Frequently Asked Questions

  

Q: Where are CineStill Films and Chemistry made?
A: CineStill films are contract coated in Rochester NY, USA, where we also convert the films, and are also packaged by various partners in Europe. Our powder and aqueous chemicals are manufactured from ingredients sourced worldwide then mixed outside of Detroit MI, USA.

 

Q: Is CineStill a “Big Corporation”?
A: We are still a small business — started in 2013 by 2 brothers in their basement lab — working hand-in-hand with current film photography companies to further the production of analog materials. Although we have had more than a few collaborators and partners to help us along the way, we have never taken on outside investors and instead relied on honest reinvestment and responsible business practices (growing slowly rather than buying market share through predatory pricing, etc.). CineStill hired our first official full-time employee in 2018 and now proudly supports the livelihood and healthcare of a dozen households in L.A. and Rochester. Our collaborative approach to manufacturing not only allows us to maintain a small passionate team at livable wages in the U.S., it also supports current film manufacturing mentors and new hires elsewhere, resulting in increased sustainability across the whole analog photography market, from institutional knowledge to infrastructure.

 

Q: Who are CineStill’s manufacturing partners?
A: We support and have worked with nearly every film manufacturer in the world. We are standing on the shoulders of giants more than 100-years-old, and we couldn’t make film without them or without you. We are always collaborating and maintaining the confidence of our customers and partners by being as open and transparent as we are allowed to be, while respecting their autonomy. We avoid speaking on their behalf or utilizing their brands for our own benefit without their permission. CineStill chooses to support current film manufacturing infrastructure whenever possible to ensure the sustainability of film into the future, and we take sole responsibility to support our products and their quality.

 

Q: Is CineStill just a marketing company?
A: We continue to research, develop, manufacture, source, market, distribute and retail analog tools to make film photography more accessible and exciting for all photographers and enthusiasts. R&D is at the heart of what we do, to create and improve accessible workflows with reliable tools for the Analog Renaissance. CineStill does some of its manufacturing itself and also contracts other manufacturers — utilizing existing infrastructure to increase current production of analog photography materials to provide new analog tools for still photographers. CineStill also markets, distributes and sells products, services and resources that we believe in, made by us and other reputable brands to demystify and grow film photography.

 

Q: Is CineStill Film repackaged Motion Picture film?
A: It is important to note that CineStill’s color negative films are NOT simply "repackaged" motion picture film. We utilize some of the same advanced emulsion technology found in Motion Picture film to create still photography color negative film without rem-jet, optimized for archival C-41 processing, RA4 printing, and still photography film scanning. CineStill color film not only has higher speed and preserved qualities, but is also now manufactured for still photography with tried-and-true 135 steel cassettes with DX codes or premium 120 paper backing, edge-printed frame numbers, and stronger KS (Kodak Standard) perforations; without the rem-jet, contamination, motion picture edge signing, or BH (Bell and Howell) perforations — which were prone to tearing.

"Repackaged" or “re-spooled” motion picture color negative film CAN NOT be processed in standard commercial C-41 film processing machines due to the rem-jet layer, which would contaminate the chemistry and damage both the machine and film inside. CineStill color films CAN be processed at ANY commercial film lab that offers C-41 processing, as well as at home using ANY C-41 processing kit, including our Cs41 “Color Simplified” kits.

 

Q: What are the motion picture films that CineStill films are based on?
A: Though it’s not really a well-kept “secret”, out of respect for our unique relationships with our suppliers, we are careful not to openly claim and benefit from the goodwill and reputation of the brands and trademarks of the original products which our films were originally based on, without permission. But we can say that CineStill Films are now specifically designed for still photography, rolling specifications found in many different motion and still photography films into one. Our films have some of the same advanced technology found in motion picture emulsions, while at the same time delivering features exclusive to professional photography materials in both unexposed and processed states.

 

Q: Is 800T a modified 800-speed motion picture film?
A: CineStill 800Tungsten was originally based on a 500-speed motion picture film. We created a novel process to convert it into an 800-speed film compatible with still photography workflows. The decision to rate the film at this higher exposure index of 800 under incandescent light was made only after analyzing the Sensitometric Characteristic Curves and results from our first fully successful beta tests. And no, it wasn’t based on reflections off the back of the film or baseplate of the camera, nor clever/disingenuous marketing. After years of research and development — abandoning many ultimately unacceptable trials with reduced sensitivity — we finally perfected a film that we wanted to shoot ourselves, which also fulfilled a need for photographers just like us. Our new film not only outperformed the expectations of “box speed” under warm light, but it was also optimal for straight scanning and darkroom printing. Conclusive comparisons to all other high-speed films available at the time confirmed that our film performed at its best when rated at a box speed of EI 800 in tungsten-balanced light rather than, say, 500, 640, or 1000. Based on thorough testing and feedback from many trusted beta testers around the world, we originally chose 800Tungsten as our unique product identifier. Since 2013 our flagship film has been commonly identified as simply “800T” by photographers, resellers, and labs around the world.

