We're a small lab dedicated to reviving the art and science of Film Photography in the community of Brighton and nearby towns.

We're passionate about the benefits and rewards of using Film, as an antidote to the digital and artificial, as a way to celebrate the moments of being outdoors and with friends, connecting with the present, the past and the future.

With meticulous attention to detail, and constant process improvements, we aim to offer an unbeatable service, using the very best equipment available, yet at a reasonable price point.

Our mission is to delight customers with images of exceptional quality, tailored to their individual needs, and to help wherever possible with encouragement, technical advice, and choice of film.

We invite you to visit our shop to see our curated selection of film cameras, to experience the range and beauty of these cameras which have remarkably stood the test of time. Whilst we do sell cameras, our collection is also there to inspire, and hopefully, you'll be persuaded to join us in our quest to revive and sustain this wonderful art form.

During the covid pandemic, if you, a Brighton Resident, or Student, happened to be passing by the small "Open Market" off the London Road, you may have witnessed a queue forming outside a small Kodak Express Photo Lab located in the market, amongst the fruit and veg shops, takeaway food outlets and vintage clothes retailers.

This phenomenon was indicative of a quiet revolution taking place where young and old were discovering, or re-discovering the magic and mindfulness of film. Being mainly locked up at home, many had brought out old photo albums, finding family connections and the rich history associated with the medium. Such people seemingly decided that this was worth saving, and experiencing, for themselves and for the future.

One such person was walking by the lab and learned that it was closing down, and, for whatever reason (that he still cannot explain) he resolved to become a lab owner, and, at a loss for any better name, there became the Open Market Film Lab. Well, with the support and encouragement of our customers, we finally decided to move to a more central location - being convenient to commuters, visitors, and the rest of Brighton (i.e. Hove), and here we are in Trafalgar Street.

Ultimately, the truth is by now widely appreciated: photographs made with film are more satisfying, require little to no post production, and essentially last forever.

Nowadays, there is scarcely a photographer who disagrees: colour from film is better and impossible to replicate. The tonal range and grain in a black and white film images are unsurpassed.

What is the entry level to this wonderful world, this enhancement to your holiday, and memories of a lifetime? A hand-me-down camera from your favourite relative, or a car boot find, and a roll of Kodak Colorplus.