Scanning Film with Borders (per 3-frame strip (135) / per frame (120)
This service is temporarily down right now, but we can totally set you up with this instead on Imacon scanner.
We scan film with borders using our top gear — the Durst Sigma Plus scanner, so you get the best possible results.
Our turnaround:
Flash JPG — 1 working day
Flash TIFF — 1 working day
Biggie JPG — 3 working days
Biggie TIFF — 3 working days
How to scan your film with us:
- make an online order and mail us your film, or just stop by with your negatives
just a heads-up: to scan film with borders, we’ll need to cut your negatives into 3-frame strips (for 135) or singles (for 120).
- we scan it (super fast, as always)
- check your inbox for the results
- pick up your negatives or have them shipped to you
What’s the point of scanning frames with borders?
Honestly, we just love the way it looks. Plus, you’ll get to:
- see the full frame with no cropping like on most scanners.
P.S. it fits perfectly into the Instagram grid without needing to choose which part to cut.
- play around more: combine strips, make collages, experiment with layouts.
- unlock new designs — great for your feed, portfolio, or even an exhibition.
- enjoy fully analog look – sprockets, film name, frame number – all visible and real (unlike those apps that slap Kodak Portra border on a b&w shot )
What you’ll love:
- a fresh take on your favorite shots: some photos just need to be framed
- how good it looks in print: perfect for zines and photobooks
- details that tell a story: film name, sprockets, and frame numbers make your work feel complete.
What to know about scanning film with borders
- When we scan a photo with the film border, the black frame can throw off the exposure. That’s why we usually need to manually set the black point and do some basic color correction to bring the colors back to normal. If the image is under- or overexposed, it’ll be more noticeable when scanning with borders.
Here are some samples.
- Scanning with borders doesn’t lower image quality, but it does affect the resolution:
a 35mm scan with borders (JPEG) is usually around 2156×2365 px, while a regular scan without borders is about 2075×3130 px. Since the border takes up space, the actual photo area ends up smaller — around 1486×2219 px.
If you want both - high resolution and full borders - we recommend going with a Biggie JPG scan.
What do you get with scanning film with borders?
- full-frame photos, including sprockets and film border
- clean scan with adjusted colors and exposure
- up to 3 frames for the price of 1 (for 35mm strip only)
We’ll send your frames straight to your inbox. Scan links are active for 3 days. If you miss the deadline, just send us your order number and we’ll reupload the files.
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.
FAQ
Does scanning with borders affect image resolution or quality?
Scanning with borders doesn’t lower image quality, but it does affect the resolution and overall look of the image.
When we scan a photo with the film border, the black frame can throw off the exposure. That’s why we usually need to manually set the black point and do some basic color correction to bring the colors back to normal. If the image is under- or overexposed, it’ll be more noticeable when scanning with borders.
Here are some samples.
When it comes to resolution, a 35mm scan with borders (JPEG) is usually around 2156×2365 px, while a regular scan without borders is about 2075×3130 px. Since the border takes up space, the actual photo area ends up smaller — around 1486×2219 px.
If you want both - high resolution and full borders - we recommend going with a Biggie scan.
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.
Is there an additional cost for scanning with borders?
Yes the price for scanning with film borders depends on your film format, scan size, and file type.
You can check the full pricing breakdown here.
Are dust and scratches on the borders also scanned?
The Durst Sigma Plus scanner uses Digital ICE technology to automatically remove dust and scratches — even on the borders. So your scans come out clean and ready-to-use.
Can you crop or edit scans that include borders?
We adjust exposure and do basic color correction (since the black frame can throw things off). But cropping is up to you, so you can frame it just the way you like.