Three aerial films were tested using standard aerial photo laboratory processing procedures for three different chemistries. Relationships were established with respect to average gradient, speed, base plus fog, graininess and resolution for low, medium and high contrast targets. The films compared were Kodak Double-X type 2405, Kodak Plus-X type 2402 and Kodak Panatomic-X 2412. The processing was done in a Kodak Versamat processor using Type A, 885 and Versaflo chemistry. The results indicated that processing in 885 chemistry enhanced film speed. The versatility of Double-X in terms of speed and contrast range was demonstrated, however the resolution of Panatomic-X greatly exceeded that of either of the other two films and shows promise for small scale mapping photography.