At Film Camera Store, we approach every order with the same meticulous care we apply to servicing a classic film camera. We are dedicated to ensuring your journey—from the moment you choose a Beginner Camera or a rare Medium Format find, to the day your carefully selected gear arrives at your door—is as smooth and reliable as the shutter on a well-maintained DSLR Camera. This policy outlines our shipping practices and our straightforward, photographer-centric return process.
Our Shipping Philosophy: Precision & Care
Just as a photographer carefully loads film, we pack every order with attention to detail. Whether you’ve ordered a delicate Camera Lens, a sturdy Case & Bag, or a roll of Colour 35mm Film, we ensure it is securely packaged and dispatched with efficiency.
Order Processing & Shipping Timelines
- Order Processing: All orders are processed within 1-2 business days after payment confirmation. We meticulously inspect and pack each item, especially serviced gear like Film Cameras and Flash Units, before it leaves our store.
- Shipping Methods & Delivery Estimates:
- Standard Shipping: We use DHL or FedEx. Shipping cost is $12.95. Delivery typically occurs within 10-15 business days after dispatch.
- Free Shipping: Available on orders over $50. We use EMS for these orders. Delivery typically occurs within 15-25 business days after dispatch.
- Shipping Regions: We ship globally, with the exception of some remote areas and parts of Asia. Please contact us at [email protected] if you have questions about delivery to your location.
Our Return & Exchange Philosophy: Integrity in Every Transaction
We believe in standing behind our products with the same conviction we have in a well-composed shot. Our policy is built on fairness, transparency, and a deep understanding of a photographer’s needs.
The Essentials: Timeframe & Condition
- Return/Exchange Window: You have 15 days from the date you receive your item to initiate a return or exchange.
- Item Condition: To be eligible, items must be returned in their original, unused, and resalable condition, with all original packaging, accessories, manuals (Instruction Manuals), Lens Caps, and tags intact. This is crucial for cameras, Camera Lenses, and Flash Units.
- Proof of Purchase: Please include your original order confirmation or invoice inside the return package.
📸 Important: Non-Returnable Items
To protect the health and safety of our global community of photographers, and due to the nature of certain products, the following items are final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged:
- Film & Chemicals: All B&W Film, Colour 35mm Film, Instant Film (for Instant Film Cameras), and any chemical-based products. This is for reasons of hygiene and product integrity.
- Disposable Cameras: Due to their single-use nature.
- Opened Software/Digital Products: Including any accessed digital download codes or software.
- Personalized or Special Order Items: Products that have been customized or specially ordered for you.
We meticulously inspect all other items (like Film Cameras, DSLR Cameras, Camera Lenses, Filters, and Cases & Bags) before shipping, and trust you to evaluate them upon arrival.
Step-by-Step Return & Exchange Process
- Initiate Your Request: Within the 15-day window, email our support team at [email protected]. Use the subject line: “Return/Exchange Request – Order #[Your Order Number]”. Please include the details outlined in the template below for the fastest service.
- Receive Instructions: Our team (fellow photographers who understand your needs) will respond within 2 business days with a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number and detailed shipping instructions for your return.
- Pack & Ship: Securely pack the item(s) in their original packaging, include all accessories and your proof of purchase, and clearly mark the RMA number on the outside of the box. We recommend using a trackable and insured shipping service. Return shipping costs are the responsibility of the customer, unless the return is due to our error (e.g., wrong item shipped).
- Inspection & Processing: Once we receive and inspect the returned item (typically within 5 business days of receipt), we will notify you via email about the status of your refund or exchange.
Refund Timeline & Method
Your refund will be processed with the same precision we use when testing a camera shutter.
- Timing: After we approve your return, refunds are processed within 5-10 business days.
- Method: The refund will be issued back to the original payment method used during purchase (e.g., Visa, MasterCard, JCB, PayPal).
- Deductions: Please note that original shipping fees are non-refundable. For exchanges, we will handle the cost of re-shipping the new item to you.
Exchange Process
Looking for a different Camera Lens or Filter? Exchanges follow the same process as returns. In your initial email, please clearly state the item you wish to exchange for. We will guide you through the process and prioritize the shipment of your new item once the return is approved.
Return Request Email Template
To help you get started, here’s a template you can use. Copy, paste, and fill in the details to send to [email protected].
Subject: Return/Exchange Request – Order #[Your Order Number]
Dear Film Camera Store Team,
I would like to request a [return / exchange] for an item from my order.
Order Number: #[Insert Your Order Number] Name: [Your Full Name] Email Address: [The email used on the order]
Item(s) for return/exchange:
– Product Name: [e.g., “Serviced & Tested Canon AE-1”] – SKU/Product Code: [If available] – Reason for return/exchange: [Please provide a brief explanation]
For exchanges, I would like to exchange for:
– Desired Product: [e.g., “Nikon FM2 Camera Body”] – SKU/Product Code: [If available]
I confirm that the item(s) are unused, in original packaging, and include all accessories and manuals.
Please provide the next steps and the return address.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Questions? We’re Here to Help. If you have any questions about this policy, the condition of an item, or need guidance—just as you might consult an Instruction Manual—please reach out. We’re not just customer service; we’re photographers dedicated to ensuring your experience with Film Camera Store is as rewarding as capturing the perfect shot.
Film Camera Store
4602 University Street, Seattle, US 98101
Email: [email protected]
We believe in the art of the transaction, as much as the art of photography.