Frequently Asked Questions.

What is Purà Film?

Purà Film Lab is an independently owned film processing lab located on the Gold Coast. We strive to not just be a darkroom/lab, but a community of creatives & film photographers.

At Purà Film, we understand the value of preserving the art of analog photography in an increasingly digital world. Our mission is to provide exceptional film processing services that breathe life into your captured moments. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding enthusiast, we are here to support you on your film journey.

Why ‘Purà’?

Purà is Spanish for pure which speaks of pure light, simplicity and raw beauty.

What equipment does Purà use to develop & scan your images?

We utilise cutting-edge equipment to deliver outstanding results for your film development needs. For C-41 35mm and 120 processing, we rely on the highly efficient Noritsu V30 RA processor. This state-of-the-art machine ensures precise and consistent development of your color negatives, bringing out the vibrant hues and tones that make your images come to life.

When it comes to black and white negatives, we trust the Jobo ATL 1000 for flawless development. This reliable and versatile machine allows us to achieve optimal results, maintaining the integrity and richness of your monochrome photographs.

We proudly house two top-of-the-line scanners: the Noritsu LS-600 and the renowned Fuji Frontier SP3000. These state-of-the-art machines are meticulously maintained to ensure the highest quality scans for your precious film. With our advanced scanning technology, we bring out the finest details and vibrant colors in every frame, preserving the essence of your photographs.

Rest assured that your film is in capable hands with our expert team and our exceptional scanning equipment.

What sort of film do you develop?

35mm (135), medium format (120 and 220).

How do I hand in my film?

Purà Film operates as a convenient drop-box-only film lab, serving film enthusiasts across multiple locations in the southern Gold Coast. To find the nearest drop box location, please visit our dedicated Drop Box Location tab for detailed information and directions.

For those residing outside the Gold Coast area, we've got you covered too! Simply send your film to our reliable postal address: Po Box 367 Currumbin 4223. We recommend using a padded post bag to protect your precious film from damage during transport.

What are the turn-around times?

1-4 business days for colour processing/scanning

4-7 business days for black and white processing/scanning

How do I pay?

At Purà Film, we've made the payment process quick and convenient for you. To complete your payment, simply fill out our easy-to-use order form. Within the form, you'll find secure payment options to choose from.

How do I receive my digital files

Once we have received your order and processed your film, you will receive an email from us with a link to your gallery.

You must download your images within 3 months of receiving them. After this time, your link will expire and access to the gallery will no longer be available.
*Please note- we don’t offer physical hard copy prints, we focus on professional digital scans

What is Push and Pull?

Pushing film involves intentionally overexposing the film by rating it at a higher ISO (film speed) than its native rating. For example, if you have a roll of ISO 400 film and you "push" it to ISO 800, you are essentially treating it as if it were a more sensitive film. This compensates for low-light situations or when you need to capture faster shutter speeds. During development, the film is processed for a longer duration or at higher temperatures to increase the apparent sensitivity and enhance the shadow details.

On the other hand, pulling film refers to underexposing the film by rating it at a lower ISO than its native rating. For instance, if you have the same ISO 400 film and you "pull" it to ISO 200, you are treating it as if it were less sensitive. Pulling film is often done to achieve reduced contrast, finer grain, or to intentionally create a specific visual effect. During development, the film is processed for a shorter duration or at lower temperatures to reduce the apparent sensitivity and retain highlight details.

What happens to my negatives?

After we have processed and scanned your film, you have the choice of either having your negatives returned to you or opting for disposal. If you wish to keep your negatives, please ensure that you pay for the postage and provide your accurate postal address during the checkout process.

It's important to note that if you do not select the option to keep your negatives, they will be disposed of after the scanning process is completed.