The Impact
![]()
More creative tools for still photographers!
We are in the midst of an analog renaissance! We have seen unprecedented growth and interest in film from young photographers and those returning to film. CineStill's primary purpose is to fuel this renaissance by sustaining current production of analog photography materials and providing new analog tools for photographers.
CineStill 120 800T in Medium Format is still just the beginning! Funding this campaign will open the doors to a whole line of new medium format films and other products in the future! By contributing to CineStill 120 Medium Format Film, you will not only be unlocking the style and technology of motion picture film for medium format film photography, you will also be helping increasing production of key motion picture materials, helping to ensure the future of analog film photography in all formats!
CineStill Film has always worked closely with current analog photography companies for collaboration and resources. This collaborative approach to manufacturing increases production, sustainability, and accessibility of current analog materials everywhere. CineStill 120 will continue to expand these manufacturing partnerships (acquiring materials and outsourcing production) while expanding worldwide distribution for local retail availability, resulting in increased stability across the whole analog photography market, from manufacturing to retail.
![]()
CineStill 50D 120 Beta by Nicole L. Hill
Risks & Challenges
Thankfully most of the challenges have already been overcome! Our greatest hurdle is acquiring the funding necessary to finance production of medium format. If we are only partially-funded here, we would still be committed to fulfilling all perks, but it would again delay the release of CineStill in 120 and likely result in a higher end retail price for photographers.
During our previous Kickstarter campaign, CineStill raised nearly $120K in pledges. Unfortunately, it did not reach it's goal. Since then, we have been working hard to revise our plan; cutting costs, investing new capital, scaling back for a smallest possible alpha production run, designing a new custom multi-format machine, and developing our continued relationships for securing the special materials and assembly required for 120!
Once this project is funded, the biggest risk would be loss—due to unforeseeable hazard. To keep this risk to a minimum, we will insure all components for their full value.
Once fulfilled, we will continue improved large scale production of 120 and 35mm respectively, actively fueling the analog film renaissance, through increased consumption of photographic materials and collaboration throughout the analog community, securing the continued production and availability of these essential motion picture and still photography materials and services.
The core of our worldwide distribution network is already in place but our next challenge will be to expand availability of CineStill film for easy access to photographers in every corner of the world.
![]()
CineStill 800T 120 Beta by Jamie Clayton
CineStill FAQs
Q: Why should I back this project?
A: By backing this project, you will be able to shoot CineStill 120 before it hits shelves worldwide, but more importantly you will be securing the continued availability of CineStill 120 at a competitive price point through our distributers. By the time you have created many beautiful images with the film you received and are ready to purchase more, you will be able to purchase it at local retailers at an affordable price.
Q: Where can I process CineStill Film?
A: CineStill can easily be processed at any standard photo lab or at home; C-41 or B&W.
Q: What do you see as the final price point per roll once this is in production? Thanks again.
A: Our goal is to make 120 rolls available around the world between $10-12USD (there is no way to perfectly predict the free market, but this is our goal). This is why the Indiegogo campaign is crucial. Going into production without your backing, would increase the cost per roll significantly, due to the larger cost of funding the startup of incrementally increased production.
Q: Is cinestill 120 converted 70mm?
A: CineStill 120 will be manufactured from a large special order material and will not have perforations. We converted and slit down 65mm material for Beta Testing our prototype process. The rolls of film we produced this way are the Beta Test rolls we are giving away before fulfillment of the campaign.
Q: What are you going to produce with whatever funds are raised? Can I get 50D & 800T?
A: 800T is the default option which we committed to fulfill even if we were to partially fund on Indiegogo. We are on our way to surpass some stretch goals which would open up the choice between film stocks. We'd offer the option to choose between them for each perk, after the campaign surpasses those goals and before we fulfill perks.
Q: How about "220" format? It's twice as long and may give 220 users a good reason to hang onto their 220 equipment.
A: We would love to release a 220 version in the future, but 220 is more complicated, since there are two paper backings and two tape points that need to be perfectly aligned, and it requires it's own precise specifications for accurate film transport. Our goal is to make medium format as accessible as possible and there are vastly more 120 compatible cameras out there.
Q: Is this just repackaged Motion Picture film, like the old films other companies offered years ago?
A: It is important to note that CineSill is NOT simply "repackaged" motion picture film. We utilize the same advanced technology in Motion Picture emulsion to create a still photography film which is modified for C-41 processing. This amazing material is converted to a different format and suitable for C-41 chemistry. Compared to the original motion picture stock, CineStill 800T C-41 responds with a slightly increased gamma yielding an 800 ISO Tungsten balanced negative, which is optimized for optical and hybrid still photography processes. Past companies who "repackaged" old unused motion picture stock, forced photographers to send the film back for makeshift motion picture lab processing, and generated a motion picture format negative that was compatible with motion picture printing. There are some advantages found in modern motion picture formats and processing e.g., anti-halation, antistatic, and lubricant rem-jet backing. However, the curves, lower gamma and base can prove problematic for traditional still imaging standards. CineStill Film is indeed motion picture film, which is modified then packaged for standard still photography lab processing. It harnesses the same outstanding performance and aesthetics found in many blockbuster films produced today, plus it is optimized for still photography workflows.
Q: What's a "CineStill Film Maker"?
A: "CineStill Film Maker" members will get an inside track to all future CineStill plans, early access to limited releases, exclusive 5% off future orders from CineStillFilm.com, a say in what comes next, and other benefits from being a member of the CineStill family.
Other Ways You Can Help:
If you can't contribute, that doesn't mean you can't help!
- Get the word out and make some noise about the campaign!
- Use the Indiegogo share tools to the left!
- Shoot more film! :)
