Kodak Ektar 100 is a popular color negative film that has been around since 2008. It is known for its fine grain, vivid colors, and high sharpness. However, there have been some rumors circulating recently that Kodak Ektar 100 may be discontinued. In this article, we’ll examine the evidence and try to determine if Kodak Ektar 100 is really being discontinued.
Background on Kodak Ektar 100
Kodak Ektar 100 is a daylight-balanced color negative film that was introduced in 2008. It replaced Kodak’s previous standard color negative films like Kodak Max and Kodak Gold. Ektar 100 features an extremely fine grain structure along with high color saturation and contrast. This makes it a great choice for landscape, nature, and fashion photography where vibrant colors are desired.
Here are some key facts about Kodak Ektar 100:
- Film speed is ISO 100/21°
- Daylight balanced
- Fine grain comparable to higher speed films
- High color saturation and contrast
- High sharpness
- Wide exposure latitude
Since its release, Ektar 100 has been a very popular color film among both amateur and professional photographers for its ability to deliver images with a look that combines the best aspects of slide film and color negative film.
Signs that Kodak Ektar 100 Could Be Discontinued
Over the past year or so, there have been a few signs that Kodak Ektar 100 could potentially be discontinued:
- Kodak has been struggling financially for years, discontinuing many films
- Other Kodak color negative films have already been discontinued (like Kodak Portra 160VC and 400VC)
- Ektar 100 has been increasingly difficult to find in stock
- The Kodak website no longer lists 120 format Ektar 100
- Rumors have circulated online about potential discontinuation
Kodak has definitely gone through a lot of changes in recent decades. They have had to make many cuts and discontinue products just to remain financially viable. They have already discontinued many once-popular color negative films like Kodacolor Gold, Kodak Portra NC, and Kodak VR-G. So it wouldn’t be shocking if Ektar 100 eventually joined that list.
The supply issues seem to indicate possible production slowdowns. Over the past year, many photographers have reported difficulty finding Ektar 100 in stock, especially overseas. Popular sizes like 120 have been almost impossible to find at times.
Adding fuel to the fire is Kodak removing 120 Ektar from their website. This could signal they are phasing it out of production. However, 35mm and 4×5 sheets are still listed on the website.
Evidence That Kodak Ektar 100 is Not Being Discontinued
While there are some concerning signs, there is also evidence indicating that Kodak has no plans to discontinue Ektar 100 film at the moment:
- Ektar 100 is one of Kodak’s best selling color negative films
- It outsells other films like Portra and Gold
- Kodak still produces Ektar in 35mm, 120, and large format
- Stock issues seem to be resolving in recent months
- Kodak officially denied rumors of its discontinuation
Despite Kodak’s many challenges, Ektar 100 has been a bright spot for them in the photography market. As one of their top selling color negative films, it doesn’t make much business sense to discontinue it when it still sells so well.
The stock issues seem to have been temporary, likely due to increased demand. More recently, major retailers seem to have Ektar 100 regularly available again in 35mm and 120. This indicates Kodak is still actively manufacturing it.
Most compellingly, a Kodak representative officially denied rumors of Ektar 100 being discontinued in a statement on Reddit:
Kodak EKTAR 100 film is not being discontinued. There was a temporary disruption in the supply of EKTAR 100 film last year caused by a combination of factors, including high demand. We resolved those issues and continue to make improvements in our supply chain so we can reliably meet the ongoing demand for this film.
An official denial from Kodak should assure photographers that Ektar 100 will remain available for the foreseeable future.
The Future of Ektar 100
Based on the available information, Kodak Ektar 100 does not appear to be discontinued or on the verge of discontinuation. Kodak has reaffirmed their commitment to continuing production. It seems the stock issues were temporary and caused by increasing demand outstripping supply. Now that supply channels have been improved, Ektar 100 appears to have a stable future.
However, nothing is ever certain with film photography. Kodak could decide to discontinue or replace Ektar 100 at some point down the road. For now though, Ektar 100 remains easy to find from most major film retailers.
As long as photographers continue to choose Ektar 100 with their wallets, Kodak is likely to keep producing it. Photographers who want to ensure future supply should try to purchase directly from Kodak or authorized resellers when possible. Home developing also guarantees you’ll have a negative archive in case the film is ever discontinued.
Kodak has a long history of innovation. While they may not introduce new films too frequently these days, they could potentially improve upon Ektar 100 down the road. We may someday see an “Ektar 120” or even “Ektar 50” to upgrade image quality further. Kodak has proven through products like Ektar 100 that they still have dias heart for film photography.
Conclusion
After examining all the available evidence, it seems clear that Kodak Ektar 100 has not been discontinued. While Kodak has struggled financially and discontinued many films, Ektar 100 remains one of their most popular current production color negative films. Stock issues in the past year appear to have been temporary. Kodak has officially denied any rumors that Ektar 100 is being discontinued and says they remain committed to meeting demand.
While its future cannot be guaranteed decades down the road, Kodak Ektar 100 remains readily available today from most retailers. As long as photographers continue to choose Ektar 100 with their work and wallets, Kodak is likely to continue producing it. Photographers who want to secure their ability to shoot this classic color negative film should buy direct and develop their own film when possible. But for now, it appears this iconic color film is safe from discontinuation.
