The 5 Best Disposable Cameras for 2025

Disposable cameras (also called throw away cameras) are making a huge comeback! Whether you're looking for a classic disposable film camera for travel, a wedding, or just some nostalgic fun, we've rounded up the best disposable cameras for 2025 that deliver great results. Plus, we'll tell you exactly where to develop disposable cameras once you're ready to bring your memories to life!

1. Kodak FunSaver 35mm Disposable Camera – Best Overall

✔ Film Type: 35mm Color (ISO 800)
✔ Exposures: 27
✔ Flash: Yes
✔ Why We Love It: The Kodak FunSaver is the gold standard in disposable cameras, offering rich colors and sharp images. It’s perfect for beginners and pros alike looking for a reliable throw-away camera.

2. Fujifilm QuickSnap Flash 400 – Best for Parties

✔ Film Type: 35mm Color (ISO 400)
✔ Exposures: 27
✔ Flash: Built-in
✔ Why We Love It: The Fuji QuickSnap produces vibrant colors, making it a top choice for parties and low-light settings where you need an extra boost from the flash.

3. Ilford XP2 Super Single Use Camera – Best for Black & White Photography

✔ Film Type: 35mm B&W (ISO 400)
✔ Exposures: 27
✔ Flash: Yes
✔ Why We Love It: If you love the classic look of black & white film, this Ilford disposable camera is a fantastic option. Plus, it’s C-41 processable, meaning it can be developed at most labs.

4. Lomography Simple Use Reloadable Camera – Best Reusable Option

✔ Film Type: 35mm Color/B&W (varies)
✔ Exposures: 36
✔ Flash: Yes
✔ Why We Love It: While technically not a true disposable, this reloadable camera offers the convenience of a throwaway camera with the option to refill it with new film after you finish the roll. These cameras also come in a variety of film types, giving you some options as to what look and feel you want when you order! Plus its reusable!!!

5. AgfaPhoto LeBox 400 – Best Budget-Friendly Pick

✔ Film Type: 35mm Color (ISO 400)
✔ Exposures: 27
✔ Flash: Yes
✔ Why We Love It: A solid budget-friendly disposable camera that still delivers decent image quality. Great for kids, vacations, or backup use.

Where to Develop Disposable Cameras in 2025

Once you've finished your roll of film, the next step is developing your disposable camera! At Shutter Junkies Photo Lab, we specialize in disposable camera film development with high-quality prints and fast turnaround times. Whether you're local to Greenville, TX, or want to use our nationwide mail-in service, we've got you covered.

Why Choose Shutter Junkies Photo Lab?

✔ Expert Disposable Camera Processing
✔ C-41 Color & Black & White Film Development
✔ High-Resolution Scans & Premium Photo Prints
✔ Fast & Affordable Nationwide Shipping

📍 Visit us in Greenville, TX, or order online today!

Get Your Disposable Cameras Developed Today! ➡️ Shutter Junkies Disposable Camera Developing

The Best Film Developing Services in Greenville, TX

Film photography is making a comeback, and finding a reliable place to develop film is crucial for photographers and hobbyists alike. At Shutter Junkies Photo, we specialize in 35mm film development, disposable camera processing, and high-quality photo prints, serving both Greenville, TX and customers nationwide.

Why Choose Shutter Junkies Photo?

• Local and Trusted: We’re a family-owned business dedicated to delivering high-quality film processing with personalized service.

• Fast Turnaround Times: Get your photos developed quickly with our in-lab drop-off or mail-in service.

• Nationwide Shipping: Not in Greenville, TX? No problem! We offer a convenient mail-in film development service with easy online ordering.

• High-Quality Prints: Our professional lab ensures your photos come out crisp and vibrant, whether you need 4x6 prints, enlargements, or digital scans.

Where to Develop Film Near Me in Greenville, TX

If you’re searching for "film developing near me in Greenville, TX", Shutter Junkies Photo is your best option. We process:

• 35mm film (C-41 color and B&W)

• Disposable cameras

• Medium format film (120mm)

• Slide film (E-6 processing available)

How Our Film Developing Process Works

1. Drop Off or Mail-In: Bring your film to our Greenville, TX lab or ship it to us from anywhere in the U.S.

2. Processing & Scanning: We develop your film, scan it, and provide digital downloads.

3. Photo Prints & Shipping: Choose from various print sizes, and we’ll ship them directly to your doorstep!

The Best Film Developing Services in Greenville, TX

For the best film developing in Greenville, TX, trust Shutter Junkies Photo to bring your memories to life. Visit us in person or order online today!

