CatLABS film

The Story of CatLABS

CatLABS was founded in 2010 by Omer Hecht, initially as CatLABS of JP in Jamaica Plain, Boston, Massachusetts, before incorporating as CatLABS Inc. in 2013. Alongside its own film products, the company operates as an all-analogue camera store and processing lab, including servicing classic Jobo processing equipment.

CatLABS describes its X Film range as using an emulsion coated specifically for the brand, though some independent reviewers in the film photography community have suggested its X 80 stock shares characteristics with film made in China, which CatLABS disputes, maintaining it is custom-coated to its own specification. Either way, it is best understood as a custom-commissioned product rather than a stock coated entirely in-house by CatLABS itself.

CatLABS's Camera Film Ranges

X Film 80 is a fine-grain black and white negative film rated at ISO 80, available in 120, 4x5 and 8x10 formats, aimed particularly at large and medium format shooters. X Film 100 is a colour negative option in 120 and 4x5, and X Pan 320 Pro is a faster black and white film rated at ISO 320, available in both 35mm and 120. CatLABS also stocks a wide range of third-party film from major manufacturers including Kodak, Ilford, Fujifilm, Rollei and CineStill.

Choosing the Right CatLABS Film

For large format and studio black and white work, X Film 80 offers fine grain and high contrast. If you need more speed and versatility, X Pan 320 Pro is the better choice, while X Film 100 covers colour negative needs in medium and large format. Compare CatLABS film prices on Filmproof.