I quite agree that Ilford's committment to film is unmatched by any of their competitors.
But this may be the catalyst to verbalise something I've pondered for some time, but have been reluctant to express.
Fuji are still making the three major categories of film: B&W; colour negative and; reversal. Recently they re-introduced Neopan 400. And several years ago they created something of a precedent for this century, by re-commencing manufacture of Velvia 50 after the original was discontinued, for reasons including the sourcing of certain raw materials for the RVP predecessor.
Despite those facts (and they are facts) here at RFF, Fuji continue to be a target for cheap shots along the lines of they have no interest in, or committment to film. Can it be that some of the members here are so blinded by their affection for Tri-X, that they're oblivious to some of Kodak's recent actions? Or is it actually just good old-fashioned, xenophobia? And Dan, I apologise if it appears that I am picking on you here. I write because your comments echo sentiments I've read at RFF a number of times previously. Peace.
But the facts are that in 2013 Fuji are still making film, they are the only significant manufacturer of reversal films, and that instead of dropping these like Kodak have, they chose to rationalise their range. I don't think anyone would suggest that some of their stocks such as Astia, and the Sensia range, have not been missed, but they've not been alone in rationalising their range of product. It should be obvious, however that with transparency sales dwindling, several options would have been on the corporate table, and I'm quite certain that doing a Kodak and simply stopping all reversal production would have been discussed these last few years. And yet they are still making films others have abandoned.
As far as the recent price increases go. Welcome to my world. As I, and several other Australia-based members have previously mentioned, in our part of the world transparency stock and E6 processing has been expensive for years. Despite that some of us continue to use it because we choose to do so.
Many RFF members have expressed an affection for transparency film and a desire to use it. Bottom line is that those who really feel that way will continue to find a way to use a little, or a lot, (depending on their circumstances). Some who express a profund interest in transparencys continued future will say so, but will betray their real interest by complaining about the cost, or voting with their wallets. (Not that grizzling about the cost isn't their right!).
Either way, Fuji aren't trying to gouge their customers because they can in my personal opinion. Clearly, they're setting a price for their product that reflects the commercial necessities involved in ensuring profitable manufacture can continue, in the face of increased costs and reduced demand. We don't have to like this situation, but neither do we have to blame them for it, since, unlike their competitors, they haven't elected to take the easy option.
Incidentally, when I found a solitary roll of Elite Chrome 100 at a local retailers yesterday, I bought it. I miss some of the Kodak E6 films, too.
Cheers,
Brett
