Getting film developed is still a thing. Believe it or not.
Despite digital cameras being the preferred choice of camera, people are still using film these days. Getting film developed can be a difficult process though, because not a lot of stores develop film anymore.
Luckily, there are still a few stores around that can develop film. Like CVS, for example.
Table of Contents
Does CVS Develop Film?
Yes, CVS Pharmacy does develop 35mm color and black & white film used in conventional film cameras as well as disposable cameras. They are considered to be a popular choice among enthusiasts because, despite being a bit more expensive than Walmart, they give you high-quality prints and you don’t have to wait long to get your film developed.
How Much Does It Cost To Develop Film At CVS?
CVS is similarly priced to Walmart, so they are also a good option if you don’t want to break the bank. Expect to pay anything from $11 to $22 to get your film developed.
| Exposures | Single Prints | Double Prints |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | $11 | $13 |
| 24 | $14.50 | $18 |
| 27 | $15 | $19 |
| 36 | $17 | $22 |
How Long Does It Take To Get Film Developed At CVS?
Getting film developed at CVS takes about 7 to 10 days, which is very reasonable compared to Walmart which takes up to 3 weeks. Walgreens also has a similar turnaround time to that of CVS.
Does CVS Develop Film Well?
Many enthusiasts will agree that CVS does indeed develop film well, so the quality of the prints that you get from them are of high quality. If quality is important to you, then CVS is the way to go.
Does 35mm Film Expire?
Yes, 35mm film does expire 2 to 3 years after it has been manufactured, so it is best to make use of it before then. It is worth noting that color film will show signs of expiration before black and white film.
What Happens If You Don’t Develop Film?
As mentioned above, film will expire after 2 to 3 years and if you don’t develop film until this deadline is reached, then it will start to become foggy and dull, and the colors will start to fade. So, as you can see, it is best to have it developed as soon as you can.
Should I Put Film In The Fridge?
If you need to store color film for longer than 6 months, then you should consider storing it in a fridge. Black and white film, however, can safely be stored at room temperature. If you can, try to store the film in its original packaging.
Conclusion
As you can see, CVS can develop film and they do it very well. The prints that you get from them are fantastic and you really don’t have to wait long to get your film developed. Up to 10 days, in fact.
I personally prefer CVS because of the quality of prints, and the quick turnaround time. Walmart and Walgreens are solid choices as well, so please consider them if there isn’t a CVS store near you.
