It’s inevitable that shooting in the UK, you’re going to encounter rain somewhat frequently. But, it doesn’t mean that your film photography has to wait until the next dry day (plus, you might be waiting a while!).
In fact, with the right 35mm film, you can expect creative results, a different, moodier feel to your images, with some fun along the way.
We’ve pulled together some of the best 35mm film for rainy days to help you get more out of your next rainy day adventure.
The Best 35mm Film for Rainy Day Photography
Kodak Portra 400
Portra 400 is one of the most versatile film stocks ever made, especially for unpredictable weather. Its wide dynamic range handles cloudy skies beautifully while still keeping detail in darker areas.
On rainy days, Portra tends to produce soft muted colours with natural skin tones and gentle contrast. It’s perfect for street photography, portraits, and quiet city scenes.
Because it’s rated at ISO 400, it also gives you more flexibility in lower light without needing extremely slow shutter speeds.
CineStill 800T
If you love cinematic night photography in the rain, CineStill 800T is difficult to beat.
This film stock is designed for artificial light, which means street lamps, car headlights, and neon signs create glowing halation effects that feel straight out of a film scene. Rain reflections become even more dramatic after dark.
It works especially well in cities where wet pavements and coloured lights can transform ordinary streets into cinematic compositions.
Ilford HP5 Plus
Rain and black-and-white film are a perfect combination.
HP5 Plus has enough grain and contrast to make rainy streets, umbrellas, reflections, and foggy landscapes feel dramatic and timeless. It also performs extremely well in low light and can be pushed to higher ISOs if conditions become darker.
For photographers who enjoy documentary or street photography, HP5 often feels at its best in bad weather.
Lomography Color Negative 800
For unpredictable rainy weather, a faster film stock like Lomography 800 can be incredibly useful. The higher ISO helps when shooting under dark clouds or late in the evening without needing flash.
This film produces vibrant colours and noticeable grain, giving rainy scenes extra energy and texture. It’s particularly fun for urban photography where reflections and artificial lighting dominate the frame.
Ilford Kentmere PAN 400
A cheaper alternative to HP5 that still looks fantastic in gloomy weather. Ilford Ketmere Pan 400 is slightly grainy, contrasty, and perfect for everyday street photography.
Kodak Portra 800
Kodak Portra 400 is one of the best choices, but Kodak Portra 800 is also probably one of the best film stocks ever made for rainy weather, golden hour, indoor natural light, and night photography.
I personally loved shooting on this film stock during a very rainy season in Key West and Miami. It feels atmospheric, muted colours and captures the essence of the day so perfectly.
Tips for Shooting Film in the Rain
- Slight overexposure often helps preserve detail in gloomy weather.
- Look for reflections in puddles, shop windows, and wet roads.
- Cloudy weather creates softer light that works beautifully for portraits.
- Keep a microfibre cloth nearby to protect your lens from rain spots, or bring an umbrella!
- Don’t avoid bad weather, fog, mist, and heavy clouds often create the most memorable film photos.
Do you have a favourite 35mm film you always reach for in the rain? Let us know in the comments!