Kodak Portra 400 and Fuji Superia 400 are both ISO 400 color negative films that use C-41 processing. Portra is a professional-oriented film known for natural skin tones, fine grain and wide exposure flexibility, while Superia is a consumer-oriented film with punchier color and a lively, slightly greener feel. Choose Portra for portraits, weddings and work that needs smooth color; choose Superia for casual, colorful everyday shooting.
What They Share
- Both are color negative films at ISO 400, a good all-round speed for daylight and shade.
- Both are processed in C-41 at most labs.
- Both can be used outdoors and indoors near a window.
Where They Differ
Portra 400 is designed around soft, natural color and smooth skin tones, with generous latitude that lets you over- or underexpose a little and still get a usable result. Superia 400 is aimed at everyday shooters and delivers stronger contrast and saturation, with greens that stand out. Neither look is better in general; they suit different subjects.
| Trait | Portra 400 | Superia 400 |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning | Professional-oriented | Consumer-oriented |
| Skin tones | Natural, smooth | Lively, can vary |
| Grain | Fine | Moderate, more visible |
| Latitude | Wide | Good |
| Typical use | Portraits, events, travel | Snapshots, street, travel |
How to Choose
- List your main subjects. People and soft light point to Portra; colorful streets point to Superia.
- Decide how much you value fine grain and flexible exposure.
- Check what is available in your format, since lines change over time.
- Shoot both on a sunny and a cloudy day and compare scans from the same lab.
A common first guess for ISO 400 in open shade is an aperture of f/4 with a shutter speed around 1/250, then adjust.
Think about the end use of your pictures. If you plan to enlarge prints or share portraits with clients, the smoother grain and gentler color of Portra are easy to defend. If you want a casual roll for a trip, a party or a street walk, Superia gives a cheerful look at everyday life without much fuss. Either way, ask your lab for neutral scans and keep your film cool before and after shooting to protect color. We have not used either film ourselves, so confirm current formats on the maker’s page.
FAQ
Can I shoot Portra 400 at a higher speed?
Many photographers rate it higher, such as ISO 800, and develop normally or with a small push. Run a test roll first and tell your lab what you did.
Does Superia 400 work indoors?
It can near a window or with a fast lens. Fluorescent lighting may add a green cast, so use flash or correct in scanning.
The Short Version
Portra 400 offers smooth, natural color and wide flexibility, and Superia 400 offers punchy everyday color. Choose by subject: Portra for people and refined work, Superia for lively casual shooting.
