Difficulty
Intermediate
X-Trans IVClassic ChromeColour4 photos
Pastel Portra Chrome Recipe
Pastel Portra Chrome effortlessly channels nostalgia with vibrant hues and soft details.
Film simulation
Classic Chrome
Tested on
X-E4
Sample frames
4
The lookWhy this one earns a slot
Pastel Portra Chrome leans into the nostalgic charm of film with a vibrant twist. The Classic Chrome simulation serves as a foundation, lending a muted, cinematic quality that evokes the warmth of old family photos. Colours are given a gentle lift, enhancing vibrancy without sacrificing subtlety, creating images that feel both alive and timeless. The lowered highlights and shadows soften contrasts, making harsh midday light appear more forgiving. A slight cool shift in the white balance adds a touch of nostalgia, reminiscent of faded postcards. DR Auto further ensures dynamic range is carefully managed, protecting details in bright and shadowy areas alike. Ideal for capturing serene landscapes and daily life moments, this recipe thrives in natural light, particularly during golden hour when its character truly shines.
The settingsThe recipe
Classic Chrome · X-Trans IV
- Film Simulation
- Classic Chrome
- Dynamic Range
- Auto
- White Balance
- Auto, +2 R / −4 B
- Highlight
- −1
- Shadow
- −1
- Color
- +2
- Sharpness
- −2
- Noise Reduction
- −4
- Clarity
- 0
- Grain
- Weak, Small
- Color Chrome Effect
- Strong
- Color Chrome FX Blue
- Weak
- ISO
- 6400
- Exposure Comp.
- +1/3 to +1
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 Classic Chrome.
- Enter each value from the settings above, then save the slot.
- Select that slot to shoot Pastel Portra Chrome JPEGs straight out of camera.
Sample framesShot on this recipe
Notes & caveatsWhat it nails, what to watch
What it nails
- Vibrant yet natural colours
- Softens harsh midday light
- Nostalgic filmic tones
- Rich detail in shadows
What to watch
- Cool WB may affect skin tones
- Not ideal for studio settings
- Limited adaptability under mixed lighting
Explore similar
Kodak PortraStreetTravelDaily life
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. On X-Trans V bodies, blue renders more deeply. If you adapt this recipe to X-Trans V, reduce Color Chrome FX Blue by one step (Weak → Off).
Best forWhen to reach for it
Perfect for street scenes, travel, and capturing daily life moments in natural light. Excels in outdoor environments during golden hour. Avoid studio portraits where controlled lighting may conflict with its nostalgic tones. Works beautifully with soft morning light.
Best for
Scenes and subjects this recipe is tuned for.
StreetTravelDaily life
Less suited to
Where another look will likely serve you better.
Studio portraits
Frequently asked questions
What cameras support Pastel Portra Chrome?
Compatible with X-Trans IV and GFX sensors, including X-E4, X-T4, GFX100S.
What film simulation does it use?
Pastel Portra Chrome utilises the Classic Chrome film simulation.
Is it suitable for studio portraits?
No, Pastel Portra Chrome is not ideal for controlled studio lighting.
Related recipes
All recipes
PremiumFaded Agfa Green
Dreamy tones and textured grain evoke vintage nostalgia. Perfect for urban street and travel photography.
Soft Gold Retro
Gentle grain with a warm colour cast creates a calm mood for travel and street shots, working beautifully both indoors and outdoors.
Portra Sol Chrome
Subtle tones with deep shadows create a tranquil warmth, ideal for street and travel scenes.
Soft Chrome Roll
Classic film feel with strong grain and vivid colours. Ideal for capturing urban architecture or warm interior scenes.
PremiumSoftened Chrome
Softened shadows and energetic colours create vibrant street photos that feel alive.
PremiumGold Chrome
Vivid warmth with nostalgic undertones and strong grain. Ideal for urban adventures.
