Harman Phoenix 200 Colour Film – First Impressions

A vintage Pentax MX camera with a lens, accompanied by a canister of Harman Phoenix ISO 200 color film, set against a neutral background.

Harman Phoenix 200 is a brand-new ISO 200, C41 colour negative film. With high contrast and strong, visible grain, it is characterful, unmistakably analogue and produces results unlike any other colour film.

A New Colour Film is Born

Harman released Phoenix 200 35mm colour film on 1 December 2023. Phoenix 200 is a 35mm colour negative C41 film, described by Harman as:

  • High contrast
  • Strong visible grain
  • Punchy, vibrant colours
  • Possibility of halation
  • Characterful
  • Unmistakably analogue

Numerous videos were released on the day the film was released by YouTubers who had received advance rolls of Phoenix 200 to try.

The initial photos I saw were very variable; I just didn’t like a lot of them. That made me curious. Why do the results vary so much? What is this film really like?

“Harman Phoenix is an experimental, limited-edition film and the first step on our colour journey. Making colour films is very different to black & white and while we have made good progress, we recognise we have a lot more to learn. Please embrace this film for all its quirks and differences.“

Harman Photo

Although I shoot very little colour film, I decided that I had to try this film. I also thought it was exciting that Harman released a new colour film. It is not repackaged or rebranded, but brand new and developed from scratch. I had to be part of this… so I ordered three rolls.

The Plan

While waiting for the film to arrive, I looked at videos, studied photos and analysed what I liked and didn’t like. I had plenty of time because although a delivery time of 48 hours had been quoted, it took two weeks (presumably because of the pre-Christmas rush).

I preferred photos shot with the film rated at 100ish ISO. Simple compositions which filled the frame seemed to work better. But the key appeared to be avoid having the film scanned by a lab. DIY scans usually looked much better. So I ordered a Tetenal Colourtec C41 kit. I was going to do everything myself!

The film and chemistry arrived a few days before Christmas. I loaded my camera and went to shoot my first roll of Phoenix 200 film.

Film Photo Details

Film: Harman Phoenix 200 rated at 133 ISO (film roll ref. 367) Camera: Pentax MX
Lenses: SMC Pentax-M 1:1.7 50mm and SMC Pentax-M 1:4 75-150mm zoom. Aperture and shutter settings are provided below every photo.

I developed the film using a Tetenal ColorTec C41 kit for 9 minutes at 30 °C.

The photos were digitised using a Nikon Z6 mirrorless digital camera with a Tokina AT-X Pro Macro 100mm f2.8 D lens and processed using SmartConvert and Capture One software.

The Film Roll

Below is every photo from my third roll of Harman Phoenix 200 film: the good, the bad and the ugly. 

