Question 1

What repairs and services do you offer?

Accepted Answer

At The Film Wave, we’re dedicated to keeping film alive! We offer specialized repairs and servicing for select Super 8 and 16mm cameras.

To request a repair, click the “Get Started” button above and we’ll be in touch shortly.

Question 2

How do I start a repair?

Accepted Answer

Submit a repair request using the form at the top of this page. Please include your camera model, a description of the issue, and any helpful photos or videos.

The more detail you share, the better we can understand what’s going on and recommend the right next step.

Question 3

How does the repair process work?

Accepted Answer

Join us in keeping film alive by sending your equipment in for repairs and servicing:

Submit a request using the repair form to get started.
We will follow up via email to determine if your equipment needs servicing or repairs.
Ship your gear in for a free initial inspection—there’s no booking fee
Upon arrival, each item is labeled with your contact information and stored securely in an individual bin.
An initial inspection is performed, and a detailed quote is provided for the recommended repairs.
An invoice is sent for the selected servicing/repairs.
After payment, the equipment is added to our repair queue. Turnaround time is typically 8+ business weeks from the date of payment. No work is carried out until the invoice is paid.
The repair is completed, and a notification is sent when it’s ready.
The equipment is carefully packaged and shipped back.

Have questions during the process? Send us a message — we’re happy to help!

Question 4

What should I include when sending in my camera?

Accepted Answer

Please include a note with:

Your full name
Return shipping address
Camera model
Issue or service requested
Phone number and email

This helps our team stay organized as cameras move through the shop for inspection, repair, and return shipping.

Question 5

Will I be notified when my camera arrives?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we’ll send you a confirmation once your camera has been received and checked in at our shop.

Question 6

How much will my repair cost?

Accepted Answer

Repairs begin at $149, and CLA servicing begins at $349.

There are many variables that can affect pricing with vintage cameras, including the camera model, condition, service needed, parts availability, and any issues found during inspection.

For this reason, every camera starts with a free initial inspection.

After inspection, we’ll send a quote with the inspection checklist included. All pricing is reviewed and approved by you before we move forward. No repair work is completed until the quote is approved and the invoice is paid.

All quotes are valid for 60 days, and failure to respond within this timeframe may result in a price adjustment. If unforeseen issues are discovered during service, we’ll contact you before completing any additional work.

Please note: Once a quote has been sent, we can hold repair cameras for up to 180 days. After that window, cameras may be subject to additional storage or handling policies.

Question 7

Is there a booking fee?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no booking fee. We’ll inspect your equipment and provide you with a free estimate — you’ll only be responsible for the cost of return shipping.

Question 8

How long will my repair take?

Accepted Answer

Repair timelines vary depending on the camera model, repair complexity, parts availability, and current repair volume.

Please reach out before approving or purchasing a repair and we’ll be happy to share our current estimated turnaround window.

All repair timelines are estimates, not guaranteed completion dates, because vintage cameras tend to follow their own schedule.

If you need your camera by a specific date for a shoot, trip, or project, please let us know before approving your repair so we can note it on your order and review whether rush service may be available.

Question 9

What if I need my camera sooner?

Accepted Answer

If you need your camera back by a specific date for a shoot, trip, or project, please let us know before approving your repair so we can note it on your order.

While we cannot guarantee completion by a specific date, having that timing on file helps us communicate clearly throughout the repair process and review whether rush service may be available.

Rush repairs begin at $149 and are subject to availability. Some repairs, especially more complex or parts-dependent repairs, may not be eligible for rush service.

For time-sensitive projects, we recommend planning with flexibility or having a backup option. If you need a working camera by a firm date, purchasing a ready-to-ship camera may be the best option to ensure you have one in time.

Question 10

Does my repair come with a warranty?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Unless otherwise noted, repairs and servicing include a 60-day functional warranty covering the specific work listed on your paid invoice.

Every repaired item is inspected before leaving our shop. If something related to the completed repair is not performing as described, please reach out within 60 days so we can help.

This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, water or moisture damage, extreme weather exposure, drops or impacts, improper voltage, misuse, or issues unrelated to the approved repair.

Warranty claims must be made within the 60-day window. Customers are responsible for shipping costs and any additional parts required.

For more details, please view our full warranty policy.

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FAQ's