Developing photos online became a thriving industry in the 1990s and a valuable time saver for busy Americans. However, despite the advantages, many consumers remain reluctant to put their photos and their faith in the hands of strangers without faces. If you're considering getting your film developed online or your digital camera files printed via an online service, a little homework may calm your fears.
Online Image Processing and Developing Companies
Like all businesses, companies that offer online services are diverse. While most are legitimate businesses, the services they provide can vary depending upon customers' needs and each company's mission as a commercial enterprise. For the best results, be sure to research your options and choose the photo developing online company that best meets your needs.
Shutterfly
Since Shutterfly's launch in 1999, the company has consistently proven that it cares about casual digital photographers. From straightforward digital image printing to a plethora of gift options for your photos, Shutterfly remains the king of digital processing. Prices start at 15 cents for 4" X 6" prints and range to 23 dollars for high-quality 20" X 30" prints. As an added incentive, new customers receive 15 free prints upon sign-up and get more free prints if they get their friends to join.
Snapfish by HP
An association with Hewlett-Packard helped Snapfish secure a wide consumer base, but its quality and ease of use ensured it became a big name in developing photos online. Whether you upload your digital files or send in film from your camera, you'll come away pleased with your experience. To entice more customers away from the competition, Snapfish offers 50 free 4" X 6" prints to each new customer with the first digital upload.
Ritz Pix
Included among the most popular offerings at Ritz Pix are six cent 3.5" X 5" digital prints (every Tuesday and Wednesday), nine cent 4" X 6" prints by mail, low members-only pricing and consistent quality and color management. This company is a subsidiary of Ritz Camera, which opened in 1918 as a portrait studio founded by Benjamin Ritz.
More Options
If you're still wary about using an online company to process or develop your photos, there are other alternatives, such as:
- Wal-Mart
- K-Mart
- Fred Meyer
- Walgreens
The aforementioned retailers offer users the option of uploading images online with either store pick-up or home delivery.
