Washi D Review

By Paul McKay

Our Washi D film review covers one of the most interesting films that have made it into the Analogue WonderBox Film Subscription so far: a 35mm black and white film originally used in the Russian aerospace industry!


From Military Planes to your Camera

So how does a film like Washi D end up in a 35mm canister ready for shooting in your camera? We can thank the wonderful work of Film Washi for this!

Film Washi is the self-diagnosed 'Smallest Film Manufacturer in the World'. Run out of a storage facility in France by a lovely chap called Lomig - they take bulk rolls of interesting and niche emulsions from around the world and cut, sprocket, and roll them ready for easy shooting. They also do some fascinating work with hand-painting light-sensitive emulsions directly onto Japanese paper, but that's another story 😊

Washi D Film Review - Sample Image 1

(c) Film Washi - sample image of Washi D


Interesting ISO

Washi D is rated at ISO 500 which is an unusual rating that reflects it's origin as a 'non-standard' emulsion. Clearly there was no need for the Russian military scientists to worry about whether the film was compatible with consumer cameras, so they built the emulsion to their own exact standards.

In reality you won't notice much of a difference if you expose at ISO 400 - but it's worth noting that for a truly accurate experience then manually over-riding your camera's settings is the way forward.

Washi D Film Review - Sample Image 2

(c) James


Results and Practical Considerations

This film will give you strong contrast and moderate grain. In his review Mark says "I put a roll through my Olympus XA and I was blown away. Amazing contrast with little grain, sharp and soft in perfect balance. If the exposure is wrong then it produces interesting results! Now one of my favourite B&W films."

There are two other things to bear in mind when you're shooting Washi D 35mm.

Firstly - this film’s backing is very thin. So if you’re home developing then don’t panic when you start to load the reel, but it will be trickier than usual to get started! Lomig recommends that if you’re really struggling you can sellotape a small leader of ‘normal’ film to get it going.

The second thing is that the plastic backing is transparent. So our old friend ‘light piping’ can come into play - just like with Let It Snow last month, load this film in dark and take a couple of blank exposures at the start to burn through any light leaks that crept in.

Washi D Film Review - Sample Image 3
Washi D Film Review - Sample Image 4
Washi D Film Review - Sample Image 5

Technical Data

Here you can download the official Washi D data sheet with developer recommendations and technical detail.


In Summary

Washi D 35mm is one of the most interesting and rare films featured in the WonderBox so far. If you take it's unusual physical properties into account then it will delight you with equally interesting photographs!

For full tech specs, more reviews, and sample photos then head to the product page as below:


Ilford Pan F Plus Film 35mm B&W ISO 50 - Analogue Wonderland

If you enjoyed this Washi D review and found it informative then check out our other WonderBox film reviews here: https://analoguewonderland.co.uk/blogs/film-review


Leave a comment

Ready to dive in?

Keep Reading

View all
The Film Photographer's Guide to New York City: 5 Must-Know Tips

The Film Photographer's Guide to New York City: 5 Must-Know Tips

Explore the vibrant streets of New York through the lens of your camera with our insider tips for film photography enthusiasts. Discover the best spots to capture the essence of NYC, from avoiding crowded tourist traps to embracing the city's dynamic light and seasonality. Perfect for New York film tourists!
Digital for Delivery; Film for Fun

Digital for Delivery; Film for Fun

Explore the two faces of modern photography. While digital photography is the go-to for professional work, film photography offers a fun, immersive experience that transforms each shot into an adventure. This article contrasts the efficiency and immediacy of digital with the joyful, deliberate pace of film.
Capturing the Ghosts: Techniques and Tips for Double Exposure Film Photography

Capturing the Ghosts: Techniques and Tips for Double Exposure Film Photography

Unlock the secrets of double exposure film photography with our comprehensive guide. Learn tips and techniques to blend two images into one magical frame, perfect all creative film shooters. Dive into the world of double exposure film photography today!