A week with Santa Color 100 film & capturing Sofia and Svidnya

Recently, there was an opportunity to spend a week (from August 5th to 10th, 2024) fully immersed in the world of film photography. With three rolls of Santa Color 100—known for its rich tones and vibrant color rendition—and a trusty Pentax 17 camera in hand, the exploration began in the bustling streets of Sofia and continued into the serene surroundings of a small village called Svidnya.

The focus during this week was on capturing the essence of these contrasting environments. In Sofia, several short walks through the city’s diverse neighborhoods revealed a blend of historic architecture and lively street scenes. The Santa Color 100 film truly brought out the warmth and energy of the city. Its ability to handle colors, especially reds and greens, added a unique vibrancy to the urban landscapes. The attached images showcase some of these moments—a beautiful fusion of old and new, captured in stunning detail.

In contrast, a visit to Svidnya provided a much-needed respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. This small village, nestled amidst rolling hills, served as the perfect backdrop to test the film’s performance in natural settings. The rich greenery, combined with the quaint charm of village life, was beautifully rendered on the Santa Color 100. The Pentax 17 performed flawlessly, capturing everything from the texture of the leaves to the warm sunlight filtering through the trees.

Overall, this week of photography was a refreshing experience. The Santa Color 100 film exceeded expectations, delivering both sharpness and vibrant colors that brought the images to life. Whether a seasoned film photographer or just getting started, this film stock comes highly recommended.