Click on any photo for a larger version

Autumn foliage with vibrant orange and yellow leaves against a clear blue sky, capturing the essence of fall.
Autumnal colour Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/500 sec, Aperture: f4, GPS location
Close-up of textured Eucalyptus tree bark with peeling layers and irregular patterns. The sunlight casts soft shadows, highlighting the organic shapes and colors of the surface against a clear blue sky.
Textured Bark of an Eucalyptus Tree Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/500 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
Close-up of autumn leaves with vibrant orange and yellow hues, gently lit by sunlight against a clear blue sky. The leaves are partially blurred, emphasizing their texture and colors in a serene outdoor setting.
Autumn Leaves Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/1000 sec, Aperture: f2.8, GPS location
A close-up of a leafy branch with clusters of small red berries, set against a blurred background of autumn foliage. The vibrant leaves and berries create a natural, seasonal display.
Red berries – I think this would have benefited from a longer exposure Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/500 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A close-up of a branch with vibrant green and yellow leaves, featuring round, brown seed clusters, against a backdrop of blurred autumn foliage under a bright blue sky.
Autumn leaves and seed balls Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/500 sec, Aperture: f4, GPS location
Close-up of spiky seed pods hanging from a branch, surrounded by autumn-colored leaves against a bright blue sky. The image captures the essence of fall with its warm tones and natural elements.
Brown leaves and seed pods Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/500 sec, Aperture: f4, GPS location
A large, rust-colored climbing structure shaped like the letter "M" stands in a playground surrounded by autumn trees with orange leaves. The structure features various climbing holds and is set against a clear blue sky.
Oversized letter M climbing frame Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/250 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A geometric design of colorful wooden panels encloses a playground with a slide and climbing structure, surrounded by autumn foliage and trees, creating a serene outdoor space for children to play.
Colourful playground enclosure Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/250 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A close-up view of autumn leaves in shades of brown and gold, with a backdrop of blue sky and tree trunks, capturing the essence of the fall season.
Autumn leaves Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A close-up view of palm fronds against a clear blue sky, capturing the elegant curves and pointed tips of the leaves, showcasing the vibrant greens and yellows of the foliage.
Palm Fronds – I like these colours Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A close-up view of a tree with a textured, light-colored trunk and vibrant orange leaves against a clear blue sky. The branches spread out, showcasing the beauty of autumn foliage.
Autumnal golden-browns Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A playground scene featuring colorful spring riders shaped like animals, surrounded by a carpet of fallen leaves under sunlight. The playful atmosphere suggests a fun place for children.
Children’s playground Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A serene park scene showcasing autumn foliage with vibrant orange leaves. The image features a clear sky, lampposts, a solitary chair, and playground equipment in the background, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
Autumn serenity in a park Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A serene park scene with autumn foliage, featuring orange leaves on trees, a playground with colorful structures, and modern lamp posts under a clear blue sky. The ground is blanketed with fallen leaves, creating a tranquil outdoor atmosphere.
Same again, but with one stop more exposure Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f8, GPS location
A scenic view of Martos featuring a prominent stone bell tower, terracotta roofs, and a backdrop of rolling hills under a clear blue sky. The architecture reflects a blend of traditional style and rustic charm.
A church belfry in Martos Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A clear blue sky serves as the backdrop for two tall palm trees, one slender and one bushy, standing in front of a charming building with architectural details. The scene captures a tranquil, sunny day.
Palm trees Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A tall stone tower stands against a clear blue sky, surrounded by green trees. In the foreground, parked cars line the street near a building, suggesting an urban setting.
The old castle tower in Martos Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A narrow, stone-paved street leading up to whitewashed buildings, featuring decorative iron gates and a clear blue sky above. The scene captures a charming, rustic vibe.
Whitewashed terraced houses on a hill Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f16, GPS location
An aged building with a weathered exterior, featuring two doors – one black and one blue. A decorative black railing with a circular design adds character to the scene.
Weathered House Facade Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A narrow cobblestone street curves upward, flanked by white buildings with balconies. A lamppost casts a shadow on the path under a bright blue sky, creating a serene, picturesque urban scene.
The sky is oversaturated and excessively grainy
Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/250 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
Charming white chimney with decorative tiled roof against a clear blue sky, showcasing a rustic architectural style.
Charming White Chimney Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A modern white house with large windows is situated on a rocky slope, surrounded by mountains and a barren landscape under a clear blue sky. A bare tree stands nearby, adding to the serene atmosphere of the scene.
A Modern Whitewashed House with Scenic Views Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A festive decoration of Santa Claus in an red outfit, climbing a balcony with festive tinsel adorning the railing.
Santa Claus Climbing a Window
Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M zoom 1:4 75-150, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A white terrace with a decorative railing, featuring a potted plant. Steps lead up to the porch, with a geometric window structure visible behind. The scene exudes a tranquil, sunny atmosphere.
The White Balustrade Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M zoom 1:4 75-150, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A festive holiday decoration featuring a framed sign that says "FELIZ NAVIDAD," with two cheerful snowman figures wearing winter hats and scarves. The scene is enhanced by red ornaments and white decorative elements, evoking a warm Christmas spirit.
Festive Christmas Decorations Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M zoom 1:4 75-150, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f5.6, GPS location
A festive Christmas stocking decorated with a snowman hangs from a green tree branch alongside white and silver ornaments, creating a cheerful holiday scene against a clear blue sky.
Festive Stocking Ornament Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f8, GPS location
A group of five shiny bells hanging from a structure against a clear blue sky, showcasing intricate details and reflecting light beautifully.
Copper Bells Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/1000 sec, Aperture: f4, GPS location
A weathered wooden door with a large iron handle, set into a whitewashed wall. The door features small vertical slats, and there is a plaque beside it, indicating the number 19. The lower part of the wall is painted green, with peeling paint.
A Rustic Wooden Door Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A sunlit plaza features benches and trees, surrounded by traditional architecture and a mountain backdrop, evoking a serene and quaint atmosphere.
The Village Square Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f8, GPS location
A vibrant red car parked next to a classic white vintage Seat on a quaint street lined with traditional buildings and balconies, showcasing a charming urban scene.
Classic and Modern Cars Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f16, GPS location
A quaint street view showcases a rustic bar with a sign for "Estrella Galicia," flanked by two wooden tables and chairs outside. The building features a stone facade, metal railings, and nearby whitewashed houses, creating a charming, inviting atmosphere.
A Rustic Barfront Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/125 sec, Aperture: f11, GPS location
A decorative Christmas nativity scene featuring figurines of Mary and Joseph in front of a softly lit Christmas tree adorned with colorful lights and ornaments, creating a warm holiday atmosphere.
A Decorative Nativity Scene Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/4 sec, Aperture: f1.8, GPS location
A softly lit Christmas scene featuring a nativity set with figurines of Mary and Joseph. The background is adorned with colorful Christmas lights, creating a warm and festive atmosphere.
A Decorative Nativity Scene (Take 2) Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 2/1 sec, Aperture: f1.8, GPS location
A close-up view of vibrant red leaves with a soft focus background of blurred colorful lights, creating a festive and dreamy atmosphere.
Festive Poinsettia
Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/2 sec, Aperture: f1.8, GPS location
A close-up of vibrant red poinsettia leaves in front of a softly blurred background decorated with colorful holiday lights, creating a festive atmosphere.
Festive Poinsettia (Take 2) Camera: Pentax MX, Lens: Asahi SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm, Exposure: 1/1 sec, Aperture: f1.8, GPS location

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