Fuji Acros filter for smooth black and white

The fine-grain black and white film

Fujifilm Neopan Acros 100 was a slow black and white film famous for extremely fine grain and smooth tones. It also handled long exposures better than most films, so landscape and architectural photographers loved it.

Fujifilm discontinued the original and later released Acros II. The name now stands for crisp, clean monochrome.

It's a good pick for headshots, family portraits and anything you plan to frame.

What this preset does to your photo

Your photo is converted to monochrome, then the midtones and highlights are lifted while the shadows are left alone. That brightens faces and keeps blacks solid. Contrast is raised moderately and brightness slightly.

Grain is very fine and the vignette is light, so the image stays clean and smooth.

Because the shadows aren't lifted or crushed, dark clothing and hair keep their detail. The overall feel is bright and polished rather than dramatic, closer to a studio print than a street photo.

How to get the best result

Soft, directional light flatters this look. A window to one side gives faces smooth gradation from light to shadow. Plain backgrounds help, since there's no grain to add texture.

The Minimal frame suits its refined feel, and the Triptych layout gives three large portraits that show off the smooth tones.

Flat, cloudy daylight works better here than with grittier black and white looks, since the lifted midtones keep faces bright. Very dark rooms are the main thing to avoid.

Tips

• Use soft window light from one side.
• Choose a plain wall behind you.
• Great for headshots and formal portraits.
• Try a calm expression in at least one frame.

Questions