achieving Classic Black-and-White Film Looks with Sony Mirror less Cameras

Black-and-white film photography has a timeless appeal, offering a raw and emotive aesthetic that has defined street photography for decades. Whether you're using a Sony A5000, Sony NEX-3, or Sony A6000, you can recreate the look of classic B&W film stocks right in-camera. By tweaking Creative Styles, contrast, sharpness, ISO, and white balance,  and the D-range you can bring the nostalgic feel of film to your modern digital workflow. Here’s how to replicate five iconic black-and-white film looks across these three cameras.

1. Kodak Tri-X 400 – High Contrast & Gritty

A favorite among street photographers, Kodak Tri-X 400 is known for its deep blacks, bright highlights, and punchy contrast.

Creative Style: B&W

Contrast: +2

Sharpness: +2

Exposure Compensation: -0.3 EV

ISO: 800-1600 (adds natural grain)

White Balance: Daylight (5500K)

 DRO: Off or Level 1

Best for: Dramatic lighting, high-contrast street scenes, and night photography.

2. Ilford HP5+ 400 – Balanced, Classic Documentary Style

For a more even tonal range, Ilford HP5+ 400 provides a balanced, classic B&W film look that works in almost any street photography setting.

Creative Style: B&W

Contrast: +1

Sharpness: +1

Exposure Compensation: 0 EV

ISO: 400-800

White Balance: Cloudy (6000K)

 DRO: Level 2 or Level 3

Best for: Everyday street shots, documentary-style photography, and environmental portraits.

3. Fujifilm Neopan 1600 – Ultra-High Contrast & Grainy

For a raw, high-grain, ultra-contrasty look, Fujifilm Neopan 1600 is a perfect choice. This setting exaggerates grain and deep shadows.

Creative Style: B&W

Contrast: +3

Sharpness: +3

Exposure Compensation: -0.7 EV

ISO: 1600-3200

White Balance: Tungsten (3200K)

 DRO: Off

Best for: Night street photography, neon-lit urban scenes, and high-contrast compositions.

4. Kodak T-Max 100 – Fine-Grain, Smooth & Low Contrast

For a smooth, fine-grain, low-contrast look, Kodak T-Max 100 offers soft shadows and subtle tonality, great for classic compositions.

Creative Style: B&W

Contrast: -1

Sharpness: 0

Exposure Compensation: +0.3 EV

ISO: 100-200

White Balance: Shade (7000K)

DRO: Level 3 or Level 4

Best for: Minimalist compositions, architecture, and soft-light street scenes.

5. Agfa APX 100 – Vintage Film Feel

A low-contrast, vintage film stock, Agfa APX 100 creates a faded, nostalgic feel with a soft and dreamy quality.

Creative Style: B&W

Contrast: -2

Sharpness: +1

Exposure Compensation: +0.7 EV

ISO: 100-400

White Balance: Fluorescent (4500K)

 DRO: Level 2

Best for: Classic European street photography, timeless portraits, and old-school film aesthetics.

Which Sony Camera Works Best?

All three Sony cameras—A5000, NEX-3, and A6000—allow you to tweak these settings, but some differences might impact your results:

Sony A6000: Best for sharp details and dynamic range. Ideal for those who want crisper images with deep blacks.

Sony A5000: More budget-friendly, but still delivers great B&W film effects. Works well for soft and vintage looks.

Sony NEX-3: Older but great for classic film emulation, especially for grain-heavy, moody B&W styles.

Final Tips for a Film Look

 Use higher ISOs (800-3200) to simulate film grain.

 Slightly underexpose (-0.3 to -0.7 EV) for dramatic shadows.

 Use a prime lens (35mm or 50mm) for a true street photography feel.

 Experiment with different white balance settings to match classic film tones.

Bringing the Film Look to Your Street Photography

Mastering these settings lets you capture the emotion and grit of black-and-white film without needing an actual film camera. Whether you're shooting in a bustling city, quiet alleyway, or a night-lit street, using these film looks on your Sony mirrorless camera will add depth and nostalgia to your images.