Difficulty
Intermediate
X-Trans IVMonochromeBlack & White4 photos
Fine Grain Mono Recipe
Elegant monochrome tones perfect for architecture and urban details.
Film simulation
Monochrome
Tested on
X-E4
Sample frames
4
The lookWhy this one earns a slot
Fine Grain Mono brings a classic black and white film aesthetic to your digital images. With gentle highlights and a touch of added clarity, it captures urban and architectural scenes with a timeless appeal. Shadows are subtly deepened, lending depth to intricate details, while the weak grain adds a filmic texture without overpowering the scene. This recipe evokes the look of mid-century monochrome photography, ideal for capturing the essence of historical buildings or modern structures with a nostalgic twist. It excels in capturing the interplay of light and shadow, making it perfect for overcast days or when seeking a dramatic yet refined monochrome image. Its ability to transform everyday scenes into striking compositions makes it a powerful tool in any photographer's kit.
The settingsThe recipe
Monochrome · X-Trans IV
- Film Simulation
- Monochrome
- Dynamic Range
- DR100
- White Balance
- Daylight, +1 R / −6 B
- Highlight
- 0
- Shadow
- +1
- Color
- 0
- Sharpness
- 0
- Noise Reduction
- −4
- Clarity
- +2
- Grain
- Weak, Large
- Color Chrome Effect
- Off
- Color Chrome FX Blue
- Off
- ISO
- 6400
- Exposure Comp.
- -1/3 to +1/3
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 Fine Grain Mono JPEGs straight out of camera.
Sample framesShot on this recipe
Notes & caveatsWhat it nails, what to watch
What it nails
- Great for capturing architectural details
- Gentle highlights retain sky detail
- Weak grain suits nostalgic themes
- Adds depth to urban scenes
What to watch
- Not ideal for vivid colour scenes
- Limited use in low light
- Highlights can be too gentle in bright sun
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 capturing architectural and urban scenes, especially on overcast days. Not recommended for vivid colours or low-light portraits. Best used when you want to highlight textures and contrasts in well-lit environments. The recipe shines in capturing the essence of bustling cityscapes and intricate building details, drawing out their expressive forms.
Best for
Scenes and subjects this recipe is tuned for.
Black & whiteDaily
Less suited to
Where another look will likely serve you better.
Vivid ColorsPortraitsLow Light
Frequently asked questions
What cameras is this recipe compatible with?
Compatible with Fujifilm X-Trans IV, X-Trans V, and GFX cameras.
Is this recipe suitable for low-light conditions?
No, it's best used in well-lit environments. Low-light scenes may lack detail.
What type of scenes does this recipe enhance?
Ideal for urban and architectural scenes, especially with intricate details.
Related recipes
All recipes
Clean Mono
Gritty texture with strong grain and deep shadows for a timeless feel.
PremiumTungsten Clean Frame
Gentle grain and soft tones create a vibrant colour palette. Ideal for portraits with an urban backdrop.
Night Reversal
Enhance outdoor shots with vivid contrasts and lush colours. Perfect for capturing energetic landscapes.
Warm Monsoon Light
Saturated colours with a vibrant touch, ideal for landscapes and outdoor scenes. Calming yet vivid, with fine grain.
Astia Reverie
Natural tones with gentle contrast and subdued grain. Perfect for calm, warm portraits in rural settings.
PremiumDeep Acros Mono
Dense grain and deep shadows create moody monochromes. Perfect for dramatic black and white architecture.
