Film photography is making a major comeback, and if you’re thinking of hopping on the trend, we’ve already sussed out where to buy film cameras in Singapore. But unlike snapping pics on your phone, film makes you wait – you’ll have to send your roll off, cross your fingers, and hope your shots turned out somewhat in focus. Here’s where to develop and scan your film photos in Singapore – from budget-friendly labs to studios that’ll make you wanna load up another roll.
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Image credit: @tokyo.alt.photo via Instagram
When you send in your film roll, it gets soaked in a series of chemical baths that help bring out the images hidden on the negative.
For colour film, most labs use a method called C-41. Black-and-white film, on the other hand, takes a different route with its own set of chemicals and timing, since the emulsion layers are a little different.
Once that’s done, the film gets rinsed to wash off any leftover chemicals, then dried carefully to avoid any smudges or water spots.
Yes, most film labs in Singapore offer both developing and scanning services. Once your roll is processed, your photos get scanned into digital files, which the lab will send over via email, Google Drive, or a download link.
Just let the lab know if you still want hardcopy prints – they can usually sort that out for a fee.
Image credit: @tripledminilab via Instagram
Singapore’s heat and humidity aren’t exactly a film camera’s BFF. Store your rolls in the fridge – cooler temps help preserve the film’s quality, especially if you’re keeping them long-term. But make sure to chuck them in a ziplock bag or an airtight container to keep moisture out.
When you’re ready to shoot, take the roll out and let it warm up to room temperature before popping it into your camera.
Remember to stash the exposed roll somewhere cool and dry till you can get it developed once you’re done shooting.
Image adapted from: @o_ou3k via Instagram
Hands On Film is one of those places that’ll have you reaching for your camera before you even drop off your roll. This retro-themed spot located near Haji Lane is decked out with vintage decor like old-school TVs, neon signs, and film memorabilia all around.
Image adapted from: @o_ou3k via Instagram
Getting your film developed here is a fuss-free process. Prices start from just $10 for developing and scanning a basic 35mm roll, whether it’s colour or black-and-white. Simply fill in their online order form, then drop off your roll anytime – there’s a 24/7 drop-off box, so you don’t need to rush down during opening hours.
Processing takes around 1 to 3 days, and while you’re there, don’t forget to browse their selection of film rolls and cameras. Look out for locally made film stocks with unique colour grading if you’re keen to try something different.
Make a purchase and get a shot (pun intended) at their claw machine, where you might just score a free film roll or a disposable camera.
Hands On Film review: “The store has a large variety of films and cameras to choose from and offers developing services. I had my films developed here, and I really like the quality of their scans.”
– kaiqii via Google Maps
Image credit: K N via Google Maps
“Old but gold” can’t be any truer with Whampoa Colour Centre, which has been around since 1983 and is a go-to for many film photography enthusiasts. The employees here really know their stuff, with decades of experience under their belt. They’re also known for being super friendly and helpful, which is always a win.
Reviewers rave about the fast turnaround time – some have gotten their developed photos back within hours – great if you’re the impatient sort who can’t wait to see how your shots turned out. Prices start from $12 to develop and scan your film photos.
Image credit: K N via Google Maps
You’ll also find a wide range of film rolls and cameras in-store. Some of the film stock has even been spotted chilling in the fridge, so you know they’re the real deal when it comes to all things film.
Whampoa Colour Centre review: “My first time developing film – auntie was very friendly and helpful – the whole drop off and payment process was quick and easy. I received the link to download my photos in a few hours!”
– Wynnette Yip via Google Maps
Image credit: Nux aij lahc via Google Maps
Speed is the name of the game at Triple D Minilab Centre. You can get your film developed and scanned for just $10.50, with same-day turnaround if you drop it off before 2pm – scans will hit your inbox between 5pm and 7pm.
Film photo developed and scanned by Triple D Minilab Centre.
Image credit: YY Liak via Google Maps
Add just $2.50 per roll for their express service, and you’ll get your photos back in under an hour.
