
Welcome to the CineStill Holiday Gift Guide for Film Photographers!
a.k.a. the easiest way to shop for the film photographer in your life without accidentally buying them something digital!
We made this for you! Yes, You! By us — the CineStill team. We pulled together our favorite analog goods to make your gifting a little easier this holiday season. Whether you’re shopping for your film-obsessed friend, someone just dipping their toes into shooting film, or, let’s be honest, yourself — we've got you covered.
Explore our curated selection of products — and staff picks from the CineStill team! These are the tools and brands we genuinely love and use. And all of them are available here on cinestillfilm.com
For Beginners
Looking to buy for a friend or family member that just started getting into film photography? Not sure where to start? These gifts are sure to set them on the right path and help new photographers get more out of their first rolls! From our versatile 400-speed film stock to an introduction to at-home processing with the LAB-BOX 1-MOD Bundle with our Df96 Monobath included, we have something for any photographer at every skill level. For those just looking to have fun and keep it simple, grab a KODAK PROFESSIONAL TRI-X 400 Single Use Camera and shoot your favorite holiday moments. Here’s a holiday secret: the new KODAK Kodacolor 200 35mm film is guaranteed to be on your loved one’s wishlist! And as a bonus, we created a video to help anyone understand how to get started with film. For a limited time, get a $50 Gift Card towards film, chemistry, and accessories with the purchase of a Pentax 17 Half Frame Camera.
STAFF PICKS
“The CineStill Df96 B&W Monobath has really been a game-changer for my analog photography workflow. The 1000mL Ready-To-Use liquid variant allows me to process (yes that means develop, stop, AND fix!) virtually any B&W negative film at room temperature in just a few minutes. No mixing needed, no worries of over-processing if my times go long, and best of all, I have so much flexibility when it comes to putting different film stocks in the same tank at the same time. This saves me time so that I can focus on shooting. And the results I get are fantastic - no compromises.”
Andre
Customer Experience
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“If you’ve ever wanted to dive into home developing without feeling overwhelmed, the CineStill JOBO DUO Processing Kit is the easiest entry point. Everything comes organized in one box — the chemistry, the tank, the storage, the temperature control — so you don’t have to hunt down a bunch of separate pieces or wonder if you forgot something. It keeps the process consistent, whether you’re working with color or black & white, 35mm or 120. Plus, it already comes packaged beautifully, so it makes an easy gift… just add a bow and call it done.”
Emmalee
Purchasing
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“Kodacolor 200 is my current go to for color film. The film is a revival of a classic Kodak stock and with its link to Kodak history it delivers a warm, nostalgic palette that feels timeless. To me, it’s the perfect roll to toss in your bag for a beach day, family picnic, or any spontaneous adventure. What makes it special is twofold: it’s a beautiful, budget-friendly film, and it supports Kodak’s ongoing efforts to revive classic stocks and expand film production - letting you capture vibrant memories while contributing to the future of analog photography!”
David
Fulfillment
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For Shooting Film
We all know this is what you're really here for! Well we've got film, and lots of it. This year we've got you covered with a curated selection of 35mm, 120, and even 4x5 film from many of the best film brands, like Kodak, Harman / Ilford, ADOX, Fujifilm, dubblefilm, Film Ferrania, and of course, CineStill. Spend a day being their subject as they shoot our CineStill BwXX 120 timeless black and white film and don’t forget to grab some CineStill 800T to capture those warm holiday lights in color! And find special savings — like $13 OFF when you buy the CineStill 400D 120 ProPack!
STAFF PICKS
“CineStill 800T in 135 format was our first product which made CineStill what it is today. It is the best film to shoot in low light. Not only is it the fastest color film made today and color balanced for dimmer light sources, but also the fastest lenses available are 35mm (full frame) compatible. This means you can achieve sharper hand held images at faster shutter speeds with a wide variety of modern and vintage lenses that are widely available in a variety focal lengths and price points. It works well in professional or point and shoot cameras, and can be pushed processed to 1600 or 3200 to enhance the beautiful texture of visible film grain. It also renders daylight and mixed lighting with a mixture of cool and warm tones and its signature red halation glow can be found around bright light sources. No matter if I am heading out for an evening with friends and live music, or embarking on world travels for work, I never leave home without it!”
