Hard to believe, but at one time this ASA 64 slide film was known as "High Speed Kodachrome." That's because it was indeed twice as light-sensitive as its predecessor, Kodachrome 25. The two co-existed for a number of decades, but now reports are that KM25 is being phased out, leaving KR64 pretty much holding the field for ultra-fine grain color slide film. Kodachrome is fundamentally different from Ektachrome, Agfachrome or Fujichrome because it does not involve the common and fairly simple E-6 developing process (that I've done in my kitchen), but rather a more complicated additive-dye formula that requires pretty much a whole factory to pull off. Consequently it takes some time to send KR64 out for developing, but the results are worth it. The built-in contrast and crispness of Kodachrome makes a mediocre lens perform above par and a great lens sparkle. In addition, images are supposed to be far more stable and permanent than the E-5 competitors. Because of KR64's more generous film speed, I've loaded my point-and-shoot backup automatic cameras with it and obtained pleasing results. Formerly I reserved KM25 for my SLR work, but from now on I guess Kodachrome 64 will be first choice for shooting. If you're serious about slides, I urge you to try it also. Several years ago Kodak put out KR64 in 120 roll-film format, combining a huge image area with Kodachrome's inherent fine detail; regrettably, I don't think there's anywhere in the whole USA who still process this beautiful film format. If anyone has information to the contrary, I'd like to hear it.



Recommended: Yes