Fuji Flavours

X-Trans IVEternaColour17 photos

1981 Kodak Recipe

Capture the vintage charm of the 80s with a nostalgic glow.

Fuji Pic StudioTested on real gear · X-E4 · Updated June 8, 2026
A lone figure stands under a wooden structure, overlooking a waterfront scene with buildings in the background.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Film simulation
Eterna
Tested on
X-E4
Sample frames
17

The lookWhy this one earns a slot

1981 Kodak captures the warmth and vibrant colours reminiscent of early 80s film. The Eterna base lends a cinematic feel, perfect for urban adventures. Highlights are kept in check, allowing details to emerge even under harsh midday sun. Shadows are deepened, giving images a robust, moody character. The strong grain, though small in size, introduces a tactile filmic texture, adding a layer of nostalgia. Colours are slightly muted, creating a harmonious blend that evokes retro vibes. The warm red shift in the white balance imbues scenes with a golden glow, ideal for capturing vibrant market scenes or vintage vehicles basking in the afternoon sun. While the recipe thrives in various lighting conditions, it truly shines during golden hour, where it brings out a vibrant yet nostalgic mood, perfect for those looking to recreate a piece of cinematic history.

The settingsThe recipe

Eterna · X-Trans IV

Film Simulation
Eterna
Dynamic Range
DR200
White Balance
Daylight, +7 R / −7 B
Highlight
0
Shadow
+4
Color
−4
Sharpness
−2
Noise Reduction
−4
Clarity
−4
Grain
Strong, Small
Color Chrome Effect
Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue
Off
ISO
6400
Exposure Comp.
-1/3 to +1/3

How to copy it to your camera

  1. Open the Image Quality (IQ) menu and select an empty custom setting slot (C1–C7).
  2. Set the base film simulation to Eterna.
  3. Enter each value from the settings above, then save the slot.
  4. Select that slot to shoot 1981 Kodak JPEGs straight out of camera.

Sample framesShot on this recipe

View of a waterfront promenade with people walking under wooden arches, buildings in the background.
Street · Urban · Harsh Midday
A vibrant street scene with colorful stalls and flowers in a bustling market.
Street · Urban · Golden Hour
A vibrant market scene with colorful stalls and people browsing various goods under a striped canopy.
Street · Urban · Mixed
A market scene with a vendor standing beside colorful merchandise and decorative items on display.
Street · Urban · Harsh Midday
A waterfront restaurant with outdoor seating overlooking a calm river during the day.
Architecture · Water · Harsh Midday
A woman holding a drink stands in front of a vibrant market stall filled with textiles and clothing.
Street · Urban · Harsh Midday
Two vintage vans parked on green grass with palm trees in the background and people walking around.
Automotive · Outdoor · Harsh Midday
Two vintage Volkswagen vans parked on green grass under palm trees, with one van's door open.
Automotive · Outdoor · Harsh Midday
A vintage Volkswagen van parked on grass with open doors, surrounded by palm trees.
Automotive · Outdoor · Harsh Midday
A vintage blue Volkswagen van parked on green grass with palm trees in the background.
Automotive · Outdoor · Harsh Midday
Two people under an umbrella at a market, browsing clothes on racks with a sunny backdrop.
Event · Outdoor · Harsh Midday
A vintage car parked on a grassy area with palm trees and city skyline in the background.
Automotive · Outdoor · Golden Hour
A woman walks past a vintage red car in a park, with trees in the background and another person nearby.
Street · Outdoor · Harsh Midday
A vintage red car with racing stripes parked on green grass near a tent, with a child walking nearby.
Automotive · Outdoor · Golden Hour
Screen displaying camera settings and film simulation details from a photography app.
Other · Unknown · Calm
Settings for a film simulation recipe titled '1981 Kodak Eterna' with various photographic adjustments.
Other · Unknown

Notes & caveatsWhat it nails, what to watch

What it nails

  • Warm, nostalgic tones for vintage vibes
  • Vibrant colours for market scenes
  • Deep shadows enhance mood
  • Grain adds filmic texture

What to watch

  • May struggle in high-contrast daylight
  • Cool tones might appear overly warm
  • Strong grain at high ISO

Explore similar

KodakCinemaMutedVideo

CompatibilityWill it work on your camera?

Tested across the X-Trans IV and GFX generations — compatibility is defined by sensor, so any body on these generations can run it. This recipe is tuned for X-Trans IV. It will work on X-Trans V, but blue can render more deeply there — adjust to taste.

Tested sensors & cameras

X-Trans IVGFXX-E4X-Pro3X-S10X-T30-IIX-T4X100VGFX100S

Best forWhen to reach for it

Best suited for urban settings, nostalgic themes, and cinematic video projects. It excels in golden hour or afternoon light, highlighting warm tones and vibrant scenes. Avoid using it in punchy daylight environments where contrast may overwhelm. Experiment with market scenes for vivid results.

Best for

Scenes and subjects this recipe is tuned for.

CinemaMutedVideo

Less suited to

Where another look will likely serve you better.

Punchy daylight
Learn more

Frequently asked questions

What cameras are compatible with 1981 Kodak?

Compatible with Fujifilm X-E4, X-Pro3, X-S10, X-T30 II, X-T4, X100V, and GFX100S.

What lighting conditions suit 1981 Kodak best?

Golden hour and afternoon light enhance its warm, nostalgic look. Avoid bright midday sun.

Is 1981 Kodak suitable for video?

Yes, it's ideal for cinematic projects with its Eterna base and nostalgic, vibrant colours.