FAQ

Q: Where are you located?

A: We are located at 1211 27th Pl S, Ste 105 Birmingham, AL 35205. Our suite is around the top right side of the building toward the back.

• Google Maps
• Apple Maps

Q: Do you sell film?

A: We do! We offer a selection of 35mm and 120 film in color and black & white, which can be purchased in person at the lab. At this time we only sell to our local community, and we do not sell online or ship any film.

Q: Do you offer prints?

A: We do not offer prints at this time. We scan negatives to digital files and email via WeTransfer.

Q: How do I place an order?

A: Orders can be placed online here.

Q: How do I get my film to you?

A: Film can be dropped off in person at the lab, or in our 24-hour onsite dropbox. We also offer mail-in service. (Please see FAQ below for mail-in).

Q: What is the expected turnaround time?

A: You should expect to receive your scans within 1 calendar week. Please note that larger orders may require additional time. Please note that our workweek starts on Wednesday, and film dropped off Sunday - Tuesday will be placed into the queue on Wednesday.

Q: How will I receive my scans?

A: Scans will be sent via email through WeTransfer. Download links are valid for 90 days. If you need to download again after 90 days, please contact us and we'll be happy to resend them at no charge.

Q: Will my negatives be returned?

A: Of course! We will hold negatives for 30 days to be picked up in person, or we can mail them for the price of postage. We will send a reminder email before discarding any negatives. If you need more time to pick up, please let us know.

Q: What types of film can you develop?

A: We currently offer developing services for Color Negative (C41) and Black & White film in 35mm, 120, 220, 620, and 4x5 formats

Q: Do you develop disposable cameras?

A: Absolutely! Just choose the regular 35mm option on our order page.

Q: Do you push or pull film?

A: We will push color and black & white film up to 3 stops and we will pull black & white film up to 2 stops.

We do not pull color film.

Q: What if my roll comes out blank?

A: Developing services are final, however, we will never charge to scan a blank roll and any amount paid for scanning will be refunded.

Q: What types of scanners do you use?

A: 35mm film is scanned using a Nortisu LS-1100. Medium formats will be scanned on a Nikon Coolscan LS8000. Medium format negatives will be cut for scanning. We do not cut 35mm film.

Q: What are the dimensions of your scan offerings?

A: 35mm scans are offered in the following sizes:

35mm

• Small - Approx. 1000x1500 pixels (Ideal for social media or viewing on mobile devices. Max print size ~3x5)
• Medium - Approx. 2000x3000 pixels (Max print size ~8x10)
• Large - Approx. 4000x6000 pixels (Max print size ~16x20)

120/620 (Large Only)

• 6x4.5 - Approx. 8,964 x 6,696 pixels
• 6x6 - Approx. 8,964 x 8,964 pixels
• 6x7 - Approx. 8,964 x 11,016 pixels
• 6x9 - Approx. 8,964 x 13,176 pixels

Q: What file formats are offered?

A: All files will be sent as JPEG unless you have chosen the TIFF option.

Q: How does this work?

A: After creating an order on our site, you can mail your film to us for processing and scanning. We will return negatives by mail if desired, or we can hold them for pickup at the lab.

Q: What courier should I use?

A: We request that all film be mailed to us through USPS. This will ensure that it will be delivered directly inside our dropbox at the lab and safely out of the elements.

Q: How should I package my film, and what do I include?

A: All film should be placed in a sealed zip-top bag inside a padded envelope or bubble mailer. Please include a note or order printout with your name, order number, contact info, and any requests or notes that may be helpful to know when processing. Ensure package thickness does not exceed 1.5".

MAIL ALL FILM TO:

ELECTRA FILM LAB
1211 27TH PL S, STE 105
BIRMINGHAM, AL 35205