Film cost calculator
See what each frame really costs — film, dev and scan.
About this tool
Shooting film adds up fast, and it helps to know exactly what each frame costs before you press the shutter. Enter the price of the roll, the lab's developing fee, the scanning charge, and how many frames the roll yields. The calculator then works out your cost per shot and your total cost per roll.
How to use it
- Enter the purchase price of one roll of film.
- Add the developing and scanning fees your lab charges per roll.
- Set the number of frames the roll gives you (for example 36 on a 135 roll).
- Read the cost per shot and total cost per roll shown in the result.
FAQ
Should I include shipping or bulk-loading costs?
The calculator uses the four figures you enter. If you bulk-load or pay for postage, fold those amounts into the roll price or the processing fee so the per-shot figure stays honest.
Why does cost per shot matter?
It turns a vague sense of expense into a concrete number, which helps you decide whether to shoot more freely or slow down and make each frame count.