Buying film online: format, ISO and developing
First check which film format your camera uses. Then choose colour or black-and-white, sensitivity and the appropriate developing process. Buying film and developing exposed film are separate purchases or services: include scans and any shipping in your total budget.
Updated 5 October 2026 · Analog Film Lab by Foto Americaine
Start with your camera
A 35mm camera uses cartridge film. A medium-format camera may use 120 roll film, but check the model. APS, 110 and other formats are not interchangeable with 35mm or 120. If unsure, share a photograph of the camera and film compartment, provided no undeveloped film is inside.
Colour, black-and-white or slide film?
Colour negative film marked C-41 produces a negative for scanning or printing. Traditional black-and-white film needs black-and-white processing. Slide film marked E-6 produces a positive transparency. There are exceptions: ILFORD XP2 SUPER is black-and-white but uses C-41. Read the packaging.
How do I choose ISO?
ISO 100 or 200 can suit bright daylight; ISO 400 often gives more flexibility in changing light. Whether you can shoot handheld without flash also depends on the lens, shutter speed and available light. Set the camera for your film speed or check automatic DX recognition. ISO alone cannot guarantee correct exposure.
What does shooting film cost?
Add the roll, developing, desired scans or prints and any shipping. Divide by the expected exposures to compare formats. Check current shop prices: film and processing prices can change.
After shooting
Rewind 35mm film according to the camera manual before opening the back. Secure exposed 120 film with its sealing tab and leave the backing paper intact. Keep film dry and away from heat, and avoid unnecessary delays before processing. At Analog Film Lab you can order processing online, then drop off or post film following the order instructions.
Prepare for scanning
Choose Standard if everyday viewing and sharing are your main goals. Consider Premium if you want more cropping flexibility or larger prints. State special requests, such as push/pull, before your roll is processed.
Frequently asked questions
Does a film roll's price include developing and scans?
Do not assume so. Check whether you are buying film alone or an explicitly bundled package.
Can I change ISO during a roll?
Changing the camera setting does not change the film's sensitivity; it changes exposure. Push/pull processing is normally arranged for the whole roll.
Related guides
- Getting film developed: drop-off, shipping and storage
- 35mm vs 120 film: formats, frame counts and scanning
View film developing, scan options and current prices · Ask our lab for advice