Brian
Co-founder
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“Hey, so my pick is our CineStill 400D 120. Since this film was released, its become a top contender for my favorite film stock because of how versatile it can be. It’s great for shooting during the day and for shooting with studio lighting and handling low light situations. The fact that it now comes in a ProPack makes it that much easier to grab and throw into my camera bag so that I can keep shooting while I’m out and about.”
Alex
Customer Solutions
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“CineStill BwXX 120 is an essential film I use in all of my photographic work. One of my favorite things is the clarity, the richness of tones, and how it pairs perfectly with Df96 for a fast-easy development process. Additionally, the versatility with regards to how it handles over/underexposure is another plus and meets whatever needs I have in different lighting scenarios. Not to mention, If you add a flash to your camera, results look great. Lastly, I find working with the negatives easy when printing in the darkroom. I know when shooting with BWXX 120 i’ll always be able to capture the essence of my subjects causing my photographs to result in a timelessness.”
Henry
Fulfillment
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For Processing at Home
Some photographers just have to get their hands in the process — the ones who love the smell of fixer as much as the sound of a shutter. For them, the magic isn’t just in the photo… it’s in the chemistry. Our collection of developing tools and processing kits is made for the natural tinkerers: the experimenters, the at-home lab builders, the “I’ll do it myself” shooters. From quality chemistry to dependable tools, these picks make it easier to develop beautiful photos right at home. Black & white, color negative, or slide film — we’ve got the chemistry and tools to make home-processing straightforward, consistent, and surprisingly fun.
STAFF PICKS
"The Complete Slide Processing Kit, CineStill Cs6 with D6, D9 and T6 is my pick for this year’s gift idea. This simplified 3 step process prepares any photographer for any situation. The D6 developer gives you the classic slide film look that’s been around since your grandparents made everyone sit around the living room while they threw up a sheet and projected the latest family trip for everyone to reminisce. The T6 developer is amazing for balancing tungsten light, or shooting your slide film indoors without having to fuss with any corrective filters. And finally D9 DynamicChrome (which also comes in a kit!), the ultimate control for modern slide film shooters, this developer is designed for scanning, extending your dynamic range, and allows you to control the temperature of your slides with simple adjustments to time."
Jared
Logistics
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"I recall a time when processing color negative film at home yourself was not only a little hazardous but tedious enough to not really be a practical option for most film shooters. That all changed when I was introduced to the Cs41 “Color Simplified” 2-Bath Color Kit. It was a game changer as the name Color Simplified implies, it is stress-free as possible to get beautifully developed, bleached and fixed color negatives. If you fancy saving some money at the labs, having fun and that sense of pride from doing it yourself, all you need is water, a thermometer and any simple tank and reel system and you’re good to go!"
Michael
Customer Solutions
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"CineStill F96 is a powdered fixer with a unique ability to retain as much silver in the negative as possible, giving your negatives a full range of gradation. That’s why it’s my favorite fixer when processing black and white film. For processing color film, there’s even more to love: this fixer is excellent for a bleach-bypass process. You can always tell a bleach-bypass image by its balance of high contrast and medium saturation. I always say that a negative is only as strong as your fixer, and here is a fixer that lasts and lasts."
Holden
Fulfillment
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“There’s something truly magical about seeing black-and-white film as a positive image and the Adox Scala Kit makes that possible. The process is relatively straightforward, especially considering the complexity often linked to reversal film processing. When paired with the Adox Scala film, it gives stunning results with rich blacks and glowing highlights. What’s less commonly known is the kit’s versatility; I love how it allows you to experiment with processing different black-and-white films, unlocking new creative opportunities. I think anyone who loves black-and-white photography should give this process a try. It’s a beautiful way to see your work in a whole new light!”
Giulia
Marketing
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For Scanning at Home
Maybe your favorite photographer loves the process of scanning their negatives and having complete control over the look of their finished product. Here at CineStill, we offer scanning equipment that works together to bring the best out of your work. We offer scanning bundles for every level, from novice to expert. Pair those with our FREE CS Negative+ Convert Tools, and you're ready to get the best out of your scans! Who knew scanning your negatives could be such a positive experience?
