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Garry Black Photography

Question:

Hi Garry,

My friend just gave me an Alden -74 bulk film loader and I would like to try using bulk films.  The film loader is not very clean and should I try cleaning and dusting it or simply buy a new one? Also, do you know or could you recommend any photo labs in Toronto that process bulk film?

Thank you very much in advance. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Best regards,

Answer:

The worst thing that can happen to a bulk film loader is for it to get dirty. It will scratch the film. You can try washing it with soap and water and then using compressed air to get rid of any dust after it dries. No guarantees though, the plastic itself may have ridges and scratches that will damage your film. The best way to check for possible damaging ridges is to run a soft Kleenex over the loader's surface, if it catches or snags
anywhere then you've got a problem.

The only lab that I know in Toronto that processes bulk film is Colourgenics, there may be more, but it's the only lab in Toronto that I'm familiar with.

Garry