Kodak Portra 400 VC 36exp - Expired 11/2003

Unleash the raw, cinematic energy of early-2000s professional colour science. This is Kodak Professional Portra 400VC (Vivid Color) in full-length 36 exposures. Expired in November 2003, this batch dates back to the highly coveted original "dual-lineup" era when Kodak manufactured separate Natural Color (NC) and Vivid Color (VC) emulsions.

Nearly 23 years of aging have transformed this legendary high-speed studio workhorse into an absolute masterpiece for experimental portrait, street, and documentary photographers.

The Highlights

• The Discontinued "VC" Saturation: Unlike modern Portra 400 (which is a singular blend designed to replace both older variants), the original 400VC was chemically engineered for bold saturation and snappy, aggressive contrast. This extra vivid punch means the film has resisted the typical dull, muddy look of aged stocks far better than its passive counterparts.

• Warm, Sun-Drenched Tonal Shifts: Having matured in the dark since 2003, those strong colour dyes have softened into a gorgeous, nostalgic palette. Expect deep, saturated mid-tones beautifully balanced by warm, golden-amber highlights and rich, creamy skin tones.

• Gritty "Indie-Sleaze" Grain Structure: Originally engineered with Kodak’s fine T-Grain technology, over two decades of aging have naturally amplified the emulsion's grain. Every frame will bloom with a prominent, highly tactile texture that gives images an authentic, documentary-style "found footage" aesthetic.

• Full-Length 36 Exposures: Because shooting expired film is an exercise in creative exploration, these full-length 36-exposure canisters give you plenty of room to bracket your shots, test the limits of the shadows, and capture the perfect frame.

Quick Specs

• Format: 35mm / 36 Exposures

• Type: Professional Colour Negative (C-41)

• Original Speed: ISO 400

• Expiration Date: November 2003 (11/2003)

• Best For: High-contrast street portraiture, moody fashion editorials, sun-baked urban landscapes, and golden-hour shooting.