To celebrate its 145 year history Ilford released a limited edition run of HP5 Plus and FP4 with an amazing vintage design. Ya, ya.. History. That’s all great and everything. But just look at this Ilford retro film packaging! This needs to be the official design for forever. FOREVER!!! Full story after the jump!
Ilford Retro Film Packaging Looks So Good
I know, I know… We’re not supposed to care about something as frivolous as the packaging. You don’t judge a book by its cover, right? But what if you already know the book is amazing? Wouldn’t you want to get a version with the nicest cover possible?
To be honest, I just want to get a roll of this stuff to put on a shelf and make all my friends jealous that they don’t have one. LOL!
I know I’m a bit late to the party on this one and it seems this is a super limited design that is already sold out just about everywhere. But if you can find a roll, buy it and send it to me immediately!
Ilford Has A Long History With Film
In 1879, ILFORD entered the market as a pioneer of black and white film production and 145 years later they’re still going strong. The company manufactures black & white films, papers and chemicals from their site in Cheshire.
To celebrate its 145 year history the company launched a 1950s & 60s inspired Ilford retro film packaging for their popular HP5+ and FP4+ films in both 35mm and 120 formats. And they nailed it.
The vintage design pays homage to the colors and style of HP3 and FP3 packaging – the predecessors of today’s FP4+ and HP5+ emulsions.
“Film enthusiasts love to collect, and it’s no surprise that they’ve been asking for limited edition packaging like this. We’re thrilled about our recent multi-million pound investment in R&D and operations, especially as we celebrate 145 years since the founding of ILFORD. This is a nod to our past as we continue to move forward.”
— Giles Branthwaite, Director of Sales and Marketing.
Ilford Retro Film Packaging Gallery
Just look at them.
The Last Word
Sometimes, it’s the little things that matter.
Ilford could have held a boring press confence. Or a boring photo contest. Or a thousand other boring corporate events to mark their 145 year history. But the company decided to release a limited edition packaging that’s a nod to the past and a tip of the hat to the many customers who will collect these little beauties.
It’s the kind of thing that the market will quickly forget but will have lasting appeal for a small group of people. And you can count me as one of them!
What’s your take on the Ilford retro film packaging? Do you already a couple rolls proudly displayed on a shelf? Or would you rather put the money towards your next Leica? Post your ideas in the comments below and keep the conversation going!