Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I drop my film off?

Our drop off options are

1) In store at Camera Exposure

2) 24/7 drop box

3) Mail in


Can I mail in film for processing?

Absolutely- check out our step-by-step guide.

Please mail your film to SAFELIGHT LABS, 2701 ADAMS AVE, SAN DIEGO, CA 92116.


Do you develop disposable cameras?

Yes! Each disposable camera contains 1 roll of film. Development and scanning begins at $12 per camera with complimentary digital file transfer.

Note: Some disposable cameras do not fit in our after hours drop box. It is best to bring them in to Camera Exposure for processing.


How long does film development take?

Our estimated turnaround time is 1 week on average.

Need it faster? Ask about our RUSH option which will be ready within 48 hours (up to 5 rolls).


Is your Darkroom/DIY lab open?

Not yet! Our studio opened as of November 2023. Early 2024 we will begin construction on the Darkroom and DIY lab. We appreciate the patience of our customers and community as this project took longer than we expected to complete.

Join our mailing list or follow us on instagram to stay up to date.


My roll was blank! How do I get a refund?

Our charge for a blank roll is $5 (plus tax). We are happy to issue you a refund for the difference in development and/or scanning costs initially paid. To do so, please come by Camera Exposure during our business hours. Note that the original form of payment must be physically present in order to receive a refund. Refunds cannot be given remotely or by phone.

We can also put this balance toward store credit and your next film processing order. Email us at orders@safelightlabs.com if you’d like be issued store credit.

If you paid by invoice, this refund will automatically be issued through Paypal.


How will I know my when my order is ready?

We will transfer your scan files to you immediately when your order is completed.

For orders without scans and print orders, you will receive an email notifying you that your order is ready.


How do I order prints?


How long do rush orders take?

Rush Orders will be fulfilled within 48 hours of drop off.

Rush orders are limited to 5 rolls and are not available for prints or E6/slide film.


What does “develop only” mean on your Order Form?

This means that we will develop your film and return only the developed negatives. If you select this option, we will NOT scan your film and no digital images will be provided to you.

If you want to see your pictures, be sure to select an option that includes scanning or arrange for scanning elsewhere.


How do I save my files from your Google Drive so they aren’t deleted in 30 days?

  1. Right click on the folder containing your files

  2. Click “Download”

  3. Your files are now downloaded onto your computer and you are able to save them anywhere you like


What are your current hours?

FIND US AT CAMERA EXPOSURE!
Monday- Saturday
10am - 6pm

Sunday
Closed

24/7 DROP BOX!
On the corner of Adams and Oregon (look for the Safelight Logo)

STUDIO RENTAL
Advanced booking required
Tuesday - Saturday
9am - 6pm