Thank You for Keeping Film Alive and Supporting Small Business!

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We truly appreciate your order and support. While most orders ship by the end of the week, please allow 1-2 business weeks for processing. Keeping in mind that we are a small business, we do our absolute best to ship all orders in a timely manner. If you need your order sooner or by a specific date, you’ll now find Standard, Express, and Expedited shipping options at checkout to help meet any deadlines you may have*. Once your order ships, you'll receive a confirmation email with tracking information. 

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*Please note: While Express and Expedited shipping options can speed up delivery once shipped, they do not guarantee arrival by a specific date. Carriers may experience delays due to demand, weather, customs, or other unforeseen factors.

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Quality Control & Order Processing

Order processing includes a strict quality control check to ensure the camera is as described. This includes any final testing, tune-ups, and servicing that may be needed prior to shipment. Keeping in mind that these cameras are vintage and range between 30-50+ years in age, this process is necessary, as always, we want you to receive a camera you can count on. 

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Processing times vary depending on current order volume. Please allow 1–2 business weeks for order processing. For rush orders or questions, reach out via any platform—email is preferred: info@thefilmwave.com. We're happy to help!

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Please note: it is normal for on-time packages to go a few days without being scanned.

 

Shipping Information

We ship domestically within the U.S. using UPS, FedEx, or USPS, based on your preference, location, and needs. Expedited options like 2-Day or Overnight shipping are available at checkout. Online shipping estimates are subject to change. 

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International Customers

International shipping times are not guaranteed. Be sure to include the recipient’s phone number (with country code) and email address when placing your order. Watch for any calls or emails from your local customs office or shipping carrier upon arrival.

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If your local customs or carrier contacts you, respond promptly to schedule delivery or pick-up. Failure to respond may result in the package being returned to us. If that happens, the buyer is responsible for redelivery costs and updating contact information. If the buyer refuses reshipment, order is subject to a 10% restocking fee to cover redelivery costs. 

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Customs, Duties & Taxes

Customers are responsible for any applicable import duties, taxes, or fees. These charges vary by country and order contents. We recommend contacting your local customs office for the most accurate information on current import regulations. 

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Tips for Success: Be sure to include the recipient's phone number along with it's country code and email address within your shipping information and be on the lookout for a phone call from your local customs office or shipping carrier upon arrival.

 

Failure to respond to local customs or shipping carrier in the event of a misdelivery may result in additional charges and/or the item being shipped back to us. If the item is returned to us the buyer is responsible to pay any redelivery costs and include updated contact information. If you have received a call or email from your local customs office or shipping carrier callback to schedule a pick-up or re-delivery as soon as possible!

 

We are always here to help but your local customs office or shipping carrier will advise you of any duty or tax that is owed upon your packages arrival. Customers are responsible for paying any applicable import duties and taxes and charges may vary based on the contents of the order. We highly recommend contacting your local customs office for further information on current import regulations.

 

Additionally, depending upon your local customs office, you may be able to self-clear your package to avoid any brokerage fees (if applicable). If interested, please call the shipping carrier and request customs paperwork.

 

Let us know if you have any questions—we’re here to help and happy to assist in any way!

Why We Do What We Do

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

 

Important Information About Vintage Cameras

Our cameras are vintage—typically between 30 and 50+ years old. With that in mind, owning a vintage camera comes with responsibility. Proper care, regular maintenance, and attention are key to ensuring your camera lasts for decades to come.

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Return & Warranty Policy:​

Each camera is sold as described in the product listing and accompanying photos.That said, in the rare event that your order arrives and is not as described, you may request a return or exchange by messaging us directly. 

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Please note that all orders (unless marked “as is”) undergo a strict quality control check before leaving our shop — we would never ship a camera we wouldn’t be confident shooting with ourselves. 

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All cameras (unless marked “as is”) include:

• 14-day return policy for satisfaction guarantee

• 30-day functional warranty (covers normal use and assumes proper care)​

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To begin a return, we first require a troubleshooting session with our camera technician. In most cases, issues are resolved quickly or are the result of user error — which is great news, as it means we can get you back out there shooting film as soon as possible.

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Items returned outside of the return window may be subject to a 20% restocking fee. International buyers are always responsible for return shipping. To qualify for a return or exchange, the camera must be returned in the same condition as it was sent, if the returned item does not meet this requirement, a partial or no refund may be issued.

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Repair Warranty Policy: 

All of our products are carefully tested and inspected. If your item isn’t as described or you're not satisfied with your purchase, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to work with you!

 

Unless otherwise noted, repairs and servicing come with:

• A 60-day functional warranty (provided the item has been used with proper care

 

60-day functional warranty only applies to Repairs and Services agreed upon in stated invoice, paid by the customer. For further information, see terms and conditions. 

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A Note on Risk & Reward

Buying and using vintage film cameras always carries some risk—but that’s part of what makes it so special. When everything comes together, the results are incredibly rewarding. Shooting film is our passion and sharing our passion with others is our reward!

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Let us know if you have any questions—we’re here to help and happy to assist in any way!