📍 Location: Greenville, TX
🌐 Website: https://www.shutterjunkies.org

Why Gen Z is Bringing Film Photography Back

In an era dominated by high-resolution smartphone cameras and AI-powered editing tools, you might assume that film photography is a thing of the past. However, Gen Z, the generation that grew up in the digital age, is bringing analog photography back in a big way. But why? What is it about film that captivates young photographers in a world where instant sharing and perfection are the norms? Let's explore the reasons behind this revival and what it means for the future of photography.

The Appeal of Authenticity and Imperfection

Gen Z values authenticity. Unlike digital photography, which allows endless retakes and flawless edits, film captures a moment as it is—grain, light leaks, and all. The imperfections of film photography make it feel more real, raw, and emotionally resonant. In a world saturated with highly curated social media posts, film offers an escape from perfection and embraces the beauty of imperfection.

A Nostalgic Connection to the Past

Despite being born into a digital world, Gen Z has a strong nostalgia for the past, fueled by social media, vintage aesthetics, and pop culture influences. Film cameras provide a tangible connection to history, allowing young photographers to experience photography the way their parents or grandparents did. Whether it's a hand-me-down 35mm camera or a thrifted point-and-shoot, shooting film offers a sense of timelessness and connection to previous generations.

The Thrill of Delayed Gratification

Unlike the instant nature of digital photography, film requires patience. From carefully composing a shot to waiting for the film to be developed, the process forces photographers to slow down and be intentional. This delayed gratification makes each frame more meaningful and valued, as opposed to the throwaway culture of digital snapshots. The anticipation of seeing how an image turns out adds an element of surprise and excitement that digital photography lacks.

The Desire to Stand Out

With millions of digital images uploaded to social media every second, it's becoming harder to create something unique. Film photography offers a distinct look that stands out from the digital aesthetic. The rich colors, soft focus, and unpredictable nature of film make it an appealing medium for those looking to differentiate their work in an oversaturated visual landscape.

The Sustainability Factor

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important issue, many Gen Z photographers are drawn to the idea of reusing old cameras rather than contributing to the cycle of new digital tech consumption. Instead of constantly upgrading to the latest smartphone or camera, film shooters can invest in vintage equipment that lasts decades. Additionally, film cameras don’t require batteries in the same way digital ones do, reducing electronic waste.

The Growing Film Community

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have played a major role in the resurgence of film photography. Hashtags like #FilmIsNotDead and #ShootFilmStayBroke have brought together a global community of film enthusiasts who share tips, showcase their work, and inspire others to give film a try. This sense of community and shared passion has made film photography more accessible and appealing to young creatives.

The Future of Film Photography

With major companies like Kodak ramping up film production and new cameras hitting the market, it’s clear that the demand for film is not just a passing trend. Gen Z’s appreciation for analog photography is breathing new life into an art form that was once thought to be obsolete. As long as there is a desire for authenticity, creativity, and storytelling, film photography will continue to thrive.

Are you part of the Gen Z film movement? What draws you to shooting film? Share your thoughts in the comments and let’s keep the conversation going!

Lucky Film is Coming - Brand New Film Hitting the Market Soon

Lucky Film brand is teasing the release of their film in North America very soon in 2025. With film in high demand and companies like Kodak and Harman (aka Ilford) expanding production and even releasing new products in Harman’s case (Harman Phoenix and Harman Red), there’s a building excitement in the film photography world. Let’s be honest, the choices we’ve had have been dwindling for quite a while as Fuji began to pull out of the film market. The hope of something new and possibly even something more affordable has created a buzz and film photographers are eager to try Lucky Film’s new products. Here’s everything we know…

Who is Lucky Film?

According to their website, Lucky Film Co., LTD was founded in 1998 as a subsidiary of China Lucky Group Corporation. But looking at Wikipedia, it seems that Lucky Film might have been founded as early as 1958. Lucky is the largest manufacturer of photosensitive materials in China, operating out of Boading Hebei Province. Back in 2003 Lucky and Kodak had even teamed up for a while until Kodak backed out of the deal as digital cameras became more popular in China. Lucky film is very popular in the Chinese rural market.

So this isn’t a new start-up. Lucky Film has been around a while and has a proven track record of manufacturing photographic film. While the English version of their website is not very well polished, there’s a lot of information there about their current offerings. Lucky Film is also producing photographic paper (silver halide paper), and photo developing chemistry.

What Kind of Film is Lucky Film Going to Release?

Lucky is teasing a new color negative 35mm film that will be coming to the mark “soon”. While their promotional website has a text in place to learn more about the journey, there isn’t a link and the words “coming soon” are listed below.

