Bam Vol.4 [Contax RTSiii, RPX400] (Patreon)

Second Trip with Bam – Rollei RPX 400 in Action

This was my second photo trip with Bam, and this time we went for a sexy bikini concept. I used my trusty Contax RTSiii paired with the legendary Carl Zeiss Planar 85mm f/1.4, a combination that never fails to deliver smooth tones and flattering depth for portraits.

The choice of film for this set was Rollei RPX 400 – a budget-friendly alternative to Ilford HP5+ that still offers excellent tonality and a classic black-and-white look. Shot under the soft-but-slightly-harsh afternoon light, RPX 400 handled the contrast beautifully, giving a nice balance between highlight retention and shadow depth.

Quick Film Review – Rollei RPX 400

For portraiture, RPX 400 provides:

Smooth midtones that flatter skin tones in natural light.

Moderate contrast—less punchy than HP5+, but very pleasing for a softer, timeless look.

Fine grain for a 400-speed film, making it versatile both for outdoor natural light and controlled studio setups.

Great value for the price, especially if you’re shooting a lot.

If you love shooting portraits in black-and-white and want a film that gives you both flexibility and a touch of classic charm, RPX 400 is definitely worth a try.