STAFF PICKS
“Our CS Negative+ Convert Tools are a must have for any film photographer who is camera scanning at home. Inspired by the traditional color darkroom process, these fast and simple conversion tools are specifically designed to preserve the natural look and character of your film. These tools are universally compatible with all camera raw formats and the entire Adobe CC suite, including mobile for FREE! I use them to convert all of my negatives, sometimes even on my phone when on the go, knowing the results will be faithful to how my film was originally intended to look, while still allowing for more advanced non-destructive editing and creative controls easily within Adobe Lightroom or Camera RAW in Photoshop or Bridge. Paired with our CS-LITE+, you can take full advantage of our new SpectraCOLOR technology, for fast and true-to-film negative conversion without compromise.”
Brandon
Co-founder
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"The Cinestill CS-Lite+ is our newest product and the one I’m excited about the most. A significant upgrade from the capable CS-Lite, the CS-Lite+ is built with SpectraCOLOR technology which provides precise color separation resulting in less editing and true to film scanning. It’s the same size as the Cs-Lite and therefor is compatible with any system or accessory that you’re currently using. On a personal note, I’m proud to be part of the CS-Lite+ assembly team and can say a lot of care has gone into its production which makes it that much more exciting to me."
Randy
Logistics
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“I've been using the VALOI 360 Essential Copy Stand V2 for camera scanning negatives for some time now, and loving it. I think it might be one of the most necessary tools for camera scanning - the high quality metal construction keeps my camera level and tightly secured in place, and the moveable legs keep all the weight safely balanced. In the past I've tried to use a tripod or other DIY ways to get a top down angle to scan, but none were as successful or as safe for my equipment. The VALOI 360 Essential Copy Stand V2 makes it possible for me to scan at home, something that I couldn't do without it. I'm so glad I invested in this crucial tool that, at the end of the day, brings my cost of shooting film way down! Paired with CineStill's CS-Lite+ Light Source and our CS Negative+ Convert Tools software, I have complete control over my analog workflow.”
Lou
Marketing
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“I chose the VALOI Easy120 because it’s probably one of the more unique entries in the camera scanning space I’ve seen so far. I love how it’s all one consolidated unit, rather than a bunch of loose pieces you have to re-position every time you set up, and you can either lay it flat or stand it up vertically. It’s a great option for those who don’t have the space for a dedicated scanning station, or who just want to plug and play. Paired with our SpectraCOLOR technology in our holiday sale exclusive kit, you’re going to get some solid captures for all your 120 and 35mm negatives - and with our free Negative+ Convert Tools for Adobe, you’re all set to take full control of your process. Check it out!”
Dan
Dealers
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For The Film Super Fans
Is there someone on your gift list that already loves film? Like REALLY loves it. Whether that's our film, photochemistry, analog tools, starter kits, or even merch — or those made by some of our favorite analog brands, here are some items that any analog lover will enjoy, even the ones that have a fridge full of film already! There’s always room to expand your gear and equipment for more parts of the analog process. Make your loved one happy this holiday season by (film)stocking them up on their favorite analog products!
STAFF PICKS
“I can't recommend the CineStill Heritage Collection Champion Hoodie enough for this holiday season. These heavyweight hoodies are hand stitched in Rochester, NY, using classic Champion hoodies and are available in Red or Black and sizes up to 2XL. The CineStill Heritage Collection perfectly blends together vintage varsity style lettering on a modern day fit, which makes this the ideal hoodie for any analog photography superfan!”
Arvin
Dealers
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“My recommendation is the classic: CineStill 800T 120. It is incredibly versatile. You can shoot it in broad daylight, in tungsten light at night, at nighttime, in the studio — you can do anything with this film. It works great in any lighting situation. I don't even use a warming filter when shooting this film in broad daylight, despite the fact that it's a tungsten film. It's just a special film. My favorite film. And it's the film that I feel like, when I put it in my camera, I know I'm going to get something I like.”
Linus
YouTube
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Stocking Stuffers
If you’re looking for something small that’ll put a big smile on your loved one’s face, look no further! These gifts under $35 are perfect for any photographer — either as the perfect gift or stocking stuffers. Like our CineStill Beanie, we’ve got you covered this holiday season. Throw in some Film Enamel Pins and show off your favorite CineStill stocks!
STAFF PICKS
“I love shooting black & white film when spending time with friends & family to capture memories. BwXX is my go-to for just that. If I’m going on a trip with friends or going to a family gathering, I’ll throw some CineStill BwXX 35mm in my Pentax to bring along. I like to give the gift of memories during the holiday season. With all our favorite memories being on our phones, the cloud, or in our cameras - it’s so important to keep printing! I get my film images printed at one of my trusty local labs and put in nice picture frames. There’s nothing like having memories out in our homes to be able to share our most loved people and places in the frame.”