“…at a price today’s photographers can afford.” It looks like Lucky’s initial marketing approach is going to be aimed at affordability. Which is a good thing as rising film prices and inflation in general is making it really difficult for photographers to afford film, especially color film. With lower cost options like Kodak Gold coming in at around $8 per roll and higher-end options like Portra getting close to $20 per roll, Lucky will need to deliver a high-quality film at or below Kodak’s price point. I love Kodak and am loyal to the brand, but film prices are making it very difficult to afford to shoot as much as I used to. For me, and many of the film photographers I talk to, a lower cost option would be well received. Lucky seems to be positioning themselves in this gap in the hopes that film photographers will choose Lucky Film’s new 35mm film option over not shooting until they can afford more Kodak film.

Lucky Film Began Posting to Instagram

Lucky Film is using @luckyfilmglobal to post news and updates. The posts below are new but people are already paying attention to Lucky Film’s ig posts.

In these Instagram posts, Lucky Film says it will be “significantly more affordable” than its competitors. In my opinion, significantly more affordable makes it around $5 to $8 per roll (purely speculation on my part). No pricing has been released yet and no retailers or distributers have been announced on either Instagram or their website. It does appear that they are intending to use Instagram as a way to promote the brand and product release so if you’re wanting to stay up to date, following this account might be your best option.

Wait and See - Can Lucky Film Deliver?

Is it too early for me to get excited about this? Probably. Am I excited, well of course I am! Most of us film photographers have been feeling starved lately as prices continue to rise and in some cases quality has gone down with films from Kodak and Fuji. Other companies, like Light Lens Lab are also throwing their hat in the film manufacturing ring promising a wide variety of new photographic film products coming in the next years. With little competition and an intriguing appeal to affordability, Lucky Film is catching people’s attention. I’m ready to pick up a few rolls and get to shooting and then run it through our photo lab here at Shutter Junkies Photo and see how it performs. Fingers-crossed that Lucky Film’s new 35mm film offering might be just what so many of us analog photographers have been wanting!

The Ultimate Guide to 110 Film

The Ultimate Guide to 110 Film: History, Technical Aspects, and Where to Develop

110 film is a beloved format among film photography enthusiasts for its compact size and nostalgic appeal. Whether you're new to shooting with a 110 film camera or looking for resources on where to develop 110 film, this guide will cover everything you need to know about this classic format.

The 110 format has a very special place in my heart as a photographer! My very first camera was a pocket camera that used 110 film. I got it for Christmas when I was 10 and you can image how great all of my photos were. I burned through my first 2 rolls of film in about 20 minutes and took great photos of everything from my transformers to our dog to the family car. We dropped my film off at the photo lab and a week later I had my prints. My pictures were awful, but the idea of being able to take an image and make it into something physical that could be shared really stuck and 30 years later, here I am, a photographer with such a large variety of cameras and films and formats available to me, but I always come back to my old 110 camera!

History of 110 Film

Introduced by Kodak in 1972, 110 film was designed as an easy-to-use alternative to larger film formats. Packaged in a 110 film cartridge, this format was popularized by pocket cameras that were convenient for casual photographers. The film became a favorite for family snapshots throughout the 1970s and 80s. Despite its decline in the 1990s due to the rise of digital photography, 110 film cameras have seen a resurgence as film photography gains popularity again. Lomography has been crucial in keep the 110 film format alive. They’ve invested in new film types as well as new 110 film cameras. 110 has seen a huge comeback since the pandemic and that is solely because of the work the amazing people at Lomography have been doing.

Technical Aspects of 110 Film

110 film is a cartridge-based film format that is 16mm wide, with each frame measuring 13x17mm. The film typically comes in ISO 100 or ISO 400 options, making it suitable for different lighting conditions. One of its unique aspects is the fully enclosed 110 film cartridge, which eliminates the need to manually load film onto spools, reducing the risk of exposure errors. Many 110 film cameras feature fixed focus, simple exposure settings, and automatic winding mechanisms, making them user-friendly. After using 110 for years and develop thousands of rolls of 110 film in our photo lab, I can tell you that 110 film needs a lot of light to produce a good image. Outside in the daylight is best but if you’re indoors, ALWAYS use the flash. The biggest issue we’ve seen with 110 film is underexposure. As a general rule, overexposing 110 is better than underexposing it.

Shooting 110 Film

Shooting with a 110 film camera is a fun and straightforward experience. Here are some tips to get the best results:

• Choose the right film speed – ISO 100 is great for bright outdoor shots, while ISO 400 works better in low-light conditions. But even ISO 400 needs A LOT of light to produce a good image on film. Use your flash no matter what when indoors or in dark or poorly lit areas. It doesn’t hurt to even use it in brightly lit areas to make sure everything gets exposed.

