Fuji Flavours

X-Trans IVClassic ChromeColour18 photos

Retro Gold Low Contrast Recipe

Capture the timeless charm of nostalgia with inviting warmth and soft tones.

Fuji Pic StudioTested on real gear · X-E4 · Updated June 8, 2026
A colorful blue teapot with geometric patterns on a table, surrounded by vibrant chairs and woven wall decor.
Difficulty
Intermediate
Film simulation
Classic Chrome
Tested on
X-E4
Sample frames
18

The lookWhy this one earns a slot

With Retro Gold Low Contrast, step back into a world where warm, nostalgic tones envelop your scenes in a gentle embrace. The Classic Chrome base lends a muted, vintage vibe, reminiscent of photographs from the 1970s. The softened shadows and subdued highlights create a delicate balance that flatters street and travel photography, allowing colours to bloom without overpowering the scene. A cooler white balance shift adds an intriguing, slightly bluish tint, evoking the feel of old film photographs. The subtle presence of grain adds to the filmic texture, enhancing the overall mood without distracting from the subject. This recipe sings in overcast conditions and during the golden hour, where the interplay of natural light and warm tones can truly shine.

The settingsThe recipe

Classic Chrome · X-Trans IV

Film Simulation
Classic Chrome
Dynamic Range
DR400
White Balance
Fluorescent 3, +4 R / −6 B
Highlight
0
Shadow
−2
Color
+4
Sharpness
0
Noise Reduction
−4
Clarity
−3
Grain
Weak, Small
Color Chrome Effect
Strong
Color Chrome FX Blue
Strong
ISO
6400
Exposure Comp.
0 to -2/3

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 Classic Chrome.
  3. Enter each value from the settings above, then save the slot.
  4. Select that slot to shoot Retro Gold Low Contrast JPEGs straight out of camera.

Sample framesShot on this recipe

Colorful teapots arranged on a glass table in a dimly lit indoor setting.
Still Life · Indoor · Low Light
Outdoor urban scene with tables, a mural, and buildings in the background under a pinkish sky.
Street · Urban · Golden Hour
Outdoor café scene with colorful mural and ice cream stand, featuring tables and patrons.
Street · Outdoor · Overcast
A vibrant green kiosk labeled 'HONESTRY' with yellow chairs and tables in an urban setting.
Architecture · Urban · Mixed
A colorful mural depicting two children walking towards a starry night, with a large face in the background.
Street · Urban · Overcast
A narrow alley with colorful murals on the walls, showcasing a woman and a man in traditional attire.
Street · Urban · Overcast
Two people walking in an urban alley with graffiti on the walls and a cloudy sky above.
Street · Urban · Overcast
A mural depicting two figures walking towards a starry sky, surrounded by urban architecture.
Street · Urban · Overcast
Three figures in traditional attire interacting with a wooden boat in a historical setting.
Street · Outdoor · Golden Hour
A large, reflective arch sculpture in an urban setting with modern buildings in the background.
Architecture · Urban · Harsh Midday
A vintage motorcycle parked beside a large planter with greenery, showcasing a rustic charm.
Automotive · Urban · Golden Hour
A vintage motorcycle parked on stone steps near a large planter and greenery.
Automotive · Urban · Golden Hour
Close-up of a modern building facade with geometric glass panels reflecting the sky.
Architecture · Urban · Unknown
A large, modern sculpture with Arabic calligraphy in an urban setting, surrounded by buildings and vehicles.
Architecture · Urban · Harsh Midday
A large, modern sculpture covered in Arabic calligraphy, set against a backdrop of buildings.
Architecture · Urban · Harsh Midday
Screenshot of a mobile device displaying camera settings and film simulation details.
Other · Mixed · Unknown
Settings for a Fujifilm film simulation recipe titled 'Retro Gold Low Contrast'.
Other · Unknown

Notes & caveatsWhat it nails, what to watch

What it nails

  • Warm, nostalgic tones for vintage feel
  • Gentle shadows enhance depth and mood
  • Cool WB shift adds unique character
  • Delicate grain enhances filmic texture

What to watch

  • May not suit studio portraits
  • Strong colour shifts in overcast light

Explore similar

StreetTravelDaily 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 (Strong → Weak).

Tested sensors & cameras

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

Best forWhen to reach for it

Retro Gold Low Contrast is ideal for street and travel photography, especially in overcast or golden hour light. Its warm tones bring out the best in urban scenes. Avoid studio portraits, as the recipe's soft contrasts may not complement controlled lighting environments.

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
Learn more

Frequently asked questions

What film era does Retro Gold Low Contrast evoke?

It evokes the warm, nostalgic tones of 1970s film photography, with a vintage charm.

Which Fujifilm cameras support this recipe?

Compatible models include X-E4, X-Pro3, X-S10, X-T30 II, X-T4, X100V, and GFX100S.

What lighting conditions work best with this recipe?

It works best in overcast or golden hour lighting, enhancing the warm, nostalgic tones.