Kodak Max 800 Inspired – Max Film Free Lightroom Preset

Introduction

Meet the Max Film – Free Lightroom Preset, a vibrant edit inspired by the look and feel of Kodak Max 800. Expect punchy saturation, deep contrast, and clean, neutral skin tones—just like the high-speed consumer classic. Reds and blues come alive, greens lean a touch cool, and the preset stays versatile across daylight, shade, and mixed light.

History of Kodak Max 800

Launched as a versatile, high-speed color negative film for everyday shooters, Kodak Max 800 (often branded “Ultra/Max 800”) earned a reputation for bold color and reliability in low light. It was the family-trip, sports-night, street-anytime stock—fast enough to freeze moments, forgiving enough to handle tricky exposures, and famous for its vivid reds and blues, cool-leaning greens, and neutral skin tones.

Film Characteristics

What defined the Max 800 look?

• Film Type & Speed: Color negative, ISO 800—built for action and low light.
• Color Signature: Strong saturation—especially reds and blues; greens trend cool; skin tones stay neutral.
• Contrast: Snappy mid-tones with solid shadow depth and lively highlights.
• Grain: Noticeable yet pleasing, adding energetic texture at higher speeds.
• Flexibility: Handles daylight, shade, mixed, and indoor lighting with confidence.

Max Film – Free Lightroom Preset

This free preset channels the Max 800 vibe—bold colors, clean skin tones, and that classic high-speed snap. It also includes a refined tone-curve for a subtle film fade in the highlights and deepest shadows, giving your edits a polished, analog finish. Grab the free preset here. Here’s what you can expect:

• High-Speed Color Punch: Rich reds and blues, cool-leaning greens, and neutral skin tones.
• Film-Fade Curve: Gentle highlight roll-off and softened blacks for a modern analog feel.
• Balanced Contrast: Lively mid-tones with preserved highlight detail.
• Optional Grain: Fine grain sim to echo the texture of fast film (adjust to taste).

Conclusion

The Max Film – Free Lightroom Preset is a fast, reliable go-to for bright, saturated edits with a subtle film fade. Whether you’re shooting city color, travel, portraits, or action at dusk, it delivers the bold Kodak Max 800 energy in a clean, modern way.

Key Takeaways

Feature

Details

Film Type & Speed

Color negative, ISO 800

Color Signature

Vivid reds & blues, cool greens, neutral skin tones

Contrast & Curve

Snappy mid-tones + subtle film-fade roll-off

Grain

Adjustable fine grain simulation

Best For

Travel, street, portraits, low-light/action

FAQs

Q: Does this really look like Kodak Max 800?

A: It’s designed to echo the signature color and contrast—bold saturation, cool greens, and neutral skin—while staying flexible for digital workflows.

Q: Will it work in mixed lighting?

A: Yes. Like the film, the preset holds up in daylight, shade, tungsten, and mixed light. Tweak White Balance and Tint as needed.

Q: How do I dial in the fade?

A: Reduce the Point Curve lift on the blacks or add a touch more via the lower left control point. It’s fully adjustable.

Q: Can I use it on portraits?

A: Absolutely—neutral skin tones are part of the look. If needed, slightly lower saturation in orange for extra polish.