Film Lab FAQs

How do I send you film?

1. Place an order
2. Decide whether to drop off the film or mail it in.
3. DROP-OFF  We offer two drop-off locations.  More details HERE
4. MAIL-IN Put film in a padded envelope or small box. It is also best if the film is in a moisture-proof bag to prevent any damage.  Packages can be shipped via any carrier (USPS, FedEx, UPS, etc).  However, most customers find that USPS is the most economical.  Please include your name in the return address or include the order number on the outside of the package.  Optionally, you can print out the PDF from your order confirmation email and include it inside the package.  Mail to:  Boutique Film Lab – 569 Stewarts Ferry Pike, Nashville, TN 37214

*It is NOT advisable to mail film with stamps due to the potential for insufficient postage.  Film packages are non-machinable and therefore have to meet the minimum First Class Rate.

Do you sell new film?

Yes, we do!  It can be ordered HERE. Local customers can pick up online orders from our Donelson storefront.

Can you process disposable cameras?

Yes, we can!  These can be ordered as standard 35mm film.  There is no additional charge for these cameras.

Can you process film from half-frame cameras?

Yes, we can!  We will scan/print each of these frames individually, and there is no additional charge for this.  It can be ordered as any other 35mm film.

What is your turnaround time?

We are a boutique shop, so times will vary based on availability.  Sometimes we will be able to able to turn around an order very fast, but sometimes it might take longer than the estimate (especially during peak wedding season).  E-6, or ECN-2 film, may also increase turnaround time.

• • C-41 Premium & Basic Scans, & B&W – 4 business days
  • C-41 Auto Scans  – 2 business days
  • E-6 / ECN-2 – 7 business days
  • Process-Only: C-41/B&W – 3 business days | E-6/ECN-2 – 5 business Days
  • Prints added to an order will ship within 1-2 days after receiving your scans
  • Large Orders (10+ rolls) may add extra time

The day after the lab receives your film counts as day 1.  Lab business days are Mon-Fri.

Holidays may affect turnaround time.  See closures

Do you offer rush turnaround?

Yes.  We can offer a 2-day delivery for 50% and 1 1-day delivery for 100% of the order total.  Select these options at checkout.

We also offer a same-day rush option (available in-store only).  Cost is 150% of the order total and must be checked in by 3 PM (accepted at the discretion of the lab based on current lab volume).

How do I receive my scans?

We deliver JPG or TIFF files via email download link (Google Drive).  

How do I receive my negatives?

We can return negatives cut or uncut.  35mm film is cut into strips of 4 frames each and sleeved.  120 film is cut into 4 strips (frame length varies by format) and sleeved.  For uncut rolls these are put into a long sleeve with a side flap.  Orders that are not scanned (Process-Only) will be returned UNCUT regardless of what is specified on the order.  We do this since we don’t know how these will be scanned, and preferences for frame length vary.  We usually hold negatives for 1-2 weeks after the order is completed to allow for customer questions and/or re-scans.  After that time, the order will be shipped.  For local pickup orders, customers will receive a reminder email to pick up negatives/prints after the order is completed.

How long will you hold my negatives?

We hold negatives at the lab for up to 45 days after your order is completed. For local pickup orders, we’ll send reminder emails during that window. After 45 days, unclaimed negatives may be disposed of, so please pick up your order (or contact us) before the window closes. If you need us to hold your negatives longer, just let us know and we’ll do our best to accommodate.

Do you offer prints?

Yes, we do!  We offer prints on several paper types and sizes range from 3.5 x 5 up to 24″ in width.  More details HERE

What developers do you use?

• C-41: Kodak Flexicolor
• B&W: Ilford Ilfotec RT

What file format do you use?

By default, we deliver scans in JPG format @ 300dpi. However, we also offer TIFF files for  an additional $5/roll. 

When are the upcoming lab closures?

2026 Dates:

May 25th, Memorial Day

July 3rd, Independence Day (observed)

September 7th, Labor Day

November 26th-27th, Thanksgiving

December 25th, Christmas

January 1st, 2027, New Year’s Day

Why are B&W scans more expensive?

B&W Film is not compatible with Digital ICE technology.  While we try to maintain a clean working environment, dust is inevitable.  Dust on scans will have to be removed manually as part of post-processing.

Additionally, each type of B&W Film has to be processed separately due to different development times.

Can you push Film?

Yes!  We offer this service at no extra charge for B&W and C-41 film, and a nominal charge for E-6 and ECN-2 film.  We can also pull B&W film if needed.

What scanners do you use?

We scan on the Fuji Frontier SP3000 and the Noritsu HS-1800. The Frontier offers highly sought-after skin tones and gives an overall pleasing color palette. The Noritsu offers unparalleled highlight retention and can create ultra-high resolution files for very large prints. Both scanners produce very nice results, and the right scanner for you comes down to personal preference.