Benefits of Self-Developing Film vs. Using Professional Development Services

While it is true that companies who specialize in film development may have a lot of experience and high-end equipment, there is another option which is to develop your films. There is something extremely rewarding in developing your photographs yourself, and it is both fun and engaging. However, if you are short on time or just do not have any interest in doing this activity, then there are multiple online film developing companies that you can hire and get your work done.

Nonetheless, let us look at a few reasons you should still try or participate in developing your films yourself:

  • Developing film is not a difficult task – It is just as simple as following a cookbook to try out new recipes. If you have an instruction manual, the materials required in the process, and a space to develop them, you are good to go. Contrary to popular belief, developing films do not require a proper studio with a dark room. Although it might be needed when you are transferring the film into the development tank. However, developing colour pictures may be a bit tricky, but not impossible.
  • It saves money – If you develop your films, you will be saving a lot of money. This is because getting it done by a company might cost you a fortune depending on how long the film or the reel is. Moreover, you can make a one-time investment in the equipment and keep developing films for a long time. However, if you think you can afford it and your film needs to develop as soon as possible, you can take the assistance of one of the numerous film development lab out there. Just do a lot of research and then select.
  • You can learn for free – The internet is a school for everyone who wants to learn whatever. If you have an interest in learning film development, then all you have to do is look it up online. You will be provided with hundreds and thousands of data on film development, from tutorial videos to blog posts. You can also get inspired by people who also taught themselves online film development. Hence it is not a daunting task to find courses or tutorials online for film development.
  • You can create something of your own – This is one of the best perks of developing your film. From clicking the photograph to watching it come alive on the reel, everything will be done by you. And there is no higher achievement than seeing your hard work bring fruitful results. 

These are a few reasons to develop films on your own. However, many good film development services provide quality services for a very affordable price. So there is no need to fear never finding a good and cheap company who will develop your films. Moreover, these services are offered by expert professionals who have years of expertise and will give you top-notch results. So whether you decide to develop your films or hire someone to do it, both options will be a good choice for you.

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1. Place your film order on gelatinlabs.com – select ‘Return Shipping’ at checkout’ to get negatives returned (and prints, if you ordered them).

2. Envelopes for your order are provided over the counter. Write your name and order number, and load film rolls inside.

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2. Our box is located near the exit of the coffee shop. Take an envelope (or your own ziploc), bag up your film, and write your order number. Your film will head to Gelatin Labs!

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2. The Gelatin drop-off box is directly across from the front desk. Place your order via the QR code on the box. Select ‘Ship Negatives’ to get negatives (and prints, if you ordered them) returned.

3. Take an envelope (or your own ziploc) from the front desk, bag up your film, and write your order number. Your film will head to Gelatin Labs!

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