Mollie
Dealers
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“The FOTOFOTO Zero-Waste Disposable is the kind of camera you hand to a friend at a party and instantly get better photos back. It’s made from recycled materials and comes preloaded with CineStill 400D, so the shots have that warm, vibrant look right out of the box. When you’re done, you just mail it back for developing and scans (prints optional too!) and they reuse the camera. It’s a super easy, super fun way to shoot film without overthinking it!”
Steve
Marketing
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“What can I say I get cold easily and I always need a little something to get my head warm. The CineStill beanie is a staple solution for that, it is warm but still feels light to carry around and to travel with. It keeps my head in a good place 😉”
Sari
Design
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Holiday Specials
CineStill Heritage Collection
The CineStill Heritage Collection was created in collaboration with Golden Supply & Mfg. Co. as a tribute to the legacy of manufacturing that shaped the cities we call home, and the craftspeople that continue in these traditions today. The CineStill Heritage Champion Hoodie is a nod to Rochester, New York, the birthplace of both photographic film and the hoodie itself, a place we also call our second home. Then we have the CineStill Heritage Pennant, made from 100% wool felt, this 9x27 in. vintage-inspired pennant is handcrafted entirely by Golden Supply in Rochester as well. For a limited time, get an additional $5 OFF the Heritage Pennant with code: GOLDEN at checkout!
FOTOFOTO Zero-Waste Disposable Camera
One of the newest products on our website — The FOTOFOTO Zero-Waste Disposable Camera's housing is made of 100% recycled materials and they reuse your camera when you're done with it, saving perfectly good cameras from the landfill. Their goal is to create a seamless process for you to be able to develop your film, receive scans (and prints!), and then they close the loop — allowing for the camera to be able to be used again and again, while maintaining great quality and a fun, award-winning design. Oh... and did we forget to mention? The FOTOFOTO Camera comes pre-loaded with a 24-exposure roll of CineStill Film inside of it!
Pentax 17 + Free $50 Gift Card
Released last year, the Pentax 17 is the first film camera released by Pentax (a Ricoh subsidiary) in two decades! The Pentax 17 is a compact 35mm half frame film camera which means you can get 72 shots on a single roll of film. The design of the Pentax 17 incorporates manual operations unique to film photography: a selectable zone focus system, manual film winding, manual film advance lever, exposure compensation and ISO sensitivity adjustments, each with their own dials, while still having a built-in light meter with Auto-Exposure capability. This unique camera makes for a great gift for a beginner film shooter or a great way to mix up your usual 35mm process. For a limited time, get a FREE $50 CINESTILL GIFT CARD with the purchase of a Pentax 17, for use on film, chemistry, and other accessories.
Stoverink Walnut Film Accessories
Crafted from a solid piece of beautiful walnut and decorated with hard white maple, the Stoverink Walnut Film Cases for 35mm are a must have this holiday season. Stoverink Pocket Walnut Film Case for 35mm can hold two 35mm rolls safely in a pocket or small handbag. The Stoverink Desktop Walnut Film Case for 35mm can hold five 35mm rolls safely on your desktop or vanity. The fitted lid is held closed by hidden magnets and the film-friendly finish is an oil and wax monocoat that seals and protects the wood. The bottom of the case features a threaded 1/4" mount for use with a tripod. New this year: the Stoverink Walnut Magnet Cartridge / Bottle Opener helps minimize mess and gives you an easy grip for opening. Beautiful and durable, each of these wooden products were handcrafted in a small woodshop in Los Angeles by Fred Stoverink. They make for a very special gift for the film photographers in your life!
JOBO MONO Film Processing Kit by CineStill
The JOBO MONO Film Processing Kit is the easiest and most economical starter kit you will find for getting into traditional black and white film photography for the first time, and at an unbeatable price! CineStill has partnered with JOBO, the industry leader in film processing tools, to provide the best complete processing kits with everything you need to process film at home. Together we have worked with JOBO to create some exclusive deals. If you know someone wanting to get serious about home developing, this is the kit for them!
To help, we made this step-by-step video on how easy it is to use the JOBO MONO Film Processing Kit to develop your film at home: