How film development works
Everything that happens between handing us your film and holding your prints and digital files.
Minimum 14 business days
Developing, printing and scanning takes a minimum of 14 business days from drop-off. Black & white, slides, push/pull and special processing take longer. Business days are Monday to Friday and exclude holidays.
- 1
Drop off your film
Bring your film to Riverside or Fullerton during open hours. We tag every bag, write down how you want it developed, and hand you a film order number on the spot or by email.
- 2
We check in your order
Your order is logged with the store, the number of bags, the film type and every finishing option you chose. You get a confirmation email with a private link to your order the moment it is logged.
- 3
Develop, print and scan
Your film is developed, printed and scanned in our lab. This takes a minimum of 14 business days, and longer if you asked for black & white, slides, push/pull or special processing.
- 4
We let you know it is ready
You get an email the moment your images are ready, and we call when a rush order comes in. Your prints and any CD are waiting at the store you dropped off at.
- 5
Pick up and download
Open your private order link, verify the code we email you, and download your digital files. Prints are collected at the counter; bring your order number.
What to bring
- • Your film, in its canisters, with an idea of how many rolls per bag.
- • Any special instructions: do not cut, cross process, push or pull stops.
- • The email address you want your private image link sent to.
- • A phone number we can call if something needs a decision.
Questions
- How long does it take?
- At least 14 business days from drop-off. Business days are Monday to Friday and exclude holidays. Black & white, slides (E-6), push/pull and special processing usually run longer.
- Do I get digital files?
- Yes. Both the Standard and Enhanced CD options include scans you can download from your private order link. Prints are picked up at the store.
- Can someone else see my photos?
- No. The link alone does not open anything. We email a short code to the address on the order and only that session can view or download the images.
- Can anyone else pick up my prints?
- Bring your order number or a photo ID. If someone else is collecting, call the store ahead of time so we can add them to the order.
- What does push and pull mean?
- Pushing adds development time to compensate for film shot overexposed in low light; pulling shortens it for film shot brighter. Tell us the number of stops when you drop off, and expect the order to take longer.
Riverside
10495 Magnolia Ave · (951) 977-8811
Fullerton
809 N. Harbor Blvd · (657) 255-2881