I really enjoy doing the first impressions series whether it’s film, gear, or location (I’ll be doing more of that soon.) It gives me the opportunity to think out loud withmy first thoughts on something. Sometimes the thoughts change over time, sometimes they do not.
Today, I’m writing about Shanghai GP3. I’m sure it’s a film stock you’ve all heard about but probably haven’t given it a try. I’ve never tried it up until this point. So let’s talk about it. GP3 is an ISO 100 panchromatic black and white film that’s been around for a few years now. This film certainly doesn’t have the best quality reputation and if you get online, you’ll see why. Some love it and some hate it.
Recently I picked up a few rolls of the GP3 just to try out and see how it is for myself. I did ask for other film shooter’s thoughts on this film on IG and got a variance of responses from great film to bad film to I gave it away. Interesting.
I just had received my Fuji GS645S from Japan and figured why not test them both out at the same time. Fuji meet Shanghai GP3, Shanghai GP3 meet Fuji. (More on the camera in another post soon, stay tuned.) I ventured into a part of town that really isn’t safe but driving by I knew I had to stop. I felt I could pop off 15 photos before any issues in the neighborhood.
Anyways….I’ll say this. The film has a horrible odor to it. It did NOT pass the sniffy test. The backing paper gave me a bad feeling and well, my instincts were correct. I know one complaint was about lack of sharpness and a bit of grain, I didn’t have that issue. Sharpness was fine and grain wasn’t present. Probably because I developed the roll in XTol Replinished developer. So my issue isn’t with either….so far. The issue for me is the number bleeding to the images. I know it’s not an issue with every roll but to have the issue on the first roll could be a warning lol I didn’t have any issues with scratches so that’s a good thing.
What do I think about this film from the first roll I shot? Well…it’s decent. Definitely not a film one would use if you’re looking to make beautiful prints or have a paid job to get done. Want to go out and shoot for fun? Sure, knock yourself out. And who knows, maybe this one roll has the number issue and the rest don’t. I don’t know, one way to find out. Just don’t set your expectations high and you’ll be okay. Attached below are some of the photos taken in the Fuji GS645S/Shanghai GP3. Enjoy and thank you for your support!
