Pushing Black and White Film: Kodak Tri-X 400 Results and Tips

Pushing black and white film is a creative and practical technique. It lets you shoot in low light without flash and adds a distinct gritty quality to your images. Kodak Tri-X 400 has been the go-to film for push processing for decades, favored by photojournalists and street photographers worldwide.

Best Films to Push

Ilford HP5 Plus 35mm

$14.99
Shop Now

Kodak T-Max 400 35mm

$16.99
Shop Now

Get the best prices on film.

Members save on every roll. No minimums, cancel any time.

Join Film Supply Club

Frequently Asked Questions

How many stops can you push Kodak Tri-X?

Kodak Tri-X 400 handles being pushed 2 stops to ISO 1600 beautifully. You can push it to 3200 (3 stops) with more pronounced grain and contrast. Some photographers push it even further for extreme grain effects.

Does pushing film increase grain?

Yes. Push processing increases both grain and contrast. Shadows lose detail and highlights can block up. For most creative purposes, this is a desirable effect that gives images a gritty, documentary quality.

What black and white film is best for pushing?

Ilford HP5 Plus and Kodak Tri-X 400 are the top choices for push processing. Both are forgiving, produce pleasing grain, and are widely available. Shop B&W film at Film Supply Club.


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.


You may also like

View all
Example blog post
Example blog post
Example blog post