Yesterday, I got into the fascinating world of film photography in Japan with Kimi, who shares insights from his recently published 2025 film usage survey. We explored the findings that shed light on the evolving landscape of film photography, including the fascinating fact that, in 2026, Kodak overtook Fujifilm among film photography shooters in Japan.
The evolution of film brands
Kimi shared the surprising revelation that had been announced in his FilmFocus research and announced on relevant Internet websites like PetaPixel and KosmoPhoto: Kodak has overtaken Fujifilm as the most selected film brand in Japan, marking a significant shift in market dynamics. He noted,
“In 2024, Fujifilm was the most selected brand with 84% usage, but this year, Kodak has taken the lead.”
This change is attributed to various factors, particularly a substantial price hike by Fujifilm in 2025. The survey revealed that all brands saw a decrease in usage compared to the previous year, indicating a consolidation among photographers regarding the brands they choose.
Shooting frequency remains steady
Interestingly, despite the price increases, shooting frequency among film photographers remained stable. 28% of respondents reported shooting more film, while 46% shot the same amount as in the previous year. Kimi reflected:
“Shooting frequency held steady despite price hikes.”
This suggests that while prices may deter some, the passion for film photography remains strong.
Insights on new cameras
One of the key reasons for shooting more film was the purchase of new cameras. Kimi noted that many photographers are reinvigorated by new gear, which translates directly into increased film consumption. Raf shared his experience, stating,
“During the whole year of 2025, I shot and developed around 160 roles of film.”
This enthusiasm showcases the connection between equipment purchases and film usage.
Conclusion
Kimi’s survey not only highlights current trends but also reflects the broader cultural appreciation for film photography in Japan. As the community continues to navigate changes in the market, it’s clear that the love for film is as strong as ever.
The full research can be found on Kimiasu’s website, FilmFocus. You will have to use your browser’s translation features to translate it, but the images are still in Japanese.
For a deeper dive into the survey findings and to hear more about Kimi’s insights (in English!), tune in to the full episode, we tried to be as most assertive as possible to avoid taking too much time from your day!
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