• Steady your shots – Due to the small negative size, sharpness can sometimes be an issue. There’s no image stabilization with 110 film cameras and the infinite focus and small format size will definitely cause a decrease in sharpness. Hold your camera steady and lean against a wall or tree or vehicle or anything to help you get the most stable and steady picture.

• Experiment with different cameras – There are many vintage and modern 110 film cameras, such as the Kodak Pocket Instamatic series or Lomography's Lomomatic or Diana Baby.

• Use proper lighting – Again, the lighting is so important! Many 110 film cameras have limited control over exposure, so shooting in well-lit environments will yield the best results.

Where You Can Buy 110 Film

Although 110 film is not as widely available as 35mm or medium format film, there are still several retailers that stock it. Some popular options include:

• Online retailers – B&H Photo, Adorama, and Lomography’s official website often carry fresh 110 film cartridges.

• Local camera stores – Some specialty film shops may stock 110 film or be able to order it for you.

• Auction sites and marketplaces – eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace can be good sources for expired or rare 110 film cartridges. Beware, older Kodak 110 film DOES NOT hold up very well at all. Of all of the 110 film cartridges we’ve developed, very few old Kodak rolls produce an image. They fade very quickly and so badly that we can’t recover any images in most cases. Expired Fuji 110 film holds up amazingly well as

Where You Can Develop 110 Film

Finding a reliable lab that knows where to develop 110 film is crucial for getting high-quality results. There are very few labs that process 110 film now-a-days. 110 film takes more time and presents its own set of challenges to scanning and printing. Here are some options for 110 film developing:

• Shutter Junkies Photo – If you're looking for professional 110 film development, Shutter Junkies Photo offers high-quality processing for 110 film cartridges with nationwide shipping available. We even return your negatives to you!!

• Online film labs – Companies like The Darkroom and Dwayne’s Photo specialize in developing 110 film and offer scanning and printing services.

• Local photo labs – Some independent film labs still accept 110 film, though availability varies by location.

Final Thoughts

Despite its small size, 110 film remains a charming and accessible format for film photography lovers. Whether you're exploring vintage 110 film cameras, searching for 110 film cartridges, or trying to find where to develop 110 film, there's never been a better time to rediscover this iconic format. Happy shooting!

Capture the Romance: Why a Disposable Camera is the Perfect Addition to Your Valentine’s Day Date

In a world filled with smartphones and instant gratification, there’s something undeniably special about capturing memories the old-fashioned way. This Valentine’s Day, why not take a step back in time and add a touch of nostalgia to your date by bringing along a disposable camera?

Not only does it create a fun and romantic experience, but it also allows you to enjoy the moment without the distraction of screens. Each February, our photo lab receives dozens of disposable cameras with notes letting us know they were used on their Valentine’s Day Date. It’s a really cute and fun idea that gives you and your Valentine an interactive and tactile experience together. Plus, once your date is over, you can relive the magic all over again when you get your disposable camera developed.

Why Use a Disposable Camera on Your Valentine’s Date?

1. A Nostalgic, Romantic Touch

There’s something incredibly romantic about capturing moments on film. The anticipation of waiting to see your photos makes the memories feel even more special. Unlike digital snapshots that can be deleted or edited instantly, film photography is raw, real, and perfectly imperfect—just like love itself.

2. Creates a More Meaningful Experience

Taking photos with a disposable camera forces you to be intentional with each shot. Instead of snapping dozens of digital photos, you and your partner will savor the process of framing each moment, making every picture more meaningful.

3. Perfect for Surprise Keepsakes

Once your disposable camera is developed, you’ll have a set of one-of-a-kind photos that can be turned into a scrapbook, framed as a gift, or even kept as a time capsule of your love story. These tangible memories will remind you of your Valentine’s Day for years to come.

4. It’s a Fun, Interactive Date Activity

Using a disposable camera adds a playful and interactive element to your date. Whether you’re at a candlelit dinner, strolling through a park, or exploring a new city together, capturing moments on film adds an element of surprise and excitement.

Valentine’s Day Ideas for the Perfect Disposable Camera Shots

• A Romantic Dinner – Capture the cozy ambiance of your date night restaurant.

• A Scenic Walk – Whether it’s a beach, park, or city skyline, film captures natural beauty in a dreamy way.

• Candid Laughs – Take photos of each other being silly, enjoying dessert, or dancing under the stars.

• Valentine’s Day Traditions – Snap pictures of handwritten love notes, flowers, or your favorite Valentine’s treats.

Get Your Disposable Camera Developed with Shutter Junkies Photo

After your Valentine’s Day date, don’t let those memories sit undeveloped! Send your disposable camera to Shutter Junkies Photo for high-quality film developing. Whether you’re local to Greenville, TX, or anywhere in the U.S., we make it easy to get your disposable camera developed and relive your special moments.

