Ilford Ortho Plus 80

An orthochromatic film, which means it cannot see red at all. Red lips go dark, blue skies go bright. A strange and lovely way to see the world.

How it behaves

Portraits get dramatic fast since skin reds darken. It is great for graphic, high contrast scenes. The emulsion is sensitive only to blue and green light. Reds render very dark, so skin tones and red subjects need careful metering. Speed is ISO 80 in daylight and ISO 40 under tungsten. You can develop it under a red safelight, which is a treat. Deep red safelight, never amber, and development by inspection.

Questions people ask

What does orthochromatic mean here?

The film sees blue and green only. It is blind to red. Reds go dark and skies go bright.

Can you develop Ortho Plus under a safelight?

Yes. You can handle and develop it under a deep red safelight. Never amber. That allows development by inspection.

Is Ortho Plus good for portraits?

It can be, with care. Skin reds darken, so portraits turn dramatic fast. Meter red subjects carefully.