Why We Do What We Do

​The Film Wave was founded to provide opportunities to create and share memories through the medium of Super 8 and 16mm film. Shooting film is our passion — and sharing that passion with others is our greatest reward. To help keep film alive, the following guidelines and expectations are essential.

 

Important Information About Vintage Cameras

Most Super 8 and 16mm cameras are now over 50 years old. With that in mind, owning a vintage camera comes with a bit of responsibility. Proper care, gentle handling, and regular maintenance are key to keeping your camera running beautifully for decades to come!

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Returns and Refunds

Each camera is sold as described in the listing description and accompanying photos. Every camera is thoroughly re-tested before leaving our shop to ensure it performs as described — we would never ship a camera we wouldn’t personally shoot with ourselves. In the very rare event that your camera arrives and is not functioning as described, please contact us directly, we’re here to help!

 

All orders, unless marked “as is,” include: 

• 14-day return policy

• 30-day functional warranty assuming proper care 

 

Returns are accepted within 14 days of delivery. Before processing a return, we first require a troubleshooting session with our camera technician. In most cases, issues are quickly resolved or turn out to be user-related, which means we can often get you back out there shooting film as soon as possible. ​

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To qualify for a refund or exchange, the camera must be returned in the same condition as received. If a camera is returned damaged or in a different condition, a partial refund or no refund may be issued. A 20% restocking fee will apply if a camera is returned and the claimed issue is determined to be caused by improper care, water damage, user error, or lack of knowledge.

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Please note that to qualify for a return, exchange, or warranty repair, the camera must be returned within a reasonable timeframe, as determined by The Film Wave—typically within the 30-day functional warranty period. Failure to do so may result in the request being denied.

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All shipping fees are non-refundable, and customers are responsible for paying return shipping costs. If a refund is approved, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from the refund amount.

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Exchanges are handled on a case-by-case basis within the 30-day warranty period.

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Warranty Policy

Our 30-day functional warranty covers mechanical or optical issues, as determined by our camera technician and noted in the product listing. It’s designed to give you confidence in your camera, but it does not cover normal wear and tear, water or moisture damage, exposure to extreme weather, drops or impacts, improper voltage, or misuse of any kind. 

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Repair Warranty Policy

All of our repairs and services are carefully conducted and inspected before leaving our shop. If your repaired item isn’t performing as described, please reach out to us — we’re here to help!

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Unless otherwise noted, repairs and servicing come with:

• A 30-day functional warranty (provided the item has been used with proper care).

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This warranty applies only to the specific repairs and services agreed upon in the stated invoice, paid by the customer. No warranties are accepted outside of the 30-day window. The warranty covers labor only; customers are responsible for shipping costs and any additional parts required for the repair.

 

Please note that this warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, water or moisture damage, exposure to extreme weather, drops or impacts, improper voltage, or misuse of any kind.

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Final Thoughts

Vintage film cameras can have their quirks - but that is also what makes the experience so rewarding! When everything comes together, the results are truly beautiful. We highly recommend getting use to your new gear, reading the manual, and shooting a test roll or two as you perfect your new medium. 

 

If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out - we’re here to help and happy to assist in any way!