ILFORD SFX 200 is a panchromatic black-and-white film with extended red sensitivity—not true infrared film. Pair it with a deep red filter and blue skies can render nearly black while green foliage becomes much lighter, creating an infrared-style look. The filter is optional: choose its depth for the rendering you want, then account for its exposure factor.
Why a red filter changes SFX 200 images
SFX 200 is rated ISO 200/24° in daylight and is sold in 35mm and 120 formats, according to ILFORD’s product page. Its sensitivity extends farther into red than that of conventional panchromatic film: the manufacturer lists peak red sensitivity at 720 nm and extended sensitivity up to 740 nm in its November 2018 technical information. ILFORD’s educational article clarifies that SFX has no sensitivity into the infrared end of the spectrum, so the effect is infrared-like rather than infrared photography.
A red filter transmits red light while blocking much of the blue and green light. The film therefore records blue skies more darkly and green vegetation more lightly. The result varies with the filter’s transmission; as ILFORD puts it, “The redder the filter, the more dramatic the effect.” A filter is not required to use the film, and yellow or orange filters are also options.
Which red filter should you choose?
Use the filter factor specified for the filter type, not a generic red-filter adjustment. ILFORD’s 2018 technical sheet gives these examples:
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Filter type | Factor for SFX 200 | Exposure increase | Practical implication |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kodak Wratten 25 red | 2.8 | 1½ stops | Less exposure cost than the deeper red examples listed. |
| Kodak Wratten 29 deep red | 3 | 1⅔ stops | Deeper red filtration with a modestly greater exposure increase than Wratten 25. |
| Kodak Wratten 89B very deep red | 16 | 4 stops | Much greater exposure increase; use when the stronger filter effect is worth longer exposures. |
These are manufacturer-listed factors for SFX 200, not universal values for every filter sold as “red.” Confirm the filter’s type and compatibility with your lens or filter system. ILFORD’s technical sheet also lists factors for yellow and orange filters, and says the visible result depends on transmission characteristics.
How to meter and expose through the filter
- Install the filter before metering. If using through-the-lens metering, take the reading with the filter in place. Some common TTL systems can underexpose by up to 1½ stops with deep red or orange filters, according to ILFORD’s 2018 guidance.
- Alternatively, apply the filter factor. Increase exposure by the factor or stop amount for the specific filter—for example, add 1½ stops for a Wratten 25 or 4 stops for a Wratten 89B.
- Bracket when you first use the combination. ILFORD advises exposures at ±2 stops from the TTL reading with the filter installed, or from a reading corrected by the filter factor. This helps reveal how your meter and filter combination behaves.
- Use support if the exposure becomes long. ILFORD recommends a tripod with very dark filters because exposure times can be very long. Its example of about 1/30 second at f/5.6 in bright sunlight with a deep red filter is illustrative only, not a general exposure setting.
Loading, focusing, and processing the film
Load in subdued light
ILFORD says SFX 200 must be loaded in subdued light. Total darkness is not specified as necessary; avoid bright light while loading and follow the handling guidance on the packaging.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Check focus if you use red filtration
Some lenses focus red light at a slightly different point from white light. ILFORD says stopping down to the smallest working aperture can accommodate this with short-to-moderate focal lengths; some apochromatic lenses may need no correction. If focus-critical work shows softness, test your lens and aperture with the intended filter rather than assuming every lens behaves alike.
Follow the developer-specific instructions
ILFORD describes SFX 200 as compatible with normal black-and-white developers and publishes developer-specific processing times on its product information. The technical sheet’s ISO speed was measured using ILFORD ID-11 at 20°C/68°F with intermittent agitation. Use the time for the developer, dilution, temperature, and agitation method you actually plan to use; do not transfer a time from one process to another.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Is an infrared filter the same as a red filter?
No. A red filter produces the characteristic contrast shift by limiting which visible wavelengths reach the film. SFX 200’s extended red response helps make that shift pronounced, but ILFORD states it is not sensitive into the infrared end of the spectrum. An infrared-style result from this film and a red filter should not be described as true infrared capture.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
