Harman’s New Phoenix 125 Colour Film

credits: Harman

Harman Photo just introduced Phoenix 125, a new version of its distinctive colour film, this time with a slower ISO 125 speed. The company behind Ilford-brand photographic film first launched Phoenix 200 back in 2023 as something of an experiment before following it with Phoenix II last year. Phoenix 125 is not simply a slower version of Phoenix II, though. Harman has actually gone back to the original Phoenix 200 formula, which has since been discontinued, improved the emulsion, and changed the rated speed based on feedback about how photographers were actually shooting it.

The character of the original Phoenix is still very much there. So, high contrast, clearly visible grain, punchy colours, and the slightly unpredictable look that made the first version pretty divisive. The film comes in a DX-coded cassette rated at ISO 125, and Harman says it performs best in good, consistent light. You can also get some noticeable halation when shooting in brighter conditions or directly into the light. Exposure matters quite a bit here, with Harman recommending that you meter for the midtones to hold onto as much detail as possible in both the shadows and highlights.

The new Harman Phoenix 125 will be available in both 35mm and 120 formats, with rolls expected to start showing up at film retailers very soon. Harman has not announced pricing for Phoenix 125 yet.