If you’ve shot a roll of Harman Phoenix, you’ll know it’s not your typical colour film. Bold, contrasty and a little unpredictable, it quickly built a reputation for punchy reds, glowing highlights and that unmistakable experimental edge. But now that Phoenix II has arrived, many film shooters are asking the same question: what’s actually changed?
In this post, we’re breaking down the real differences between Harman Phoenix and Phoenix II — from colour rendition and contrast to grain, latitude and overall usability.
Whilst Harman are sadly discontinuing the production of the original, there are still a number of these films I stock and in circulation whilst stocks last.
Whether you’re deciding which stock to load into your camera next or you’re simply curious about how the second iteration improves on the original, here’s everything you need to know, along with some sample photos.
Harman Phoenix VS Phoenix II – What’s The Difference?
A Quick Recap: What Made Harman Phoenix So Different?
When Harman first released Phoenix, it marked a huge moment for UK film manufacturing. It wasn’t a rebranded stock or a subtle tweak of something familiar, it was an entirely new colour negative film built from the ground up, and the first new colour film release in over a decade.
Phoenix quickly became known for:
- Strong, punchy reds and warm tones
- High contrast straight out of the lab
- Noticeable grain
- Limited exposure latitude
- A slightly experimental, unpredictable feel
For many photographers, that unpredictability was part of the charm. It rewarded careful metering but could also produce dramatic shifts if you over- or underexposed it. It felt raw, energetic and very different from more forgiving stocks like Portra or Kodak Gold.
So, What Is Phoenix II?
Phoenix II isn’t a completely new film, it’s a a completely reengineered second-generation colour film, offering better contrast, finer grain, sharper results, and a more accurate colour palette. Think of it as Harman taking on board months of feedback from photographers, labs and retailers, then adjusting the formula to improve usability while keeping the character that made the original so exciting.
The aim wasn’t to make it “safe” or clinical. It was to make it more consistent, more flexible and easier to work with in real-world shooting conditions.
1. Colour Rendition
Original Phoenix
The first version leaned heavily into warm tones, especially reds and oranges. Skin tones could shift quite dramatically, particularly in strong light. Highlights sometimes picked up a pinkish cast, and colour balance could vary depending on how it was exposed.
Phoenix II
Phoenix II offers more controlled colour reproduction. Reds are still vibrant, but they’re less overpowering. Skin tones appear more natural and balanced, and overall colour response feels more neutral while still retaining that distinctive Phoenix warmth.
In short: Phoenix II is more predictable, especially for portraits and everyday shooting.
2. Contrast & Dynamic Range
Original Phoenix
High contrast was part of the signature look. Deep shadows and bright highlights created striking images — but it could also mean blocked shadows or blown highlights if exposure wasn’t spot-on.
Latitude was fairly limited, so precise metering really mattered.
Phoenix II
One of the biggest improvements is increased dynamic range. Phoenix II handles highlights better and retains more shadow detail. Contrast is still punchy, but it’s more controlled.
This makes it far more forgiving in mixed lighting or high-contrast scenes.
In short: You get more usable detail without losing that bold aesthetic.
3. Grain Structure
Original Phoenix
Grain was prominent and part of the film’s identity. In 35mm especially, it had a gritty, textured feel that some loved and others found a little too heavy for certain subjects.
Phoenix II
Grain is still visible, this isn’t a fine-grain stock, but it appears slightly tighter and more refined. Scans tend to look cleaner, and there’s less of the “rough” appearance in midtones.
In short: Still characterful, but a little more polished.
4. Exposure Latitude & Metering
Original Phoenix
Best results typically came from rating it slightly lower (around EI 125–160) and being cautious with highlights. Overexposure could quickly shift colours and wash out detail.
Phoenix II
Phoenix II offers noticeably improved flexibility. It tolerates slight over- or underexposure better, meaning you don’t have to be quite as precise with every frame.
For casual shooting, street photography or changing light conditions, this is a significant upgrade.
In short: It’s easier to shoot confidently.
Who Should Shoot Each One?
Choose Original Phoenix If:
- You love bold, experimental colour
- You enjoy embracing unpredictability
- You’re shooting creative projects where strong reds and contrast are part of the vision
Choose Phoenix II If:
- You want more natural skin tones
- You prefer greater dynamic range
- You need a film that’s easier to meter and more forgiving
- You’re shooting events, travel or everyday photography
Is Phoenix II “Better”?
That depends on what you’re looking for.
Phoenix II isn’t a replacement in the sense of erasing the original’s identity, technically it’s risen from the ashes (excuse the pun), and is an evolution of Phoenix I. The original feels raw and expressive. Phoenix II feels refined and more versatile.
If the first release felt a little too wild for your style, Phoenix II may be exactly what you were hoping for. If you loved the chaos and boldness, the original still holds its own as a creative tool.
Whether you prefer the punchy unpredictability of the original or the more controlled flexibility of Phoenix II, both films represent something rare, a new colour film being made today which is an exciting step forward for the future of film photography.
Take a look at our brand ambassadors video below, as Chris compares both film stocks side by side, with sample images of each. Let us know in the comments below what you think!