What’s the Best Film for Snow Photography?

Snow is a unique and beautiful phenomenon. Not everyone gets to see it, let alone feel its noise-calming effect, lullaby-like crunch under the foot, or a pillowy thump when a heap falls off a tree.

Photographing snow can be exhilarating, but it’s worth getting ready for in advance. Some films will work wonderfully in this weather, while others will struggle. Plus, there’s the question of exposure when your scene is made of bright layers of white powder.

Over the years, I’ve shot dozens of films, many of which are reviewed on this site, and some I’ve shot in the snow with various results. In this guide, I’ll introduce my definition of the “best” film for snow photography and give you some ideas for choosing your own.

And since snow may occur in various lighting conditions, I’ll list my top film recommendations accordingly: sunny, overcast, shade, and nighttime.

Best film for photographing snow in bright sun.

Snow can increase the contrast of your scene significantly, even more so under an unobstructed afternoon sun.

You may be able to take advantage of this contrast with slide film; however, exposure mistakes may make your show appear blank and void of all texture. Even if you measure everything perfectly, a part of your exposure may not come out.