Black & White Film Processing

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between 35mm, 120, 110, and APS film?

  They are different formats/sizes. The camera type dictates the film size that is used in the specific camera.
  • 35mm: Most common. Works in point-and-shoot and SLR cameras.
  • 120 (Medium Format): Larger negatives = higher image quality. Used in professional cameras.
  • 110: "Pocket Instamatic" film. No longer manufactured.
  • APS: (Advanced Photo System; Fuji Nexia) cartridge film with developed negatives returned in the cartridge.

• How do I know what kind of film I have?

  Check the canister for markings. Still unsure? Bring it in — we’ll help you figure it out.

• Will I get digital scans, prints, or both?

  It's up to you! Our pricing is structured to make it easy to add a set of prints to your order. There's nothing quite like a print from film, so we always recommend both. We produce just about any size print up to 40x60" in size and on a variety of archival paper and media options.

• Will you correct color and exposure? Or do you scan film “as-is”?

  We do a general color and density enhancement on all scans to ensure your images look their best.

• What is the process and payment method for mailing in film?

  Mailing in film is the same as in store film drop off except at check out you select "mail in" instead of "in store". You are then presented a payment page to complete your transaction.

• How is developed film shipped back to me and what shipping options are available?

  Developed negatives and prints are shipped back via USPS Mail.

• Can film be pushed or pulled during development, and for which types?

  We do offer push/pull service as on option for B&W and C-41.

• Is cross-processing offered for film?

  You can request that we process your E-6 film in the C-41 (negative) chemical process, or that your C-41 film be processed in the E-6 (Reversal) chemical process. Please contact us via phone or email to inquire further about our cross process services.

• What could cause faint images, poor color or grainy photos on my negatives?

  Faint images can be caused by many factors including the camera's metering system being out of calibration, film exceeding the expiration date, film left in a hot car, and improper settings when photographing. Color film usually performs best when shot at half of the suggest ISO/ASA rating. Poor color can be caused by improper film choice (shooting "professional film" which is intended for studio work and made to lessen contrast) when an armature film will add contrast and color definition, old or expired film, and film exposed to excessive heat. Grainy film usually is underexposed by the photographer either by accident, or by a camera needing the exposure meter calibrated. High ISO/ASA film can also give a grainy effect. If hand developing film, excessive agitation during the process will also cause excessive grain.

• What causes vertical or horizontal reddish or yellow bands on negatives?

  Reddish bands on your images is usually caused by the foam seals on your cameras back door being degraded. Most 35mm cameras come from the 1980s, making them around 45 years old. Foam material used by most manufactures of cameras will turn sticky and fall off of the camera in time, allowing daylight to expose your film when in the camera causing the reddish streaks.

• What happens to blank film after processing?

  Whether or not to have the film (negatives) returned to you, is an option when placing the order. If the film is blank, you will be notified via email, but negs will only be returned if that option is selected at time of ordering.

• What happens if my roll doesn’t turn out or has very few images?

  The development/scanning process is identical whether the film has 1 image or 36 images, so the time spent by our lab team is the same. A partial refund is only given if the film is totally blank and the scanning process can be skipped.

• Why might pictures on my negatives overlap or be too far apart?

  Images too far apart or too close/overlapped are caused by a problem with the cameras advance system. Have your camera checked by a repair technician.

• How will my digital scans be delivered?

  If you purchase digital scans, they will be uploaded to a personal gallery in your account, where you can download the images or order prints.

• Is film development refundable if my roll is blank?

  The development/scanning process is identical whether the film has 1 image or 36 images, so the time spent by our lab team is the same. A partial refund is only given if the film is totally blank and the scanning process can be skipped.