The 3 Analog Films I Always Come Back To: Lomochrome Purple, Kodak Portra 400 & Ilford HP5 Plus

In a world where images are created and shared in seconds, film photography continues to teach me something valuable: slowing down. In a world where AI it’s evolving fast, I still chose to use my hands and create something.

Over the years, I've experimented with many different analog films, but there are three stocks I keep returning to. Not because they're technically perfect, but because each one helps me tell stories in a completely different way.

Whether I'm photographing portraits, personal projects, self-portraits, or simply documenting everyday moments, these are the films that never leave my camera bag.

1. Lomography Lomochrome Purple: Seeing the World Differently

The first time I loaded a roll of Lomochrome Purple, I had no idea what to expect.

Trees turned pink. Grass became violet. Familiar landscapes suddenly looked like scenes from another planet.

What I love most about this film is that it challenges reality. It forces me to stop documenting what I see and start creating what I feel.

Many of my favorite experimental photographs were made with Lomochrome Purple because it transforms ordinary locations into dreamlike environments. Every roll feels unpredictable, and that's part of the magic.

It's a film that rewards curiosity and invites play.

Best for:

• Experimental photography

• Creative portraits

• Fine art projects

• Travel photography with a surreal twist

2. Kodak Portra 400: The Film That Understands People

If Lomochrome Purple is my dreamer, Kodak Portra 400 is my storyteller.

There's a reason why so many portrait photographers love this film.

Portra has an incredible ability to render skin tones naturally while maintaining beautiful color depth and softness. The colors feel gentle rather than exaggerated, creating photographs that age gracefully.

When I'm photographing people, especially during emotional moments, I often reach for Portra because it allows the subject to remain the focus. Nothing feels distracting. Nothing feels forced.

It's one of the most versatile films ever made and handles different lighting situations remarkably well.

For me, Portra isn't about creating dramatic images, it's about creating honest ones.

Best for:

• Portraits

• Lifestyle photography

• Weddings and engagements

• Travel and documentary work

3. Ilford HP5 Plus 400: Timeless and Honest

Whenever I feel overwhelmed by color, I go back to black and white.

And when I shoot black and white, I almost always choose Ilford HP5 Plus.

HP5 has a beautiful grain structure, incredible latitude, and a timeless look that works in almost every situation. It allows me to focus on shape, light, shadow, and emotion without the distraction of color.

Some of my most personal self-portraits have been made on HP5.

There's something honest about it. Imperfections become part of the image. Mood becomes more important than aesthetics.

It feels less like taking a photograph and more like creating a memory.

Best for:

• Self-portraits

• Documentary photography

• Street photography

• Fine art projects

Why I Still Shoot Film

People often ask why I continue shooting film when digital cameras are faster, cheaper, and more convenient.

The answer is simple.

Film makes me pay attention.

Every frame costs something. Every click requires intention. Every photograph becomes a small act of trust.

Trust in the light.
Trust in the process.
Trust in the story.

Not because it's perfect.

Because it's human.

What are your favorite film stocks? I'd love to hear which films continue to inspire your work.

This post contains affiliate links that help me with my photography journey :)

Bruna Valença
Photographer & Visual Storyteller
Barcelona, Spain