Film Processing
How do we develop film?
Colour/C41
We develop color/C41 with our Fuji FP232B processor. This is one of the final (and therefore best) generation of film processors.
This processor, which can develop 32 films per hour, was designed by Fuji, who also made wonderful film and cameras.
Fuji still make C41 chemistry, which is what we use.
Black and White
For Black and White film we operate another dedicated high-throughput film processor. This is a rare Noritsu V30 with variable speed control. Variable speeds, and therefore developing times, are necessary for Black and White film.
The V30 can process develop, fix, wash and dry about 40 films per hour, depending on the film stock.
There is no human intervention, other than loading the film into the machine and setting the development time.
We use Ilford Rapid RT developer, which is the same chemistry used by Ilford themselves for their mail order service.
Compared to Ilford's mail order service, we're faster, as we have a one hour service, and we're nearer (if you live in Brighton), and we'll also scan your film.
Negative Sleeving
We cut negatives into strips of 6.
How do we scan film?
To create digital images that truly capture to the qualities of film, we use a Noritsu HS1800 film scanner. This Noritsu is widely accepted as the ultimate lab scanner, with the best colour accuracy and image quality. For Black and White scans, it is exceptional.
How to we print?
To translate film colour and tones onto paper, we only use true photographic paper developed in chemistry. All our prints are made using a Noritsu QSS-3502 wet lab printer.
Traditional colour and black and white prints from our printer are the same as darkroom prints, other than that the image was degenerated by projection from a scan rather than through the negative.
This printer is one of the very best available. It even self-calibrates at the start of every day, by measuring it's own test print.
Turnaround Times for Film Processing
What is your fastest Turnaround Time?
We have an Express One Hour service to develop, and optionally scan and print from 35mm film, 120mm film and disposable cameras.
The One Hour service applies to both C41 colour and Black and White film.
What is your standard Turnaround Time?
Our standard turnaround is 2 work days. We also have an economy service, which is 7 days.
We also offer a same day service, and a one hour service.
Our turnaround times are the same for colour or black and white film.
Technical Questions
Which Film types and formats do you develop?
We develop (scan, and print from) C41 (Colour) and Black and White film in 35mm format (including disposable cameras) and 120mm format.
What resolutions are available from 35mm film?
Standard scans
These are high quality scans by a Noritsu scanner. The format is JPEG, with 3130x2075 pixels. Uncompressed file size is 6.45 Mb. Suitable for most purposes including printing up to 12 x 8 inches.
High Resolution
These are very high quality scans by a Noritsu scanner. The format is JPEG and pixel dimensions 6744x4492. Uncompressed file size is 30.42 Mb. Suitable for printing up to 16 x 12 inches or the limit from a 35mm negative.
High Resolution TIFF
These scans are very high quality 16 Bit TIFF scans with pixel dimensions 6744x4492. Ideal for editing.
What resolutions are available from 120mm film?
Standard scans
These are high quality scans by a Noritsu scanner. The format is JPEG, with 3149 × 2514 pixels (based on 6 x 7 format). Uncompressed file size is 7.92 Mb.
High Resolution
These scans are very high quality scans by a Noritsu scanner. The format is JPEG with 6298 × 5028 pixels (based on a 6x7 negative). Uncompressed file size is 31.67 Mb.
High Resolution TIFF
These are scans are very high quality 16 Bit TIFF scans with 6298 × 5028 pixels (based on a 6x7 negative). Ideal for editing.
Do you scan half frame and panoramic 35mm images?
Yes, we can scan half frame as either two images in one, or as separate images. We can also scan all panoramic images. There is no additional cost.
Sale/Purchase of Film Cameras
Do you sell Film Cameras?
Yes! We have a selection recommended film cameras for sale.
Our in-house staff are both photographers and camera enthusiasts.
Can you test or repair my film camera?
We're happy to check over your camera. Unfortunately we don't offer any repair services.
Do you Buy Film Cameras?
We buy film cameras if they are models in demand and in good working condition.
Loyalty and Student Discounts
Loyalty Discount
We're creating a loyalty discount soon
Student Discount
We offer a 10% discount on all film developing to local area students