 

Q: What is Rem-jet?
A: Rem-jet is a removable jet-black layer consisting of carbon, wax, and adhesive, which is applied to the film base (non-emulsion side) of some motion picture films. The sacrificial rem-jet layer serves to protect the acetate from scratches, static discharge, and reduces halation of bright highlights. The rem-jet layer on motion picture film will contaminate and ruin the chemistry and films in standard C-41 processing machines, and is intended to be removed during ECN-2 processing by soaking the film in a caustic solution and mechanically washing the rem-jet layer off (along with some of the dyes and protective layers), but it must be developed immediately or it will age rapidly, resulting in reduced effective film speed and fogging. CineStill films are made without rem-jet, contamination, age-fog, or reduced film speed.

 

Q: What is halation?
A: Halation is the reflection of bright points of light inside the film base or off of the pressure plate, causing a "glow" on the red sensitive layer in the overexposed highlights in some images. Halation is a common characteristic of classic black and white photography and in some aerial photographic emulsions. Because CineStill color films are made without this anti-halation layer, they are more sensitive to halation than other color films. This higher sensitivity to halation has made the signature red halation glow a unique characteristic in the overexposed areas of our film.

 

Q: Where can I process CineStill Film? 
A: CineStill color films can be processed at ANY commercial film lab that offers C-41 processing, as well as at home using ANY C-41 processing kit, including our Cs41 “Color Simplified” kits.

 

Q: Is C-41 or ECN-2 process better for CineStill Film?
A: CineStill’s color films are designed to be processed in C-41, and this is what we recommend to most users. Processing CineStill color films in C-41 chemistry creates color negatives with curves that are perfectly suited to RA-4 darkroom printing and the typical still film scanning software that exists on the market. CineStill films can, however, be processed using ALL of the ECN-2 steps or with the CineStill Cs2 "Cine Simplified" kit, to create ECN-2 color negatives with lower gamma compatible with ECP printing. Some photographers enjoy the flatter starting point of a lower contrast ECN-2 negative when scanning, but ECN-2 color negatives have different color curves that aren’t well suited to color RA-4 darkroom printing.

 

Q: What is the shelf-life & archivability of CineStill Film?
A: The new boxed CineStill color films have an extended 2-year shelf life, but should still be stored in the fridge and shot within 6 months of purchase to achieve optimal results. Exposed film should be processed promptly in C-41 chemicals to preserve latent image latitude and color fidelity. All current productions of CineStill have expiration dates of two-years from manufacture date on the box.

 

Q: Will X-rays and CT scans while traveling ruin unprocessed CineStill film?
A: All film is sensitive to light and radiation from X-Ray and CT scanners, and the damage is cumulative. Always ask for a hand check at the security checkpoint and point out that the manufacturer warns to not allow it to be scanned. 800T is especially sensitive. Although the overall rating of 800T in tungsten light is EI 800, the blue sensitive layer is even higher speed to make up for the low amounts of the blue spectrum in tungsten balanced lighting. This is also why it can easily be exposed up to EI 3200 when push processing. 50D on the other hand is less sensitive to X-rays but will still show visible damage from CT scanners. For more info go to handcheckfilm.com.

 

Q: Can CineStill Films sometimes have rem-jet remaining on them?
A: No! Every inch of CineStill Film released to the public has been inspected with far-infrared cameras to detect any imperfections. This assertion has always proven to be a misdiagnosis of processing/handling errors or dust/dirt in scanning — which looks similar to motion picture film with residual rem-jet not fully removed. Remaining rem-jet has not been an issue with CineStill Films and is even more impossible with our further improved manufacturing. CineStill 400Dynamic specifically has never had a rem-jet layer on it at any point through manufacture, but it does feature a process-surviving anti-static lubricant coating. Any white marks are most likely caused by dust and scratches in scanning.

 

Q: Does CineStill Film come with light leaks on the film?
A: Nope. All CineStill film is made in complete darkness at every step, and is only exposed to light once removed from the packaging. 800T is more sensitive — and thus more susceptible to capturing light leaks and static discharge — than most other films, so extra care should be taken when handling.

