The advent of digital cameras may have impacted film photography, but it did not, in any way, kill it. In fact, film went on to become a popular process for purists, who wanted to capture images as they were intended during the initial period of the medium. As film continues to play an integral part in the lives of many image-makers, Leica has decided to step into this market once again, with the launch of its very own black and white film. What could it offer? Let’s find out.
To celebrate the Leica I, a 35mm film camera that revolutionised photography when it launched in 1925, the company is paying homage to the format by unveiling MONOPAN 50. The Leica I was referred to as “Leica film” despite the film inside the camera being by Kodak, Agfa, and Perutz. This was because the Leica camera was compact, and its ease of use quickly gained success and a new title. The Leica MONOPAN 50, in that regard, is a tribute to 35mm photography, with the back and white film being able to shoot 36 exposures.
So, what are the origins of the name of the film? According to the company, “mono” refers to Leica’s monochrome series of cameras, which were introduced in 2012. ‘Pan’ indicates the panchromatic properties of the film, while 50 is ISO.
rating.
The company adds that the new Leica film will offer ultra-fine grain, which has a resolution of up to 280 line pairs per millimeter. The panchromatic sensitivity, on the other hand, is up to 780nm, which will deliver sharpness and tonal range for monochrome users. In fact, this new film is said to work well with Leica lenses, such as the Noctilux-M, Summilux-M, and
Summicron-M lenses. The film, when paired with the lenses, will allow you to capture the softness of the bokeh, as well as capture details in various situations. For those in infrared photography, Leica states the spectral sensitivity enables the MONOPAN 50 to easily be used for this genre as well. One can also pair them with Leica color filters to get creative images right in-camera.
Priced at just $10, the MONOPAN 50 is an ideal choice for film photographers who want to experience Leica’s legacy and 35mm photography all over again. It doesn’t matter which genre you are working with; the MONOPAN 50 is an ideal choice for anyone who knows film photography or is keen on learning it. Although Leica states the film works better with its own lenses, we are sure people using other 35mm cameras will also stand a chance to experience the rich monochrome tones produced by Leica cameras. If you have ever wondered what it would feel like shooting with a Leica Monochrome, then this film is your chance to explore that.
The Leica MONOPAN 50 will be available across Leica stores and other retailers from August 21, 2025. For more information, visit Leica’s store.