There seems to be a CVS on every corner. And although everything is digital now, it’s still nice to get film developed on occasion.
So, does CVS develop film? And if so, where and how much?!
Does CVS Develop Film?
You can still take your film to CVS Pharmacies for developing. No matter what type of film you have, if your local CVS pharmacy is a film processing location, you’ll be fine to take in 35mm film, disposable cameras, Advanced Photo System film, black and white film, 110 film and slide film.
This article takes a look at CVS pharmacies and their associated film development services: where they are, what they are, what they cost, and how you can access them.
Do All CVS Stores Develop Film?
All CVS stores will develop your film providing they have an instore photo center. Each store charges about $12 for 12 exposures, and your order will take around 7-10 business days to be completed.
It’s important to remember that not all CVS stores have the same facilities. And those CVS stores with photo centres do no all offer the same services. Therefore, it’s best to phone your local pharmacy (or the pharmacy you intend to visit) and ask for information on the services they offer.
In general though, most CVS stores will:
- Develop Film
- Print from Film
- Print from Digital
- Not return negatives
- Not offer hi-res scans
How Much Does It Cost To Develop Film At CVS?
The price for CVS film development is about $12 for 12 exposures. However, for individual pricing and for the cost of different services, it’s best to check the CVS website or ask instore. Remember too, that CVS offer regular offers and discounts for photo processing. Different pricing can also apply for pharmacy programme members.
A very broad price indication for (35mm color/black and white prints) is as follows:
Double prints: 12 exposures for $12.99
Double prints: 24 exposures for $17.85
Double prints: 27 exposures for $18.95
Double prints: 36 exposures for $21.99
It will take about 7-10 days to get your color 35mm film developed at CVS, but for roll of black & white film, you’ll have to wait for up to 2 – 3 weeks. Remember also that CVS does not return your negatives.
How Do You Get Film Developed at CVS?
To get your film developed with CVS, simply head in store with your film and ask for a film development envelope.
Fill out the order form part of the envelope. You’ll have to indicate the film format you have and the number of prints you want. Place your roll of film in the envelope and seal it firmly.
Make sure you only use one envelope per item. If you have more than one roll of film, you’ll need to use one envelope per item, with each envelope filled out clearly.
Drop the envelope(s) into the collection box in the photo department inside the CVS store. The store will notify you when your prints are ready to be picked up. You’ll receive 4×6 inch glossy prints and a CD with the negatives. These can be transferred to a USB flash drive.
CVS does not offer online film development: you can only access photo development services instore.
How Much Does It Cost To Develop Film From A Disposable Camera?
CVS is apparently one of the last three major retailers that supports film development for disposable cameras.
Customers can drop off the disposable cameras in-store using the same process used for rolls of film. The cameras are placed into film development envelopes and the necessary details are added to the front of the envelope.
These envelopes are then shipped to a processing center which is run by the Japanese photo company Fujifilm. Remember that your digital images will be returned to you but not the film.
The cost of disposable camera film development is around 36 cents per print for 4×6 photos Therefore, the total cost of processing disposable camera film will be determined by the number of exposures and prints developed.
You can also still buy disposable cameras (Fujifilm cameras in sealed plastic bags) at CVS pharmacies. The cost of these depends on which kind you buy.
Does CVS Sell 35mm Film?
CVS pharmacies sell a range of 35mm film products. These are available both instore and online, and all prices can be checked online. Current CVS camera film products include:
- Fujifilm 400 ISO 108 Exposure Quicksnap Marine Plus 3 Film
- Fujifilm Instant Film, Mini, 2 Pack
- FujiFilm Instax Mini Rainbow Film
- Also – the Fujifilm Camera, One-Time Use, Waterproof, 27 Exposures
Want to learn more about CVS? Make sure to read these posts next to learn if you can print documents at CVS and does CVS take passport photos.
Summary
Nearly all CVS pharmacies hold film processing booths within their stores, and these offer convenient and efficient photo developing services for customers.
Most large chain store pharmacies offer similar services, but CVS photo services measure up well.
The main cautions for consumers are that you won’t get your negatives back and there’s a wait for prints depending on the type of film you’re using and the kind of prints you require.