Light leaks, which may not be visible on other films, can show up on CineStill due to its extra sensitivity to low light and what is called "light piping" — where light can travel through the acetate (like fiber optics) causing light leaks inside or outside of the camera. Be sure that your camera's light seals are in good condition, especially when shooting 800T. The key to avoiding light leaks through the cassette’s felt outside of the camera is first to use film with high-quality cassettes and felt like CineStill films, then second "load in subdued light" as directed on the packaging, and finally to keep the rolls in their black plastic canisters or a bag before and after shooting whenever possible.

Static discharge can expose the film as blue or red sparks on the film, and can build up and arc when advancing or rewinding the film at too quickly, especially in cold, dry environments.

It is also important to note that environmental conditions can play a part in the results your film gives. Please take care when storing or shooting in areas of extreme cold, heat, moisture, and dryness. For best results, we strongly recommend: refrigerating your film, allowing it to return to room temperature before removing from packaging, shooting your film well before listed expiration within 6 months of purchase, and processing your film promptly after use. Do not use if expired. Film is perishable and fresh film is always best!

 

Q: Did CineStill Film suffer from any defects early on?
A: The only manufacturing defects that we did not catch early on only appeared on expired CineStill Film (early versions) as uneven age fogging, or from static discharge on our equipment used to make our first crowdfunded alpha production run of our 120 film. We resolved both of these issues and have continue to recycle any film that does not pass our Quality Assurance prior to sale. We have always replaced any roll that a customer thought to be defective — even when it was likely caused from user or lab error. We stand behind the products we make.

 

Q: What was the controversy with CineStill?
A: Reports of a CineStill controversy have been widely exaggerated and proven to be based on unsubstantiated lies, propagated by competitors and conspiracy theorists. CineStill’s mischaracterized “shady business practices” are actually, in fact, just customary business practices. We have never participated in any controversy — unfair competition, intimidation or otherwise — and we have always held true to our Core Values. Being right isn’t as important as doing what is right. We may have been unprepared to handle some situations for the first time, but we tried our best to keep matters private, and have avoided arguing or rebutting, as not to stir up further conflict and controversy in this community we love.

 

Q: Does CineStill hold any patents?
A: We originally acquired “patent pending” status for our original “Premoval” process, but ultimately decided to keep it a trade secret rather than disclosing our invention in a manner “sufficiently clear and complete to enable it to be replicated by a person with an ordinary level of skill in the relevant technical field.” Being a small company, we lack the resources to police a published patent around the world, which could also hinder others from inventing on their own and being entrepreneurs in the analog film industry. CineStill are neither patent-trolls nor gatekeepers. We have been very open about our research and results from previous prototypes, and have cautioned the various pitfalls which produce degraded film that does not hold up to the current quality standards that photographers expect. Our process remains a trade secret, and though no other company has been able to successfully bring a comparable product to market for over 10 years, anyone is still free to try to find a way to emulate the results.

 

Q: When did CineStill get their trademarks?
A: According to the USPTO, “You become a trademark owner as soon as you start using your trademark with your goods or services. You establish rights in your trademark by using it, but those rights are limited, and they only apply to the geographic area in which you’re providing your goods or services. If you want stronger, nationwide rights, you’ll need to apply to register your trademark…” CineStill has retained common law trademark rights since officially releasing our first product in 2013. In 2020 the administrative person who was responsible for compliance was advised to apply to register both our company name and the name of our flagship product as word marks, both of which had been in use to identify our products for the previous seven years. A trademark attorney prepared and filed applications to the US Patent and Trademark Office in 2021, and they were reviewed by the assigned trademark examining attorneys then published for opposition in 2022. Although they didn’t receive any opposition, it unfortunately seems that publishing them inspired counterfeit and imitation products to start popping up around the world, and even applications for malicious trademark registrations with the CNIPA (for both CineStill and 800T).

