FAQ
Q: I have some film to send in but don't know exactly what I need. Can I call or email you first?
A: Yes, absolutely! Feel free to call or email us anytime with questions.
972-591-1758
contact@lonestardarkroom.com
Q: How long will it take to process and scan my film before it's mailed back?
A: Typical turn around time is about a week. Slide film and medium format scans can lengthen turnaround time. We process small batch and appreciate your patience. Email contact@lonestardarkroom.com with your first and last name as the subject for specific order inquires.
Q: Is it safe to mail film? What about X-Rays, scanners, and reliability?
Q: Do X-Ray machines at the airport effect film?
A: Yes, they do. While TSA says film up to 800 ASA is safe we HIGHLY recommend having any and all film hand checked. TSA is required to hand check film when asked to do so. We recommend putting all of your rolls/sheets of film in a clear plastic bag so it is organized and easy to see. Request a hand check from the agent BEFORE it goes through the scanner. They are only required to hand check the individual rolls. They are NOT required to hand check cameras, film inside a film-back, etc. If you bat your eyelashes and ask real nicely they may do it but they are not required to hand check those items.
Also, never ever place undeveloped film in your baggage! The baggage scanners will fry your film regardless of the ISO/ASA. Here is a contact sheet from a roll of film that went through the luggage scanner once:
It's extremely fogged. So, don't do it. Don't pack your film in your luggage. Bad photographer! Bad, Bad photographer!
Q: Does Film Size matter?
Q: What is the difference between B&W, C41, and E6 and how do I know based on my film?
C41 or CN-16 refer to the same chemical process for color negatives. Kodak's process is referred to as C-41 while Fuji developed CN-16; they are interchangeable in usage. Color negative film has a distinct orange tint when viewed under room or daylight but the tint is removed when printed.
Q: What is "Emulsion?"
Q: Is film good past the expiration date?
A: Yes, definitely! Well...usually. Sorta. It kind of depends. Assuming the film was stored in a cool, dark place it will last many years past the expiration date.
Q: What film scanners do you use?
A: We use Noritsu and Epson scanners.