How It Works:

1. Drop off your disposable camera at our Greenville, TX lab OR mail it to us from anywhere in the U.S.

2. We develop your photos with care and provide high-quality prints or digital scans.

3. Relive your Valentine’s Day memories when you receive your beautiful film photos!

This Valentine’s Day, ditch the phone and embrace the magic of film. Grab a disposable camera, capture your love story, and trust Shutter Junkies Photo to bring your memories to life.

📸 Send us your disposable cameras today and keep the romance alive! 💕

Order Film Developing Now

Kodak H35N Review: A Budget-Friendly Half-Frame Film Camera

Half-frame film cameras are all the rage in 2025! And the Kodak H35N is a very popular and affordable camera that takes good photos and is super easy to use! I got one of these little plastic film cameras for Christmas and I have finally managed to shoot a few rolls with and I can say that has quickly become one of my favorite daily shooters for friends, family, and fun events.

Film photography enthusiasts looking for an affordable and easy-to-use camera should take a close look at the Kodak H35N. This half-frame film camera is a great option for those wanting to get the most out of their film rolls while keeping costs low.

Why Choose the Kodak H35N?

The Kodak H35N is designed for casual film shooters who want an inexpensive and user-friendly camera. The camera is made of plastic with a plastic lens. But in spite of this it feels like a pretty solid camera. Here’s why it stands out:

• Easy to Use: With its simple design, even beginners can quickly start shooting.

• Affordable Price: Compared to other film cameras, the H35N is budget-friendly.

• Half-Frame Film Format: Doubles the number of photos per roll, saving you money on film.

• Lightweight and Portable: Perfect for everyday photography and travel.

The $40 purchase price is a big motivator for individuals looking for an affordable and fun point-and-shoot style camera to shoot with.

Half-Frame Film Advantage

One of the biggest benefits of the Kodak H35N is its half-frame film format. Instead of capturing one full-frame image per exposure, this camera takes two images on a single 35mm frame. This means:

• More Photos per Roll: A 36-exposure roll turns into 72 shots, effectively doubling your film usage.

• Cost Savings: You get twice the number of photos without spending extra on film.

Image Quality & Performance

The Kodak H35N may be a budget camera, but it still delivers decent image quality for everyday photography.

• Fixed Focus Lens: Simple point-and-shoot functionality.

• Built-in Flash: Helps in low-light situations.

• Soft and Nostalgic Look: Produces vintage-style images that appeal to film lovers.

Kodak H35N Product Specs

• Film Format: 35mm (Half Frame

• Film Transport: Manual Wind And Rewind

• Optical Lens: 22mm F11 (F8 with flash on), Coated

• 2-Element Lens: 1 Glass Lens, 1 Aspherical Acrylic Lens

• Shutter Release: 1/100s, Bulb Shutter

• Flash: Built-in

Using the Kodak H35N

When I first opened the camera up, I was impressed with the build quality. I wasn’t expecting anything nice for the low price, but I was pleasantly surprised at how solid it felt. I didn’t look at the manual, just opened it up and started trying to figure it out. If you’re familiar with cameras, you won’t any any issues using the H35N. It loads like any other 35mm film camera does. The big difference with this camera is that the film winder is at the bottom left instead of the top right like most of us are used to. The other slightly different feature is the flash-on button. Instead of a traditional switch of button, there’s a rotary switch located on the lens that you have to rotate to turn on the flash. I noticed that I would sometimes forget to turn the flash on, or turn it back off after I finished shooting with it.

Shooting with the camera is easy. The view-finder gives you an approximation of the image you’re taking and I found it pretty accurate relative to what I framed up compared to the image I got on the film. The big difference when shooting with a half-frame film camera is to remember that the orientation of the images is portrait when holding the camera normally. Traditional full frame 35mm cameras take landscape images when holding the camera horizontally. To take a landscape photo, you’ll need to turn the camera vertically. This took a little getting used to.

Half-Frame Pictures from the H35N

I ran a short roll of Kodak Vision 500T 35mm film and a 36 exposure roll of Kodak Tri-X. For an affordable point and shoot style camera with fixed-focus, the images were pretty sharp. I got better exposures with the color film indoors. I’ve noticed that black and white film doesn’t do as well with the built in flashes on disposable cameras and these fixed-focus type cameras. Here are a few images to see the results you can get both indoors and outdoors with the Kodak H35N.

Developing Half-Frame Film

When you’re finally finished shooting your roll of film, there are be a few challenges with getting you half-frame film developed. While most labs can develop your film, not every lab can scan 35mm rolls. Our lab, Shutter Junkies Photo Lab develops and scans half frame film at no additional charge. There are some other labs out there that can develop and scan half-frame, you’ll just need to check with your local lab and confirm. CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart however will not scan your half-frame negatives.

