Fuji have officially release Provia 400X with, they claim, the same grain and color reproduction of their 100 speed reversal films. So high speed high quality imaging with film is now even easier. And then Kodak go and announce a new experimental B&W film rated at ISO 24000. Yes that is three zeros after the twenty four. Although it is only experimental, there is a form you can send in to ask for some test rolls of this film. Developed not with chemicals, but a heat process, this film definitely looks interesting; but Kodak were quick to point out that this is still experimental and they will only go ahead with full production of this film if they feel there is a market for it.

You can read more at the APUG forums.

From the Kodak website:

ROCHESTER, N.Y., April 17 — Eastman Kodak Company announced today that it will increase prices on a range of consumer, professional, and some motion picture films. Specifics will vary on a market-by-market and product-by-product basis.

• Price increases for consumer and professional films will range from 3% to 17%.
• Price increases for selected motion picture films will range from 3% to 5%.

Over the past year, Kodak has been absorbing unrelenting increases in the costs of raw materials used to manufacture film, including silver and petrochemicals. Other costs tied to the escalating price of energy — including transportation and packaging– also have increased. These pressures have reached a point where they can no longer be offset by Kodak’s ongoing productivity programs.

Kodak remains committed to its film customers and to supporting the diverse imaging needs of consumers, professional photographers and filmmakers.

Timing of the new pricing structure will vary depending on product and geography, with implementation beginning May 1.

While the news release specifically states this is due to external price increases, and that they are committed to supporting film users, one gets the feeling announcements like this may drive even more people to digital.

Of course it will be interesting to see what sections get the 3% type raises and which get the 17%. I’d assume that film made for the disposable camera market would need to be kept as cheap as possible, meaning that the pro grade films will probably take the brunt of the increases.