No worries if you’re swinging by outside of regular hours because there’s a 24/7 drop-off box.
Image credit: Nux aij lahc via Google Maps
Inside, you’ll find a wide range of film rolls and products from all over the world – get your hands on 1 or 2 to try something new with your next shoot.
Triple D Minilab Centre review: “Super affordable and insanely speedy film developing! Employees were very helpful, and the process as a whole was quick and straightforward.”
– YY Liak via Google Maps
Image credit: Wenhong Ni via Google Maps
Conveniently located just opposite Funan Mall, Konota Digital Imaging Services is an option if you’re after fuss-free, speedy film development in the heart of the city.
This no-frills photo lab gets the job done fast – drop off your roll before 2pm, and you’ll likely get your scans back within the same day. Prices start from $12.50, and they’re also one of the few spots in Singapore that still process black-and-white film, which is a major plus for fans of that classic look.
Film photo developed and scanned by Konota Digital Imaging Services.
Image credit: @uwutori66 via Lemon8
It’s not the kind of place you go to hang out, but for efficient service and a central location, Konota Digital Imaging Services definitely delivers.
Konota Digital Imaging Services review: “My go-to for speedy and dependable film scanning. Uncle is generally able to complete the service the same day. Maximum efficiency. Knows his craft as well. Very convenient location too.”
– michelle wong via Google Maps
Image credit: Diane F via Google Maps
Shalom Colorlab is more than just a photo lab – it also offers a full suite of photography services, including passport photo taking and even instant photobooth rentals. Find the store tucked away in Bras Basah Complex, a favourite haunt for creatives and students alike.
Image credit: Peter Chong via Google Maps
Film developing and digitising here starts from $12. They handle both colour and black-and-white film, but what makes them stand out is their ability to do cross-processing, AKA X-processing. That’s when film is developed using chemicals not meant for its type, resulting in wild, often unpredictable colour shifts and contrast.
Shalom Colorlab review: “Have been coming here to develop my photos for a while, and the owners are always friendly, warm and welcoming. Services are super quick, usually digital copies are sent within a week. Please come and support them.”
– Zoey Fang via Google Maps
Image credit: Fab C via Google Maps
It might be a little ulu, but Joo Ann Foh Colour Service at Holland Road Shopping Centre is an alternative for those who prioritise quality. Regulars swear by the gorgeous tones and sharp scans, so even though it’s a bit out of the way, the results make the trip worth it.
Film photo developed and scanned by Joo Ann Foh Colour Service.
Image credit: xb via Google Maps
Developing 35mm colour film starts at $12.90 with a next-day turnaround. There’s a 3 to 4 hour option for $19.90. Black-and-white rolls take a little longer and cost a bit more, since they’re hand-processed at a separate lab – but again, the final quality has customers coming back.
Joo Ann Foh Colour Service review: “My go-to place for film development. Aside from development and scanning, they also send the pictures to your Dropbox or Google Drive.”
– Danny Liu via Google Maps
Image credit: @grainsandsuch via Instagram
grainsandsuch is for all the homebodies – get your film developed without even leaving the house by just mailing in your roll, and they’ll handle the rest. There’s also an option to drop it off, but keep in mind there’s no physical storefront, so you won’t be browsing shelves while you’re there.
They accept C41 and black-and-white film, with a lead time of 1 to 3 days. Prices start from just $9 if you drop it off, making it the cheapest on this list – but if you’re mailing it in, remember to factor in postage costs. Submit an order form to get started.
grainsandsuch review: “I’ve been sending my film to them for the entire time I’ve shot film, and they’ve never let me down. Their photos are clear, colours are accurate, and there’s tonnes of magic in their scans.”
– @shusterswhosters via Lemon8
Half the fun of film photography is not knowing if you nailed the shot or accidentally took a blurry pic of your own shoe. So, send your rolls to these labs and they’ll help you bring your snaps to life.
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Cover image adapted from: @o_ou3k via Instagram, K N via Google Maps
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