1. Processing Complexity: Kodachrome required a complex, multi-step, and time-consuming processing procedure that could only be done by specialized labs. This limited access and increased the cost of developing the film.
2. Sensitivity: Early Kodachrome was relatively slow (low ISO), making it difficult to shoot in low-light conditions without using a tripod or flash. This limited its versatility in certain situations.
3. Color Balance: Kodachrome's color balance was quite sensitive to the type of light used. While the film was designed for daylight, it could produce inaccurate colors when used with artificial light sources.
4. Grain: Kodachrome, especially the earlier versions, could exhibit noticeable grain, especially at higher ISOs. This limited the film's ability to produce fine-grained and detailed images.
5. Color Fidelity: While Kodachrome was known for its accurate color rendition, it wasn't always perfect. Early versions sometimes struggled with reproducing certain colors, especially skin tones, which could appear too reddish.
6. Availability: Kodachrome was not always readily available in all formats and sizes, which could limit its use for certain types of photography.
7. Cost: Compared to other color films of its time, Kodachrome was significantly more expensive. This could be a barrier for budget-conscious photographers.
8. Limited Latitude: Kodachrome had a relatively narrow exposure latitude, meaning that it was more susceptible to over- and underexposure. This required more precise exposure control and limited the creative freedom of photographers.
9. Shelf Life: While Kodachrome was known for its exceptional archival stability, it did have a limited shelf life. This meant that storing the film for extended periods could degrade its quality.
10. Limited Color Gamut: Compared to modern digital cameras and some other film stocks, Kodachrome's color gamut was more limited. This meant that certain colors could not be reproduced accurately.
These disadvantages were gradually addressed through improvements in the film's formulation and manufacturing process. However, even the later versions of Kodachrome retained some of these characteristics.