About Fotolab No.7

Aaron C Packard

Aaron C Packard is the handsome owner of Fotolab No.7, and he probably shouldn’t have let his wife write his biography. Regardless, Aaron is an amazing professional photographer who specializes in portrait and lifestyle photography. His photographs are incredible because he empowers his subjects to be themselves! In additional to creating authentic artwork, Aaron is a mad scientist when he makes physical prints and digital scans of negatives for others. Whether he’s utilizing traditional analog photographic processes in the darkroom or incorporating contemporary technology in his studio, Aaron is a fantastic resource for professional photographers, hobbyists, and other cool people who like to take photos. 

Darkroom Oracle (Frequently Asked Questions)

Do you have a question about Fotolab No.7? Please consult the Darkroom Oracle to see if your question was predicted and answered. No one at Fotolab No.7 is officially a psychic, but based on over 20 years of professional experience, photographer Aaron C Packard will predict the questions you may have about the photo lab services he provides.

What types of film do you develop?

Standard black and white and color negative film, 35mm, medium format, and 4x5 sheet film.

Can I get prints made from my digital photos?

Yes. Bring in your memory card or share files through a storage device drop box.

Can I get prints made from photos I took on my phone?

Yup! The quality of the prints will depend on the digital files, but Aaron can help you out. 

How long does it take to process film?

Aaron processes all film for the week beginning on Tuesday. Film that is dropped off or arrives in the mail during business hours Tuesday through Saturday will be processed the following Tuesday (unless there is a special event otherwise noted on the calendar). Aaron will begin scanning negatives and printing photos on Wednesday. You will be notified via email or text message when your negatives, scans, or prints are ready for pick up.

Do I get my negatives back?

Absolutely! Aaron’s not a monster. Why would a photo lab destroy your negatives? You will get your negatives back by picking them up at the lab in person or if you pay to have them shipped to you.

Can I look at my negatives/processed film before I get prints made?

Yes. You can order “processing only” and your negatives will remain uncut. Please note that pricing for prints is separate from processing negatives.

Can I look at my negatives/processed film before I order scans?

Yes. Simply order “processing only” and look at the negatives in person at the lab, and you can purchase scans later.

How will I get my film scans?

A download link will be emailed to you. 

What if my film turns out blank?

Oops! We all make mistakes, and that’s okay. All real photographers do this at least once. Blank film could have been caused by loading the film incorrectly, forgetting to take off the lens cap, or you accidentally dropped off an unused roll of film. Even though you will have to pay for processing, you’ll have a funny story to tell your friends when they ask you about your venture into traditional photography!

What do I do if I need help loading film in my camera?

Please stop by the lab during regular business hours and Aaron can help you load film in your camera if you haven’t done it before, you’re using a new-to-you camera, or it’s been awhile and you need a refresher. The additional good news is that you can also purchase new film at the lab when you visit! 

How are your negatives cut?

35mm is cut at 6 frames.120 varies by print file.

Do you offer TIFF scanning? 

Yes.

Do you cross process?

Yes, but only e6 film into c41 chemistry.

Do you do push-n-pull processing?

Yes, but there is an additional charge.

Do you develop old and expired film?

Yes, but there are no guarantees if anything will show up. Please share how old the film is or the condition it was stored in so Aaron will have a better chance of revealing what is on that old roll of film. Many people have dropped off canisters of film discovered in junk drawers, unearthed after going through a grandparent’s estate, and even film found in vintage cameras purchased at antique stores. It’s also completely okay if you have no idea what could possibly be on the film and if you don’t really know how old it is. 

Do I have to drop off my film and pick up my negatives/prints in person?

No. You can ship your film to the lab. Please see the Processing & Printing page for details and shipping instructions. 

Do I need to be a professional photographer to use your services?

Of course not! Photographers from all backgrounds and levels of experience are welcome to take advantage of the photography services at the lab!

The film processing options are overwhelming. How do I know what to pick?

Don’t panic. If the photography jargon doesn’t make sense, it’s okay. This menu of services was created by a professional photographer who uses very specific terminology, but don’t let that deter you from pursuing photography! Aaron is here to help you. You can stop by the lab or call during regular business hours and Aaron will answer your questions. You can also send an email for assistance. 

Can you print copies of photographs or artwork?

You bet! As long as you own the rights to the images, Aaron can photograph or scan your artwork or duplicate photos.

Do you sell film or disposable cameras?

Yes. Please stop by the lab during regular business hours, give Aaron a call, or send an email to see what is in stock. The lab usually has 35mm color film, 35mm black and white film, single use cameras, and medium format film. Whether you are a photography student at the University of South Dakota, a professional photographer, or you just want to shoot a roll of film, it’s nice to have somewhere local in Vermillion to buy actual film in person. 

If Aaron was unable to predict the questions you might have about processing and printing, please feel free to reach out using the contact form.