4x5 Film Developing / 16 bit TIFF scan
At Film Speed Lab, we handle 4x5 film processing for all film types – color, b&w and slide film. We shoot large format ourselves, so we understand your needs and how custom this order may be.
How to get your 4x5 sheets developed with us:
- place your order online and send us your film or just stop by with your sheets
- we dev&scan it (fast and carefully)
- you get your files by email
- after that, you can pick up your sheets or get them shipped back
Our turnaround:
Dev only — 3 working days
Scan only — 3 working days
Dev&16 bit TIFF scan — 6 working days
The price covers one full load (6 sheets of the same type). If you send fewer sheets, the price stays the same to cover the process.
What makes 4x5 film developing special
4x5 film doesn’t go through our regular developing machines. Each sheet is developed manually in small batches, with extra care and precision.
Whether it’s C-41, B&W, or E-6, large format film developing needs spot-on timing, temperature control and even agitation.
We handle C-41 4x5 film developing with skill and dedication, so your color negatives come out clean and consistent.
For B&W, we customize the timing based on your film type and the manufacturer’s instructions.
E-6 processing takes the longest, around 1 hour, not counting drying, and we follow each step carefully to deliver clean, color-accurate slides.
Once development is done, we move on to scanning.
Our 4x5 film scanning service includes:
- scanning with our high-end scanners — Imacon Flextight 646 or Durst Sigma Plus
- careful dust and artifact removal
- the most high-res and detailed scan possible:
With Imacon, you’ll get 16-bit TIFFs, around 9400× 7700px, 2040 dpi, ~130MB each
With Durst, you’ll get 16-bit TIFFs, around 9300×11900 px, 2540 dpi, ~650MB each.
- a perfect base for post-processing or printing big
Imacon Flextight 646 vs. Durst Sigma Plus
The Imacon Flextight 646 doesn’t have the automatic dust and scratch removal that the Durst Sigma Plus has, but we carefully clean each scan by hand to make sure they come out spotless.
Imacon also takes its time: scanning a 4×5 16-bit TIFF can take 15–20 minutes, compared to about 2 minutes with the Durst.
Still, Imacon makes up for it with outstanding dynamic range. You’ll get beautiful detail in both shadows and highlights, perfect for high-end prints and exhibitions.
The two scanners work differently, so the results aren’t just about resolution.
Check out our Durst vs. Imacon scan samples and let us know which one you’d prefer for your film.
Scans & negatives
Scan links are active for 3 days. If you miss the deadline, just send us your order number and we’ll reupload the files.
After developing and/or scanning, you can pick up your 4x5 sheets. We’ll carefully pack them in archival sleeves to keep them safe and easy to store. It’s free.
We keep your negatives for 1 month. Need more time to pick them up? Just let us know and we’ll hold onto them a bit longer we can ship them to you.
FAQ
I’M FROM ANOTHER CITY, BUT I REALLY WANT TO SEND MY FILM TO YOU, GUYS!
No problem! Just place an online order here and send your rolls to:
Film Speed Lab UG
Dietrich-Bonhoeffer Str. 32
10407 Berlin
+49 176 84786140
Before sending, take a look at our shipping checklist to make sure everything’s ready on your end.
SHIPPING CHECKLIST
- Yes
- No
- Yes
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(we love your creative packaging — from socks to iPhone boxes. But sometimes we get empty parcels, so we just want to be sure!)
- Yes
- No
*this helps us get started on your order faster
- Yes
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Thanks a lot, you’re the best <3
DO YOU SCAN HALF-FRAMES?
Yes! We can scan them in pairs or one by one — whatever works best for you. Just give us the heads-up when you order.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FLASH AND BIGGIE?
Think of it like this: if you’re going big — like for an exhibition or a gift — biggie’s your go-to
For everything else — flash. It’s fast, flexible and perfect for quick edits and everyday needs.
JPG OR TIFF?
If you’re looking for scans that are ready to post but still flexible for adjustments, go with JPG. We’ll make sure they look great, and you can tweak them however you like.
If you’re going for a certain look, go with TIFF for flat, untouched scans ready for your editing.
I DIDN’T QUITE LIKE THE RESULTS…
Then let’s improve them! Scanning is all about your personal style, so let’s tweak it until it’s just right for you.
WHAT IF I HAVE A BLANK ROLL OF FILM?
Oh, it’s the worst, we feel you.
We’ll refund the scan and just charge for the development. This also applies if your film is fogged or has damaged / transparent perforation.