When you’re ready to get your half-frame film developed, just click the button below to get started!

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Inexpensive and beginner-friendly

• Uses half-frame film to maximize shots per roll

• Compact and lightweight design

• Built-in flash for versatility

Cons:

• No manual exposure controls

• Fixed-focus lens limits creative control

• Slightly lower resolution due to the half-frame film format

• Lots of pictures today, which is a blessing and a curse…

Final Thoughts

The Kodak H35N is a fantastic choice for film photography enthusiasts looking for an affordable and easy-to-use camera. Its half-frame film format makes it an excellent option for those wanting to stretch their film budget while still capturing fun and nostalgic images.

If you're searching for a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy film photography, the Kodak H35N is definitely worth considering!

Light Lens Lab Makes a Surprise Announcement about New Film

The analog photography world was shocked this week when Light Lens Lab, a design and manufacturing operation located in China announced that they would be working towards the production of new photographic and cinema films. Light Lens Lab has been producing affordable reproductions of Leica lenses for a while and this move into film production was unexpected. Light Lens Lab mentioned that this new venture was made possible by the development of a new machine that they had developed that could apply the emulsion to the film in a proprietary process that would make them “self-sufficient”. They listed several types of film that they are planning to produce. Here’s the list:

• Black and White film with T-Grain Structure, with speeds ranging from 100 to 1600

• C-41

• E-6

• Instant Peel-Apart Film

• ECN-2 for cinematography

• And more in the future

What the Lens Light Lab Announcement Means for the Future of Film?

The photographic film industry has been struggling for years. Even after the pandemic brought about a revival in shooting film, the industry has been slow to catch up and even declining in some cases. Photographers and photography hobbyists have been buying more and more film with each passing month but companies like Fuji Film has been discontinuing extremely popular product lines.

2024 brought us some promising news from Kodak as they are making additions to their production facilities and similar news also came from Ilford who is also adding production space. Ilford’s parent company, Harman released a new color film under the Phoenix name in 2024 as the first beta test in their venture into color film. Lucky film company out of China along with this venture from Light Lens Lab means that for the first time in decades, film scarcity might not be a problem has it has often been in the past several years.

This announcement ultimately means a wider variety of products available and competition that will hopefully keep prices in check.

Lens Light Lab is Bringing Back Peel-Apart Film!

Something that caught everyone’s attention was the mention of bringing back peel-apart film. The beloved instant photography format was discontinued by Polaroid once, and then by Fuji. I never got the chance to shoot Polaroid Peel-Apart film, but I absolutely loved Fuji’s FP-100C and FP-3000B. Both were amazing and combined with a Polaroid Land Camera could produce some absolutely beautiful images. I’ve written about Peel-Apart Film before, you can can check that blog post out HERE.

There have been rumors for years that different companies were bringing back peel-apart film. One-instant has an offering out there that works, but is a tad messy and sloppy. A new peel-apart film on part with what Fuji was making would mean the world to all of us photographers out there holding on to our Polaroid Land Cameras in the hopes that someone would one day resurrect the format.

A New Cinema Film from Lens Light Lab!

Right now, Kodak is the only company manufacturing cinema film. And thanks to an agreement between a group of amazing directors, studios are still buying lots of 35mm and 65mm film for movies. Photographers also actually love using cinema film. It has a different feel and look to you. Cinestill has been selling cinema film without the remjet for years now. And until recently, a lot of photographers were buying cinema film directly from Kodak in 400 and 1000ft rolls and bulk-loading the film ourselves. I was one of these photographers and I absolutely LOVE shooting with Kodak 500t. It’s honestly one of my favorite film stocks. But sadly, Kodak has began restricting the sale of cinema film to non-production companies. We’ve been cut off from our cinema film supply, so a new cinema film from Lens Light Lab would give all of us cinema film shooters a new chance to shoot it again.

The big difference with shooting cinema film directly from Kodak rather than from Cinestill is that the remjet layer has been removed in the Cinestill products to make it possibly to develop it using the C41 process. I actually prefer to use the ECN-2 process, which is what cinema film was designed to be developed in. I’m really excited about the possibility of having a new cinema film to shoot with!

Lens Light Lab is Planning to Develop an E6 Film!

Over the past decade, we’ve seen slide film disappearing from manufacturers catalogs left and right. Kodak had even at one point cancelled its Ektachrome film. As the demand for film began to increase, Kodak brought a slightly different version of their beloved Ektachrome back, just as Fuji was completely getting out of the slide film business. Ektachrome is an amazing film but it’s very expensive, the possibility of having another option of E6 film to shoot is exciting! While E6 film is not nearly as popular as black and white or color negative film, it’s still considered one the most appealing films to shoot. I can’t wait to see what Lens Light Lab is able to produce.

