FAQ's

We understand it can be a bit confusing if you've never shot film before! That's why we are trying to make it as easy as possible to order from us. Check out common questions below, or feel free to give us a call or drop us an email anytime! We are always happy to help.

How does the loyalty scheme work?

From the 1st August 2024, the loyalty scheme has changed to a new updated version of The Minilab Points Scheme. This has made signing up, receiving and spending points easier and more streamlined, with access to view and manage your rewards, all built into your existing Minilab account. Log in to your account to see all of your rewards in one place! We all love saving a little bit of money, so we've launched the Minilab Points Scheme to let you collect points and convert them to money off your next purchase. First create an account or log in (top right on desktop, or open the menu on mobile and hit log in, then sign up) Once signed in to the site, you can view and manage all of your points in your account. Once you've collected 500 points, you can convert your points into money off 🎉 To redeem, simply add your items to your basket and head to the checkout. Apply the number of points you would like to use and it'll be discounted from your order total - simples!
How do I send in my order?

Order online and then safely package up your films. Make sure you include your order number in with the films so we can match your order up when it arrives. Post your films into us at: The Minilab Skears Photographic 203 Wellingborough Road Northampton NN1 4ED or don't forget you can always pop along and visit us in person
How long before I get my scans/ prints?

We offer a 24hr processing turnaround on C41 colour film processing (including disposables and Ilford XP2 film). This means you should receive your scans within 24hrs of dropping off your film instore, sometimes on the same day! If posting in film, we aim to have your scans to you within 24hrs of receiving your films. As B&W film is hand processed, turnaround time is usually 7 days, but can often be much quicker. If chosen, prints will be ready to collect once you have received notification that your scans are ready to download. If you have chosen prints only, they will be ready to collect 24hrs after dropping off your film. Pssst, we are closed on Sundays, so if you drop film off at 3.00pm on Saturday, they will be ready 3.00pm on Monday.
What films can you develop?

We can develop all colour C41 35mm and 120 films, along with all B&W 35mm and 120 films. We can develop C41 110 and 126 films, but currently do not offer any scanning options. Unfortunately we do not currently process E6 slide films.
Do you develop disposable cameras?

Absolutely! A 'disposable' camera has normal C41 colour film inside, so just choose C41 colour processing options!
I'm new to film photography, can you help me?

We certainly can! Pop into the shop and we'll be happy to talk you through films, film cameras or anything photography related. You can also purchase films and film cameras in-store or on our shop website at www.skearsphoto.com
Where are you based?

We're based in the heart of Northampton, on the Wellingborough Road. Pop in for all your film developing needs, or post in your films to us.
I've got a 36 exposure film but have only received 30 images?

If you've received less images than on your film, that means the frames missed would have been blank and so could not be scanned.
Do you send back the negatives?

Yes we certainly do! Choose your return options at checkout, or if you don't want to pay return postage, there's also an option for us to keep & then destroy your negatives after 6 months
Can you push my film?

We offer push/ pull developing on B&W only. Just include a note to say what you have shot it at and we'll do the rest.
What if my film is blank?

If your film is blank, then we'll happily refund the additional costs that you have paid for (such as your scans or prints). We can't refund the initial cost of developing.
Do you cut the negatives?

We'll always cut your 35mm negatives into strips of 4, or 120 film to fit in a sleeve. If you don't want them cut, just let us know and we'll roll up into a film pot for safe keeping.
How do I know how many exposures my film is?

On the film canister, it will have the number of exposures. This will be either 24 or 36, and if you're shooting a disposable, usually 27 or 39. If you are ordering prints, you'll need to know the number of exposures and select the right option.
Can I order digital scans as well as prints?

Absolutely! At the order page just select 35mm/120 Dev & Prints, and there is an option to add your digital scans as well
Do you scan already developed slides and negatives?

Absolutely! You can currently order prints and/ or scans from cut negatives here Whilst scans/ prints from slides are not currently available to order through The Minilab site (watch this space), you can visit skearsphoto.com for all the info, or feel free to give us a call and we can chat through the options
Can't see the question you are looking for?

Oh no! Don't hesitate to drop us an email or give us a call on 01604 630675 and we'll try our best to answer as quickly as possible