Difficulty
Intermediate
X-Trans IVMonochromeBlack & White4 photos
Clean Mono Recipe
Timeless monochrome with gritty charm, perfect for urban storytelling.
Film simulation
Monochrome
Tested on
X-E4
Sample frames
4
The lookWhy this one earns a slot
B&W Negative (Universal Negative) channels the classic allure of monochrome photography, drawing on the iconic aesthetic of film noir. The highlights are gently tamed, keeping skies and bright surfaces restrained, while shadows are softened for a subdued yet impactful depth. The strong small grain introduces a filmic texture that enhances the urban grit and everyday life scenes. This recipe thrives in overcast or harsh midday light, where its ability to handle contrast with DR400 can shine, preserving detail across the tonal range. The cool white balance adds a slightly muted, bluish cast, creating a nostalgic vibe perfect for capturing the essence of bustling streets and architectural marvels. The look is both timeless and contemporary, making it a versatile choice for monochrome enthusiasts.
The settingsThe recipe
Monochrome · X-Trans IV
- Film Simulation
- Monochrome
- Dynamic Range
- DR400
- White Balance
- Custom Kelvin, 4000K, −5 B
- Highlight
- 0
- Shadow
- −2
- Color
- −2
- Sharpness
- −4
- Noise Reduction
- 0
- Clarity
- 0
- Grain
- Strong, Small
- Color Chrome Effect
- Strong
- Color Chrome FX Blue
- Strong
- ISO
- 6400
- Exposure Comp.
- -1/3 to +2/3
How to copy it to your camera
- Open the Image Quality (IQ) menu and select an empty custom setting slot (C1–C7).
- Set the base film simulation to Monochrome.
- Enter each value from the settings above, then save the slot.
- Select that slot to shoot Clean Mono JPEGs straight out of camera.
Sample framesShot on this recipe
Notes & caveatsWhat it nails, what to watch
What it nails
- Gentle highlights for restrained skies
- Soft shadows enhance depth
- Strong grain adds filmic texture
- DR400 protects details in contrasty light
What to watch
- Strong grain can overwhelm fine detail
- Cool shift limits colour recovery
- Not ideal for vivid landscapes
Explore similar
Black & whiteDaily
CompatibilityWill it work on your camera?
Tested across the X-Trans IV, X-Trans V and GFX generations — compatibility is defined by sensor, so any body on these generations can run it. The X-T3 and X-T30 don't offer Clarity, Grain Size or Color Chrome FX Blue — skip those values on those two bodies.
Best forWhen to reach for it
Ideal for urban exploration and daily life captures, especially in harsh or overcast lighting. Avoid bright, colourful subjects or vivid landscapes. Excels in street and architectural scenes, offering a nostalgic yet gritty monochrome feel. Captures intricate textures beautifully, highlighting every detail with precision.
Best for
Scenes and subjects this recipe is tuned for.
Black & whiteDaily
Less suited to
Where another look will likely serve you better.
Vivid LandscapesBright Colorful Subjects
Frequently asked questions
What cameras support B&W Negative?
This recipe is compatible with Fujifilm X-Trans IV/V and GFX cameras listed.
How does the DR400 setting affect images?
DR400 helps protect highlight details in contrasty conditions, ideal for harsh light.
Why use a cool white balance?
The cool shift adds a muted, bluish cast, enhancing the nostalgic monochrome feel.
Related recipes
All recipes
Astia Reverie
Natural tones with gentle contrast and subdued grain. Perfect for calm, warm portraits in rural settings.
PremiumTungsten Clean Frame
Gentle grain and soft tones create a vibrant colour palette. Ideal for portraits with an urban backdrop.
Velvia Punch
Intense contrast and deep hues make landscapes captivating. Suited for vibrant outdoor scenes.
Standard Provia
Strong, small grain and calm tones suit serene scenes indoors and out.
Kodak Fine Mono
Kodak T-Max inspired greys with a calming, gentle grain perfect for capturing serene moments and everyday scenes.
Vintage Sepia
Infuse your shots with sepia tones and pronounced grain for a distinctly nostalgic mood.