Now the Hard Part… We Wait

The excitement is almost overwhelming, but we are probably a good ways away from having products in hand. Lens Light Lab didn’t give us a timeline for product release, but they did let us know that these products will definitely be sold under a new brand name, not under the Lens Light Lab moniker. The good thing is that they have been a very innovative and consistent company so we at least know there’s something in development. If you’d like to read more, go check out their original blog post HERE.

And check back here and their website often to stay up to date on any future announcements!

Can You Use Expired Film? A Guide to Shooting Expired Film

Film photography has experienced a renaissance in recent years, and with it comes curiosity about using expired film. We’ve been developing expired film almost daily at our photo lab and while we expected the expired film rolls to slowly decrease, we’re discovering that more and more rolls keep coming in! People are shooting a lot of expired film and we’ve observed a lot in the process of developing it for our customers.

Whether you stumbled upon a vintage roll in a family drawer or are tempted by discounted expired film online, you may wonder: can you use expired film? Let’s dive into everything you need to know, including how to shoot expired film and what to expect.

What Is Expired Film?

Film comes with an expiration date, typically found on the box. Sometimes it’s printed on the canister but that is pretty rare. Most film is given two years from its manufacture date before it expires, but some film types have a three year expiration. Manufacturers set these dates to guarantee optimal image quality. Once past its expiration date, film may still work but with potential changes to:

• Color and Contrast: Colors may shift or fade, and contrast could be reduced.

• Grain: Increased graininess is common in expired film.

• Sensitivity: Older film will lose sensitivity to light, requiring adjustments to exposure.

Can You Use Expired Film?

Yes, but with caveats. Expired film can produce some unpredictable results. The images will definitely be unique and some people view the results to have some artistic value, but its usability depends on factors like storage and age. There is a significant love of the faded and grainy look that expired film can give. But in our experience, having developed thousands of rolls of expired film, just flat out bad results far out number the good ones. Here are some things to think about before buying and using expired film:

• Storage Conditions: Film stored in cool, dry environments (like a refrigerator or freezer) fares better over time compared to film exposed to heat and humidity. Film exposed to heat, temperatures over 85 degrees fahrenheit, becomes significantly more grainy and the colors shift to some pretty bizarre tones. There can also be some “burning” along the top and bottom edges of the film because of the radiating heat from the metal canister.

• Age of the Film: Film expired within the last few years is more reliable than film decades past its expiration date. The older the film gets, the hard it is to produce a decent image.

• Type of Film: Black-and-white film tends to age more gracefully than color film or slide film.

How to Shoot Expired Film

Shooting expired film requires some preparation and experimentation. Follow these tips to get the best results:

1. Adjust Your Exposure Settings

• Overexpose the Film: A general rule is to overexpose expired film by one stop for every decade past its expiration date.

• Example: If the film’s box speed is ISO 400 and it expired 10 years ago, shoot it at ISO 200.

2. Test a Single Roll First

• Start with one roll to understand how it performs before committing to a large batch.

• You can make adjustments to how your exposing after seeing how the test roll turns out to get better results

3. Consider the Film Type

• Black-and-White Film: Often more forgiving and can produce interesting textures.

• Color Negative Film: May show color shifts but can still yield usable images.

• Slide Film (E-6): Most prone to color degradation and may require more significant adjustments. We don’t recommend using expired E-6 film once its past 5 to 10 years old.

4. Store Expired Film Properly

• Keep your expired film in a refrigerator or freezer to slow down further degradation.

• Allow refrigerated film to reach room temperature before use to avoid condensation.

5. Embrace the Imperfections

• Understand that expired film may produce unpredictable results, such as:

  • Faded colors

  • Unique color casts (e.g., greens, purples, or blues)

  • Light leaks or fogging

Pros and Cons of Shooting Expired Film

Pros:

• Creative Effects: Expired film often produces unpredictable and artistic results.

• Cost Savings: Expired film is typically cheaper than fresh film. You can pick expired film up from eBay, Facebook Marketplace, local thrift stores, and estate sales for a fraction of the cost of new film.

• Nostalgic Feel: The imperfections can add a vintage aesthetic to your photos.

Cons:

• Unpredictable Results: You may not get the outcome you expect.

• Reduced Image Quality: Color shifts, grain, and fogging are common.

• Developing Challenges: Some expired films require special handling during development.

Where to Buy Expired Film

If you’re intrigued by expired film, you can find it through:

• Online Marketplaces: eBay, Etsy, and specialty film stores often stock expired film.

