Why do I get fewer pictures after development?

Have you exposed a 36-frame film, but only got 30 digital scans after development? This is a common phenomenon that can have various causes. Here are the most common causes – and what you can do to minimize loss.

1. Unused or empty images
Sometimes the film doesn't wind properly, or you take a few test shots that don't get exposed. These images remain black or blank and are skipped during scanning.

Tip: After loading the film, check that the film advance is working. Some cameras display a small icon or counter to help you.

2. Overlapping images
With some cameras, the individual images may not be cleanly separated. This happens if the film is not advanced accurately or the camera is defective. Overlapping images are difficult or impossible to scan.

Tip: Have your camera serviced regularly, especially if it is older.

3. Under- or overexposed photos
Some images are so under- or overexposed that no details are visible. Labs often skip such images during scanning because they are deemed unusable.

Tip: When taking the photo, make sure you use the correct exposure settings (ISO, aperture, shutter speed).

4. Damage to the film
Scratches, cracks, or light exposure can ruin parts of your film. Such images are often not developed or scanned because they are hardly usable.

Tip: Transport and store your film carefully, away from direct light and moisture.

5. Place for inserting and unwinding the film
A 35 mm film has space for 36 frames, for example, but some frames are lost when inserting and unwinding the film. These areas are already exposed and therefore unusable.

Tip: Accept that 1-2 images per film are always “lost” – this is technically unavoidable.