 

Q: Did CineStill sue other small businesses around the world?
A: CineStill has yet to sue anyone, not for infringing on its trademarks, not even for defamation and trade libel. We have not attacked or taken legal action against anyone by simply establishing, registering, or reporting our trademarks for the first time. Rather, we notified those who may have mistakenly infringed, to encourage fair competition and ensure distinctive product source identifiers are used, before any lawyers would have gotten involved. We have also reported and successfully corrected all counterfeit (using identical CineStill trademarks and/or trade dress) and knockoff (using confusingly similar trademarks and/or trade dress) imitation products who were pretending to be us and stealing our intellectual property, without any litigation or loss of availability to any film for the community. Our team only directly emailed 11 of our retailers. We also privately reported our registered trademarks to 5 retail platforms, to identify and connect us with their users. Most retailers responded thankfully and simply modified their product listings. We ourselves are a small film supplier and retailer, and never assumed that any infringements were malicious, but could have been done out of ignorance or an honest mistake. Regretfully, certain e-commerce service providers were not as courteous and far more intimidating to a few film resellers, but we were able to repair those interactions immediately. We have successfully resolved all other infringements without legal action or business interruption through offers to compromise, and even courteous sell-off periods with zero financial liability.

 

Q: Has CineStill claimed that “800” or “Tungsten” can’t be used to describe any other product?
A: We have never claimed to own the number “800”, the word “tungsten” or the letter “T.” Nor do we claim that they cannot be used to describe other color films which are tungsten-balanced or 800-speed. And we would never imagine engaging in a dispute on those grounds. We never told anyone that they could not describe their products as 800 ISO or tungsten-balanced, even if they don't meet those specifications. Anyone can even release a film with “800” or “Tungsten” in the name. They just should use a product identifier or brand name in commerce that is not confusingly similar or identical to our established trademarks.

 

Q: Can a number or letter actually be trademarked?
A: We have not trademarked a letter or a number. Our trademarks are combinations of letters and/or numbers, like most useful word marks, which now distinguish the source of our products. Our trademarks were established and secured through substantially exclusive and continuous use for over 5 years and have become recognized as representing CineStill as the product source, according to the USPTO. Some imitation products were recently called simply “800T” but have since been renamed and reasonable accommodation was made without loss of income or inventory.

 

Q: Why did CineStill apply to register the product identifier, 800T, as a trademark in addition to the brand, CineStill?
A: We originally called our first product “800Tungsten” while photographers, resellers, and labs in the community began to commonly identify our flagship film as simply “800T” since 2013. Still photographers now assume that you’re talking about a film from CineStill when you mention 800T — just as 800Z, 400H, C200, 160S, 160C, and 100F were all from FUJIFILM; E100, BW400CN and P3200 are KODAK films; P30 and P33 are made by FERRANIA; HP5 and FP4 are ILFORD, or how HR-50 comes from ADOX. Even in the motion picture industry, FUJIFILM branded their 500-speed tungsten-balanced film as F-500 and later Eterna 500 or Vivid 500, rather than 500T, which is recognized as from Eastman Kodak. Any historical confusion seems to have been resolved privately over time (like the renaming of FUJI 64T to T64 so as to prevent confusion with KODAK’s original 64T), without a public record of conflict or controversy. Unique product identifiers are not only a common courtesy in the film industry but also throughout commerce as well, e.g.; iPhone form Apple, F-150 from Ford, 4xE from Jeep, R90S from BMW… The good-faith decision to register our trademarks was not based on what they are worth to us, but rather what they are worth as product source identifiers to consumers and the community. Registering and publishing the word marks “CineStill” and “800T” was not done to stifle competition, but rather to inform others looking for unique identifiers. This also ensures that the reputation of our brands did not suffer when customers or labs encountered issues with products identified as “CineStill” or “800T” from sources other than CineStill, Inc. This is what publishing a registered trademark is supposed to help avoid.

 

Q: Why did the USPTO decide to register 800T as a word mark?
A: Since “800Tungsten” and “800T” specifically had acquired distinctiveness in commerce and were exclusively tied to our brand, we were convinced to apply to register 800T as a unique word mark. We realized that this wasn’t the most clear-cut fanciful or arbitrary trademark, but ultimately we wanted the USPTO to decide if it was indeed protectable. Although the assigned USPTO trademark examining attorney initially considered that the mark refers to film which “utilizes tungsten” as a material — being years removed from a “merely descriptive” usage — it has gained a secondary meaning while being wholly exclusive to a singular source. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office determined that “The mark has become distinctive of the goods and/or services through the applicant’s substantially exclusive and continuous use of the mark in commerce that the U.S. Congress may lawfully regulate for at least five years immediately before the date of this statement” and registered 800T on the Principal Register, based on a claim of acquired distinctiveness under Section 2(f) of the Trademark Act.

 

Q: How do I take beautiful pictures on CineStill Film?
A: We have found that the best methods are to expose beautiful subjects, in beautiful lighting and have it processed and scanned/printed at a reputable professional lab!

 

Do you have questions about specific CineStill products? Check out our Help Center here!