• Local Thrift Shops: Occasionally, you may find vintage film in thrift stores or estate sales.

• Film Photography Communities: Join online forums or social media groups where photographers trade or sell expired film.

Developing Expired Film

Developing expired film can be one of the biggest challenges. Most labs process expired film just like every other roll that comes in our experience, old film needs some special care during the developing process. Our lab, Shutter Junkies Photo Lab processes a lot of expired film and we’ve developed a special process for getting the absolutely best results possible. We identify old film rolls when they arrive and put them in a separate work flow designed to pull as much of an image as possible from your expired roll. When you get ready to develop your expired film rolls, just click the link below to get started with the expired film developing experts!

Final Thoughts on Expired Film

Using expired film is a rewarding experience for those who enjoy experimenting with film photography. While it’s not always predictable, the results can be uniquely beautiful and nostalgic. By understanding how to shoot expired film and making the right adjustments, you can unlock a world of creative possibilities.

So, can you use expired film? Absolutely! Grab a roll, set your camera, and embrace the beauty of imperfection.

What is a Use and Throw Away Camera - Everything You Need

I own a lot of cameras and I love taking them with me when I venture out into the world. Trips with the kids to the zoo, amusement parks, camping, hiking, exploring communities and just heading out to the park or a night out at a concert are great places to take photos and make memories. But taking my super expensive mirrorless camera or even one of my older DSLR’s is somewhat of a pain and a source of anxiety. Bulky, heavy, and difficult to store while you're enjoying the moments make them ridiculous. Something smaller like a point and shoot digital or film camera is lighter and easier to cary around, but they are still expensive and if its a film camera not very easy to replace if they were to get stolen or broken.

The good news is that disposable cameras are still being produced and are cheap, rugged, and take really great pictures that have a very unique look. A use and throw away camera is the perfect choice for so many events! Let’s explore this topic in a little bit more detail!

What is a Use and Throw Away Camera?

Disposable cameras have been around for decades now. They became extremely popular during the 1980’s and 1990’s and have remained popular even after the film apocalypse occurred. These cameras are made of durable and rugged plastic and have a very simple film winding and shutter mechanism as well as a simple yet powerful flash. Disposable cameras were originally designed to go places nicer, more expensive, and more cumbersome film cameras could not go. Even though almost everyone exclusively uses their phone’s camera today, there are many times it would be more convenient to have a dedicated camera to keep your phone safe and secure.

These throw away cameras were designed to be trashed or recycled. Most of them have to be broken to get the film out however many companies have figured out ways to recycled almost every throw away camera type out there.

Where can you buy throw away cameras?

Several retailers still sell disposable cameras in stores! Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, and Best Buy all carry single-use cameras from Kodak and Fuji. Some larger convenience stores and gas stations might also carry them, especially around tourist areas.

You can also purchase disposable cameras online from Amazon, B&H Photo and Shutter Junkies. These cameras range in price from about $15 to $20 depending on the retail store and the type of camera you buy.

How Many Pictures does a Throw Away Camera Take?

Almost all disposable cameras have 27 exposures. There are some that have 24 and some that have 39. Usually Kodak and Fuji offer 27 exposure cameras while only Kodak offers are 39 exposure variant. Have shot A LOT of disposable cameras in my life, I can tell you that for most events, the 27 exposure camera works best. There isn’t much difference in weight and there is no difference in the style/type of camera but the 27 exposure disposable camera is a little cheaper. However if you’re at an even or traveling and you only have room for one camera but you need to take a lot of photos, definitely opt for the 39 exposure model.

How do you get the picture off of a Throw Away Camera?

Each picture is literally exposed on a roll of 35mm film. These rolls of film have to be removed from the camera safely, in a dark or controlled environment to prevent accidental exposure to light and then developed chemically to produce a negative image. The negatives will have a color reversed image that will allow you to see what the picture is of, but will need to be scanned and inverted to turn it into an actual photo. While you can do this process at home on your own, it requires a significant amount of training, equipment, and chemistry. One wrong move during the developing or scanning process could ruin your images.

For this reason, most individuals choose to send their disposable cameras to a photo lab, like Shutter Junkies to have their images developed and scanned. If you’re looking for a place to get your throw away camera developed, here’s another blog post that goes into quite a bit more detail. You can read all about “where to get my disposable camera developed” Here.

Conclusion

Throw away cameras can be fun and a great alternative for situations where a big or expensive camera just isn’t the best choice. They are rugged and durable, easy to use, and take great photos in almost any situation. A little bit of research will help you pick the right disposable camera for your event and help you figure out where to send your camera to be developed. Of course, if you have any specific questions, you can always send us an email at info@shutterjunkies.org and we will be glad to answer any questions you might have about throw away cameras!